NFL analyst drops stone-cold guarantee on Commanders’ new weapon

The Washington Commanders sent shockwaves around the NFL world when general manager Adam Peters made a power play to acquire 2021 All-Pro wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr., and big things are expected from the dynamic playmaker.

Washington only gave up a fifth-round pick for the veteran, pairing him with Terry McLaurin in what figures to be one of the NFL's most explosive offenses in quarterback Jayden Daniels' sophomore campaign.

However, Samuel comes with some risk. Last year was the worst season of his NFL career, hence why his value was so low. He totaled only 670 receiving yards and three touchdowns on a career-low 44.7 yards per game. The former second-round pick was also less dynamic out of the backfield than usual, with 136 rushing yards and a single score on 3.2 yards per attempt.

Don't worry, Commanders fans. Samuel has impressed throughout camp thus far. Voices around the NFL media also seem to think he'll be back to his star form this fall.

Deebo Samuel Sr. projected among NFL's most improved players for 2025

Marc Ross from NFL.com is one of them. The analyst released his list of players most likely to improve in 2025, and Samuel is among the headliners.

An argument could be made that the seventh-year veteran is entering the best situation of his career after being traded to Washington this offseason. The change of scenery puts Samuel in an offense that is led by an MVP-caliber quarterback in Jayden Daniels. Also, he'll pair with a true No. 1 receiver in Terry McLaurin to form a dangerous tandem in Kliff Kingsbury's passing attack.Marc Ross

The last point is key. Samuel figures to fit hand-in-glove within Kliff Kingsbury's scheme — an up-tempo system that heavily utilizes screens and underneath routes while setting up opportunities for deep shots. The South Carolina graduate has always been known for his speed and ability to evade tackles, making him a big play machine throughout his career.

Samuel also won't be asked to carry the heaviest load for Washington's offense. This is provided that tension is solved between the Commanders and McLaurin, who is currently holding out for a new contract.

A player like Samuel being a No. 2 option could make him even more dangerous, given all the defensive attention that will be on McLaurin instead.

All in all, there is much reason for optimism that the Commanders' investment in Samuel will pay off. Though he might not put up his 2021 numbers, he should safely rebound from last year while helping Washington take a considerable step forward offensively.

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