Jahan Dotson and 4 former Commanders who have floundered in 2024
By James Dudko
Curtis Samuel quiet in Buffalo
The Buffalo Bills must've thought they'd gotten a bargain when they snagged Curtis Samuel in free agency. A total-yardage machine who could offset the loss of Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis, while offering veteran support to young receivers Khalil Shakir and rookie Keon Coleman.
It was a fine theory, but Samuel has barely made a peep since rocking up at Orchard Park. Instead, the 28-year-old is averaging just 8.8 yards from 21 receptions.
As for those famed rushing skills the Washington Commanders barely saw during three frustrating seasons? Samuel has gained six yards on three carries in his new home. Get used to that feeling Bills fans.
Samuel's ongoing struggles to be a multi-phase weapon are rendering him a forgotten man in a receiver corps led by Shakir and underpinned by the awesome physical talents of future star Coleman.
While we're on the subject of dual-threat skill players not making the grade, let's take a trip further around the AFC East to New England.
Antonio Gibson is being overlooked by Patriots
You only need to take a look at Antonio Gibson's snap counts to see how the New England Patriots are wasting the most versatile member of their backfield. He has played just 27 percent of the snaps on offense.
Why the Patriots aren't using Gibson more often is more of a mystery. He's a proven runner with some toughness and a few moves between the tackles. The 26-year-old is also an excellent receiver.
His two-pronged skill set should make Gibson the best friend to first-year passer Drake Maye, chosen one pick after Jayden Daniels in this year's draft. Yet offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt has been content to lean on incumbent Rhamondre Stevenson.
He was already the lead workhorse, so Stevenson's snap share isn't the issue. What's contentious is JaMycal Hasty eating into Gibson's playing time.
The Patriots want an active rotation, but it's not as if Gibson has been wasteful with the scant opportunities he's had. An average of 4.3 yards per carry shows the former Commanders' star is getting it done on the ground. His 9.8 yards per catch proves he's still an asset when the ball's in the air.
What's missing is even a single touchdown. Odd for a player who found the end zone 29 times during his time suiting up for the Burgundy and Gold.
It's fair to say the Commanders haven't missed any member of this trio on offense. The story is similar on the other side of the ball.