Washington Football Team: 3 free agents who could alter 2021 NFL Draft plans

A familiar face to bolster the wide receiver room

Speaking of former players under Ron Rivera, Carolina wide receiver Curtis Samuel could add some much needed athleticism to Washington’s wide receiver room. He finished the 2020 season just shy of 1,000 receiving yards and is due for a fairly large contract. Washington should improve their wide receiver room and add his speed.

Of course, Samuel has value outside of his role as a wide receiver. As mentioned previously, he did not finish with 1,000 receiving yards, but he did finish with 1,051 total yards. Samuel is versatile because he can be efficient out of the backfield. This past year, Samuel had the most carries in his career, rushed for 200 yards and averaged 4.9 yards per carry. He gives the offense an extra dimension while still being a good receiver.

Additionally, Samuel is a great supplement for Terry McLaurin. As the main receiver in Washington, teams identified McLaurin as the guy that needs the most attention. Samuel’s speed helps the offense not just because of his own talent adds, but it also helps draw away attention from McLaurin.

Samuel will be more expensive than Cam Newton. He is expected to earn a little over $16 million a year. However, his upside and added value to the Washington offense makes this kind of deal worth the money.

Paying Samuel does lessen the chance of Washington drafting a wide receiver early. However, he also gives their offense a higher ceiling, and that allows the Football Team to draft players that can help both Samuel and McLaurin thrive.