Terry McLaurin remains at loggerheads with the Washington Commanders over his desire for a new contract. The wide receiver is holding out of training camp until the situation reaches a successful conclusion. And one radio host believes there is still one final card to play in pursuit of piling on the pressure.
Although the relationship between McLaurin and the Commanders hasn't soured significantly during this prolonged standoff, the wideout feels disrespected and undervalued by the franchise. That's never good, but general manager Adam Peters is holding firm in his quest to get a deal worked out that benefits the player and the organization.
McLaurin won't be on the practice field unless some long-term financial security arrives. All signs point to an extension being confirmed at some stage. However, fans are becoming increasingly restless.
Radio host bemused that Terry McLaurin hasn't requested a trade from the Commanders
Grant Paulsen from 106.7 The Fan wondered why McLaurin hadn't handed in a trade request as yet. He thought it was a logical step that the pass-catcher hadn't committed to so far — something that's become commonplace around the league to force the issue.
"I don't get why Terry McLaurin hasn't asked for a trade. If he's mad enough to hold out (already foregone $150K and counting), which never happens this era, why not be willing to ask for a trade? The other guy holding out has. Normally, players holding out also ask for a trade."Grant Paulsen
The other guy Paulsen was referring to is Trey Hendrickson. He's handed in a trade request and is holding out of Cincinnati Bengals training camp as his contract dispute looks increasingly bitter. The Commanders haven't reached that point with McLaurin yet. And hopefully, things don't get anywhere near this far.
There's a good reason why McLaurin hasn't handed in a trade request. He cares deeply about the organization and his connection to the fan base. The second-team All-Pro doesn't want friction to build right now. But the longer this drags on, the more possible it becomes.
Peters has always stated his desire to keep McLaurin around. He'd likely refuse any trade offers if they arrived, so any official request wouldn't be worth the paper it's written on. And the fact that both sides are working towards an agreement remains the one positive to take from this ongoing saga.
The Commanders need to extend McLaurin. There is no middle ground here, and Peters isn't in the business of removing franchise cornerstones from the equation when the stakes have been raised.
It's that simple. Or at least it should be.