USAT: Washington Wire audio clip

USAT: Washington Wire

Mar 27, 2022

Let the speculation begin. The 2023 class of potential free agents has a chance to be one of the more star-studded in NFL history. Of course, a lot can — and will — change before March 2023. Players will sign extensions; perhaps some will be traded, while others will be stuck on the franchise tag. - The Washington Commanders have two key free agents in 2023 — wide receiver Terry McLaurin and defensive tackle Daron Payne. ESPN recently did a “way-too-early” free-agent preview for 2023, and McLaurin made the list at No. 9. - Toiling with subpar quarterback play throughout his time in Washington, McLaurin has nevertheless demonstrated elite-level ball skills and toughness. He has excellent hands, having dropped only four passes on 351 career targets, and would seem to be a reliable 1,000-yard receiver — for almost any team, with almost any quarterback — for years to come. - Washington certainly hopes it has an answer for its previously subpar quarterback play after acquiring Carson Wentz via trade earlier this month. - McLaurin is the third receiver among ESPN’s top 10 free agents, behind Deebo Samuel and A.J. Brown, which indicates how strong the class is. - We’ve discussed over and over how important it is for Washington to extend McLaurin soon. The longer the Commanders wait, the more McLaurin will cost. While McLaurin isn’t considered entirely on the same level as Devante Adams and Tyreek Hill, he is undoubtedly much better than Christian Kirk. McLaurin is a borderline top-10 receiver in the NFL, which means he will easily cost over $20 million annually. - From all indications, the Commanders will make a serious offer to keep McLaurin. Head coach Ron Rivera and general manager Martin Mayhew have made it clear McLaurin is a priority. A serious offer begins north of $20 million. - The one thing Washington fans fear is another dance with the franchise tag. - - - - - - - - - - - - Email - - - - - Sign up - - - - - - - - Like this article? - Sign up for the Washington Wire email newsletter to get our top stories in your inbox every morning - - - - An error has occured - - - Please re-enter your email address. - - - - - - Thanks for signing up! - - - You'll now receive the top Washington Wire stories each day directly in your inbox.

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