Hogs Haven
A collection of articles, podcasts & tweets from around the web to keep you in touch with the Commanders, the NFC East, the NFL and sports in general, and a sprinkling of other stuff
Deebo Samuel will play as much as he can handle and, therefore, is the “plan” opposite Terry McLaurin. This versatile chess piece’s extra value is the ability to line him up all over the formation. The potential wrinkle is where Samuel lines up in three-receiver sets. In 2024, the Commanders used 11 personnel — three receivers, one tight end and one running back — on 59 percent of their plays from scrimmage.
Samuel primarily played on the outside for the San Francisco 49ers. Out of 1,577 snaps over the last two seasons, Samuel lined up 962 times (61 percent) out wide and 428 snaps (27.1 percent) in the slot. Expect work out of the backfield as well. That he isn’t a pure route runner is where some questioning about his No. 2 status enters. Regardless, the goal is to put as much talent on the field as possible. If Samuel’s physical playmaking style returns to his 2021 and 2023 highs, he will be in the huddle very often.
The lone Brown remaining on the roster was the second receiver until he suffered a season-ending kidney injury in Week 13. Noah Brown brings more red zone size and traditional wide receiver skills, but he lacks Samuel’s formation versatility. He played 372 of 469 snaps last season out wide. Free-agent signee Michael Gallup is another primarily perimeter receiver. Most of 2024 third-round pick Luke McCaffrey’s rookie year activity came from the slot (59.8 percent), but we’ll see if he’s ready for more opportunities this season.
If all of this holds for 2025 — the Commanders could draft another receiver or inject additional speed into the room — Samuel will receive the second-most playing time behind McLaurin, while slot snaps would rise with Brown locked into the outside work.
It’s in my nature to remain skeptical on many topics. For example, this Android user remains unconvinced Apple offers a better product despite its cult-like following. With Daniels, I’m largely worry-free assuming he remains diligent with his offseason program and keeps his feet on the ground following his monster first season.
Adjustments to the defensive game plans coming his way must occur. Daniels could improve with throwing to all parts of the field and decision-making, but nothing warrants a red pen. Gold stars on the other hand.
The floor remains very high due to his mobility and passing vision, while the ceiling — top-five QB in the league — is very attainable.
