AP Sports SummaryBrief at 12:12 p.m. EDT

The Washington Commanders received a significant boost to their training camp preparations today as star wide receiver Terry McLaurin reported for duty, despite an ongoing contract dispute with the franchise. McLaurin, who is entering the final year of his rookie deal, had been a prominent name on the list of potential holdouts across the league, making his decision to join teammates at Ashburn a notable development. His presence signals a commitment to the team and avoids immediate fines, allowing him to participate in critical early practices as the Commanders look to integrate new quarterback Carson Wentz into their offensive scheme.

McLaurin's decision is particularly impactful given his indispensable role within the Commanders' offense. Since being drafted in 2019, the Ohio State product has consistently defied quarterback instability, leading the team in receiving yards in each of his three professional seasons. His 3,090 career receiving yards and 16 touchdowns have come despite playing with eight different starting quarterbacks, a testament to his elite route-running, reliable hands, and leadership qualities. He is currently set to play the 2022 season on a base salary of just over $2.7 million, a figure well below his market value for a player widely considered among the NFL's top tier of pass-catchers. Negotiations for a long-term extension have been ongoing for months, with both sides reportedly far apart on the financial terms, leading to speculation that McLaurin might opt to sit out until a new deal was reached.