LANDOVER, MD - The Washington Commanders knew they were getting a playmaker when they traded for veteran wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. this offseason. What they didn't expect-at least not so soon-was just how explosive he'd still be at this stage of his career.
"Somewhere along the line, I forgot how fast he really is," head coach Dan Quinn said following a recent minicamp session. "Then he took a short route and just outran everyone. It all came back real quick."
Samuel, 30, joins Washington after spending all 16 of his prior seasons with the San Francisco 49ers, where he became one of the most dangerous after-the-catch threats in the league. In Season 32, he played all 17 regular-season games for San Francisco, finishing with 62 receptions, 790 yards, and 8 touchdowns. He added another 80 yards and 2 scores in the playoffs before the 49ers fell just short of the Super Bowl following a tough loss in the Divisional round to the Chicago Bears.
Familiar Problem Turned Asset
Quinn-previously the Cowboys' defensive coordinator-knows full well the challenge Samuel poses. "He was always one of the toughest guys to tackle," Quinn said. "Now we get to unleash that instead of trying to contain it."
Last season, Samuel led the 49ers in yards after catch (297) and broke 15 tackles, highlighting both his explosiveness and physicality.
Veteran Presence Among Emerging Talent
Samuel brings proven leadership to a receiver room led by Terry McLaurin and reinforced through free agency and the draft. Michael Gallup joins McLaurin and Samuel as veterans, while Luke McCaffrey and K.J. Osborn offer youth, depth, and speed. Noah Brown, returning to practice after a recent injury, adds yet another option in a crowded group.
Offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury praised Samuel's cross-training at both outside and slot receiver spots, noting it gives the offense added flexibility.
What Lies Ahead for Season 33
This move appears carefully calculated. The team's success hinges on both Jayden Daniels' growth and the performance of his supporting cast. With Samuel as a high-impact "motion and space" weapon, Washington has significantly upgraded its offense.
Kingsbury summed it up best: "Deebo's a guy you want the ball in his hands. He creates separation, he finishes runs, and he brings an edge to the offense. I'm glad we don't have to tackle him anymore."
Deebo Samuel Sr. isn't just another offseason acquisition. He’s a transformational piece, and early camp work shows the Commanders' offense is already better for having him.
