Terry McLaurin's contract standoff with the Washington Commanders took a new turn this week. The wide receiver isn't happy and let everyone know about it, voicing his displeasure about feeling undervalued and disrespected during a saga that is going on longer than fans expected.
It's also bringing opinions from almost everybody. But the remarks made by one team legend represent a loud and clear message to general manager Adam Peters.
McLaurin wants to be paid what he's earned. The Commanders have been reluctant so far, and no middle ground has come close to being reached. Considering the wideout is typically understated and almost always positive in front of the media, his recent revelations were more than enough to increase panic among the fan base.
Joe Theismann believes Commanders' lack of communication has stung Terry McLaurin
Iconic former Washington quarterback Joe Theismann spoke to The Team 980 on McLaurin's current predicament. He hit the nail on the head as always, proclaiming the lack of communication between the organization and a franchise cornerstone as the most disheartening element of this equation above all else.
Any type of communication is what, from a player's standpoint, is what you're looking for. You may disagree on guarantees. You may disagree on the length of contract. You may disagree on numbers. But the lack of communication is the thing that, I know, would make it easier for Terry [McLaurin]. It would at least make it easier for any player to know where we are. Let's talk about it. I don't know if you can say that they've both taken a stance, and that's where it's going to be. I just think that communication is such a big part of it. I certainly sensed Terry's frustration in his comments.Joe Theismann via The Team 980
It's surprising to see the Commanders taking this stance, especially with someone so loyal to the team during some of their darkest days. Peters always puts the team's best interests at heart. If he feels like a bit of breathing space could help reach a compromise a little further down the line, that's his prerogative.
But it's not sitting well with McLaurin. His teammates are rallying around the wideout, and head coach Dan Quinn kept in close contact during his holdout. Fans aren't overly concerned right now (we're still in July), but the longer this drags on, the more doubts will surface.
McLaurin is a composed figure normally. He was measured and articulate in front of the media, but the words spoken left no doubt regarding his feelings. And the fact that Washington hasn't kept an open dialogue with a core component behind their success instantly made this a powder keg waiting to go off at any moment.
Theismann sees it. Hopefully, Peters will too.
