Washington, D.C. — The tension between the Washington Commanders and their All-Pro wide receiver Terry McLaurin just reached a boiling point. McLaurin was a no-show for the start of mandatory minicamp, and with no official explanation from the team, trade rumors are swirling louder than ever — and the Baltimore Ravens are among the interested parties.
After skipping all of OTAs, McLaurin has now opted out of the team’s mandatory minicamp, which could result in over $100,000 in fines under NFL rules. However, this may be a calculated move as he enters the final year of his current deal and reportedly seeks a contract extension worth $90–100 million.
This isn’t McLaurin’s first time playing hardball. Back in 2022, he similarly skipped offseason programs before landing a 3-year, $71 million extension. With just one year remaining on his deal and a $25 million cap hit looming, the pressure is mounting on Washington to either lock him down long-term or explore a trade.
Head coach Dan Quinn and general manager Adam Peters have maintained that they want to keep McLaurin, but his prolonged absence is already creating fractures — not only within the organization but also among fans and analysts. The situation has fueled speculation that a trade might be inevitable, with the Ravens, Steelers, and Jets rumored to be watching closely.
McLaurin, 28, is coming off his fifth straight 1,000-yard season, posting 82 receptions, 1,096 yards, and a career-high 13 touchdowns in 2024. His consistency, route-running precision, and veteran leadership make him one of the most reliable receivers in the NFL — and exactly the kind of player who can elevate an offense instantly.
With Lamar Jackson in MVP form and Baltimore on the cusp of championship contention, the idea of adding a proven WR1 like McLaurin is gaining serious traction. The Ravens have been aggressive before when a difference-maker becomes available, and this situation might just be the perfect storm.
If McLaurin’s message is that he’s done waiting, then the next move might come from Baltimore — and it could shake the AFC to its core.
