By now, the Washington Commanders should have signed wide receiver Terry McLaurin to a long-term deal.
With Tyreek Hill and Davante Adams establishing a ceiling for the market, the team should have an idea regarding the amount they will offer.
What’s stopping them from offering a premium, especially after McLaurin has been one of the bright spots of their offense?
In 2020, the former Ohio State standout had 1,118 yards and four touchdowns.
Last season, McLaurin finished with 1,053 yards and five touchdowns.
Aren’t those numbers enough proof that he is worth keeping?
He will be playing the final year of his rookie contract, earning him a base salary of $2,790,000.
Unfortunately, he does not qualify for a fifth-year option because he was selected in the third round.
But there’s some good news regarding the negotiations, as shared by ESPN’s John Keim.
Rivera on the McLaurin talks: "I believe they're headed in the right direction." said they began talks with him earlier than they did with Jon Allen a year ago. He signed right before camp.
— John Keim (@john_keim) June 14, 2022
Keim shared a quote from Commanders head coach Ron Rivera who said, “I believe they’re headed in the right direction.”
Rivera added that conversations started earlier than the timeline for Jonathan Allen‘s negotiations last season.
The defensive tackle signed a four-year, $72 million dollar contract right before training camp.
If they are following that lead, they might have McLaurin signed for the long term at the right time.
The Commanders Need McLaurin
It’s not that the wide receiver is threatening to leave after this season.
Instead, he is putting pressure on the front office to get a deal done.
McLaurin does like to be in Washington, and a long-term contract will guarantee his tenure.
However, he won’t take a bargain because he knows what he’s worth based on the market.
Anything less than that amount could prolong the talks between the two parties.
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