A team source informed ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler of the surprise at how the situation has arrived at this point (video link). The source confirmed Washington’s desire to keep McLaurin, 29, in the organization for the remainder of his career. To more of an extent than the Commanders expected, however, attaining that goal has proven to be challenging.
Early this offseason, general manager Adam Peters made it clear an extension was high on the team’s to-do list.
In spite of those two factors, it has become increasingly team and player have not made much in the way of progress at the negotiating table.