By Ethan Hu | NILvana Sports
Terry McLaurin’s time in Washington may be coming to an end.
After contract extension talks stalled, the Commanders’ star wide receiver has officially requested a trade, according to multiple reports. With McLaurin looking for a fresh start, several teams around the NFL could emerge as ideal trade partners, either to bolster a young quarterback’s development or to make a legitimate playoff push.
Here are four teams that make the most sense for a potential McLaurin deal:
Tennessee Titans
Tennessee drafted Cam Ward, and the franchise is building around its new franchise centerpiece. The Titans have already added veteran receivers Calvin Ridley and Tyler Lockett, along with rookies Elic Ayomanor (Stanford) and Xavier Restrepo (Miami).
But Terry McLaurin would be a game-changer. Pairing him with Ridley would give Tennessee two proven 1,000-yard receivers and help take pressure off Ward. The Titans want to compete now, and McLaurin’s reliability, route running, and leadership could be the final piece for a top-tier offense.
New York Jets
How about an Ohio State reunion?
While McLaurin didn’t overlap with Justin Fields or Garrett Wilson in Columbus, he is familiar with Jets passing game coordinator Scott Turner, who coached him during his time in Washington. McLaurin would take double teams away from Wilson and create matchup nightmares across the field—something New York desperately needs to stay competitive in the AFC East.
Las Vegas Raiders
The Raiders are quietly building one of the league’s most intriguing offenses. They already feature 1,000-yard threats in Jakobi Meyers and dynamic rookie tight end Brock Bowers. But adding McLaurin would take the unit to another level.
Under new head coach Pete Carroll and Geno Smith under center, Las Vegas could use a third reliable weapon to spread out opposing defenses. Rookie running back Ashton Jeanty also brings explosive playmaking to the backfield. A McLaurin trade would signal that the Raiders are serious about making their first playoff run since 2021.
San Francisco 49ers
San Francisco is never shy about making bold moves, and this one could make perfect sense. After trading Deebo Samuel to Washington earlier this offseason, the 49ers may be in the market for another top-tier receiver.
Brandon Aiyuk, who is currently on the PUP list to begin the season, leaves a temporary void in the 49ers’ receiver room. George Kittle remains a reliable target, and second-year wideout Ricky Pearsall is showing signs of a breakout. Still, McLaurin’s durability and consistency would give Brock Purdy a trusted outside option in a system that thrives on spacing and timing.
In a loaded NFC, the 49ers know every piece counts.
Bottom Line
Terry McLaurin is still very much in his prime, and with the Commanders’ future uncertain, his trade request will draw interest across the league. Whether it’s a team developing a young QB or pushing for a Super Bowl, McLaurin’s blend of professionalism and playmaking could change the balance of power for any team willing to make the call.
