Cap guru predicts massive Terry McLaurin deal as Commanders holdout heats up

Terry McLaurin's absence from organized team activities centers on his desire to get a lucrative new contract extension ahead of time. Nobody associated with the Washington Commanders is pressing the panic button just yet, but Adam Peters must resolve this matter successfully, sooner rather than later.

One NFL salary-cap guru projects the Commanders and McLaurin to get something worked out, albeit with a jaw-dropping financial commitment attached.

McLaurin's earned every cent coming his way. The former third-round pick is an integral member of the squad and a revered leader within the locker room. He's the beating heart of everything good in Washington and someone who should be rewarded accordingly for his sterling commitment.

Salary cap guru projects figure Commanders will pay Terry McLaurin on his next deal

Michael Ginnitti from Spotrac holds a similar opinion. The financial NFL analyst thought the Commanders and McLaurin would come to a mutually beneficial agreement. He also thought a three-year, $100 million deal with $60 million guaranteed should be enough when it's all said and done.

The 29-year-old enters a contract year in 2025, set to earn $19.65M for the upcoming season. He’s a near $32M per year player in our system currently, and should benefit from DK Metcalf’s recent extension in Pittsburgh ($33M per year, $60M guaranteed).Michael Ginnitti

This seems like a good number. It's not up there with the likes of Justin Jefferson or Ja'Marr Chase, but nobody expects it to be. McLaurin will be 30 years old next season. He remains highly productive, but this is something Peters will take into account during negotiations.

The Commanders want to give McLaurin a deal that makes him a Washington lifer. That's extremely rare in the modern-day NFL, but the Ohio State graduate's loyalty deserves such a prestigious distinction.

Tying McLaurin down to another deal won't be cheap. Wide receiver contracts around the league continue to explode. Peters knows that, but he could end up saving the Commanders some money by getting this done quickly.

Nobody was remotely concerned by McLaurin's no-show at OTAs. It's voluntary right now, and quarterback Jayden Daniels knows that his professionalism and preparation will enable him to hit the ground running upon returning to his teammates.

Just when that'll be is unknown. However, it would be disappointing if something wasn't rubber-stamped before Washington's mandatory minicamp from June 10-12.

Peters knows what he's doing. And there is no need to overcomplicate this. Extend McLaurin, and make it quick.

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