In a stunning turn of events that has sent shockwaves across the NFL, the Denver Broncos have finalized a blockbuster trade with the Washington Commanders to acquire star wide receiver Terry McLaurin. This aggressive move signals the Broncos’ full commitment to building around rookie quarterback Bo Nix, giving him a proven weapon as he prepares to take the reins of the offense.
The deal, confirmed by multiple league sources, sends Terry McLaurin to Denver in exchange for a 2025 first-round pick, a 2026 third-round pick, and wide receiver Courtland Sutton. It’s a bold trade for both franchises, but particularly for Denver, which is clearly betting big on the development of Bo Nix and the potential for an explosive offense.
McLaurin, 28, has been the cornerstone of Washington’s offense since being drafted in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft. Despite dealing with quarterback inconsistency throughout his career, he has consistently produced, eclipsing 1,000 yards receiving in four consecutive seasons. Known for his crisp route running, top-tier speed, and reliable hands, McLaurin gives Denver an instant No. 1 option in the passing game.
The move is also a clear sign of Denver’s belief in Nix, the former Oregon standout whom the Broncos selected in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. With questions lingering around Denver’s offensive identity following Russell Wilson’s departure and a string of lackluster seasons, head coach Sean Payton and general manager George Paton appear ready to reset the narrative by surrounding their rookie QB with elite talent.
“This is about building the right situation for our young quarterback,” Payton said in a brief statement following the announcement. “Terry is a leader, a competitor, and one of the best in the league. We’re thrilled to bring him to Denver.”
The addition of McLaurin transforms Denver’s receiving corps overnight. He joins a group that now features Marvin Mims Jr., rookie Troy Franklin (Nix’s college teammate), and tight end Greg Dulcich. The chemistry between Nix and Franklin could be a huge asset, but it’s McLaurin’s presence that gives Denver a legitimate top-tier threat capable of drawing double coverage and opening up the field for others.
On the other side, the Commanders continue their rebuild under new head coach Dan Quinn and GM Adam Peters. By moving McLaurin, they accumulate valuable draft capital and reset their offensive roster, likely placing faith in recent draftees such as wide receivers Jahan Dotson and rookie Luke McCaffrey. The acquisition of Sutton gives Washington a veteran presence and size on the perimeter, while the draft picks allow flexibility for future moves — including a potential trade up for a quarterback, depending on how Jayden Daniels performs this season.
This trade will be dissected and debated for months to come, but one thing is certain: the Denver Broncos are all-in on Bo Nix. With Terry McLaurin in the fold, the franchise is signaling that the time to compete — and win — is now.
