Tensions are rising between Washington and their standout wide receiver Terry McLaurin. Despite seeking a new contract for some time, the team hasn’t offered him one yet, leading McLaurin to formally request a trade on Thursday.
As of July 31st, DraftKings Sportsbook has updated the odds for McLaurin’s next team:
– Washington Commanders: -250 (bet $10 to win $14 total)
– New England Patriots: +450 (bet $10 to win $55 total)
– Las Vegas Raiders: +500 (bet $10 to win $60 total)
– Tennessee Titans: +1100 (bet $10 to win $120 total)
– Los Angeles Chargers: +1100 (bet $10 to win $120 total)
– New York Jets: +1300 (bet $10 to win $140 total)
– Cleveland Browns: +1400 (bet $10 to win $150 total)
– Pittsburgh Steelers: +1500 (bet $10 to win $160 total)
– Arizona Cardinals: +1600 (bet $10 to win $170 total)
Although Washington is still favored to retain McLaurin, their odds have shifted from -400 just ten days ago, reflecting the increasing strain between the star wide receiver and the only franchise he’s played for. McLaurin’s trade request comes during the final year of his three-year, $68.2 million contract extension signed in 2022. He expressed frustration earlier in July, noting a lack of meaningful contract talks ahead of training camp.
McLaurin has partially participated in the team’s activities, showing up to training camp but not joining in drills, and he skipped the mandatory minicamp in May. Over six seasons with Washington, he has recorded five 1,000-yard seasons, including 1,000 yards in his rookie year and 919 yards across 14 games in 2019.
The Patriots stand as the second most likely team to acquire McLaurin, aiming to bolster their receiving corps, which hasn’t featured a 1,000-yard receiver since Julian Edelman’s 2019 season. Their current top receiver, Stefon Diggs, is recovering from an ACL injury sustained last season.
The Raiders rank third in odds and have consistently had 1,000-yard receivers over the past six seasons. They are gearing up for the 2025 season with tight end Brock Bowers and wide receiver Jacobi Myers as lead targets for their new quarterback, Geno Smith.
Fan Take: McLaurin’s potential move could significantly shake up the wide receiver landscape in the NFL, especially for teams desperate to boost their offensive firepower. For fans, this unfolding saga highlights the complex business side of football and reminds us that even star players’ futures can be uncertain.
