There’s a new star on the NFL‘s trade block, as Terry McLaurin reportedly demanded a trade away from the Washington Commanders.
Shortly after news of the request broke, Cleveland Browns star Denzel Ward took to social media to make a statement on McLaurin’s decision. The veteran cornerback wants to see McLaurin rocking Cleveland colors for next season and beyond.
“My Ohio State brother Terry McLaurin would look fire in a Cleveland Browns jersey,” Ward wrote on X. “I’m just saying.”
My Ohio State brother Terry Mclaurin would look fire in a Cleveland Browns jersey🔥I’m just saying
— Denzel Ward (@denzelward) July 31, 2025
For a few seasons, Ward and McLaurin suited up for the Ohio State Buckeyes in the NCAA.
When McLaurin made his debut as a redshirt freshman in 2015, Ward came on as a freshman himself, appearing in 11 total games. The star cornerback would play through the 2017 NCAA season before declaring for the 2018 NFL Draft.
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He wrapped up his college career with 37 games played. He registered 67 tackles and two interceptions. At the 2018 NFL Draft, Ward was selected fourth overall by the Browns.
Terry McLaurin #17 of the Washington Football Team runs with the ball after a catch against Denzel Ward #21 of the Cleveland Browns during the first half in the game at FirstEnergy Stadium on September… Terry McLaurin #17 of the Washington Football Team runs with the ball after a catch against Denzel Ward #21 of the Cleveland Browns during the first half in the game at FirstEnergy Stadium on September 27, 2020 in Cleveland, Ohio Gregory Shamus/Getty Images
McLaurin played one more season at OSU after Ward left. He appeared in 12 games, catching 35 passes for 701 yards and 11 touchdowns. In the 2019 NFL Draft, McLaurin went off the board in the third round with the 76th pick. He ended up with the Commanders, where he’s been since 2019.
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The star wide receiver has been a bright spot for the Commanders since entering the NFL. He’s reached 1,000 receiving yards each year since 2020. He’s a multi-time Pro Bowler, and recently earned an All-Pro nod. Heading into his contract year, McLaurin wants a long-term extension that pays him top wide receiver money.
The Commanders want McLaurin around long-term, but they haven’t been able to make the proper offer to keep the 30-year-old happy. The result? The veteran is now forcing their hand—make a deal at the negotiating table with McLaurin’s reps, or make a deal with another team.
If Ward were to have any influence on offensive personnel decisions, the Browns would clearly target McLaurin. It’s unclear if the Browns will pursue the star wideout, who their standout cornerback would like to see wearing their colors.
Over the next few days, the Commanders will be fielding calls, as McLaurin’s request could lead to plenty of offers. After all, he’s been one of the most consistent wideouts in the game since 2019.
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