The article discusses the recent acquisition of wide receiver Deebo Samuel by the Washington Commanders and the concerns about his health and availability moving forward. While Samuel has demonstrated skill in the past, particularly in yards after catch, his recent injury history raises questions. Washington's strategy of enhancing veteran skills, as seen with prior signings, could work again with Samuel, who fits into their offensive scheme under coordinator Kliff Kingsbury. However, his 2024 performance indicated some decline in rushing stats, and the team hopes he can return to form with quarterback Jayden Daniels, who had a standout rookie season.
"Can he be healthy and available?" the coach asked. And that's the big question no one can answer until Samuel suits up for the Commanders after being traded from the San Francisco 49ers.
Samuel, 29, is eight months younger than Ekeler, and arrives with an intriguing skill set that can be enhanced, or at least properly utilized, under Washington offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury.
Washington averaged 5.1 yards after the catch last season, ranking 21st. Samuel has excelled on underneath routes and averages 9.0 yards after the catch for his career.
After averaging 6.2 yards per carry when he emerged as the Niners' "wide back" in 2021, he managed just 3.2 yards in 2024.
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