The Washington Commanders have made a big move to help emerging star quarterback Jayden Daniels by acquiring standout wide receiver Deebo Samuel from the San Francisco 49ers in exchange for a fifth-round draft pick, according to multiple sources.

Like any trade agreed to now, it cannot be processed until the new league year begins on Wednesday, March 12.

Samuel, 29, is due $21.7 million in the final year of a three-year extension he signed after the 2022 season. This trade reunites him with Commanders general manager Adam Peters, who previously served in the 49ers’ front office prior to being hired by Washington.

Samuel requested a trade during his exit interview shortly after the 2024 season. The 49ers then gave Samuel and his agent, Tony Dandy, permission to seek a trade on Feb. 9 as it became clear the sides were headed toward a split this offseason.

The 49ers were motivated to unload Samuel since his $17 million option was due to kick in on March 22. Releasing him would have come with a $31.55 million dead cap hit.

A 2019 second-round pick, Samuel caught 334 passes for 4,792 yards with 22 touchdowns in 81 games over six seasons with the 49ers. He also racked up 1,143 yards rushing with 20 scores on 202 attempts.

Samuel’s best season came in 2021, when he set career highs with 77 receptions and 1,405 yards with six touchdowns.

The Commanders were one of the league's biggest surprises this past season, going 12-5 and advancing to NFC Championship game before losing to the Philadelphia Eagles. Washington went 4-13 the previous season.

Daniels was the biggest reason for that turnaround after he threw for 3,568 yards and 25 touchdowns while also leading the team with 891 rushing yards.

BREAKING: The 49ers have agreed to send WR Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders in exchange for a fifth-round pick, sources tell @AdamSchefter. pic.twitter.com/4p9wJ1UjCV

— ESPN (@espn) March 1, 2025