The Washington Commanders had been in a contract dispute with their star wide receiver Terry McLaurin since June. McLaurin had yet to participate in training camp, and contract negotiations can be damaging to player-team relationships if not handled properly. Since June, McLaurin had expressed clear dissatisfaction.
“All-Pro WR Terry McLaurin has made it clear to the team that he’s frustrated with the lack of progress on a long-term deal. As I previously reported, McLaurin unexpectedly left voluntary workouts after initially attending, and it remains to be seen whether he’ll report for mandatory minicamp,” NFL Insider Jordan Schultz wrote.
On Monday, the Commanders and McLaurin finally reached an agreement, resolving the dispute and securing his future in Washington.
“Washington and WR Terry McLaurin reached agreement today on a three-year contract extension that will end his hold-in and get him in uniform for the regular-season opener vs. the Giants, per sources,” ESPN’s Adam Schefter posted.
While this is good news for the Commanders, it also raises the bar for the Atlanta Falcons and wide receiver Drake London. The Falcons have been working on how to approach an extension for London, and Monday’s deal provides a clearer picture of what his market might look like.
“If Drake balls out like we think he will… $34-35M/APY easy,” BroTalk of The Reporting Eligible Podcast posted.
Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
The Falcons will now be determining an exact number, likely using McLaurin’s extension as a benchmark. However, if Atlanta chooses to wait and monitor the market, the price could rise even further.
With Michael Penix Jr. under center, London is poised for a breakout year, likely emerging as the Falcons' top target. Atlanta struck gold drafting London—now it's up to the organization to ensure he’s secured for the long term.