Deebo Samuel Sr. has been the subject of unfair criticism this offseason. The wide receiver got it from all angles in the media and even some ex-professionals for good measure. But anyone who thought it would rattle the versatile weapon is out of luck.
The Washington Commanders believe Samuel can be a difference-maker in Kliff Kingsbury's offense. Things fizzled out with the San Francisco 49ers, who thought his regression last season was enough to send him packing. That's not an opinion shared by general manager Adam Peters.
Washington happily sent a fifth-round pick to San Francisco for Samuel. They hired Wes Welker primarily due to his previous relationship with the wideout. The agendas people have didn't change, but the former second-round pick is focusing on what he can control.
Deebo Samuel focused on helping the Commanders and shutting up his critics
Samuel's heard all the vitriol thrown in his direction. He made that abundantly clear during an interview with Natalie Spala from 7News DC. However, the South Carolina product is firmly focused on shutting everyone up and helping the Commanders get over the hump in 2025.
People have always got to have something to talk about. I think they showed a clip of me jogging at OTAs and said, "he's slow." Everybody's got to have a narrative. Everybody's got to have something to say, but we're here now. I mean, the season is going to start, and we're gonna put these pads on and strap your helmet up, put your mouthpiece on, and we're going to see how far it goes. I know who I am, what I'm capable of, my abilities, and the offseason was tremendous for me. Just getting myself in shape, getting myself ready for camp. I'm here to be the best version of myself, and we're going to hit the ground rolling.Deebo Samuel Sr. via 7News DC
"I know who I am, what I'm capable of."
Whether fair or not, #Commanders WR Deebo Samuel's speed and conditioning were the talk of social media during OTA's and mini camp.
I asked him what he thought about that today. pic.twitter.com/8RvclJ8yho— Natalie Spala (@_nataliespala) July 24, 2025
This is the correct attitude to portray. Samuel isn't going to get anywhere by becoming embroiled in a war of words with the likes of Terrell Owens and Brandon Graham. Instead, he'll let his hard work and talent do the talking when it's all said and done.
Samuel came into the franchise with renewed focus and purpose in equal measure. He worked exceptionally hard on improving his route running and conditioning throughout the offseason. The results speak for themselves, and the Commanders hope this will eventually lead to a profitable campaign when competitive action begins.
There is the added incentive of playing for a new contract to provide additional motivation if needed. But there's nothing like ridicule from your peers to help turn the tide.
And make no mistake, Samuel is intent on shutting up those who wrote him off.
