Commanders on the clock again as Terry McLaurin deal takes center stage

With the dust firmly settled on the 2025 NFL Draft and the Washington Commanders preparing to ramp up plans for the upcoming campaign, general manager Adam Peters has one overlooked priority to resolve as a matter of urgency.

He must pay Terry McLaurin.

The gifted wide receiver became a shining light amid the chaos under previous regimes. McLaurin remained professional while others let their frustrations build and, in some cases, left when the first opportunity arrived. He was also highly productive as all around him crumbled.

McLaurin stuck around and was eventually vindicated for his loyalty. The Commanders are on a completely different path now. They have an ambitious owner, a masterful roster builder, and an experienced head coach. They also happen to have a franchise quarterback for the first time since the wideout was drafted.

Commanders' reduced priorities bring Terry McLaurin's extension to the forefront

It didn't take long for McLaurin and Jayden Daniels to hit it off. They challenged each other throughout last summer, which bore fruit in a competitive setting. The former third-round pick out of Ohio State went over 1,000 receiving yards yet again. He also broke the franchise record for single-season receiving touchdowns en route to Pro Bowl and second-team All-Pro honors.

Peters has already signaled his intent to make McLaurin another extension offer ahead of time. He's got one more year on his deal, but this still represents a sound investment. Now that other priorities have diminished slightly, there is no better time than to reward the undisputed locker room leader for his sterling commitment.

There are financial benefits to consider, too.

Extending McLaurin won't be cheap. Any new deal could see the pass-catcher get around $30 million per year based on the current market. The price is only going up, so sorting things out quickly gets the cap number down this season and could save Peters some cash in the long run.

McLaurin wants to stay. He loves the fanbase and cares deeply about the organization. He's everything one looks for in a franchise cornerstone, so complications should be minimal during negotiations.

Depending on the deal, McLaurin has the scope to be a Washington football lifer when it's all said and done. There would be nobody more deserving of such a distinction.