Analysis: Samuel's reworked contract seems mutually beneficial, as it provides him with new incentives and a stronger baseline for 2025, while likely lessening Washington's commitment beyond the coming season. He previously had a $16.6 million non-guaranteed salary. Coming off a lackluster 2024 campaign in San Francisco, the 29-year-old playmaker will work to reignite his career while lining up alongside reigning second-team All-Pro selection Terry McLaurin, and while catching passes from 2024 Offensive Rookie of the Year Jayden Daniels. Samuel's versatility will make him a strong fit for offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury's scheme, as long as he can regain some of the dynamic abilities he showcased while earning 2021 first-team All-Pro honors. He recorded just 51 catches (on 81 targets) for 670 yards and three scores across 15 regular-season appearances in 2024, with just 42 carries for 136 yards and one touchdown (on a career-low 3.2 YPC).

Analysis: Schultz reports the Steelers and Broncos are among other teams that have inquired about trading for Samuel, but he notes Washington and Houston have been the strongest suitors to this point. The Commanders seem committed to adding another playmaker for Jayden Daniels, who earned 2024 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year honors despite Terry McLaurin being his only pass catcher to even approach the 1,000-yard mark. Houston, meanwhile, faces a similar conundrum, needing to surround C.J. Stroud with new offensive talent, as Stefon Diggs (knee - ACL) seems likely to move on, and Tank Dell (knee - ACL + MCL) is in danger of potentially missing a significant amount of the 2025 campaign. Samuel admittedly struggled to impress in 2024, finishing with a mere 51 catches (81 targets) for 670 yards and three touchdowns across 15 appearances, plus 42 carries for 136 yards and one score on a career-low 3.2 YPC. However, he boasts a uniquely versatile skill set and could yet rebound in greener pastures.