Washington Commanders GM Adam Peters gives clarity on contract situation with All-Pro WR Terry McLaurin ahead of training camp
The Washington Commanders have reported as a full team for the first time today in Ashburn, Virginia, and the biggest storyline entering training camp received an update from GM Adam Peters.Peters spoke to the media for the first time since star wideout Terry McLaurin publicly voiced his frustrations with the team and of course, he […]
The Washington Commanders have reported as a full team for the first time today in Ashburn, Virginia, and the biggest storyline entering training camp received an update from GM Adam Peters.
Peters spoke to the media for the first time since star wideout Terry McLaurin publicly voiced his frustrations with the team and of course, he was asked if McLaurin will attend camp and what progress, if any, has been made in contract negotiations.
Peters reassures how the Commanders feel about Terry McLaurin
Everyone knows how valuable McLaurin is to the Washington Commanders on and off the field, but he isn't really feeling that from the team with how contract negotiations have gone quiet over the last month or so.
Peters made a point of addressing that topic when he spoke to the media on Tuesday.
"First, I think, without a doubt, I think everybody in this building values Terry very much and we knew that coming in, and we knew that even more after spending a year with him," said Peters.
It harkens back to when Peters said he wants McLaurin to be a Commander for a "very very, long time." Peters doubled-down on what he said months ago and that's obviously encouraging. At the same time, however, McLaurin is frustrated for a reason and actions ultimately speak louder than words.
Washington can't afford to take a key weapon away from Jayden Daniels in an offseason where they have been aggressive in hopes of making a push for a Super Bowl while McDaniels is on a rookie deal. McLaurin's potential absence would hamper all the hard work done in the offseason regarding the trades for Deebo Samuel and Laremy Tunsil. Peters knows that's not the right move to make, as it could potentially set the offense back to an extent.
Where things stand and what's next for McLaurin, Peters and the Commanders
The biggest question has been where Washington and McLaurin currently stand after the two-time Pro Bowler mentioned they haven't spoken in a month about his contract situation.
From Peters' perspective it sounds like things are headed in a positive direction and his outlook should add a sense of tranquility to the situation.
"In terms of where we're at, we've had conversations recently, and we'll look to have some more conversations, and we're going to do everything we can in order to get a deal done."
When putting Peters' words beside McLaurin's, it's interesting the Commanders general manager said they've had recent talks, because according to McLaurin, no talks occurred in the last month and change. Whether or not that means the two parties have spoken since McLaurin went public is unknown.
Regardless, the stance has always been that Washington wants to make McLaurin a Commander for life, and things could progress to make sure that happens. Peters also said that he fully expects McLaurin to be present for training camp with the rest of the team, so that's a situation worth monitoring as camp continues.
The business side of the NFL can get ugly when it comes to contract negotiations, but it's all about finding a common ground.
"Understanding where they're at and understanding where we're at and trying to close that gap and come into something is, really all the nuance of it, and staying really above board, and, you know, negotiating in good faith," said Peters.
If Washington can practice together with 100% for training camp, it can build the continuity of the offense, and make the transition to the start of the season run smoothly. Peters reassured that talks are headed in a positive direction and they will continue to, but McLaurin should still practice with the rest of the team until then.
NFL insider gives update on the Terry McLaurin contract situation, and it should both ease and worry Commanders fans
Washington still has a major hurdle to clear
