The San Francisco 49ers finally moved on from offensive weapon Deebo Samuel after almost two seasons of trade rumblings. The former 49ers star still holds a lot of respect from San Francisco fans for what he accomplished during his time with the franchise. Despite the changes at quarterback, Samuel remained consistent and would help push the team into two Super Bowl appearances and years of NFC domination. Still, it was time to turn the page for a player who struggles to stay healthy and has clearly lost a step or two.
It is the perfect time to move on from a player who is going to be a source of disappointment for Washington fans expecting his former production. This isn't to say Samuel won't be productive or an important piece of the offense when he is able to stay in the lineup. Rather, it is pointing out the reality of an aging player whose numbers all show that things aren't going to be as expected in Washington. It is a great change-of-pace weapon that is going to give star quarterback Jayden Daniels a handful of memorable plays. However, Deebo isn't going to be the dominating force he was at times with the 49ers, having put this chapter behind him.
Former San Francisco 49ers Weapon Deebo Samuel Won't Live up to Lofty Expectations
Jayden Daniels already has incredible chemistry with his first two receivers, and Samuel's carries are likely to be extremely limited, with this being a past point of contention. Add in the injuries that always plague the pass catcher at this stage of his career, and it is going to be a season that doesn't live up to Washington's expectations.
Still, the Commanders won't need Deebo to be at his absolute best to have a chance to make another deep playoff run. If Daniels continues to play at his current level, the quarterback will quickly establish himself as one of the league's elite. While having Samuel is an asset, it isn't going to alter the offense as drastically as many fans expect. This is due to an aging player who relied on his elite speed and punishing run style to create big plays.
When this skillset isn't what it once was, the reasons why regression should be expected are clear. Still, San Francisco fans can't help but keep an eye on the former star even after the team has turned the page. If there is any young quarterback capable of preventing continued regression, it is Jayden Daniels.