The 2025 NFL offseason has been one for the ages. Starting with a blockbuster trade between the San Francisco 49ers and the Washington Commanders for Deebo Samuel, it has only become more surprising as the days have passed. Shock retirements, max extensions, and blockbuster trades have become the norm throughout the summer. However, Terry McLaurin’s demand for a trade from Washington was the icing on the cake.
Less than a year removed from the dramatic turnaround for the Commanders, which McLaurin co-led with Jayden Daniels, the move was as unexpected as anything else this offseason. However, one of the premier wide receivers in the league suddenly became available, and every team was clamoring for his services. A perennial Pro Bowler even went so far as to make a public recruiting pitch for the superstar pass catcher to join his team.
Could Terry McLaurin Turn Another Franchise Around?
Since coming into the league, McLaurin has been one of the most consistent football threats. Never missing more than two games, he started his career with an All-Rookie Team selection on the back of 919 yards and seven touchdowns.
From there, his career has only gone up, with the two-time Pro Bowler crossing the 1,000-yard mark in each season of his career. Over the last four years, he’s really come into his own, with his durability (0 games missed) a real positive for the Commanders.
Last year, he was a critical piece of Washington’s attack, as they went from a four-win team to an NFC Championship Game appearance, tallying 1,096 yards and 13 touchdowns. However, thanks to the Commanders not extending him a contract, the youngster reported to training camp before asking for a trade from the roster.
It’s unclear if McLaurin’s demand is a negotiation tactic or a genuine demand. But folks across the league are ready to welcome him on their squad with open arms. Denzel Ward of the Cleveland Browns was more direct in his approach.
On X, he wrote, “My Ohio State brother Terry Mclaurin would look fire in a Cleveland Browns jersey. I’m just saying @TheTerry_25”
My Ohio State brother Terry Mclaurin would look fire in a Cleveland Browns jersey🔥I’m just saying
@TheTerry_25— Denzel Ward (@denzelward) July 31, 2025
The two were teammates on the Buckeyes for three years, even lifting the College Football Playoff national championship in 2015.
Since then, the two have crossed paths just thrice. In those games, the wide receiver has dominated to the tune of 10 receptions and 220 yards. Ward, a four-time Pro Bowler for the Browns, has witnessed McLaurin’s firsthand impact as a teammate and an opponent.
Adding the right weapons, aside from Jerry Jeudy, is necessary for a Cleveland team trying to figure out its quarterback situation. As a result, a potential trade to bring in McLaurin might be a wise choice for their current quarterback room, or a likely high draft pick in 2026.
