Terry McLaurin Scott Taetsch/GettyImages

Franchise legend fuels growing push for Commanders to extend Terry McLaurin

Originally posted on Riggo's Rag | By Ryan McCafferty | Last updated Jul 27, 2025 1:07 PM ET

A major development unfolded in Terry McLaurin's contract standoff with the Washington Commanders, as the star wide receiver reported to training camp — albeit with a reported ankle injury that leaves him unable to join his teammates on the field.

In the meantime, another legendary wideout from the organization's past was in Ashburn. The Commanders announced that Santana Moss will be inducted into their Ring of Fame during Week 1's home contest against the New York Giants, which is richly deserved recognition for everything he gave to the team.

Naturally, Moss had some thoughts on McLaurin's situation when speaking to ESPN on Back Together Sunday, and he did not mince words.

"Respectfully, just pay him."

—Commanders Ring-of-Fame WR Santana Moss on Terry McLaurin's contract situation pic.twitter.com/6rDoAhguRm
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) July 27, 2025

Commanders must heed Santana Moss' advice and extend Terry McLaurin

The 2001 first-round pick of the New York Jets played 14 seasons in the NFL, his final 10 coming in Washington. His best campaign was his first one in D.C., catching 84 passes for 1,483 receiving yards and nine touchdowns in 2005 en route to being named a Pro Bowler and second-team All-Pro for the only time in his career.

Moss joins a long list of Washington players, both past and present, who have endorsed McLaurin in his quest for a new contract. These include icons such as Joe Theismann and active veterans such as Bobby Wagner and Zach Ertz. Just about everybody in D.C. is firmly on the side of the receiver, who was serenaded with cheers upon his arrival at the facility.

McLaurin noted the fan support and made it clear that any grievances he holds with the front office at this moment have not taken anything away from his relationship with Washington overall. He wants to be a Commanders lifer, and he wants to continue to reward the team and its fanbase with his on-field greatness.

The Ohio State product's tenure in Washington has involved sticking it out through 11 different quarterbacks, four head coaches (including Bill Callahan's brief interim stint), two name changes, and a tumultuous multi-year toxic workplace investigation that resulted in an eventual shift in ownership. His loyalty has been praised by many, and it's a major reason why re-signing him needs to be a top priority now that the Commanders finally have a winning culture to build upon.

Moss added his name to those expressing such a sentiment. His appearance at training camp was for the purpose of celebrating his achievements, but he wants his successor in the long line of Washington receiving greats to be in his position one day, too.

Listen to No. 89: pay the man.