4 Washington Commanders on the hot seat heading into 2023 offseason
By Dean Jones
Curtis Samuel – Washington Commanders WR
There’s no denying the skills Curtis Samuel brings to the table. He was one of the first marquee signings made by Ron Rivera in free agency and there are times when defenses have no clue how to cope with his supreme threat.
Samuel’s ability to create separation quickly and generate significant yards after the catch makes him an outstanding asset to call upon. Keeping him healthy can sometimes be a problem, but the one-time Ohio State standout made strides in this area in 2022 and hopefully, this is a trend that continues long into the future.
Rivera knows all about the player’s capabilities. The head coach was a key factor in Samuel’s early development with the Carolina Panthers, but the 2023 season is a big one for the wideout heading into the final year of his deal.
The former second-round pick is set to count $13 million against the salary cap next season. This is a significant sum that the player must live up to if he wants to earn a new deal with the Washington Commanders next spring.
Much will depend on how Washington’s new offensive coordinator thinks of Samuel. But if the Commanders hit the jackpot with their upcoming appointment, then the do-it-all weapon stands to benefit more than most.