Commanders' next move after bombshell Von Miller signing is painfully obvious

The Washington Commanders caused a huge stir by signing veteran edge rusher Von Miller to a one-year deal before training camp. This adds another accomplished figure into the mix in pursuit of going one better this season.

Just how much juice he has left in the tank remains to be seen, but Adam Peters thought it was a risk worth taking. And the general manager has one more painfully obvious move to make before preparations for the 2025 campaign gather pace.

Pay Terry McLaurin.

McLaurin is still awaiting a lucrative new contract extension that hasn't arrived yet. The two-time Pro Bowl wide receiver was nothing short of dejected in front of the media this week, outlining his dismay about being undervalued and disrespected by the franchise. The situation hasn't reached breaking point just yet, but it's getting a lot closer.

Commanders must focus on Terry McLaurin's extension after signing Von Miller

The revelation that no conversations have taken place for more than a month was arguably more concerning. Both sides are dug in, and communication was cut off entirely.

There is still time to turn this situation around. However, there's a good chance McLaurin misses time on the practice field at training camp until the negotiations reach a successful outcome.

Now that the Commanders have strengthened their edge-rushing room, McLaurin's extension must be Peters' top priority. It's already become a distraction, which would only increase if the former third-round pick is missing from camp. It also sends a bad message to fans and the locker room.

Peters is standing his ground. He knows McLaurin will be 30 years old in September, and very few wide receivers put up elite numbers late in their careers. At the same time, his influence on the field shows no signs of slowing down. His inspirational presence in the locker room cannot be overstated. Therefore, this looks like a no-brainer, despite the lofty financial commitment attached.

Miller should help the Commanders' pass-rushing capabilities, although this will probably be from a situational role at such a late stage in his playing career. McLarin is much more integral to the team's plans. Taking care of a franchise cornerstone who means so much to everybody is crucial.

McLaurin wants to stay. The Commanders want him around. That should make it relatively straightforward to find some middle ground, but the two sides are reportedly pretty far apart right now.

Peters is always working; his deal for Miller proves that. Now, it's time to focus his attention on McLaurin and nothing else.

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