Even though the Washington Commanders got some decent returns from wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. during the 2025 campaign, that doesn't mean general manager Adam Peters will offer him another deal.
There is merit to the move. However, the franchise could just as easily look for younger, more dynamic options throughout a pivotal offseason.
It's a precarious situation with no definitive answer. Now, the Commanders and Samuel are officially on the clock regarding his future.
Deebo Samuel's contract with Commanders is now voided, and the clock is ticking
Peters rightfully thought that the Commanders were in a strong enough position to be bolder this time last year. The front-office leader kicked off this aggressive approach by striking a deal with the San Francisco 49ers for Samuel, and the returns were solid enough in difficult circumstances.
What the Commanders need to figure out is whether it's worth the money Samuel will likely want for what could be his final chance to earn a lucrative payday. Michael Ginnitti of Spotrac confirmed that the former South Carolina standout's contract has now officially voided, leaving Washington with a $12.34 million dead cap figure in 2026.
WR Deebo Samuel's contract is set to void today, leaving behind $12,344,420 of dead cap to the #Commanders.
— Spotrac (@spotrac) February 12, 2026
The 30-year-old earned $18.25M in 2025, and carries a near $16M valuation into free agency.
This is the risk Peters was willing to take when he jumped the queue by trading for Samuel.
The Niners ate just over $34 million in dead cap to remove him from the equation, but some of the burden was passed to Washington. Fortunately, the Commanders kept their future financial flexibility intact, so they can easily absorb this number without jeopardizing their ability to strengthen a roster in dire need of upgrades.
This isn't going to change much. The Commanders are still a month away from free agency. Peters will reach out to Samuel's representatives if there is interest in keeping him around. If the money doesn't work, or the player wants to see what else is out there, Washington will have other targets lined up and ready to go.
Peters only sent a fifth-round pick to San Francisco for Samuel, so that won't pressure him into re-signing the versatile weapon. Much will also depend on whether new offensive coordinator David Blough has any use for the player within his scheme, especially given his desire to generate more explosive plays under his guidance.
Samuel is projected to get around $15.77 million per year on his next deal. This is not perceived as the strongest free-agent class, so a team desperate for receiver help could offer him this sort of figure. Whether the Commanders are one of them remains to be seen, but considering how Peters handled the Terry McLaurin saga last summer, don't bet on it.
The clock is ticking. And it could go either way.