As training camp looms, the biggest storyline for the Washington Commanders remains wide receiver Terry McLaurin. After opting not to partake in minicamp, he still seems at odds with the organization as he continues his contract holdout.

Since being drafted in the third round of the 2019 draft, McLaurin has become a foundational piece of the franchise. He’s been a focal point of the offense for years now and elevated his play upon the arrival of the newest cornerstone piece in Jayden Daniels. Now, heading into the final year of his deal, McLaurin wants to be compensated on par with his peers.

Over the last half-decade, there have been few receivers in the NFL as consistent as McLaurin. He’s racked up at least 1,000 yards every year since 2020, and is fresh off posting a career-high 13 touchdowns. Though he’s approaching the age of 30, McLaurin is still more than capable of helping elevate Washington’s offense.

Also read: New Discouraging Update on Commanders Star’s Holdout Emerges

While going live on Bleacher Report earlier this week, Insider James Palmer provided the latest regarding McLaurin’s holdout. The two sides remain far apart as they attempt to rectify this situation before the 2025 season gets underway. Palmer noted that McLaurin isn’t looking for record-breaking numbers, but wants something on par with the new market for high-end receivers.

“They were really far apart in making any sort of progress,” Plamer said. ” Does he want to reset the market? No. We understand Ja’Marr Chase as that $40 million. But what he’s looking at, in my understanding more importantly, is that there’s seven players making $30 million or more. You look at a guy whose a No. 2 wide receiver in Tee Higgins that’s making about 28. Terry understands that he should be, and I agree with this, in those 30s numbers.”

Also read: AFC Contender Named as Landing Spot for Commanders Star WR

Paying a wide receiver entering his thirties a sizable contract isn’t a great position to be in, but the Commanders don’t have many options. After making numerous upgrades in the offseason, they are looking to contend right now. However, if Washington is going to reach its ceiling, it’ll need McLaurin on the field.

If there was ever a time to pay a steep price for a player, it’s now while Daniels is still under his rookie contract. Seeing how crucial he’s been to the franchise over the years, the Commanders should be willing to give McLaurin what he’s worth.

Now weeks into this ordeal, the Commanders are running out of time before McLaurin’s holdout is lingering in training camp.

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