On Monday, ESPN analyst Marcus Spears did not hold back when discussing the Washington Commanders’ contract dispute with wide receiver Terry McLaurin. He thinks the situation is “stupid” and warns that the team’s Super Bowl hopes could be jeopardized.
On “NFL Live,” Spears noted that franchises with young quarterbacks on rookie deals should flood them with support rather than hesitation.
He pointed to the Houston Texans as an example, saying that after realizing C.J. Stroud was a franchise quarterback, Houston rapidly invested in veterans around him. Washington, he said, should be taking a similar approach with Jayden Daniels.
Spears argued that the Commanders’ offseason moves suggested a step toward contention in the NFC, but warned:
“We’re solidifying ourselves as one of those teams in the NFC that can win a Super Bowl. You ain’t winning one without Terry McLaurin.”
“I’m concerned because it’s stupid.”@mspears96 and @AdamSchefter break down the issues behind Terry McLaurin’s contract negotiations đź‘€ pic.twitter.com/nSnTwPf5TY
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) August 18, 2025
The analyst also stressed that signing McLaurin sooner provides long-term cap security, especially when Daniels is eventually due a lucrative deal.
“When you have to pay Jayden Daniels the $300 million that’s going to come up in a couple of years, you’ll be happy that Terry McLaurin has already been paid,” Spears said.
McLaurin remains a central piece of Washington’s offense and a stabilizing presence for quarterback Jayden Daniels. Entering his second season, Daniels faces the possibility of regression after a strong rookie year. In difficult moments, a proven target like McLaurin could be critical to his continued growth.
Fans and analysts such as Marcus Spears believe the Commanders must recognize McLaurin’s value and prioritize a new extension before the season begins.
