Commanders Star WR Reacts to Ending Training Camp Holdout
With his contract holdout ongoing, Terry McLaurin's absence was the biggest talking point at the start of training camp for the Washington Commanders. Though a new deal hasn't come about yet, the veteran wide receiver has made a return in some capacity.
On Sunday, McLaurin was in the building with the Commanders following his decision not to arrive for the first day of training camp. This is a step in the right direction, but there are still some setbacks. Washington has placed McLaurin on the Physically Unable to Perform list due to an ankle injury. Though he won't be able to practice with his teammates, he'll still be around getting work in with the team's training staff.
McLaurin has been a pillar for the Commanders organization for years and is beloved by the fan base. Despite the fact that this holdout has gone on for months now, the front office has made it abundantly clear that keeping the veteran wideout in Washington is the primary objective.
Terry McLaurin #17 of the Washington Commanders looks on during warmups prior to playing the Detroit Lions during the NFC Divisional Playoff at Ford Field on January 18, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan.
Terry McLaurin #17 of the Washington Commanders looks on during warmups prior to playing the Detroit Lions during the NFC Divisional Playoff at Ford Field on January 18, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan.
Photo by/Getty Images
Also read: Ex-NFL Player Voices Concern Amid Commanders Star's Holdout
Following the action on Sunday, McLaurin fielded some questions from the media. Overall, he feels good to be back around the team as his off-field situation drags on.
"It feels good to be around my teammates and around the fans," McLaurin told reporters. "I can't beat that at all. They showed me a lot of love and support. You lose sight of some things when the business gets involved, but I never lost sight of the way they supported me. It's business, but it has nothing to do with them. It's tough, but it's the business right now, just trying to take things day by day."
On the field, McLaurin has proven he can be one of the league's top talents at his position. Now, he wants to be compensated as such. Price remains a major roadblock, but it appears both sides are working diligently to work out a proper agreement.
Also: Commanders Coach Unfazed by Terry McLaurin's Holdout
In the meantime, all the Commanders can do is continue moving forward in terms of preparing for the 2025 campaign. McLaurin being back in the mix should provide a boost, but there is still a lot of work to be done. He has to get himself right physically with his ankle, and his representation needs to settle things with the front office.
For more Washington Commanders and NFL news, head over to Newsweek Sports.
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