Deebo Samuel had a solid season for the Washington Commanders last year, and it’s somewhat surprising that the former All-Pro has yet to find a new team. At his peak, the former second-round pick was one of the most dangerous all-around threats in the league, capable of beating defenses as a wide receiver, a running back, and a gadget play demon. While he has lost a step since those days, the 2025 campaign proved he can still be a reliable weapon, even without offensive guru Kyle Shanahan calling the shot.
Appearing in 16 games, Samuel finished his first season in Washington with a respectable 72 receptions for 727 yards and five touchdowns despite losing quarterback Jayden Daniels to injury for large stretches of the season. While the Commanders themselves had a disappointing campaign, Samuel played up to the level that was expected of him.
The open market has not been friendly to wide receivers, but that could change with the signing of Jauan Jennings. Jennings was the best wideout left on the open market, and his new deal could establish a market for guys like Deebo Samuel. According to Bleacher Report‘s Paul Kasabian, the Los Angeles Chargers and Chicago Bears could make a move for his services.
“Deebo Samuels’ best season was with the 2021 San Francisco 49ers, whose offense was led by coordinator Mike McDaniel,” Kasabian writes. “McDaniel is now the Los Angeles Chargers offensive coordinator and could have an idea or two on how to use him…The Bears are on the rise after a tremendous year one under head coach Ben Johnson, who guided the team to an 11-6 record, an NFC North title, and a playoff win…Adding Samuel could be another chess piece for ascending quarterback (and Captain Clutch) Caleb Williams to use as the Bears search for their second Super Bowl.”
Deebo Samuel Connected to Los Angeles Chargers, Chicago Bears
It’s easy to see why the Los Angeles Chargers would be a perfect fit for Deebo Samuel. While the wide receiver doesn’t have the physical gifts to replicate his 2021 season at this stage in his career, he’d still be a natural fit with offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel. Say what you will about his ability to lead a team, but nobody can deny his ability to scheme an offense. McDaniel excels at creating open space for his wide receivers, and Samuel is still a dangerous weapon in the open field.
Additionally, the Chargers could use another wide receiver. While the recent addition of David Njoku will add some depth to the team, they could still use more offensive help. Ladd McConkey took a step back last year following his impressive debut, and former first-round pick Quentin Johnston is better off in a depth role. Samuel’s 1,000-yard seasons are probably a thing of the past, but he could still be a good complementary player in this offense.
Too Many Weapons?
The Chicago Bears, on the other hand, are a more questionable fit. While the D.J. Moore trade theoretically opened a spot on the roster, this team still has an abundance of offensive weapons. Rome Odunze and Luther Burden are promising weapons who would start over Samuel, and the Bears also have a rising star in tight end Colston Loveland, who is coming off an impressive 58-catch, 713-yard season.
At best, Deebo Samuel would be the fourth option in this passing attack, and he could fall behind guys like tight end Cole Kmet or running back D’Andre Swift in the pecking order. If head coach Ben Johnson thinks this young passing attack could use some veteran leadership, then perhaps he’ll bring in Deebo Samuel. However, if you’re strictly looking at his on-field ability, Chicago already has plenty of options on the roster.
