Commanders Trade for WR Deebo Samuel from 49ers

In a significant NFL trade development, the Washington Commanders have successfully negotiated the acquisition of wide receiver Deebo Samuel from the San Francisco 49ers. The deal, which hinges on a pending physical exam, involves the Commanders sending a fifth-round draft pick to San Francisco. Details emerged from a source closely tied to the negotiations, who requested to remain anonymous since the transaction can only be finalized with the onset of the new league year on March 12.

Deebo Samuel, who celebrated his 29th birthday recently, is set to join forces with fellow widereceiver Terry McLaurin. This strategic addition aims to bolster the offensive options available to Jayden Daniels, who was named the 2022 rookie of the year and is about to embark on his second season as the Commanders’ quarterback. Samuel concluded the previous season with an impressive tally of 51 receptions, gaining 670 yards and securing three touchdowns with the 49ers.

The Commanders made it to the NFC championship game but were ultimately defeated by the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Philadelphia Eagles. Heading into the offseason, Commanders’ General Manager Adam Peters had the advantage of the third-largest salary cap space among NFL teams. This financial flexibility has facilitated the acquisition of Samuel, who remains under contract until next season due to a three-year extension he inked in 2022. Over his NFL career, which began in 2019 with the 49ers, Samuel has accumulated 334 catches for 4,792 yards and 22 touchdowns.

Following a request for a trade from Samuel during a meeting with head coach Kyle Shanahan, the 49ers had granted permission last month for him and his representatives to explore potential deals. Although the 49ers previously entertained trade offers for Samuel in the offseason, none met their expectations. After the conclusion of the season, General Manager John Lynch reiterated that the team was not actively seeking to trade Samuel. However, his performance, notably reaching All-Pro status in 2021, had seen a decline in productivity.

With his upcoming move to Washington, Deebo Samuel is expected to become a formidable partner for McLaurin, who recently achieved his fifth consecutive 1,000-yard season. This pairing aims to significantly enhance the offensive capabilities of the team in the upcoming NFL season.