Commanders begin potentially active offseason with trade for 49ers All-Pro WR

Last season with the 49ers, Samuel had 51 receptions, 670 receiving yards and three receiving touchdowns. He added 42 carries for 132 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown.

In Washington, he'll partner with Terry McLaurin to form a formidable 1-2 duo at wide receiver.

McLaurin led the Commanders with 82 receptions, 1,096 receiving yards and 13 receiving touchdowns in 2024, gaining 1,000 yards for the fifth consecutive season.

With 2024 Associated Press Rookie of the Year quarterback Jayden Daniels, Washington has one of the NFL's brightest futures. The proposed trade for Samuel suggests the front office is intent on maximizing its window as a Super Bowl contender.

Last season, the 2023 Heisman winner went 12-5 in the regular season and won two road playoff games, leading Washington to an unexpected run to the NFC Championship Game.

Adding Samuel should be the first of several transactions this offseason for Washington. Per Over The Cap, before the trade, the Commanders ranked third in available 2025 cap space ($81.9 million).

Earlier this week, the team granted defensive tackle Jonathan Allen permission to seek a trade, which would free $16.5 million in cap space.

Washington should be a major player in free agency, plus trades, should defensive stars become available.

Four-time first-team All-Pro Browns defensive end Myles Garrett requested a trade earlier this offseason, which general manager Andrew Berry has said won't be honored.

On Thursday, Cleveland.com Browns reporter Mary Kay Cabot wrote that Garrett was "not open to" re-signing with the organization when his contract expires following the 2026 season. Garrett could force Berry's hand if he doesn't budge, and Washington should be the first team to call the moment the Browns backtrack from their current stance.

Last season, the Commanders ranked 30th in rush defense (137.5 yards allowed per game), which will make the defensive line a top priority regardless of Garrett's availability.

It's easy for Washington to justify having an aggressive approach to the offseason. Samuel is a nice addition, and he most certainly won't be the last.