Washington Commanders’ All-In Gamble: Will the Deebo Samuel and Laremy Tunsil Trades Pay Off?

By Jason Bolton June 13, 2025 09:14

The Washington Commanders have made a bold statement in the 2025 offseason, doubling down on their Super Bowl aspirations by acquiring two marquee players: wide receiver Deebo Samuel and offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil. These high-profile trades signal the franchise’s commitment to transforming its roster into a championship-caliber unit. But the question remains will these gambles pay off?

Deebo Samuel’s arrival in Washington was the headline move. The Commanders traded a 2025 fifth-round pick to the San Francisco 49ers for Samuel, a dynamic 29-year-old All-Pro receiver known for his rare versatility as both a pass-catcher and a runner out of the backfield. Samuel’s unique skill set fits well with Washington’s offensive philosophy under coordinator Kliff Kingsbury, who favors a shotgun-heavy scheme that maximizes playmakers’ creativity. Samuel’s 334 receptions and 5,935 yards from scrimmage over six NFL seasons underscore his productivity, while his 1,143 rushing yards since 2019 rank second among receivers, trailing only Cordarrelle Patterson.

Financially, the Commanders have reworked Samuel’s contract to guarantee $17 million in 2025, adding $3 million in incentives, signaling their belief in his immediate impact despite the risk of absorbing his full $17.5 million cap hit. Samuel is playing on the final year of a three-year, $71.5 million extension he signed with the 49ers in 2022. While Washington declined an option to spread his cap hit over two years, the team is clearly prioritizing short-term competitiveness over long-term financial flexibility.

Samuel’s motivation is palpable. He pushed for the trade out of San Francisco, citing a desire to join a “winner,” and now joins a Commanders team fresh off an NFC championship appearance. His chemistry with young quarterback Jayden Daniels will be crucial, as Samuel is expected to be a primary weapon alongside Terry McLaurin. The hope is that Samuel’s physicality and versatility will create matchup nightmares for opposing defenses, especially in the red zone.

Complementing Samuel’s addition is the acquisition of Laremy Tunsil, a proven left tackle with multiple Pro Bowl appearances. Tunsil’s presence addresses one of Washington’s most pressing needs protecting the quarterback’s blind side and bolstering the offensive line. While details of the trade are less publicized, Tunsil’s reputation as a dominant pass protector and run blocker makes him a foundational piece for the Commanders’ offense.

Together, these trades represent an all-in approach by general manager Adam Peters, who has openly acknowledged the team’s “reload” mentality following last season’s unexpected playoff run. The moves aim to provide quarterback Jayden Daniels with the weapons and protection necessary to elevate his game and sustain a deep postseason push.

However, the risks are significant. Samuel’s contract situation means Washington must see immediate returns, or risk paying a premium for a short-term rental. Chemistry with Daniels and adaptation to a new system will be tested. Meanwhile, Tunsil’s health and consistency will be vital to the offensive line’s success. The departure of draft capital for these veterans also limits the team’s flexibility to add depth elsewhere.

The Commanders’ aggressive trades for Deebo Samuel and Laremy Tunsil reflect a franchise betting on current talent to contend now. If Samuel’s dynamic playmaking and Tunsil’s line dominance materialize as hoped, Washington could emerge as a true Super Bowl contender. As Samuel himself said upon joining the team, “I like winners,” and the Commanders are counting on that mindset to fuel their championship chase. The 2025 season will be the ultimate test of whether this all-in gamble pays off.