When the Washington Commanders made a daring trade for wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr., it was met with skepticism by fans and the media. The San Francisco 49ers ate more than $31 million in dead cap money to remove him from the equation. That was the clear sign that the NFC West club considered him a spent force.
Accusations about his lack of conditioning were rife. His attitude was called into question, and his spat with some special-teams players raised concerns that the wideout could become a locker-room distraction. A departure seemed inevitable, but the Commanders held a different opinion.
Adam Peters knew what he could bring. He was happy to give up a fifth-round pick, and Samuel rewarded him with an outstanding year under challenging circumstances. That was surprising to some, but not to his former teammate George Kittle.
George Kittle said what Commanders fans figured out quickly about Deebo Samuel
On the recent edition of his Kittle Things podcast, the tight end put into words what the NFL is scared to admit about Samuel. He was a fantastic teammate who wanted a fresh start. And although the Niners are doing well without him, he remains sorely missed in the building.
"I love Deebo. One of my favorite teammates of all time. He’s got the aura. He’s got the persona. He hits people. He makes all the superstar plays. I love him to death. Sometimes guys need a fresh start and I think that’s what he wanted. He wanted a change of scenery and I respect that. It is what it is. I got great years out of Deebo and have a great relationship with him. I love him for it."George Kittle via Clutch Points
This is something Commanders fans have already figured out. Samuel's been nothing but the model professional since joining the club. He came in shape, was focused, and did whatever he did to help the cause. And he's also bolstered his chances of getting another deal along the way.
Samuel has adjusted well to a different environment. He's a versatile weapon who was tasked with bigger responsibilities in the absence of key men like Terry McLaurin, Noah Brown, and Luke McCaffrey. He's on pace for 901 yards from scrimmage this season, which represents a decent return. That would be higher than his 2024 output, and his six touchdowns have already surpassed last season's mark.
The South Carolina product has regenerated his reputation and silenced his doubters. Whether it comes with another deal in Washington remains to be seen, but even if he doesn't get the financial commitment he's looking for, someone else will be only too happy to give him a shot.
Either way, this trade was a huge success. And if the same trend continues, the Commanders would be wise to keep him around.