Adam Peters has done almost everything right since becoming general manager of the Washington Commanders. But the ugly contract standoff with Terry McLaurin is arguably the first time his judgment's been questioned.
McLaurin's been a bystander throughout Washington's preparations for the 2025 campaign. The wide receiver wants a new contract extension that hasn't arrived. He sat out of OTAs and mandatory minicamp. He did the same over the first few days of training camp, but those $50,000 per day in fines start to add up after a while.
The former third-round pick out of Ohio State took things up a notch with a trade request. McLaurin is trying to force the issue, with no progress reportedly being made. It's causing unrest and distraction in equal measure, but fans remain confident that Peters will do what's right for the franchise.
Commanders GM Adam Peters won't be pressured by Terry McLaurin's trade request
Removing McLaurin from the equation is not an option. Any trade calls will get knocked back. The Commanders don't plan to dispose of their best pass-catcher, especially considering they have a real shot to win the Super Bowl this season if everyone meets expectations.
It's been a proverbial powder keg waiting to go off at any moment. Peters has remained calm and methodical throughout. He wants McLaurin to be part of the franchise's future, but only on a deal that works for the team. Fans might not like it, but it's the correct way of doing business.
And it's been a long time since the Commanders were run with such professionalism.
McLaurin reportedly wants more than $30 million per season. Peters is reluctant to pay that on a third NFL contract for someone who'll be 30 years old in September. Both sides have been resolute in their stance so far. It'll be interesting to see if this latest measure changes things.
It's gone beyond awkward. It's uncomfortable. It's less than ideal when the Commanders have more expectations on their shoulders than ever before. Peters is coming under fire, but he doesn't care.
His firm focus is on the Commanders' long-term project. McLaurin is a big part of that — a franchise cornerstone on the field and an inspirational leader in the locker room. The wideout feels undervalued and disrespected, but a nice pay increase will cure whatever problems reside within.
This is dragging out way longer than anyone anticipated. Peters has experience with receivers in contract disputes. Even so, this represents a franchise-shaking development that needs a successful resolution.
Nothing else will do.