Washington Football Team Signs Curtis Samuel: The Washington Football Team signed free agent wide receiver Curtis Samuel to a three-year deal worth $34 million.
- Keep track of all 2021 NFL Free Agents & Franchise Tags.
- Read the rest of our 2021 NFL offseason and 2021 NFL Draft coverage.
Washington Football Team Signs Curtis Samuel
The Washington Football Team signed Samuel to add some more explosiveness to the offense and take the load off Terry McLaurin. This is an ascending young talent entering his age-25 season coming off a 2020 year where he set career-highs across the board.
Samuel can help stretch the field in this offense, which will fit perfectly with new quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, who loves to chuck it deep. Samuel can make plays after the catch and in the backfield, as he posted 200 rushing yards on 41 carries last season. The thought of Samuel lining up with Antonio Gibson at running back should send fears into opposing defenses.
Samuel caught 77-of-97 targets for 851 yards and three touchdowns in a stacked Panthers’ offense that included wideouts D.J. Moore and Robby Anderson. He should be in line for a more prominent role in Washington. This offense just got a lot better with this signing.
Washington 2021 NFL Betting Outlook
Washington is currently listed at +320 to win the NFC East and +6500 to win the Super Bowl on BetMGM, but I wouldn’t recommend either of these bets just yet. Instead, I would wait to see how the draft plays out and monitor the team’s season win total.
I would expect Washington’s win total to end up anywhere between 7 to 8 games.
While I was skeptical of the team’s outlook after the Fitzpatrick signing, I’m a bit more optimistic now with the addition of Samuel. He gives this offense a much-needed number-two wide receiver. Fitz should have a better opportunity to succeed with this huge addition.
At the same time, we need to remember that Washington was able to capitalize on a weak NFC East in 2020, but things should change with Dak Prescott back in the fold for the Cowboys. The Eagles and Giants should also improve on their disappointing seasons. I would recommend monitoring Washington’s win total due to a tougher division and a first-place schedule in 2021. If it comes in at 8, I would suggest going with the under. While I love this signing, it’s tough to see this team beating out the Cowboys with a healthy Dak.