Commanders, Terry McLaurin Seal $96 Million Contract Extension

BREAKING: The Washington Commanders have just confirmed a monumental three-year contract extension with star wide receiver Terry McLaurin worth an impressive $96 million. This deal, reported by The Associated Press today, ensures that McLaurin will remain with the franchise through the 2028 NFL season.

This significant agreement comes less than two weeks before the Commanders’ season opener against the New York Giants on September 7, 2023. Initially, McLaurin’s absence from training camp raised eyebrows, especially after he landed on the physically unable to perform list upon reporting. Tensions peaked when he requested a trade amid stalled negotiations, but now he is back on track to contribute this season.

The contract features a staggering $30 million signing bonus, marking a pivotal moment for McLaurin, who is looking to solidify his status as a top-tier receiver in the league. As a 2019 third-round pick out of Ohio State, he has consistently excelled, amassing over 1,000 receiving yards in each of the last five seasons. His remarkable performance, including 87 receptions for 1,096 yards last season and a total of 13 touchdowns, helped propel the Commanders to the playoffs last year.

McLaurin’s extension places him among the elite in the NFL. His new average salary of $32 million ties him for sixth in the league, right alongside Philadelphia’s A.J. Brown and just behind top earners like Cincinnati’s Ja’Marr Chase and Dallas’ CeeDee Lamb. This surge in his contract comes amid a rapid increase in receiver salaries, highlighted by D.K. Metcalf’s recent five-year, $150 million deal.

As one of the faces of the franchise and a fan favorite, McLaurin’s commitment to the Commanders is a major boost for the team as they prepare for the upcoming season. His journey from a rookie who missed time due to injuries to becoming one of the few players in league history with over 900 receiving yards and 50 catches in each of his first six seasons underscores his resilience and talent.

The Commanders are now gearing up for an exciting season with McLaurin locked in, and fans are eager to see how this star receiver will continue to impact their playoff aspirations. Expect further updates as the season approaches and McLaurin returns to full form.