In 2024, Deebo Samuel Sr. had a disappointing year compared to his typically great standards. He now has the opportunity to silence his naysayers with the Washington Commanders, thanks to general manager Adam Peters’ willingness to trade a fifth-round choice for his services.
Samuel is an excellent player. He has produced at the Pro Bowl and All-Pro level. He is flexible, physical, and has the potential to transform even the tiniest completion into a significant gain. He should also be extremely motivated by a fresh challenge in a contract year.
During his time with the NFC West, the former second-round pick from South Carolina gave the team his all. Samuel departed on good terms as the Niners sought to alleviate their long-term salary-cap load. That did not deter some from criticizing the pass-catcher’s conditioning during his final season in San Francisco.
Conditioning criticism prompts response from new Commanders, WR Deebo. Samuel
According to Matt Barrows of The Athletic, Samuel was 20 pounds overweight entering last season. There were mitigating factors, but the senior writer told Tim Kawakami of the San Francisco Standard’s podcast that the wide receiver has been a source of concern for people in power since he joined the organization.
“I’m not going to mention the amount, but I inquired what Deebo’s high point weight was last season, and it matches what you indicated a few weeks ago. It grew really high, and there could have been reasons for that. I can’t work out because of pneumonia. I am unable to work out due to injuries. However, this raises concerns. I believe the 49ers had that issue the day he arrived in Santa Clara in 2019, and it never went away.”
Matt Barrows
This prompted Samuel to respond on social media. He stated his weight as 225 pounds, which resulted from a bout of pneumonia. The player expressed his willingness to take on a new challenge and expressed gratitude to the Niners, despite the unsuccessful outcome.
This works to the Commanders’ advantage. Samuel hears the criticism coming his way. He’ll have a full offseason to work on his conditioning, and the fact that he was 214 pounds when he entered the league doesn’t exactly scream neglect. Reports like this only add gasoline to his inner rage.
The Commanders may have a steal on their hands. If they can ensure Samuel’s optimum performance levels and take care of the wideout during the summer training period, there’s no reason he can’t hit the ground running in 2025. And, make no mistake, offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury will already be developing a way to maximize his abilities while still keeping him fresh.
Samuel should understand what a fantastic chance awaits him. The Commanders are on the verge of something extraordinary, and he might have a huge impact on their offensive efficiency. The more motivating variables someone encounters on his journey to reaching this goal, the greater his prospects.
Peters considered this a risk worth taking. Samuel needs to return his faith.
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