As the NFL offseason rolls on, one of the biggest questions surrounding the Washington Commanders is the contract situation of their star wide receiver, Terry McLaurin. The 25-year-old has quickly emerged as one of the most dynamic playmakers in the league, but with his contract set to expire after the 2022 season, talks of a potential trade have begun to surface.
With the Commanders undergoing a major rebranding process, changing their name from the Washington Football Team to the Washington Commanders, it seems like the perfect time for a fresh start. However, this also means that they will have to make some tough decisions, and McLaurin’s contract is one of the most pressing issues.
Despite only being in the league for two seasons, McLaurin has become a fan-favorite in Washington and has proven himself to be a valuable asset for the team. In his rookie season, he recorded 58 receptions for 919 yards and seven touchdowns, earning him a spot on the All-Rookie team. He followed that up with an even more impressive sophomore campaign, recording 87 receptions for 1,118 yards and four touchdowns, despite facing double coverage for most of the season.
It’s no surprise that teams around the league have taken notice of McLaurin’s talents and are keeping a close eye on his contract situation. And one team that could potentially be interested in acquiring the young receiver is the New England Patriots.
The Patriots have a long history of making savvy moves in the offseason, and with their recent struggles at the wide receiver position, trading for McLaurin could be a game-changer for them. They have been lacking a true number one receiver since the departure of Rob Gronkowski, and McLaurin’s speed, agility, and route-running ability make him a perfect fit in their offense.
Moreover, the Patriots have a strong relationship with the Commanders, with head coach Ron Rivera and general manager Martin Mayhew both having spent time in New England as players and coaches. This could potentially make it easier for them to negotiate a trade with the Commanders for McLaurin.
But the real question is, should the Commanders even consider trading away their star receiver? McLaurin has quickly become the heart and soul of the team, and his strong work ethic and leadership have made him a role model for his teammates. He has also developed a strong connection with quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, who has praised McLaurin’s abilities and work ethic since joining the team.
Additionally, with the Commanders’ rebranding, McLaurin could be a key player in shaping the team’s new identity. He has already proven himself on and off the field, and his popularity among fans makes him a valuable marketing asset for the franchise.
But on the flip side, the Commanders will have to make a significant financial commitment to keep McLaurin, who is due for a big payday. With other important players like defensive lineman Chase Young and safety Landon Collins also in line for new contracts in the near future, the Commanders may have to make some tough decisions on where to allocate their resources.
Ultimately, whether the Commanders decide to trade McLaurin or not will depend on how negotiations go and their long-term plans for the team. But one thing is for sure, if a trade does happen, it will need to be a blockbuster deal to pry away one of the rising stars of the NFL.
In conclusion, while the idea of the Patriots making a move for Terry McLaurin is certainly intriguing, it is still too early to tell if a trade will actually happen. The Commanders have shown a commitment to building a winning team, and trading away their star receiver may not align with their long-term goals. At the end of the day, it will all come down to how they value McLaurin and how much they are willing to invest in him. But one thing is certain, whether he remains a Commander or joins the Patriots, Terry McLaurin will continue to showcase his talents and make a significant impact in the NFL.
