Jayden Daniels was unbothered by Terry McLaurin's absence.
Terry McLaurin is not participating in voluntary organized team activities, which was always a likely scenario before another big payday came his way.
The Washington Commanders and the wide receiver's representatives are in a standoff regarding another lucrative contract extension ahead of time. Nobody is pressing the panic button just yet, but the situation needs a successful resolution sooner rather than later.
McLaurin's presence will always be missed, no matter what time of year it is. However, quarterback Jayden Daniels was unmoved.
The rookie sensation developed a strong bond quickly with McLaurin during his outstanding first year in the pros. Daniels and his primary pass-catcher both made the Pro Bowl. They became one of the league's most dynamic duos. They pushed each other to be great, and the results were there for all to see.
Jayden Daniels was unmoved by Terry McLaurin's holdout at Commanders OTAs
Daniels didn't seem bothered one bit about McLaurin's no-show at OTAs. He knows how professional the former third-round pick is, so he'll be ready to roll once the business side is taken care of. Even though the wideout isn't around, their common goals remain the same. That's to get ready and prepare effectively for another deep postseason run in 2025.
No money in the world changes that.
"Me and Terry [McLaurin] have a good relationship outside of football. Obviously, he has to handle what he has to handle but that doesn’t change anything, the fact that he is part of our brotherhood. We know Terry is working and everything. We have to get better and he knows he has to get better each and every day."Jayden Daniels via Pro Football Talk
The Commanders will do right by McLaurin. He's a franchise cornerstone and the epitome of what the new regime is trying to build. His professionalism, purpose, high-end work ethic, and extraordinary consistency made him a fan favorite and revered among his teammates. This is the exact player who should be rewarded accordingly.
McLaurin will be 30 years old in September. That makes the length of the contract and financial structure difficult to predict. But the fact he's showed no signs of slowing down, and is even getting better with every year that passes, somewhere in the region of $30 million per season is realistic.
Whether it happens today, tomorrow, or just before training camp, McLaurin will be ready to hit the ground running upon returning to the Commanders. That's why everyone associated with the franchise, including Daniels, couldn't be calmer about his current holdout.
