Dec 17, 2023; Inglewood, California, USA; Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin (17) catches a pass against the Los Angeles Rams during the second half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
The Indianapolis Colts are in need of another talented wide receiver, and Terry McLaurin appears to be the ideal candidate for the role. While there’s no official trade request from McLaurin, the possibility of the Washington Commanders considering a trade for him in the upcoming offseason is not ruled out.
Alex Kay from Bleacher Report highlighted Washington GM Adam Peters’ potential strategy of trading veterans, such as Jonathan Allen, to accumulate draft capital for a lineup overhaul. This shift in focus suggests that even key players like Allen might be available for trade.
If the Commanders decide to undergo a significant rebuild and put McLaurin on the trade market, the Colts should actively pursue a deal. Adding McLaurin to their roster would be a valuable move to enhance their receiving corps.
Terry McLaurin has strong ties to Indianapolis, having been born and raised there. He earned the title of Indiana’s “Mr. Football” in 2013 and hails from the city’s northwest side, attending Cathedral High School. Additionally, he has a history of attending Colts games, often sitting in Section 540 at Lucas Oil Stadium.
While playing college football at Ohio State, McLaurin showcased his skills by catching 75 passes for 1,251 yards and scoring 11 touchdowns. Interestingly, in the 2019 NFL Draft, the Colts opted for his college teammate and roommate, Parris Campbell, as the 59th overall pick, while McLaurin was selected 76th overall by the Washington Commanders.
Despite not being chosen by the Colts, McLaurin made a significant impact in his rookie season. He earned a spot on the Professional Football Writers of America (PFWA) All-Rookie Team, recording impressive stats with 58 receptions for 919 yards and seven touchdowns.
The Pro-Bowl player from 2023 has consistently demonstrated excellence by achieving 1,000 receiving yards in each of the last four years. Notably, he holds the unique distinction of being the sole player in franchise history to accomplish this remarkable feat.
After a Week 17 defeat against the San Francisco 49ers this season, McLaurin openly discussed the challenges of another difficult year with the Washington Commanders, who ultimately finished with a 4-13 record.
Expressing his sentiments, McLaurin stated, as reported by Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post, “It’s definitely tough. I mean, you want to be a part of something that is sustainable, and you’re winning and competing at a high level.”
Should the Commanders decide to make McLaurin available for trade or if he requests a trade himself, the Indianapolis Colts could be an appealing destination for him. Being a native of Indianapolis, it’s conceivable that he has harbored dreams of playing for his hometown team.
While the Colts, with a 9-8 record, fell short of the playoffs this year and were not considered Super Bowl contenders like the 49ers, the addition of McLaurin could potentially elevate them to elite status in the coming year.
The Indianapolis Colts are anticipated to re-sign free agent wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr., who had an outstanding season with 109 receptions for 1,152 yards and four touchdowns.
With a potential lineup featuring McLaurin, Pittman, Josh Downs, and Alec Pierce, the Colts could boast one of the league’s top receiving groups. Adding quarterback Anthony Richardson, returning from a shoulder injury, and standout running back Jonathan Taylor, the Colts may be poised for an explosive offensive performance in 2024.
Acquiring McLaurin could require the Colts to trade their first-round pick (15th overall) this year. While there’s always the option to draft a receiver with that pick, it comes with the uncertainty of their performance. Opting for McLaurin ensures a known quantity—a star wideout capable of significantly enhancing the team’s offensive capabilities.
