AFC team circling as Commanders drag feet on Terry McLaurin deal

Terry McLaurin's understated public outcry of unhappiness regarding his contract situation raised alarm bells among the Washington Commanders fan base. This was incredibly out of character for the wide receiver, so for him to come out and say the things he did was deeply concerning.

McLaurin feels disrespected and undervalued. He revealed that no conversations with the Commanders had taken place for over a month, although that might have changed now. That has not been confirmed, and it's unlikely to be when one considers the tight ship being run by general manager Adam Peters.

However, now that the Commanders have signed future Pro Football Hall of Fame edge rusher Von Miller and tied down second-round pick Trey Amos to his rookie contract, it would be surprising and disappointing in equal measure if McLaurin's extension wasn't prioritized.

The former third-round pick out of Ohio State stated that the situation was close to breaking point. If that is reached, one respected insider believes one franchise above all else will be waiting with an offer.

Patriots would be 'very interested' in Terry McLaurin trade if Commanders became receptive

Albert Breer from Sports Illustrated acknowledged that McLaurin getting extended remains the most likely scenario. If not, he thought the New England Patriots would be extremely interested in acquiring the two-time Pro Bowler as a legitimate No. 1 option for second-year quarterback Drake Maye.

There hasn't been much progress because there hasn't been much talk between the sides. And I think that's why Terry [McLaurin] felt compelled to say what he said publicly. I think the Patriots would be very interested in this. There's a price point for all of it, and what would that mean? Obviously, he's not going to come here with an unresolved contract situation, so you'd be talking about a draft pick plus a contract. He's a little older than people realize because he was a five-year college guy. He'll be 30 in September. Certainly, as far as what they're looking for -- from a person, a player, helping Drake Maye, etc. -- this guy checks every box.Albert Breer via NBC Boston

Trading McLaurin is not an option. The Commanders finally have some positive momentum after decades of dismay. Peters shouldn't even contemplate parting ways with quarterback Jayden Daniels' most productive weapon in the passing game. Imagine the message that would send to the locker room and fans. It's absolutely out of the question.

At the same time, Peters is running the football operation with a business-first mentality. He's got a price in mind for McLaurin that works for the franchise. That's reportedly far apart from what the wideout's representatives had in mind. Some middle ground must be reached, and quickly.

There's still plenty of time before Week 1. McLaurin missing practice sessions at training camp wouldn't be ideal, but coaches and teammates know he'll be preparing hard away from the team. And his exceptional chemistry with Daniels is already firmly established as a new deal gets worked out.

And it will. McLaurin is way too important for anything else.

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