Deebo Samuel is guaranteed to make at least $17 million this season with the Washington Commanders after he restructured the one-remaining season left on his contract. He could make up to an additional $3 million in incentives.
When he signed his original contract three years ago with the San Francisco 49ers the final season was worth a total of $16.6 million and none of it was guaranteed. The incentives were originally only worth a total of $750,000 based on per-game roster bonuses.
Adam Schefter from ESPN was the first to report the terms of the restructure. Samuel will become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season unless the Commanders offer him an extension during the season.
"The Commanders are guaranteeing $17 million of Deebo Samuel's previously non-guaranteed salary for this season, along with adding another $3 million worth of incentives, per sources," Schefter said. "Samuel now will play on a one-year deal worth up to $20 million, including $17 million guaranteed."
The contract was negotiated by Tory Dandy and Peters and was finalized on Wednesday.
Samuel was traded to the Commanders by the 49ers last month for a fifth-round pick. Commanders' general manager Adam Peters wanted Samuel to be as comfortable as possible for his new stay in the District.
The 49ers were dead set against restructuring his final season. They would rather trade him away than renegotiate his contract. Washington stepped up and committed to Samuel by guaranteeing the entire base salary.
Samuel gives quarterback Jayden Daniels a viable second option to wide receiver Terry McLaurin. The two can form a viable partnership and spread the field.
