It's been a blockbuster offseason for the Washington Commanders as Adam Peters looked to make the improvements needed to build on a staggering first campaign under his leadership. And there is one more clear-cut win the general manager cannot miss before Week 1 rolls around.
Peters proved his worth as the right man for the job. The front-office leader adopted a professional, team-first approach to his roster construction. He was ruthless, disposing of players he thought weren't up to the required standard and replacing them with accomplished performers who fit the mold of what head coach Dan Quinn is trying to build. The early results spoke for themselves.
The Commanders were more aggressive this offseason with their Super Bowl window open. Peters made two bombshell trades, signed veteran players with experience deep into the postseason, and extracted maximum value from his five draft selections. The pieces are in place for Washington to make another playoff push, and expectations have risen exponentially to that effect.
Washington's main recruitment period has wound down. Attention is quickly turning to OTAs, mandatory minicamp, and the all-important training camp this summer. However, Peters won't ever stop looking for ways to improve the roster before Week 1 against the New York Giants rolls around.
There is also a pressing priority to resolve within the building. One that fans are clamoring for.
Terry McLaurin is entering the final year of his deal. The wide receiver is an integral part of Washington's plans and a franchise cornerstone to build around for the foreseeable future. His on-field production and exceptional leadership within the locker room make him an indispensable member of the squad. He's also done more than enough for another lofty commitment ahead of time.
Peters has stated that he wants McLaurin to be in Washington for a long time. The former third-round pick out of Ohio State loves the franchise and is beloved among the fan base. But the Commanders would be wise to get this resolved sooner rather than later.
The price is only going up. Some major wide receiver extensions have raised the bar already this offseason. Peters cannot wait much longer for fear of those with similar qualities to McLaurin getting more than he was originally going to pay.
A new deal for McLaurin will come in at around $30 million per season. The Commanders might be able to get him for less, given his will to win and put the team first, but the number is more than feasible. And the wideout is worth every penny.
This should be pretty easy to figure out. Peters doesn't need an easy win with so much momentum already built, but one more is staring him right in the face.
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