The Facts: Many of the highest paid NFL players in 2022 are wide receivers, something McLaurin notices. While the 26-year-old wants a new deal, he might be waiting a while for something to happen. Albert Breer wrote for Sports Illustrated that negotiations between McLaurin and the Commanders haven’t really started. As of now, a contract extension is “nowhere” near happening and there is a strong belief the organization is losing a lot of ground.

Diehards Line: After paying a lot to acquire quarterback Carson Wentz this offseason, Washington seemed to be taking an aggressive approach for the 2022 season. However, a lack of contract talks between the organization and its most important skill player on offense is worth noting. Applying the franchise tag on McLaurin a year from now would be risky. It prevents him from hitting the open market, creating friction with the organization. Given Wentz’s level of play in the past two seasons, McLaurin also likely won’t be pleased with the offense or quarterback play. For now, the Commanders have a No. 1 wide receiver who can be the center of this passing attack. if the franchise isn’t careful, though, it could risk heading into next offseason with a disgruntled star who wants to play for anyone but the Commanders.