Adam Peters had little regard for the roster he inherited as the Washington Commanders. In his first summer as the team’s manager, the esteemed general manager cut more than half the playing roster in an attempt to turn around the team’s woes. He made prudent purchases and made the most of the rich trove of draft assets at his disposal. Additionally, there was a reluctance to retain prominent individuals who were not under contract.
In free agency, very few signed new contracts. The notable exceptions to the rule were Jamison Crowder, Efe Obada, Jeremy Reaves, and Cornelius Lucas. Apart from that, very few people made a big splash as they went on to perhaps greater pastures.
Curtis Samuel was one of the most regrettable exits, one that could have turned out differently under different conditions. The talented wide receiver proved to be a significant asset to the team when he was there. Peters’ plans fell through due to a changing regime and his salary demands, thus he signed a free agent contract with the Buffalo Bills.
Samuel will have a big chance to work with the possible Super Bowl opponent. With the trade of Stefon Diggs to the Houston Texans, the Bills now have an opening at wideout number one. Keon Coleman, a second-round selection, is someone they believe can eventually take center stage. It is another matter entirely whether it occurs immediately.
Curtis Samuel, a former Commanders wide receiver, is getting closer to being a reliable No. 1 option.
For the first time in his NFL career, the former Ohio State standout made his largest move yet toward being a legitimate top option. Samuel’s breakthrough day at his most recent Bills training camp practice was recognized by beat reporter Matt Parrino. Particularly his tough catch ability and adaptability to be used anywhere along the line of scrimmage are giving people more faith that he will fit well in Joe Brady’s offense.
Curtis Samuel had his breakout day today at camp. The last catch was sensational as he broke open on the right side with Cam Lewis in coverage. He’s so explosive and he’s moving all over the place. Starting to see the vision for what he’ll be in this offense. Major 🔑
— Matt Parrino (@MattParrino) July 25, 2024
For Samuel, who wants to move on and make the Commanders pay for letting him go, this is a huge step in the right direction. Despite being new to the Bills, he has experience working with Brady from their days together with the Carolina Panthers.
Before joining the Commanders in 2020, he amassed more than 1,000 all-purpose yards while playing under the play-caller. Buffalo hopes that this once-thriving connection continues in a new setting.
Samuel has always been gifted. Most of the time, injuries have been a hindrance, but there is no denying his skill as a potent offensive threat. The Commanders believed that switching gears would be best for both parties, but there’s no denying that a player similar to the 2017 second-round selection would be extremely helpful for Jayden Daniels as a rookie quarterback in 2024.
Terry McLaurin, Jahan Dotson, and rookie Luke McCaffrey are the starting trio for the Commanders going forward. There is still a lot of hope that Dyami Brown can advance under more capable mentors. Based on his career results thus far, Olamide Zaccheaus is nothing more than a dependable rotational player.
Everyone has questions, except for McLaurin, who is incredibly consistent. Peters may come to regret letting Samuel go if his questions aren’t amply addressed during the next campaign.
Samuel will feel much more sorrow if he takes full advantage of the chance that lies ahead of him and establishes himself as a true No. 1.
