The Washington Commanders went all-in on improving star quarterback Jayden Daniels' supporting cast this offseason. And one high-profile acquisition has wasted no time in making his presence felt.
Adam Peters kicked off his ultra-aggressive offseason by securing the services of Deebo Samuel Sr. via trade from the San Francisco 49ers. The general manager wasn't put off by his down year in 2024 or rumors of his poor conditioning. And considering this cost nothing more than a fifth-round selection, it was a risk worth taking.
It didn't take long for Samuel to look like a total steal for the Commanders. The versatile weapon looked leaner after working hard on his fitness levels throughout the offseason. He displayed sharpness during drills according to those in attendance. The former second-round pick was also spotted doing some extra work alongside Michael Gallup, which was a small yet telling statement of intent.
Deebo Samuel Sr. is looking to silence his doubters with Commanders in 2025
This is what the Commanders wanted to see from Samuel. The All-Pro is eager to capitalize on this significant opportunity. He wants to help this surging franchise get over the hump next season. He's also looking to get paid on a new deal with Washington or elsewhere in 2026.
Samuel is suitably impressed by the environment being built by the Commanders. He also revealed that his leaner physique comes from a strenuous fitness regime devised by Washington's strength and conditioning staff upon his arrival to the organization.
"Great culture. Great energy. Great guys. It's a big brotherhood here, for sure. Being in better shape. We were just training every day in here. We kind of built a program for me to go by. It's gonna help."Deebo Samuel Sr. via NBC4 Sports
Deebo Samuel on:
— NBC4 Sports (@NBC4Sports) May 28, 2025
-Commanders culture
-Jayden ("the man can make every throw")
-Kingsbury ("offensive guru")
-McLaurin not being there
-Getting in better shape
-Quinn
-Peters@JPFinlayNBCS #RaiseHail pic.twitter.com/N6gxk1kjgT
Having some extra motivation is benefiting Samuel greatly. The South Carolina graduate has heard all the critics. He knows the Niners gave up on him, eating $34.1 million in dead cap money to remove him from the equation. Silencing his doubters in a contract year should provide the juice needed to make a real go of things in Washington.
Samuel might be new to the squad, but he's an established figure. His previous credentials need no introduction. Harnessing this effectively within offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury's schematic concepts is the most challenging part, but everything is progressing as expected.
If Samuel keeps this up throughout the summer, a bounce-back campaign in 2025 looks well within his capabilities. Something that will make this trade look like grand larceny when it's all said and done.