The Samuel Factor How Deebos Versatility Challenges Washingtonand Highlights Kingsburys Offensive Evolution

Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, August 20th 2025 at 9:01 GMT by Sports Illustrated
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The Washington Commanders face a formidable challenge this week in the form of San Francisco 49ers wide receiver/running back extraordinaire, Deebo Samuel. More than just a player, Samuel represents a shift in offensive philosophy that has profoundly impacted the 49ers’ success and now poses a unique problem for defensive coordinator Rob Rivera Jr. and his unit. While the Commanders' own offense, under head coach Kliff Kingsbury, is striving towards similar levels of dynamism, understanding how San Francisco utilizes Samuel – and the ripple effects it creates – is crucial to both analyzing the upcoming game and charting Washington’s long-term offensive trajectory.

The core issue isn't just Samuel's individual talent; he’s undeniably a gifted athlete with exceptional hands and surprising power. It’s his role within the 49ers’ scheme that makes him so difficult to defend. Offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan has crafted a system specifically designed to leverage Samuel’s versatility, deploying him as a receiver, running back, jet sweep threat, and even occasionally a deep play fake target. This unpredictability forces defenses into constant adjustments, creating mismatches and exploiting weaknesses.

The article on SI.com highlights how the 49ers essentially "weaponized" Samuel, turning his unique skillset into an offensive linchpin. He’s not just catching passes; he's a focal point for designed runs, often lined up in the backfield to create confusion and force defenders to hesitate. This forces linebackers to cover him in space, freeing up other receivers, while cornerbacks are tasked with containing a player who can beat them both as a receiver and a runner. The sheer cognitive load on opposing defenses is immense.

This approach wasn't always the case. Early in his career, Samuel was primarily viewed as a speedster receiver. However, Shanahan recognized his potential to be much more, drawing inspiration from players like Reggie Wayne and incorporating elements of their game into Samuel’s role. The key difference? Shanahan added the running element, transforming him into a true "chess piece" on offense.

The impact extends beyond just Samuel's individual statistics. His presence forces defenses to commit resources, opening up opportunities for other 49ers players like Christian McCaffrey, George Kittle, and Brandon Aiyuk. The threat of Samuel’s runs creates space in the passing game, while his receiving ability keeps defenders honest. It’s a beautifully orchestrated system where one player elevates the entire offense.

Interestingly, Kingsbury's arrival in Washington is aimed at fostering a similar level of offensive creativity and adaptability. While he hasn't yet fully replicated Shanahan’s success with Deebo Samuel, the principles are there. Kingsbury emphasizes flexibility and putting his players in positions to succeed based on their individual strengths. He wants to create an offense that can’t be easily predicted, forcing defenses to react rather than dictate play calls.

The article points out a crucial difference: Washington doesn't currently have a player with Samuel's exact skillset. However, Kingsbury is actively working to develop players who can embody the same versatility and unpredictability. He’s experimenting with different formations and personnel groupings, encouraging his players to be comfortable in multiple roles. This includes utilizing running backs like Chris Rodriguez Jr. in receiving situations and exploring ways for receivers like Terry McLaurin to contribute as run blockers.

The challenge for the Commanders isn't just about stopping Samuel; it's about understanding why he’s so effective. Rivera Jr. needs to find a way to account for his dual-threat capabilities, potentially employing multiple linebackers and utilizing safety help over the top. However, simply focusing on Samuel risks leaving other 49ers players open.

Ultimately, the matchup between the Commanders' defense and Deebo Samuel serves as a microcosm of the larger trend in modern football: offenses are becoming increasingly complex and versatile, demanding creative solutions from defensive coordinators. For Kingsbury and the Commanders, observing how Shanahan utilizes Samuel provides valuable insight into building their own dynamic offense – one that can consistently challenge defenses and maximize the potential of their players. The game isn't just about winning; it’s about learning and evolving. And Deebo Samuel is a living embodiment of that evolution. The article also touches on the mental aspect for defensive players, highlighting how constantly adjusting to Samuel's unpredictable movements takes a toll. It emphasizes the importance of communication and discipline within the Commanders' defense to avoid breakdowns caused by miscommunication or hesitation. The psychological warfare inherent in facing such a versatile player is just as important as the physical challenge.

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The Samuel Factor How Deebos Versatility Challenges Washingtonand Highlights Kingsburys Offensive Evolution