Terry McLaurin Jonathan Bachman/GettyImages

Terry McLaurin escalates standoff amid Commanders contract gridlock

Originally posted on Riggo's Rag | By Dean Jones | Last updated May 28, 2025 12:47 PM ET

Terry McLaurin's absence from practice last week was immediately tied to his contract situation. The Washington Commanders or the player's representatives didn't confirm anything for definite, but fans are clamoring for the situation to reach a successful outcome for one of the team's franchise cornerstones.

And there was no sign of McLaurin once again to kick off Phase 3 organized team activities. The stakes have officially been raised, and Peters must respond.

McLaurin has one more year remaining on his deal. His leadership and exceptional on-field production make him more than deserving of another financial commitment. He's an integral part of Washington's surge into contention quicker than anticipated. Adam Peters is under pressure to reward him accordingly.

While other players took the first flight out of town when they got the chance, McLaurin weathered the storm. He put up outstanding numbers despite no stable quarterback presence. That's all changed with Jayden Daniels, and the improvements spoke for themselves.

Terry McLaurin missing from OTAs as Commanders' contract stalemate goes on

Peters wants to get McLaurin signed — he made that abundantly clear earlier this year. It's not going to be cheap, and the player will turn 30 years old shortly after the 2025 season begins. However, this is a sound investment that comes with significant benefits attached.

All eyes were on the practice field for Phase 3 organized team activities on Wednesday. It was a chance for the media to see this revamped roster in action for the first time in a while. And all eyes were on McLaurin to see if he'd report for duty.

He did not.

No Terry McLaurin here for the start of today's OTA session. pic.twitter.com/1E9qWTCvo9
— Ben Standig (@BenStandig) May 28, 2025

Ben Standig from The Athletic confirmed there was no sign of McLaurin to begin OTAs. It's worth remembering that the sessions are voluntary, but this is an unusual course of action for the respected leader to take.

McLaurin isn't one for missing practice. He's a consummate professional and doesn't like letting his teammates down. But the NFL is a business above all else, so there is hesitancy from the player — perhaps coming from his representatives — to not risk any chance of getting injured while a lucrative extension is being negotiated.

Left tackle Laremy Tunsil and cornerback Marshon Lattimore were also missing. They could be after new deals too, although that might be a stretch for the latter after his underwhelming first few months in Washington.

The sooner this gets done, the sooner everyone can breathe a sigh of relief. But if something doesn't get sorted before Washington's mandatory minicamp, questions will be asked.

There is no need to make this more complicated than it needs to be. McLaurin's earned every cent coming his way, and the Commanders would be wise to pay up.