Another NFL wide receiver has seen his bank account grow this offseason. Earlier today, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that the Washington Commanders are signing Terry McLaurin to a three-year extension worth up to $71 million in new money with $53.2 million guaranteed. That's nearly $23.7 million annually in potential new cash and about $17.7 million in new guaranteed money.
Meanwhile, everyone is still waiting to see how the San Francisco 49ers resolve their situation with their star wideout, Deebo Samuel. It wasn't that long ago that he requested to be traded after watching several of his peers earn big paydays this offseason. Many, including star tight end George Kittle, wonder if San Francisco might have saved some money and spared everyone the significant media attention had there been more urgency to sign Samuel to a contract extension.
Samuel and McLaurin were part of the same 2019 draft class. The 49ers selected Samuel in the second round, while the Commanders selected McLaurin in the next round. McLaurin has surpassed 900 receiving yards in each of his three NFL seasons and surpassed 1,000 receiving yards in each of the past two. Samuel had a breakout year last season, recording 1,405 receiving yards as part of his 1,770 all-purpose yards.
While the drama between Samuel and the 49ers has been a significant offseason storyline, Aaron Wilson of Pro Football Network doesn't believe the situation is as dire as some have insinuated.
"There is optimism surrounding a potentially huge deal for San Francisco 49ers star wide receiver Deebo Samuel, league sources told Pro Football Network," Wilson wrote before noting that Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf is also expected to become one of the highest-paid players in the game.
The 49ers do have leverage. Samuel is still under contract for one more season. After that, the team can utilize the franchise tag if things don't go as hoped. However, Plan A is likely to attempt to make everyone happy, pay Samuel what he deserves, and ensure he remains a Niner for the foreseeable future.