Training camp is drawing closer, and contract talks between Terry McLaurin and the Washington Commanders remain status quo.
McLaurin, who is set to make $15.5 million this season, skipped the team’s voluntary and mandatory minicamps earlier this offseason in hopes of landing an extension.
The star receiver is said to be “not happy” with the lack of progress in negotiations, raising the possibility of him sitting out when the Commanders return to the field later this month.
Should talks really deteriorate, there is also a chance that McLaurin could seek a trade. While it’s not the likeliest outcome, one NFL writer sees a potential match. Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay recently mentioned the Buffalo Bills as a “dark-horse” candidate for McLaurin should he become available.
“McLaurin would instantly become (quarterback Josh) Allen’s top target and perfectly augment the versatile Khalil Shakir and developing Keon Coleman to form the nucleus of a passing attack that has potential rate among the best in the league,” Kay said.
Terry McLaurin is Coming Off 5 Straight 1,000-Yard Seasons
McLaurin, 29, has been a model of consistency for Washington, surpassing 1,000 yards receiving for five straight years. In 2024, McLaurin, a Second Team All-Pro, led the Commanders with 82 catches for 1,096 yards and a career-high 13 touchdowns in the regular season and then had another 227 receiving yards and three touchdowns in the playoffs. The Commanders reached the NFC championship game, losing 55-23 to the Philadelphia Eagles.
McLaurin is entering the final year of a three-year, $68.3 million contract, which comes with a $25.5 million cap hit.
The Commanders upgraded the talent around McLaurin this offseason, acquiring Deebo Samuel from the San Francisco 49ers in March for a fifth-round draft pick. Samuel had 51 catches for 670 yards and three touchdowns while also rushing for a score in 2024.
What Other Teams Could Be Interested in Terry McLaurin?
The Bills undoubtedly could use a No. 1 target for Allen, the reigning NFL MVP. Last year it was Shakir, who had 76 catches for 821 yards and four scores. Shakir’s 100 targets were easily a team-high among receivers, ahead of Coleman (57), Mack Hollins (50) and Curtis Samuel (46).
While the Bills have a league-low $95,321 remaining in cap space, according to Spotrac, they could create more flexibility by working out an extension with McLaurin.
If the Bills pass on the opportunity, Kay mentioned three other AFC teams that could be in the mix for the two-time Pro Bowler: Las Vegas Raiders, Los Angeles Chargers, Tennessee Titans.