Will Commanders' Terry McLaurin Fetch Top Dollar In Contract Talks?

The only blight on the Washington Commanders' last two offseasons is playing out before our eyes, with Terry McLaurin not a happy camper with his current contract situation.

Having already sat out of OTAs and mandatory minicamp as he looks to force through a deal, training camp is on the horizon, and the big-money deal Terry wants, he hopes, will be forthcoming.

But exactly what he wants and what the Commanders are willing to pay isn't known, but we think a contract worth roughly $30 million APY is valid.

However, if McLaurin is thinking that he can break the market, CBS Sports has news for him.

"McLaurin is one of the most underrated wide receivers in football," CBS Sports writes. "Coming off five consecutive 1,000-yard seasons, McLaurin put up numbers despite the myriad of quarterbacks that have thrown to him over the years. No coincidence McLaurin's touchdown numbers went from four the previous season to 13 with Jayden Daniels as his quarterback. 

"Where McLaurin gets paid amongst the elite receivers is the question. A pay raise is coming, but how much will the Commanders pay? McLaurin should get top-10 money for his position. Highly unlikely he'll be in the top-five range."

To be in the top five, McLaurin's deal would have to be at a minimum $32 million APY, which is what Philadelphia Eagles stud A.J. Brown is currently on.

But the top 10, as CBS Sports thinks? Per Spotrac.com, that starts at $28 million APY with the Miami Dolphins' Jaylen Waddle. We then have Tyreek Hill, Amon-Ra St Brown, and Brandon Aiyuk, who all earn $30 million APY.

That's where Terry will land if Washington wants to pay him accordingly.

In truth, only $5 million APY is separating Hill at No. 7 and Minnesota Vikings receiver Justin Jefferson at No. 2, so who knows how hard McLaurin's agent will be pushing.

Exactly where it lands is going to be a fascinating watch, as the Commanders need to secure their best offensive weapon to a long-term deal.

Yeah, it'll be expensive, but how high is the franchise willing to go?