Early in the offseason, Deebo Samuel requested from offensive coordinator Cliff Kingsbury the chance to be targeted more on deep routes. Typically used as a slot receiver, Samuel wanted to play wider on the field. Kingsbury was initially surprised but soon saw the value in it when Samuel made a huge play running outside. Responding positively, Kingsbury promised to increase Samuel’s opportunities in that role.
Samuel’s versatility is a major reason Washington traded for him and committed a $17 million salary plus incentives. Though Kingsbury had previously been head coach of the Arizona Cardinals, he now admires Samuel’s multifaceted skill set, which complements Washington’s offensive strategy along with running back Christian McCaffrey. Kingsbury expressed pride in having a player like Samuel who can expand the team’s playbook and force defenses to adapt.
Washington coach Dan Quinn highlighted the uniqueness of pairing Samuel’s talent with the creative offensive minds on the team. Kingsbury believes this versatility will be a major asset, especially for quarterback Jaden Daniels, who can benefit from the added threat Samuel poses both on screens and quick passes. With Terry McLaurin’s contract negotiation stalling, Samuel could see even more deep targets, helping to offset McLaurin’s uncertain availability.
In practice, Samuel and Daniels have already shown strong chemistry, with Samuel making standout catches like a touchdown in the red zone that wowed observers. Despite coming off injuries last season, Samuel has been working hard to build rapport with Daniels, learning his timing and preferences. For Kingsbury, making the most of Samuel’s unique talents is both a challenge and an exciting opportunity to innovate offensively.
While the team has yet to reveal the full extent of their game plans involving Samuel, the approach so far has been cautious and methodical, allowing Samuel to settle into the slot before expanding his role. With McLaurin’s trade demands possibly limiting his participation, Samuel’s importance to Washington’s offense only increases. This partnership, seen during a practice with backup quarterback Josh Johnson, hints at a promising future for the team’s offense.
Ultimately, Samuel’s arrival and his developing connection with Daniels signal that Washington’s offense could become significantly more dynamic and dangerous in the coming season.
Fan Take: This development is exciting for NFL fans because it showcases how player versatility can unlock new offensive possibilities, potentially reshaping Washington’s attack. If Kingsbury effectively harnesses Samuel’s multifaceted skills, it could lead to innovative strategies that challenge defenses and elevate the overall quality of the game.
