Ahead of training camp, countless teams were able to put an end were able to end the contract holdouts of their key players. However, that has not been the case for the Washington Commanders. While the organization isn’t worried, one former player gave his thoughts on why Terry McLaurin’s absence is a cause for concern.
McLaurin has been one of the Commanders’ top performers for years now, racking up his fifth-straight 1,000-yard season last year. Heading into the final year of his contract, he’s remained firm about wanting an extension before the 2025 campaign begins.
In light of a new deal not coming back, McLaurin remains away from the Commanders. He first departed during minicamp, and though he was unsure about skipping training camp, he has decided to remain absent. This is a big blow to Washington’s new-look offense, as he is a key component to what they do on that side of the ball.
Also read: Commanders Coach Unfazed by Terry McLaurin’s Holdout
While on ESPN’s First Take Wednesday, former NFL defensive back Louis Riddick weighed in on McLaurin’s holdout. He voiced his concerns about the star receiver not being in camp, mainly in connection with quarterback Jayden Daniels. With a potential superstar on their hands, he feels the organization should prioritize having all his weapons around him in camp.
“I’m a 10 out of 10 concerned,” Riddick said. “If you want to make sure that you safeguard that trajectory that [Jayden Daniels] is on, and keep it going the way it’s going, you need to make sure that every day he can spend with Terry McLaurin he spends with Terry McLaurin in a football setting in your building…This is another one of those things that should be done.”
Also read: Ex-Commanders Star Weighs In on Terry McLaurin’s Holdout
Daniels put together one of the best rookie campaigns in recent memory, and McLaurin played a key role in his success. The two quickly built a strong connection on the field, resulting in the veteran wideout racking up 1,096 yards and a career-high 13 touchdowns. As Riddick mentioned, if the two are going to grow together, McLaurin needs to be back with the team and getting as many reps with Daniels as possible.
Though things have dragged on longer than they might have wanted, the Commanders are adamant they want McLaurin around long-term. Only time will tell when a suitable offer will emerge that allows both sides to put this whole ordeal behind them.
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