NFL Betting: Terry McLaurin Trade Scenarios
NFL Betting News
Evaluating Five Potential Offers for Washington
The NFL offseason has been rife with contract disputes, and the situation surrounding Terry McLaurin has quickly emerged as one of the most notable. As NFL Draft implications and future roster strategy become more crucial in the modern league, the Washington Commanders face a difficult decision with one of their top offensive weapons. For those focused on NFL Betting and analyzing current NFL Odds, McLaurin’s status will have a direct impact on projections and spreads heading into the 2025 season.
McLaurin’s Dispute and Value
Terry McLaurin requested a trade last week as negotiations over a new contract remain at a standstill. Entering the final season of the three-year extension he signed in 2022, which paid him $22.79 million annually, McLaurin now finds himself ranked 18th among wide receivers in terms of average annual value.
With a $15.5 million base salary in 2025 and age 30 approaching in September, McLaurin seeks a new deal that better reflects the current receiver market. Nine receivers now earn $30 million or more annually.
In 2024, McLaurin delivered his best season yet, building chemistry with NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year quarterback Jayden Daniels. Drafted by Washington in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft, McLaurin has led the Commanders in receiving yards every year since his rookie campaign and has become the face of a franchise that’s endured multiple name changes, ownership transitions, and inconsistent quarterback play.
Despite skipping minicamp and the start of training camp, McLaurin returned to the facility on July 27. He was placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list due to an ankle injury, but has still been seen at team activities.
Though the Commanders have expressed a desire to keep him, several teams may view this as an opportunity. Here are five trade proposals the Commanders could receive and how each fits into McLaurin’s value and the broader NFL betting landscape.
New England trades a 2027 third-round pick
The New England Patriots, currently boasting the most cap space in the league, would be a natural destination for any elite talent. However, the addition of Stefon Diggs and the selection of Kyle Williams in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft complicate matters.
Acquiring McLaurin could stifle Williams’ development and may not align with a rebuild timeline. The Patriots may choose to reserve cap space for future investments rather than allocate significant resources to a 30-year-old receiver.
San Francisco Swaps Aiyuk
The San Francisco 49ers trade Brandon Aiyuk for McLaurin. This scenario was reportedly considered during Aiyuk’s contract standoff last offseason. Aiyuk is close to quarterback Jayden Daniels and maintains ties with Deebo Samuel and general manager Adam Peters, who originally scouted him in San Francisco.
Despite an ACL tear on October 20, Aiyuk is younger than McLaurin and carries No. 1 receiver production potential. Washington’s willingness to engage hinges on whether they view Aiyuk’s youth and connections as outweighing his recent injury.
Chargers Search for Stability
The Los Angeles Chargers trade a 2026 fourth-round pick for McLaurin. The Chargers are seeking an outside receiver to pair with slot specialist Ladd McConkey. Veterans like Mike Williams were expected to provide that presence. Still, his recent retirement leaves the team leaning on young, unproven players like Quentin Johnston, Tre’ Harris, and KeAndre Lambert-Smith.
McLaurin, who played over 83 percent of his 2024 snaps on the outside, would offer proven ability in contested-catch situations. The Chargers have cap flexibility and could extend McLaurin with a short-term deal in the $30 million AAV range. However, Washington is unlikely to entertain such a modest return.
Steelers Eye a Rodgers Boost
The Pittsburgh Steelers traded a 2026 third-round pick and WR Roman Wilson for McLaurin. With DK Metcalf entrenched as the top receiver, McLaurin would immediately elevate the Steelers’ receiving corps and support quarterback Aaron Rodgers in a potential final push.
The team currently relies on rookie contracts for receivers like Wilson and Calvin Austin III. McLaurin would solidify the WR2 role while also providing long-term insurance if the team transitions to a rookie quarterback in 2026. Pittsburgh’s $17.5 million in cap space may be a hurdle, but restructures and bonuses could clear room. The offer reflects short-term ambition, but Washington may remain unconvinced.
Buffalo’s Receiver Conundrum
The Buffalo Bills trade WR Curtis Samuel and a 2026 fifth-round pick for McLaurin. Josh Allen would benefit significantly from a reliable No. 1 target, and McLaurin fits that mold. However, Buffalo is navigating salary cap challenges. Sending out Samuel and restructuring deals could provide enough flexibility to backload a McLaurin extension.
The presence of young receivers Keon Coleman and Joshua Palmer may lead the Bills to wait before making a move, but if McLaurin’s market cools, this type of deal could become attractive. The Commanders, though, may hesitate to take on Samuel and a lower pick when a compensatory third-rounder could result from simply letting McLaurin walk in free agency.
Commanders Hold Firm
Of the five offers, the Chargers’ and Patriots’ proposals are unlikely to gain traction given the minimal return. The Steelers offer more, but Washington already has slot depth, including rookie Jaylin Lane. The Bills’ package lacks appeal due to Samuel’s injury history and limited production.
The 49ers’ offer of Aiyuk remains the most intriguing. Aiyuk’s youth, connection to Daniels, and familiarity with the current front office provide a compelling case. However, his recovery from injury and uncertain contract status introduce risk. Washington may also question whether Aiyuk can replace McLaurin’s locker-room leadership and consistent production.
Ultimately, Washington appears committed to keeping McLaurin. Trading away Daniels’ top target ahead of a critical year would be counterproductive, especially with limited depth behind Deebo Samuel and Noah Brown. McLaurin remains central to the Commanders’ competitive ambitions in 2025.
The Commanders also possess significant leverage. McLaurin turning 30 this September complicates his value on a long-term deal. Skipping games would place his career trajectory in jeopardy, giving the franchise additional power in negotiations. A deal is still likely, and both sides know time remains before the regular season.
NFL Betting markets will reflect this uncertainty in future NFL Odds, especially as roster decisions shape team expectations. For now, McLaurin remains a Commander, and that appears to be the safest NFL prediction heading into Week 1.
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