Terry McLaurin has spent the 2025 NFL offseason attempting to negotiate a contract extension with the Washington Commanders.
With no such deal yet reached, the 29-year-old wide receiver has requested a trade.
It isn’t clear whether Washington will grant McLaurin’s request. The 2024 All-Pro second-teamer was critical to their offensive success, generating 82 catches, 1,096 yards and 13 touchdowns in the regular season before starring in the postseason during the Commanders’ run to the NFC championship game.
Regardless, many NFL teams will inquire about McLaurin’s availability in the hopes of landing him. Below is a look at the clubs that could end up being the best fit for the veteran receiver if his trade request is granted.
Terry McLaurin landing spots
New England Patriots
The Patriots sported one of the worst receiver rooms in the NFL last season. They upgraded the position by signing Stefon Diggs and Mack Hollins while drafting Kyle Williams, but they still don’t have a player who presently profiles as a No. 1 receiver.
McLaurin’s well-rounded skill set would pair well with Drake Maye and could help the second-year starter take a big step forward in 2025. The 29-year-old would also pair well with Diggs and allow New England’s intriguing, young receivers time to develop and jockey for position on the depth chart.
Los Angeles Chargers
Ladd McConkey was excellent in his rookie season for the Chargers. The team’s other recent high-drafted receiver, Quentin Johnston, hasn’t been as consistent, as he has struggled with drops during his two-year career.
McLaurin would be an upgrade over Johnston and would afford 2025 second-round pick Tre’ Harris time to acclimate to the NFL. He and McConkey would instantly become one of the NFL’s most feared receiver duos, which could unlock the potential of Justin Herbert in Jim Harbaugh and Greg Roman’s system.
Las Vegas Raiders
The Raiders drafted three receivers in the 2025 NFL Draft, and the team could eventually have big plans for Jack Bech, Dont’e Thornton Jr. and converted-quarterback Tommy Mellott. That said, the team traded for Geno Smith during the offseason, a move signaling they believe they can win now with the 34-year-old quarterback.
To do that, Las Vegas will need to find a strong complement to Jakobi Meyers. McLaurin would fill that role while allowing the young triumvirate of receivers to battle with Tre Tucker for the team’s No. 3 receiver job.
Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals have Marvin Harrison Jr. in the fold as their long-term No. 1 receiver option. Why not add another former Ohio State star to the fold in McLaurin? He would be an upgrade over Michael Wilson, who generated 47 catches, 548 yards and four touchdowns as the team’s No. 2 wide-out last season, and could open up more space in which Harrison can operate.
Having Harrison, McLaurin and Trey McBride as top targets could allow Kyler Murray to enjoy the best season of his career. The Cardinals also have the cap space ($35.5 million, fifth-most in the NFL, per OverTheCap.com) needed to offer McLaurin a lucrative extension.
San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers and Commanders already made a big-time receiver trade earlier in the offseason, when Deebo Samuel was sent to Washington. Another deal could be sensible if McLaurin and the Commanders reach an impasse.
San Francisco no longer has Samuel, won’t have Brandon Aiyuk (torn ACL) to begin the season and may be without Jauan Jennings as he battles a calf injury. The 49ers have 2024 first-round pick Ricky Pearsall ready to step into a bigger role, but adding another high-end target for Brock Purdy certainly wouldn’t hurt.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Terry McLaurin landing spots: Best fits after WR requests trade
