After a disastrous 2025 regular season for the Washington Commanders, the team could be moving on without Terry McLaurin once the 2026 campaign ends. Matthew Berry of NBC Sports discussed the possibility of wide receiver Terry McLaurin being cut after the 2026 season. Despite the team finally coming to terms with McLaurin on a three-year, $96 million contract, the Commanders were hesitant on offering him a deal in the first place. With McLaurin entering age 32 when eligible for a new deal, it’s unlikely that Washington will give him another contract, and the team probably wants to stick with younger talent to emerge like Luke McCaffrey and whoever they acquire this offseason.
Trade rumors might ramp up once again for McLaurin if the Commanders sign a big-time receiver in free agency while getting another offensive weapon in the first-round of this year’s draft. The Commanders aren’t expected to bring back Deebo Samuel, so it’s possible the trade speculation isn’t going away anytime soon for McLaurin.
Matthew Berry on #Commanders WR Terry McLaurin:
“The expectation, talking to a team source in Washington … feels like McLaurin’s last year is likely in 2026”
(🎥:@NFLonNBC) pic.twitter.com/lK2zQ8neFt
— brandon (@JayDanielsMVP) March 5, 2026
Commanders Terry McLaurin “Likely” to Depart After 2026 Season; Suitors Could Be Watching
Selected as a third-round pick in 2019, the former Ohio State product has been one of the most consistent receivers for this Commanders offense, no matter who led this team. Despite the unpromising quarterback they had before Jayden Daniels, McLaurin stayed consistent before breaking out in the 2024 regular season, helping this team to appear in the NFC Championship Game.
Which is why he demanded a new contract that reflects the work he’s put in. Unfortunately, even after putting five consecutive seasons of 1,000 receiving yards, McLaurin took a major step back this past year, injuring his quad.
Could The Commanders Trade McLaurin Now?
It’s possible the Commanders could trade McLaurin this offseason if it’s at the right price for them. However, it’s not expected since it’s too risky with Daniels just entering third season in the league. After firing Kliff Kingsbury and Joe Whitt, anything is possible for this Commanders team, so don’t be surprised if McLaurin is gone less than a year.
There are several top NFL Free agents, including Alec Pierce, Jauan Jennings, Wan’Dale Robinson, Romeo Doubs, and Darnell Mooney. If the Commanders target either one of them while drafting someone like fellow Ohio State prospect Carnell Tate, it’s hard to envision a long-term future for McLaurin.
Teams like the Chargers, Patriots and Steelers could be keeping a close eye on the receiver if the Commanders have another down season during the 2026 campaign.