The Washington Commanders took a calculated risk by trading for wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. this offseason. Based on the early returns through five weeks, it's going to pay off handsomely.
With second-team All-Pro wideout Terry McLaurin out through injury, the Commanders needed more from Samuel. He's answered the call, providing accomplished production in the passing game while also showcasing his versatility with carries out of the backfield on occasion.
Samuel already has 30 receptions for 300 receiving yards through the opening five games of 2025. He's already matched his receiving touchdown total from last season with three. His catch success rate is up by 15.9 percent. His passer rating when targeted has increased by 29.7 points.
Kliff Kingsbury gushes over Deebo Samuel Sr.'s impact on the Commanders
This also happens to be a contract year for Samuel. He's well on course to getting another deal from Washington or elsewhere, and offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury's lavish praise only strengthened his leverage when the time comes to begin negotiations.
"He is as competitive as I've been around. I mean, on game day he sets the tone with the intensity, the focus, you know, when he touches the ball it's, you're like, 'okay, here we go.' And I think that gives us all a lot of confidence when he is out there."Kliff Kingsbury via Commanders.com
This sentiment has been echoed by others since Samuel entered the building. There's been something different about the former South Carolina sensation this season — and way before that. He's relishing the prospect of a new opportunity with one of the NFC's powerhouses. He's also thriving with a legitimate, elite-level quarterback getting him the football.
This is precisely what Adam Peters had in mind. Most thought Samuel would be released by the San Francisco 49ers. The general manager gave up a fifth-round selection to guarantee his services, knowing that there was plenty of good football left if the player was suitably motivated.
It was a risk, but it's brought positive results so far. If the same trend continues over the next 12 games and into the postseason, Peters would be wise to maintain continuity by offering Samuel another extension as a result of his efforts.
The trajectory is pointing up for Samuel when most wrote him off after a lackluster campaign with the Niners in 2024. The unfair criticism that came his way was astonishing. Fortunately, it reignited a spark in him that had been nearly extinguished in San Francisco.
And the Commanders are the ones reaping the rewards.