Commanders' trade for Deebo Samuel was one of fantasy football's best offseason moves

The Washington Commanders made some excellent offseason moves in 2025, namely bringing in wide receiver Deebo Samuel and left tackle Laremy Tunsil via trade. Adam Peters and his staff also drafted well, acquiring Josh Conerly Jr. and Trey Amos, both of whom will likely have an impact this season.

The Commanders had two primary goals this offseason: to improve the defensive side of the ball and to provide Jayden Daniels with the necessary tools to succeed. On paper, it appears that those goals were accomplished. One of the moves has even been named one of the top 25 offseason moves of 2025 by NBC Sports, as viewed through a fantasy football lens.

11. Commanders take a chance on Deebo Samuel as new No. 2 wideout

How good was Jayden Daniels as a rookie? He made Olamide Zaccheaus, Noah Brown, and Dyami Brown viable No. 2 receivers. Now let’s hope he never has to do that again. On paper, Samuel’s open-field slashing is a perfect complement to Terry McLaurin‘s boundary proficiency. In practice, he is an older-than-his-years 29 after taking a half-decade’s worth of hits as the 49ers’ de facto change-of-pace running back. There’s no guarantee he’s actually more effective than last season’s No. 2 hodge podge. He does unquestionably provide more upside, and is a sensible flier for fantasy managers in the same way he was for the Commanders. A top-30 finish is within the range of outcomes.

From a fantasy standpoint, Samuel is an absolute WR2 on any roster. With Daniels at the helm and an upgraded offensive line, Samuel will have something he hasn't had in years: Stability. He played with a number of quarterbacks with the San Francisco 49ers, none of whom have the talent or capability of Jayden Daniels.

What the Commanders hope for is Samuel's return to his 2021 form, when he recorded 77 receptions for 1,405 yards and six touchdowns. They also have options with the wideout, who can line up as a running back, help out on special teams, and even throw an occasional pass. Bringing in Samuel will further Daniels' development in his sophomore year as he can line up anywhere, while providing Terry McLaurin with some much-needed help.

This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Commanders' trade for Deebo Samuel named a top 25 offseason move