NFL front offices have been at it all week as the new league year officially kicked off on Wednesday, awarding a staggering $5.83 billion in contracts, with nearly $2.3 billion agreed to in the first eight hours of negotiations. It’s safe to say the general manager came out swinging.
The market has cooled off a bit since the initial buzz, but many influential players are still sitting on the board waiting for their next snap. One of the biggest names still looking for a new home is Washington Commanders wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr.
Samuel stepped in as Washington’s top target last season while Terry McLaurin battled injuries, making 72 catches for 727 yards and five touchdowns. He also gained 75 rushing yards and another score, although that rushing total marked a career low in seasons where he played at least eight games.
Nevertheless, Deebo is still one of the league’s most versatile offensive weapons – a true “wide back” who can line up anywhere and stress the defense in a variety of ways. So where might he land next? Here are the five teams that make the most sense for Samuel in free agency.
denver broncos
The Denver Broncos have been one of the quietest teams so far on the free agency wire. In fact, they are the only NFL team that did not sign any outside free agents during Week 1, which has certainly raised some eyebrows around the league. But maybe Sean Payton is waiting to get his shot.
For years, people around the NFL have tried to connect Deebo Samuel to Payton’s offense. Now, for the first time, that pairing is actually possible. Payton has long talked about wanting a weapon that can do it all, that can line up anywhere, move through formation and handle pressure on defenses on every single snap. Deebo’s name may also be mentioned in that description.
san francisco 49ers
Who says you can’t run it back? A reunion with the San Francisco 49ers suddenly doesn’t seem so crazy. San Francisco has some serious question marks in the wide receiver room heading into the 2026 season. Brandon Aiyuk’s time with the team appears to be over, Javon Jennings is testing free agency, and Ricky Pearsall still hasn’t been able to stay healthy.
On top of that, the offense could be without George Kittle, who is dealing with an Achilles injury that could sideline him for a large portion of the 2026 campaign. That leaves a lot of firepower for Kyle Shanahan’s offense. A return to the Gulf would make a lot of sense. Samuel already knows Shanahan’s system inside and out, and he has built a strong chemistry with Brock Purdy from their previous stints in San Francisco.
Baltimore Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens could reload their pass-catching group this offseason. If that happens, Baltimore will need another dynamic weapon in the passing game – and Samuel fits the bill perfectly. Samuel would give the Ravens a versatile chess piece who can line up in the slot, outside, or even take snaps out of the backfield.
While Zay Flowers will still lead the receiving corps, Samuel could quickly take on a major role and become one of Lamar Jackson’s favorite playmakers. And honestly, Deebo feels just like a raven. His bruising, physical style – whether he’s breaking tackles as a receiver or lowering his shoulder on designed runs – fits perfectly into Baltimore’s smash-mouth identity.
new England Patriots
The New England Patriots are in need of a reliable wide receiver, making Samuel an obvious target if they want to add some firepower. Samuel, like Stefon Diggs, would slide well as a do-everything weapon in the Patriots’ offense, and would be a perfect fit for Drake Mays. Imagine the situation if New England took out Deebo Samuel and Romeo Doubs on the same field.
kansas city chiefs
The Kansas City Chiefs have needs in the passing game. Sure, they still have Travis Kelce, but Patrick Mahomes could definitely use another dynamic weapon on the outside. This is where Samuel comes in. Kansas City has quietly emerged as an interesting landing spot for the veteran playwright. Samuel’s ability to line up in the slot or even take handoffs out of the backfield seems tailor-made for Andy Reid’s playbook. Reed likes versatile weapons he can move around formations, and Samuel will give the Chiefs a more gadget-style threat that can turn short touches into pieces.
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