The Washington Commanders got some decent returns in difficult circumstances from their trade to acquire Deebo Samuel Sr. last offseason. However, all signs point to this relationship being a short-term arrangement.
General manager Adam Peters hasn't re-signed Samuel as yet. While he's said the door isn't closed to established veterans such as tight end Zach Ertz and linebacker Bobby Wagner, it's been all quiet on the wide receiver front. And an intriguing draft visit only diminishes the notion of a return for the 2026 campaign.
According to Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network, the Commanders hosted Omar Cooper Jr. on a visit. The versatile pass-catcher does his best work from the slot with a compact build and superb athleticism. His stock soared in 2025, helping the Indiana Hoosiers on their dominant run to the college football national championship.
Commanders are examining Deebo Samuel replacements in the 2026 NFL Draft
The No. 7 pick is too high for Cooper. Washington's No. 71 pick is way too low. He's projected to go anywhere from the 15-30 range, so Peters is probably looking to cover his bases on the off chance someone comes in with a trade-down offer he cannot refuse.
This, coupled with the recent individual workout of USC standout Makai Lemon, indicates the Commanders are looking for a type. They are seeking an impactful slot wideout who can make things happen with the football in his hands. They want another piece who can take simple receptions for big yardage while also assisting quarterback Jayden Daniels in the red zone.
Samuel did that last year. But if the Commanders' pre-draft strategy is any indication, Peters is looking for someone younger and cheaper with more long-term upside.
There will be another job opportunity for Samuel somewhere. The South Carolina product proved last season that he's still got some good football left. He's not going to take the first offer that comes along, though getting a lucrative deal in the $15 million per year range might be a stretch now. Even so, he played too well last season in Washington to be cast aside entirely.
The Commanders were right to trade for Samuel. Peters wanted to be aggressive after reaching the NFC Championship game in Year 1 of this ambitious project. Things didn't go nearly as well last season, albeit with mitigating circumstances attached, but the wideout emerged as a shining light amid the almost constant doom and gloom.
It's a cold business. Samuel did all he could, but it seems as if the Commanders have opted to go in a different direction.