The Washington Commanders are sitting at 2-2 heading into Week 5, but instead of just talking about how they’ll respond from last week’s loss to Atlanta, the conversation has shifted to one player: Deebo Samuel.
On Wednesday, Samuel wasn’t out on the practice field. At first, it wasn’t clear why, and that immediately raised questions. After all, he looked completely healthy just a few days earlier against the Falcons. He caught all six of his targets for 72 yards and a touchdown while chipping in three carries for nine yards. He didn’t seem limited, playing 86 percent of Washington’s offensive snaps and moving like his usual explosive self.
Latest on Deebo Samuel’s Status for Week 5
So when he suddenly wasn’t practicing, people naturally started to worry. The Commanders later confirmed it was a heel injury that kept him sidelined. And because Samuel has dealt with his share of injuries over the years, calf strains, wrist issues, shoulder problems, and even pneumonia during his 49ers days, any health-related news around him feels bigger than usual.
There was some initial hope that Wednesday’s absence might have just been routine rest, something coaches sometimes do with veterans this time of year. But once the injury report came out, it was clear this wasn’t just a day off.
Samuel did not practice on Thursday either, and his status for Week 5 looked uncertain. “Deebo Samuel and Mike Sainristil did not practice but the fact they’re on the team flight to LA is promising news for their availability on Sunday,” wrote Commanders insider Nicki Jhabvala on X. “Sam Cosmi did not travel either. He is still on PUP.”
On Friday, Commanders HC Dan Quinn confirmed that Samuel will play against the Chargers in Week 5.
How Has Samuel Been so Far with the Washington Commanders?
Through the season’s first month, Samuel has been exactly what Washington needed him to be: a playmaker. He’s already piled up 22 catches for 204 yards and two touchdowns through the air, while adding seven carries for 46 yards and another score on the ground. That kind of versatility is what makes him such a nightmare for defenses and such a safety net for his quarterback.
With Samuel expected to play, Washington’s offense will be in much better shape as they need him desperately, especially with other receivers like Terry McLaurin and Noah Brown also banged up.
Both Samuel and Jayden Daniels are back for the Commanders this week, and they will look to make a statement againt a Super Bowl contender.
