BREAKING NEWS: Former Ohio State Star Makes Shocking NFL Trade Request
In a stunning development that has sent ripples through both Buckeye Nation and the NFL, former Ohio State wide receiver and current Washington Commanders standout Terry McLaurin has officially requested a trade, citing frustration over contract stalling and a desire for a fresh start. The announcement comes just months after McLaurin closed his sixth straight 1,000-plus yard season, underscoring the gravity and impact of his decision.
McLaurin, 29, delivered an outstanding 2024 campaign—garnering 82 catches, 1,096 yards, and 13 touchdowns while acting as the primary weapon for rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels in Washington’s run to the NFC Championship Game. His consistency has made him one of the league’s most dependable receivers, with five 1,000-yard seasons in six NFL campaigns
The trade request, first reported by Sports Illustrated, emerged amid growing tension between McLaurin and the Commanders organization over his contract status. McLaurin is in the final year of his deal and has made clear his dissatisfaction over a lack of progress toward a long-term extension. According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, McLaurin has even skipped mandatory workouts while continuing negotiations remain stagnant
In the SI piece titled “Former Ohio State Star Makes Shocking NFL Trade Request,” writer Ben Cooper detailed McLaurin’s elite production, his Ohio State roots, and the gravity of his public push for change. It’s rare for such a high-profile receiver—especially one with McLaurin’s consistency—to request a trade after building a decade-long reputation for professionalism and production
Former Buckeye fans across forums reacted swiftly. On Land-Grant Holy Land, some insiders floated potential trade packages involving McLaurin and running back Austin Ekeler going to the Jets for Breece Hall—a blockbuster swap reminiscent of the kinds of trades that reshape franchises (SI). Meanwhile, Reddit debate centered on McLaurin’s draft stock value and whether Ohio State’s tradition of producing elite NFL receivers is fueling demand for him on the trade market.
McLaurin, drafted in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft, had a standout college career at Ohio State, culminating his senior season with 35 receptions, 701 yards, and 11 touchdowns. He played a pivotal role in Ohio State’s passing attack during his tenure and has since become one of the NFL’s most underrated yet consistent wideouts
Team sources reveal that McLaurin’s frustrations stem not only from financial concerns, but from competing ambitions. He reportedly wants assurance from any franchise that he can consistently compete for playoff success and perhaps Super Bowls—something he feels the Commanders have yet to provide. The stagnation in talks has left both sides at an impasse.
Trade speculation has already ignited around the NFL. Teams with star-studded quarterback rooms and cap flexibility—such as the Cowboys, Eagles, or Jets—are potential suitors. Analysts anticipate any trade would require at least a mid-first-round and additional picks. McLaurin reportedly seeks a contract in the $30 million per year range and is unwilling to compromise on long-term security
For the Commanders, losing McLaurin would mark a significant shift. He’s been their most reliable pass catcher and leader both on and off the field. His request comes at a sensitive time, given Washington’s recent additions to the roster and uncertainty at quarterback. Commanders insiders remain tight-lipped, but sources suggest a tough stance: the team may hold firm unless an offer far exceeds expectations.
Former Ohio State stars always draw attention when they play at the next level, and McLaurin’s request is no exception. The Buckeye community is watching closely, with many voicing mixed emotions. Some fans see this as a justified move—rewarding elite performance with deserved compensation, while others worry that departing fans and locker-room energy could suffer.
Statistically, the numbers speak loudly. With five consecutive seasons over 1,000 receiving yards and Pro Bowl-caliber consistency, McLaurin has few peers at his position. The fact that he remains unsigned to a long-term deal heading into his prime years raises questions about Washington’s front office and McLaurin’s leverage (
McLaurin is not the only former Ohio State player making headlines. Defensive ace Myles Garrett of the Cleveland Browns publicly requested a trade earlier this year, stating his desire to win now and expressing frustration over his team’s lack of progress—a request further amplified after Garrett described his ambition as always aiming for championship contention, not a Hall of Fame berth
While Garrett’s situation was resolved with a record-breaking extension in Cleveland (including a no-trade clause and nearly $123 million guaranteed), McLaurin’s future remains unresolved. Analysts expect Washington’s leadership to face difficult decisions—whether to match McLaurin’s demands or risk dealing him for draft capital and moving forward without their cornerstone receiver.
If McLaurin exits, his departure could trigger a locker room ripple effect. Insider chatter suggests teammates respect him enormously; losing him without solid explanations could harm morale. On the flip side, if the Commanders refuse to relent, they could face public relations fallout and boardroom tension from owners and fans demanding progress.
Across league punditry, two clear narratives dominate: McLaurin justified in demanding security and opportunity, or team rights to retain unless fair value is offered. Some observers speculate that the rise of Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s role in Seattle and the continued success of other former Buckeyes in the NFL raises the bar on what the Commanders owe McLaurin. Others counter that Washington’s cap situation and long-term structuring may make overpaying imprudent.
For now, the story is only beginning. As NFL teams prepare for the upcoming season, how they respond to McLaurin’s request could define their competitive paths. Whether Washington manages to placate a star or starts over, the repercussions could echo through Ohio State alumni circles, locker rooms, and boardrooms alike.
Stay tuned as updates arrive on potential trade packages, McLaurin’s next statements, and reactions from Commanders execut
