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Like other NFL teams, the Washington Commanders must make tough roster decisions. They also added an interesting name to their coaching staff. And here is a perfect trade the Commanders must complete in the 2025 NFL offseason.
While it’s among the possibilities the Commanders could make a trade for Myles Garrett, the asking price seems like it’s more in the longshot category. Plus, the Browns seem reluctant to trade Garrett even if they get a big haul.
Pass rushers are typically in their prime from ages 23-30, according to research by milehighreport.com. There’s a steep drop off from the age 30 season to the age 31 season. Therefore, it doesn’t make good sense to wreck the future draft for a player who may only have one or two prime seasons remaining.
Yes, he’s 29 years old, just like Garrett. And unlike Garrett, Samuel has a checkered injury history. He experienced calf, wrist, oblique, and rib injuries — along with an illness that cost him two games.
Also, Samuel is coming off one of his worst NFL seasons. He finished with 806 scrimmage yards and four touchdowns, both of which were career lows.
But shake all those things up in a bag, and what spills out is a bargain. The Commanders could possibly get Samuel for an easy-to-digest fourth-round pick — or even a fifth-rounder.
And if the Commanders bring in a bargain along with a slick free agent move — and a strong draft — that makes it part of a smart package for 2025.
First, consider the Commanders’ status. They seem to be a few pieces away from being a major player in the Super Bowl conversation. They didn’t reach that status in 2024. Yes, they made it to the NFC Championship game, but they got completely run over by the Eagles. This year’s roster could not be called a Super Bowl roster.
The offensive needed more weapons. In particular, the Commanders needed a true No. 2 wide receiver. That’s what Samuel can offer at this stage of his career.
And here’s a key reason why Samuel would fit in Washington, according to Pro Football Focus.
“(Samuel’s) 8.2 yards after catch per reception ranked third among all qualifying receivers this past season,” PFF wrote. “The possibility of adding Samuel should certainly intrigue a team like Washington. Offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury ran the most receiver screens in the NFL last season. Adding a YAC monster like Samuel to the mix would undoubtedly boost this offense, as the 49ers receiver has earned a 97.5 receiving grade on screens over his six seasons as a pro.”
Imagine defenses having to worry about both sides of the field with Terry McLaurin on the other.
Plus this is a real possibility because the 49ers granted Samuel’s agent, Tory Dandy, permission to find a trade partner, according to espn.com.
“It was a hard conversation to have with (49ers head coach) Kyle (Shanahan) because of the relationship that...
