Terry McLaurin Joins Commanders Camp on PUP List with Injury

Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin reported to training camp on July 23, 2024, but was immediately placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list due to an ankle injury. After sitting out the first four days of camp, McLaurin’s arrival did not coincide with a new contract agreement, which he has been seeking as he enters the final year of his current deal.

Coach Dan Quinn confirmed that McLaurin will undergo rehabilitation off to the side with the team’s trainers. The timeline for his return to practice remains uncertain. “While on PUP, it’s just like we do with other guys — work with the trainers to get back as soon as he can,” Quinn stated.

The financial implications of McLaurin’s holdout are significant. He faced a daily fine of $50,000 for missing the start of camp, totaling $200,000. Despite his absence from practice, discussions regarding a contract extension continue between McLaurin’s representatives and the Commanders’ management. “On the business side, GM Adam Peters and the guys are still working hard with Terry and his reps,” Quinn said.

During a meeting on the evening before his arrival, Quinn expressed optimism about McLaurin’s presence. “It was great. I’m really pumped that he’s here,” he remarked. The Commanders also welcomed fans to their first training camp practice on the same day.

McLaurin previously indicated he would not take the field without “progression” toward a new contract. His current status on the PUP list complicates the narrative, as it does not imply any advancements in negotiations. “It’s the nature of our business,” Peters commented regarding the ongoing discussions. “You’d like to get these things done quicker, but it doesn’t always happen that way.”

Analyzing the market, McLaurin has not disclosed the specific terms he is pursuing. However, he referenced the recent contracts of several notable receivers as benchmarks. Tee Higgins secured a four-year deal worth $115 million with $40.9 million guaranteed, while DK Metcalf and Garrett Wilson signed contracts worth $132 million and $130 million, respectively.

Turning 30 in September, McLaurin is aware of the perception that receivers often decline at this age. He emphasized that his performance should be evaluated independently, noting that he has only played seven seasons in the NFL and had limited action during his first two years at Ohio State. “I want them to view it on a case-by-case basis,” he mentioned.

In comparison, two high-profile receivers previously signed extensions at similar ages last year. Tyreek Hill signed a three-year extension worth $30 million annually with $52.535 million guaranteed, while Mike Evans secured a two-year deal for $41 million, including $35 million guaranteed.

Since being drafted in the third round in 2019, McLaurin has consistently been the Commanders’ leading receiver. He has surpassed 1,000 yards in each of the past five seasons and recorded 13 touchdown passes in the previous season, ranking him second in the league. Recognized as a team leader, he was voted captain by his teammates during last season’s postseason.

Peters acknowledged McLaurin’s importance to the organization, stating, “Without a doubt, everybody in this building values Terry very much.” As negotiations continue, both the team and McLaurin remain focused on finding a resolution that reflects his contributions and market value.