As of March 10, 2025, the NFL landscape has been significantly altered by two major trades involving prominent wide receivers: Deebo Samuel’s move to the Washington Commanders and Garrett Wilson’s transfer to the Carolina Panthers.
Deebo Samuel’s Transition to the Washington Commanders
On March 1, 2025, the San Francisco 49ers traded wide receiver Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders in exchange for a fifth-round draft pick. This move came after Samuel requested a trade earlier in the offseason, seeking a fresh start despite a strong relationship with head coach Kyle Shanahan.
Samuel’s tenure with the 49ers was marked by both brilliance and challenges. In the 2021 season, he earned first-team All-Pro honors, amassing 1,770 total yards and 14 touchdowns. However, his performance declined in subsequent seasons, with the 2024 season yielding 51 receptions for 670 yards and three touchdowns, alongside 42 carries for 136 yards and one rushing touchdown.
The trade has financial implications for both teams. The Commanders will absorb Samuel’s $17.55 million salary for the upcoming season, while the 49ers incur $31.55 million in dead money on their 2025 salary cap.
Washington aims to bolster its offense by pairing Samuel with star wide receiver Terry McLaurin and quarterback Jayden Daniels, the AP Offensive Rookie of the Year.
Samuel expressed gratitude toward the 49ers organization following the trade, stating there is “nothing but love” for general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan.
Garrett Wilson’s Move to the Carolina Panthers
In another significant development, the Carolina Panthers have acquired wide receiver Garrett Wilson from the New York Jets. The trade agreement involves the Panthers sending their 2026 first-round pick and a young receiver from their roster to the Jets in exchange for Wilson.
Wilson, who was awarded the Associated Press NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2023, has been a standout performer since entering the league. During his rookie season, he recorded 83 receptions for 1,103 receiving yards and four touchdowns, setting franchise rookie records for receptions and receiving yards in a single season.
The Panthers anticipate that Wilson’s addition will significantly enhance their receiving corps, providing a dynamic target for their quarterback and adding depth to their offensive lineup.
Implications for the Teams Involved
The Washington Commanders’ acquisition of Deebo Samuel reflects a strategic effort to strengthen their offensive capabilities. Samuel’s versatility as both a receiver and a rusher offers offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury additional options to diversify play-calling. However, concerns about Samuel’s recent injury history and declining production may pose challenges.
For the San Francisco 49ers, trading Samuel allows the team to address salary cap considerations and focus on developing emerging talents. Despite incurring significant dead money, the 49ers gain a draft asset that could be utilized to strengthen other areas of the roster.
The Carolina Panthers’ acquisition of Garrett Wilson signifies an investment in youth and talent. Wilson’s proven track record and potential for further development align with the Panthers’ objectives to build a competitive and dynamic offense. Conversely, the New York Jets acquire valuable draft capital and a young receiver, providing flexibility for future roster construction.
These trades underscore the dynamic nature of the NFL, where teams continually assess and adjust their rosters to achieve strategic goals. The forthcoming season will reveal the impact of these moves on the respective teams’ performances and overall league standings.