Deebo Samuel Sr.'s trade to the Washington Commanders went about as well as expected. The wide receiver stayed relatively healthy, was in good condition, and became the one constant as everything around him seemed to crumble.
The Commanders didn't come close to meeting their offseason expectations, but Samuel was one of the very few to emerge from the campaign with credit. Now, an uncertain few weeks await before free agency.
This will probably be Samuel's last chance to get a payday. He's on the wrong side of 30, and his days of putting up All-Pro-caliber production are gone. He is still a solid contributor in a complementary role, but his contract projection is tricky to figure out.
New Deebo Samuel contract projection could change everything for the Commanders
Whether the Commanders make an attempt to re-sign Samuel is undetermined. They need to get younger and more explosive, but giving the former South Carolina standout an opportunity to make a better go of things with Terry McLaurin for a full season cannot be dismissed if the money works.
Initial projections thought Samuel could potentially get almost $20 million per year on his next deal. This has now altered significantly, which could work in the Commanders' favor if they plan to keep the versatile offensive weapon in the building.
According to Spotrac, Samuel is now looking at a two-year, $26.63 million deal, averaging $13.31 million per season. The Commanders have more than enough to absorb this financial figure, but much will also depend on whether new offensive coordinator David Blough has any use for the player within his schematic concepts.
This could also be a double-edged sword.
If this is the ballpark Samuel is looking for, it could also increase the number of suitors who may be interested if the Commanders let him test the market. That may drive up the price, which is great for the wideout but doesn't improve Washington's chances of retaining his services.
Samuel silenced a lot of his doubters last season. He was focused, in shape, and remained professional amid a losing year. It only cost the Commanders a fifth-round pick to acquire him from the San Francisco 49ers. Even if this turns out to be a one-and-done relationship, the compensation was worth it.
This will be a fascinating situation to watch. Samuel proved he can still produce decent numbers in the right fit without being the focal point offensively anymore. It could go either way, but if the price is around $13 million per year, that might give Peters a helping hand to make this move while also strengthening the wideout room with new additions.
Watch this space...