Terry McLaurin’s absence triggers outrageous trade theory fans can’t believe

Terry McLaurin's absence from practice this week caused a stir. The Washington Commanders didn't give a reason, so it could have been anything. However, most people tied it to the wide receiver's contract status with Phase 3 of OTAs on the immediate horizon.

One NFL analyst went a step further, outrageously claiming that McLaurin could potentially be traded if the situation doesn't come to a satisfactory resolution.

Analyst touts outrageous trade theory around Commanders WR Terry McLaurin

This is laughable. That didn't stop Anthony Palacios from Last Word on Sports from touting the notion, even listing the Los Angeles Chargers, Kansas City Chiefs, and Baltimore Ravens as possible suitors for the second-team All-Pro.

Commanders’ wide receiver Terry McLaurin could holdout for a new contract, which may signal a trade. According to several reports, it surprised many fans and insiders across the league that McLaurin didn’t show up to practice this week. While it’s only voluntary and only one offseason workout, it could lead to more absences, which may be due to his contract situation. After having one of the best campaigns last season, led by sensation Jayden Daniels, McLaurin will likely be willing to hold out longer and may be open to a trade if the team doesn’t pay up.Anthony Palacios

This is the quiet time of the offseason, so it's no surprise to see people clinging to every storyline and trying to make something more of it. But trading McLaurin won't even come up in thoughts, least of all discussions.

McLaurin could have been absent for another reason. But if it was the contract with one year remaining on his current deal, Adam Peters would act swiftly to give Washington's inspirational figure the long-term security he deserves.

The former third-round pick out of Ohio State is not going to demand a trade. McLaurin loves the franchise and is not that type of character. Peters has stated he wants the wideout to sign a new deal and spearhead this ambitious project for years to come. He's also proven to be a man of his word since taking the general manager job.

If this was under the previous owner, things wouldn't be so clear-cut. Countless top-level players left via trade or for nothing at all under Dan Snyder's watch. Things are being done differently now, and Peters won't be in the business of entertaining offers for one of Washington's prized possessions even if a new deal did take a little longer to figure out.

McLaurin is a focal point. An extension will get worked out, it's just a matter of when.

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