Commanders Lock Up WR Scary Terry with Three-Year, \$96 Million Extension
The Washington Commanders and star wide receiver Terry McLaurin have agreed to a three‑year contract extension worth up to \$96 million, signaling a major commitment to keeping their top offensive weapon locked in through the 2028 season.
Anchored by a hefty\$30 million signing bonus, McLaurin’s new deal raises his average annual value to \$32 million, placing him among the NFL’s elite wide receivers—tied for sixth‑highest paid at his position.
This extension brings an end to a tense offseason. McLaurin skipped portions of training camp, landed on the PUP list, and even requested a trade as negotiations lagged.
With the deal now in place, the Commanders have cleared the drama just in time for the season opener against the Giants on September 7.
On the field, McLaurin remains arguably the league’s most reliable receiver. He earned his second Pro Bowl nod in 2024 and set a franchise record with 13 touchdown receptions, while also posting 82 receptions for 1,096 yards.The Washington Post.
Since being drafted in the third round in 2019, he has amassed over 460 receptions,6,379 yard, and 38 touchdowns across 97 games. Notably, he’s the first receiver in NFL history to record five consecutive 1,000‑yard seasons with a different primary starting quarterback each year.
The arrival of Jayden Daniels last year played a key role in elevating McLaurin’s production. Their connection helped propel Washington to a dramatic turnaround: a 12‑5 record, the franchise’s first NFC Championship Game appearance since 1991, and the team’s first playoff win since 2005.
Still, the investment carries an inherent risk. McLaurin turns 30 in September, and studies show wide receivers generally begin to decline after that age, with only 25 1,000‑yard seasons by receivers 31 or older since 2010, compared to 280 by younger players.
The ultimate value of the deal now hinges on the amount of guaranteed money and incentive structure, which remains undisclosed—though the “up to” phrasing in initial reports hints that a portion may be conditional.
Still, the extension represents a decisive moment for the Commanders. It not only ends an offseason saga but also cements McLaurin—known affectionately as “Scary Terry”—as the franchise’s offensive cornerstone.
With stability at wide receiver and momentum from a breakthrough 2024 season, Washington’s offense enters 2025 with renewed optimism. The real question now: can “Scary Terry” defy age trends and continue producing at this elite level as he enters his early 30s?