Player Card

Fantasy Player Profile Curtis Samuel

  • Curtis Samuel
  • WR #1
  • Curtis
    Samuel
  • IRInjured Reserve
  • Manager: FA
  •  
vs. NYJ: #15 vs opposing WR - 30.23 FPA

News

  • Set to be let go by Bills

    The Bills are in line to release Samuel, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was limited to seven catches in six 2025 regular-season games during his second campaign with the Bills. Now that Buffalo is moving on from Samuel -- who topped the 60-catch mark as recently as 2023 with the Commanders -- the 29-year-old will look to catch on elsewhere as a depth WR/return option.

    Published: Fri, Mar 6 at 10:33am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Limited to one catch in return

    Samuel secured one of three targets for two yards during Buffalo's 33-30 divisional-round overtime loss to the Broncos on Saturday.

    Analysis: Samuel missed the final seven games of the regular season, as well as the Bills' wild-card win over Jacksonville, due to an elbow injury, but he managed to return from IR in time to face off against Denver. With all of Joshua Palmer (ankle), Tyrell Shavers (knee) and Gabe Davis (knee) having been placed on IR in advance of the AFC divisional round, Samuel got a chance to handle an increased role on offense, playing 44 percent of the offensive snaps. Unsurprisingly, after he managed only a…read more

    Published: Mon, Jan 19 at 11:29am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Back in action Saturday

    Samuel (elbow) is active for Saturday's divisional-round game at Denver, Alec White of the Bills' official site reports.

    Analysis: Samuel thus will be available to Buffalo's offense for the first time since Week 11 after a lengthy IR stint, and the timing of his activation couldn't have come at a better time after all of Joshua Palmer (ankle), Tyrell Shavers (knee) and Gabe Davis (knee) landed on injured reserve in the past week. Along with Khalil Shakir, Brandin Cooks, Keon Coleman and Mecole Hardman, Samuel will be one of the options at wide receiver available to QB Josh Allen, but he mustered only a 7-81-1 line on nine…read more

    Published: Sat, Jan 17 at 12:27pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Activated from IR

    Buffalo activated Samuel (elbow) from injured reserve Friday.

    Analysis: Samuel remains listed as questionable for Saturday's divisional-round game against the Broncos, but his activation would seem to indicate Samuel will be ready to play. With Joshua Palmer (ankle) placed on injured reserve last week and both Gabe Davis (knee) and Tyrell Shavers (knee) lost to season-ending injuries last Sunday against the Jaguars, Samuel's return will be big news for the Bills. If cleared to play, Samuel will slide into the wideout mix alongside Khalil Shakir, Brandin Cooks and…read more

    Published: Fri, Jan 16 at 1:21pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Could return Saturday

    Samuel (elbow) will practice in full Thursday and will be listed as questionable for Saturday's divisional-round matchup against the Broncos, Katherine Fitzgerald of The Buffalo News reports.

    Analysis: The 29-year-old from Ohio State has missed the Bills' last eight games due to an elbow injury, but following a week of full practice sessions, he's got a chance to return for the divisional round. Across six appearances this season, Samuel has caught seven of nine targets for 81 yards and a touchdown while also accumulating 223 kick return yards. If Samuel is added to Buffalo's active roster in time to play Saturday, he'll likely operate as one of the team's top wideouts, as Joshua Palmer…read more

    Published: Thu, Jan 15 at 9:24am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Logs full practice Tuesday

    Samuel (elbow) was a full participant during Tuesday's walkthrough practice.

    Analysis: Samuel has been sidelined for the Bills' last eight games, including Sunday's wild-card win against the Jaguars, due to an elbow injury. His full participation Tuesday is an encouraging sign and puts Samuel on track to being activated from injured reserve ahead of Saturday's divisional-round game against the Broncos. The return would be timely, given that both Tyrell Shavers and Gabe Davis tore their ACLs against Jacksonville.

    Published: Tue, Jan 13 at 4:17pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Cleared to practice Tuesday

    The Bills designated Samuel (elbow/neck) for return from injured reserve Tuesday.

    Analysis: Samuel is scheduled to practice Tuesday in some fashion for the first time since Week 11, after missing the last eight games. Given the length of his layoff, Samuel may not have a realistic shot of playing in Saturday's divisional-round game in Denver. However, if he is available this weekend, Samuel could play meaningful snaps right off the bat after Tyrell Shavers suffered a knee injury and Gabe Davis tore his ACL tear in the wild-card round.

    Published: Tue, Jan 13 at 11:29am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Practice window opening

    Bills head coach Sean McDermott said Monday that Samuel's (elbow) 21-day practice window is expected to be opened this week, Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel has been on injured reserve since Nov. 28, but he will be eligible to rejoin his teammates at practice as the Bills prepare to travel to Denver for an AFC divisional-round game Saturday. Gabe Davis (knee) tore his ACL in the wild-card win over the Jaguars, and Tyrell Shavers suffered a knee injury that is still being evaluated, so if Samuel proves healthy enough to return this weekend, Samuel could have a meaningful role in a receiving corps that also includes Khalil Shakir, Brandin…read more

    Published: Mon, Jan 12 at 1:57pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Out for wild-card round

    Samuel (elbow) will not have his 21-day practice window opened ahead of the Bills' AFC wild-card game against the Jaguars on Sunday, Jay Skurski of The Buffalo News reports.

    Analysis: Samuel landed on injured reserve in late November due to an elbow injury, and he hasn't progressed enough in his recovery to return for the opening round of the AFC playoffs. Samuel was a healthy inactive for the first three weeks of the regular season, but when he did play, he was often listed on the injury report for a variety of reasons. He appeared in just six regular-season games for Buffalo and logged seven catches (on nine targets) for 81 yards and a touchdown while returning nine…read more

    Published: Mon, Jan 5 at 4:30pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Moved to IR

    The Bills placed Samuel (elbow) on injured reserve Friday.

    Analysis: Samuel will now need to miss at least four games while on IR before being eligible to return to the active roster. The move was coupled with the signing of wide receiver Gabe Davis from the practice squad. The Tuesday signing of Brandin Cooks likely also plays a role in the team's decision to move Samuel to IR. The wide receiver participated in six regular-season games this season where he totaled seven receptions for 81 yards and one receiving touchdown.

    Published: Fri, Nov 28 at 1:11pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Won't play Sunday

    Samuel (elbow/knee) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Steelers, Maddy Glab of the Bills' official site reports.

    Analysis: Samuel, who was also inactive Week 12, will target a potential return to action Sunday, Dec. 7 against the Bengals. With seven catches (on nine targets) for 81 yards and a TD in six games to date, Samuel is off the fantasy radar, though his continued absence this weekend will impact Buffalo's kick return game.

    Published: Fri, Nov 28 at 9:06am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Missing Wednesday's practice

    Samuel (elbow/neck) will not practice Wednesday, Maddy Glab of the Bills' official site reports.

    Analysis: The 29-year-old missed the Bills' Week 12 loss to the Texans due to elbow and neck injuries, and following Wednesday's DNP, it appears he's still dealing with the issues. Samuel likely needs to practice in at least a limited capacity either Thursday or Friday in order to have a chance at returning for Sunday's matchup against the Steelers.

    Published: Wed, Nov 26 at 9:20am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Progressing in recovery

    Samuel (elbow/neck) is improving in his recovery, head coach Sean McDermott said Friday, Maddy Glab of the Bills' official site reports.

    Analysis: Samuel sat out Thursday's loss to the Texans but he could be back for Buffalo's next game, Nov. 30 at Pittsburgh. Keon Coleman has been held out of the Bills' last two games as a coach's decision, so more targets could be available for Samuel if he's healthy enough to rejoin a Bills receiving corps that's searching for consistent production behind Khalil Shakir.

    Published: Fri, Nov 21 at 1:58pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Won't play Thursday

    Samuel (elbow/neck) has been ruled out ahead of Thursday's matchup against the Texans.

    Analysis: Despite playing 28 offensive snaps and catching two of three targets for 19 yards in the Week 11 win over the Buccaneers, Samuel was unable to practice all week and is now in line to miss his fifth game of the season Thursday. While the Ohio State product is sidelined, expect Ray Davis and Ty Johnson to operate as Buffalo's top kick returners.

    Published: Wed, Nov 19 at 9:07am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Sitting out practice Tuesday

    Bills head coach Sean McDermott said that Samuel (elbow/neck) won't practice Tuesday, Joe Buscaglia of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel is banged up after handling a season-high 50 percent of the offensive snaps and recording two catches for 19 yards in Sunday's 44-32 win over the Buccaneers. If Samuel is unable to play Thursday against the Texans, Elijah Moore and Keon Coleman -- both healthy inactives in Week 11 -- could suit up and bolster the Bills' depth at receiver behind Khalil Shakir, Joshua Palmer (knee/ankle) and Tyrell Shavers.

    Published: Tue, Nov 18 at 11:22am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Misses practice Monday

    Samuel (elbow/neck) did not participate in Monday's walkthrough practice.

    Analysis: Samuel played a season-high 52 percent of offensive snaps during Buffalo's 44-32 win over the Buccaneers in Week 11, securing two of three targets for 19 yards, but he appears to have picked up a pair of injuries in the process. He'll have two more chances to get back on the practice field as the Bills prepare for a road matchup against the Texans on Thursday Night Football. Samuel's increased opportunities versus Tampa Bay came with Keon Coleman being made a health scratch and Dalton Kincaid…read more

    Published: Mon, Nov 17 at 2:53pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Secures only target in Week 10 loss

    Samuel secured his only target for 21 yards during Buffalo's loss to the Dolphins in Week 10.

    Analysis: Samuel has now logged a total of five catches (on six targets) for 62 yards and one touchdown across five regular-season appearances. He figures to continue contributing as a depth option within the Bills' wide receiver corps at home against the Buccaneers on Sunday. Aside from the deepest of formats, Samuel can safely be left off the fantasy radar as managers make lineup decision for Week 11.

    Published: Wed, Nov 12 at 12:50pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Blanks in return

    Samuel was not targeted while playing 17 of the Bills' 63 offensive snaps during Sunday's 40-9 win over the Panthers.

    Analysis: Samuel returned from a ribs injury in the Bills' Week 8 win but wasn't involved in the offensive game plan. The veteran wideout has now caught three of four targets for 35 yards and a touchdown over three games with Buffalo this season. He's expected to continue playing a depth role in the Bills' wide-receiver corps while operating as the top kick returner in the Week 9 matchup against the Chiefs.

    Published: Mon, Oct 27 at 9:20am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Cleared to return Week 8

    Samuel (ribs) won't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Panthers, coach Sean McDermott said Friday, Chris Brown of the Bills' official site reports.

    Analysis: Samuel will practice without limitations Friday, paving the way for the veteran wide receiver to reprise his role as the primary kickoff returner on special teams and a depth option on offense. He sat out Buffalo's Week 6 loss to Atlanta, but a Week 7 bye provided him enough time to recover.

    Published: Fri, Oct 24 at 8:44am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Logs limited session Wednesday

    Samuel (ribs) will be a limited participant in Wednesday's practice, Maddy Glab of the Bills' official site reports.

    Analysis: The Ohio State product was inactive for Buffalo's Week 6 loss to the Falcons due to a neck injury, but following the Week 7 bye, he's returned to limited action, now with a listed rib issue. Samuel has played a depth role in the Bills' wide-receiver corps this season, catching three of four targets for 35 yards and a touchdown while also logging 166 kick-return yards over just two contests. He'll likely carry an injury designation into Sunday's matchup against the Panthers if he's unable to…read more

    Published: Wed, Oct 22 at 9:31am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Won't suit up vs. Falcons

    Samuel (neck/ribs) is inactive for Monday's road game against Atlanta.

    Analysis: Samuel was initially listed as questionable for Monday's matchup after practicing on a limited basis twice this week, but he ultimately won't go. With Buffalo set to benefit from a Week 7 bye, Samuel will have extra time to get healthy and work to get back on the field Week 8 versus the Panthers on Oct. 26. With Samuel sidelined Monday, Keon Coleman, Khalil Shakir and Joshua Palmer are in line to lead the Bills' wideout corps, while Brandon Codrington and Ty Johnson will operate as the team's…read more

    Published: Mon, Oct 13 at 2:51pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Questionable for Week 6

    Samuel (neck/ribs) is listed as questionable for Monday's contest in Atlanta.

    Analysis: Samuel sandwiched an absence from practice Friday around limited sessions Thursday and Saturday due to neck and rib injuries, leaving his status up in the air ahead of Monday's 7:15 p.m. ET kickoff. If he's able to suit up, he'll be a target available to QB Josh Allen while serving as the Bills' primary kick returner.

    Published: Sat, Oct 11 at 11:59am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Downgrades to DNP on Friday

    Samuel (neck/ribs) didn't practice Friday.

    Analysis: Samuel's trending in the wrong direction after kicking off Week 6 prep with a limited session Thursday. A potential injury designation for Monday's game against the Falcons won't come until the Bills release their injury report Saturday.

    Published: Fri, Oct 10 at 12:30pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Limited in practice Thursday

    Samuel (neck/ribs) was a limited participant in Thursday's practice.

    Analysis: Samuel played a season-high 49 percent of offensive snaps during Buffalo's loss to New England in Week 5, in which he secured both of his targets for 26 yards and one score, but he appears to have picked up a pair of injuries in the process. He also racked up 86 yards across three kick returns versus the Patriots. Samuel will figure to handle a similar role on the road against Atlanta on Monday night, as long as he can gain clearance to suit up.

    Published: Thu, Oct 9 at 12:42pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Catches first TD of 2025

    Samuel logged two catches on as many targets for 26 yards and one touchdown during Buffalo's 23-20 loss to New England on Sunday. He also turned three kickoff returns into 84 yards.

    Analysis: Samuel helped give the Bills a 10-6 lead early in the third quarter after hauling in a six-yard touchdown pass from Josh Allen. Samuel was on the field for 33 of the Bills' 68 offensive snaps (48.6 percent), which was fourth most among Buffalo wide receivers behind Khalil Shakir (43), Keon Coleman (42) and Joshua Palmer (35). Samuel has played in each of the Bills' last two games after being a healthy scratch for the first three games, though most of his contributions will come on special teams…read more

    Published: Mon, Oct 6 at 4:43pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Catches one pass in Week 4

    Samuel caught one of two targets for nine yards in Sunday's 31-19 win over the Saints.

    Analysis: The 29-year-old wideout was a healthy scratch in all of the Bills' games prior to the Week 4 win. He logged 20 offensive snaps and played ahead of Elijah Moore (18 snaps), who had previously been serving as Buffalo's No. 4 wide receiver. Additionally, Samuel added 82 kick-return yards on just three attempts. He'll likely play a similar role in the Week 5 matchup against the Patriots, contributing both offensively and on special teams.

    Published: Mon, Sep 29 at 9:28am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Inactive again

    Samuel (coach's decision) is inactive for Thursday night's game against the Dolphins.

    Analysis: Samuel has been a healthy scratch for all three of the Bills' games, so it will probably take an injury to a fellow WR to get him back on the team's game-day roster. Khalil Shakir, Keon Coleman, Joshua Palmer, Elijah Moore and Tyrell Shavers are Buffalo's active wide receivers versus Miami.

    Published: Thu, Sep 18 at 3:57pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Inactive again

    Samuel (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Jets.

    Analysis: Samuel was also a healthy scratch in Week 1, so it may take an injury to a fellow WR to get him back on Buffalo's game-day roster. Khalil Shakir, Keon Coleman, Joshua Palmer, Elijah Moore and Tyrell Shavers are the Bills' available wide receivers versus the Jets.

    Published: Sun, Sep 14 at 8:50am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Inactive for Week 1

    Samuel is inactive for Sunday night's season opener against the Ravens.

    Analysis: Samuel wasn't listed on the Bills' Week 1 injury report, but he'll be the odd man out versus Baltimore. As a result, Khalil Shakir, Keon Coleman, Joshua Palmer, Elijah Moore and Tyrell Shavers are Buffalo's available WRs on Sunday.

    Published: Sun, Sep 7 at 3:58pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Dodges injury report

    Samuel (hamstring/illness) is not listed on Wednesday's injury report.

    Analysis: Samuel missed much of training camp due to a hamstring injury and illness, but he enters the regular season with a clean bill of health. The veteran is competing with Elijah Moore and Tyrell Shavers for rotational opportunities on offense behind starting receivers Khalil Shakir, Keon Coleman (groin) and Joshua Palmer. After compiling just a 31-253-1 receiving line across 14 regular-season appearances in 2024, Samuel doesn't project as a notable fantasy contributor heading into Sunday's home…read more

    Published: Wed, Sep 3 at 1:14pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Makes the grade

    Samuel (hamstring/illness) has made the Bills' initial 53-man roster.

    Analysis: There was some speculation that Samuel would be cut, as he hasn't done much to shine this summer, while his availability has continued to be in question. Perhaps the high cap cost of cutting Samuel ended up saving his job at the end. Regardless, the veteran is coming off a 31-253-1 season over 14 regular-season games and won't offer much value as the No. 5 receiver on the depth chart. Youngster Tyrell Shavers might even be pushing Samuel for depth action.

    Published: Wed, Aug 27 at 2:23pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Comes down with illness

    Samuel (hamstring) missed Saturday's preseason game in Tampa Bay due to an illness, Sal Capaccio of WGR Sports Radio 550 Buffalo reports.

    Analysis: Samuel didn't make the trip from Buffalo with his teammates, which was the reason he wasn't spotted with the rest of the Bills' wide receivers during warmups. He missed almost three weeks of practice due to a hamstring injury before returning to the field as a limited participant as of Aug. 15. Considering the Bills would incur a $8.635 million dead cap hit if he's cut this coming week, Samuel appears certain to included among the Bills' initial 53-man roster.

    Published: Sat, Aug 23 at 4:48pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Not in line to play Saturday

    Samuel (hamstring) isn't in uniform ahead of Saturday's preseason game at Tampa Bay, Jay Skurski of The Buffalo News reports.

    Analysis: Samuel began sitting out at practice in late July due to a hamstring injury and only returned to the field in a limited capacity as of Aug. 15. He thus won't see any preseason action as a result of the health concern. Samuel has $6.91 million guaranteed on his current deal, and the Bills would take on $8.635 million in dead money if he gets cut this coming week, so he seems like a lock to be on the team's 53-man roster to kick off the campaign.

    Published: Sat, Aug 23 at 4:01pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • In line for limited practice

    Samuel (hamstring) will be limited at practice Friday, Maddy Glab of the Bills' official site reports.

    Analysis: Samuel continues to manage a hamstring issue, but his participation in Friday's session is step in the right direction for the wideout, who is competing for targets in a Buffalo WR corps that's led by Khalil Shakir and Keon Coleman and also includes Joshua Palmer and Elijah Moore. Samuel seems more likely to get snaps in the Bills' Aug. 23 preseason finale than Sunday's contest against the Bears.

    Published: Fri, Aug 15 at 8:23am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Should practice soon

    Bills GM Brandon Beane said Wednesday that Samuel (hamstring) will return to practice "sooner rather than later" but not as quickly as Elijah Moore (leg), who he said may be back on the field Thursday or Friday, Ryan O'Halloran of The Buffalo News reports.

    Analysis: Samuel hasn't practiced since Sunday due to a hamstring injury, and Buffalo is likely taking a cautious approach to his health due to the nature of soft-tissue issues. The veteran wideout is looking to bounce back after a disappointing inaugural campaign with the Bills in which he totaled a 31-253-1 receiving line across 14 regular-season appearances. Samuel is competing with Keon Coleman, Joshua Palmer and Moore to establish a pecking order behind top wideout Khalil Shakir.

    Published: Wed, Jul 30 at 2:00pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Missing practice with hamstring issue

    Samuel isn't practicing Sunday due to a hamstring injury, Katherine Fitzgerald of The Buffalo News reports.

    Analysis: Samuel missed three regular-season games last year due to injury, so health will be an important aspect for him in his second campaign with the Bills. It's not yet clear how severe the veteran wideout's issue is, but Buffalo is likely to be cautious with him given that the team is in the early stages of training camp. Samuel is likely in line for a depth role in the Bills' wideout corps this season.

    Published: Sun, Jul 27 at 7:22am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Ready to bounce back?

    Bills head coach Sean McDermott said Wednesday he has a "better understanding" of how Samuel "can help us and the role that he may play for us" entering Year 2 with the team, Ralph Ventre of SI.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel disappointed relative to high expectations after signing a three-year, $24 million contract with Buffalo in March 2024, finishing the 2024 campaign with just 31 catches for 253 yards and one score (on 46 targets), plus five rushes for 14 yards across 14 regular-season games. McDermott attributed Samuel's struggles to both "being new to the system last year" and having "battled some injuries." Samuel endured turf toe in training camp and the early portion of the regular season, missed…read more

    Published: Fri, May 30 at 8:30am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Scores in AFCCG loss to Kansas City

    Samuel secured one of three targets for four yards and one touchdown in Sunday's 32-29 loss to the Chiefs in the AFC Championship Game.

    Analysis: Samuel emerged as a notable contributor for Buffalo's offense during the playoffs, securing six of eight targets for 81 yards and two scores in three postseason appearances, an encouraging development after his underwhelming regular season. Across 14 regular-season games, Samuel compiled 31 catches (on 46 targets) for just 253 yards and one touchdown, in addition to five carries for 14 yards. The 28-year-old has two more years remaining on his contract with the Bills, though the team will have…read more

    Published: Mon, Jan 27 at 12:56pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Pops for long TD in wild-card win

    Samuel caught all three of his targets for 68 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 31-7 wild-card round win over the Broncos.

    Analysis: The veteran wideout was having a quiet afternoon until he got his hands on a Josh Allen pass early in the fourth quarter and turned it into a 55-yard score with some impressive elusiveness in the open field. Samuel had an injury-plagued regular season and didn't make much of a contribution, but after catching seven of eight targets for 52 yards in Week 18, he appears to be finding a groove at the perfect time. Samuel will look to continue riding this wave of momentum into a divisional-round…read more

    Published: Sun, Jan 12 at 3:50pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Leading receiver in return

    Samuel caught seven of eight targets for 52 yards in Sunday's 23-16 loss to the Patriots.

    Analysis: Seeing his first action since Week 15 after recovering from a rib injury, Samuel led the Bills in receiving on the day as the club rested a lot of key personnel ahead of the playoffs. While it was an effective way to shake off any rust, Samuel isn't likely to see the same kind of volume next weekend in the wild-card round against the Broncos. Samuel wraps up his first regular season with Buffalo having compiled a 31-253-1 line on 46 targets over 14 appearances.

    Published: Sun, Jan 5 at 5:32pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Active versus Patriots

    Samuel (rib) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Patriots.

    Analysis: Samuel, who was sidelined the last two weeks, headed into the weekend listed as questionable, but he'll be available for Buffalo's regular-season finale. With the team locked into the No. 2 seed in the AFC, a number of the Bills' key skill players could have their workloads managed, while fellow wideout Amari Cooper (personal) was previously ruled out for the contest. In that context, Sunday's game offers Samuel an opportunity to log some snaps prior to the postseason, which makes him an option…read more

    Published: Sun, Jan 5 at 8:43am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Questionable due to rib injury

    Samuel (rib) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Patriots.

    Analysis: Buffalo has been one of the healthiest teams in the NFL all season, and that trend continues for Week 18. Samuel's the only questionable player for the Bills, while linebacker Terrel Bernard (quadriceps) is out. Joe Buscaglia of The Athletic believes Samuel could be among the team leaders in playing time at wide receiver if he suits up, as Buffalo is expected to rest key contributors -- including star quarterback Josh Allen -- for the majority of Sunday's regular-season finale.

    Published: Fri, Jan 3 at 11:09am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Stays limited Thursday

    Samuel (rib) was a limited participant in Thursday's practice.

    Analysis: Samuel had his reps capped during Wednesday's walk-through session, and he continued to operate with some restrictions when the Bills held a more traditional practice a day later. Though Buffalo is secure as the No. 2 seed in the AFC playoffs, head coach Sean McDermott expressed hope that Samuel would be able to take the field Sunday against the Patriots, even though no postseason implications are at stake. The Bills may just want to see Samuel get some live reps heading into the playoffs after…read more

    Published: Thu, Jan 2 at 12:01pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Limited to begin Week 18 prep

    Samuel (ribs) will be a limited participant in Wednesday's walk-though practice, Jay Skurski of The Buffalo News reports.

    Analysis: The Bills have clinched the AFC's No. 2 seed, but head coach Sean McDermott noted Monday that he's hopeful that Samuel will be able to get some playing time this Sunday against the Patriots after having missed two straight contests, per Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.com. Samuel has two more chances to practice fully before Buffalo posts its designations for the Week 18 game.

    Published: Wed, Jan 1 at 9:15am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Inactive Sunday

    Samuel (ribs) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Jets.

    Analysis: Samuel, who was inactive for the Bills' Week 16 win over the Patriots, will miss his second straight game, which sets the stage for Khalil Shakir, Amari Cooper, Keon Coleman, Mack Hollins and Tyrell Shavers to handle the team's wideout duties versus New York. Samuel's next chance to see game action will arrive next weekend in Buffalo's regular-season finale against New England.

    Published: Sun, Dec 29 at 8:35am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Questionable for Sunday

    Samuel (ribs) will be limited in Friday's practice and listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Jets, Alec White of the Bills' official site reports.

    Analysis: Samuel, who was inactive for the Bills' Week 16 win over the Patriots, also was deemed limited Wednesday and Thursday. If he's able to return to action this weekend, he'll carry modest fantasy lineup upside, however, given that Khalil Shakir, Amari Cooper, Keon Coleman and Mack Hollins are on hand to absorb wideout targets versus New York.

    Published: Fri, Dec 27 at 8:39am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Limited practice Thursday

    Samuel (rib) was limited at practice Thursday.

    Analysis: Samuel was listed as a limited practice participant on Wednesday's estimated injury report, so he'll presumably need to practice fully Friday in order to approach Sunday's contest against the Jets without an injury designation. If he's cleared for Week 17 action, Samuel would carry modest fantasy upside while working in a wideout corps that also includes Khalil Shakir, Amari Cooper, Keon Coleman and Mack Hollins.

    Published: Thu, Dec 26 at 12:42pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Estimated as limited Wednesday

    Samuel (rib) was listed as a limited practice participant on Wednesday's estimated injury report.

    Analysis: Samuel injured a rib during the Bills' Week 15 win over the Lions and was sidelined for this past Sunday's 24-21 victory over New England. He didn't play this past Sunday despite logging consecutive limited practices to end the week, so he may have to practice in full Thursday or Friday in order to be cleared to play against the Jets on Sunday. Over his last five appearances, Samuel has caught 12 passes (on 19 targets) for 109 yards and one touchdown and has gained eight yards on two carries.

    Published: Wed, Dec 25 at 1:20pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Inactive in Week 16

    Samuel (rib) is listed as inactive Sunday versus the Patriots.

    Analysis: Samuel made an early exit from last Sunday's win at Detroit due to a shoulder injury, but he was listed as limited on all three Week 16 practice reports due to a rib issue and entered the weekend as questionable. With his lack of availability confirmed for this Sunday's contest, he'll stick to the sideline while the Bills roll with Amari Cooper, Khalil Shakir, Keon Coleman and Mack Hollins as the core of their receiving corps.

    Published: Sun, Dec 22 at 11:59am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Questionable for Sunday

    Head coach Sean McDermott noted that Samuel (rib) will be limited in Friday's practice and listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Patriots, Alec White of the Bills' official site reports.

    Analysis: Samuel also was deemed limited in Wednesday's walkthrough and Thursday's practice as he manages a rib issue. In any case, now that Keon Coleman is back in action after missing time with a wrist injury, Samuel looks like a hit-or-miss fantasy option in a Buffalo wideout corps that also includes Amari Cooper, Khalil Shakir and Mack Hollins. In 13 games this season, Samuel has posted a 24-201-1 line on 38 targets, while adding five carries for 14 yards.

    Published: Fri, Dec 20 at 8:43am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Remains limited Thursday

    Samuel (ribs) was a limited participant in Thursday's practice.

    Analysis: The Bills held a walkthrough Wednesday, and Samuel remained limited in the first official practice of the week Thursday due to a rib injury he suffered in Buffalo's Week 15 win over Detroit. Samuel's snap count diminished due to the return of rookie wideout Keon Coleman, and the former shouldn't have a heavy role in the Bills' offense against the Patriots on Sunday if he does suit up. Over his last five games, Samuel has logged 12 catches (on 19 targets) for 109 yards and one touchdown while…read more

    Published: Thu, Dec 19 at 2:22pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Limited in practice

    Samuel (shoulder) was listed as a limited participant during Wednesday's walk-through practice.

    Analysis: Samuel injured his shoulder during Sunday's 48-42 win over Detroit and made an early exit in the fourth quarter. He took on a 27.8 percent snap share and 28.6 percent route share through the first three quarters, dropping back to the No. 5 receiver role with Keon Coleman returning from an elbow injury. An absence against the Patriots this Sunday wouldn't have much of a fantasy impact, apart from slightly boosting playing-time projections for Buffalo's other wide receivers.

    Published: Wed, Dec 18 at 11:28am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Hurts shoulder Sunday

    Samuel exited Sunday's game against the Lions with a shoulder injury.

    Analysis: Prior to that, Samuel caught his only target for one yard. In his absence, Amari Cooper, Khalil Shakir, Keon Coleman and Mack Hollins are available to handle Buffalo's wideout duties versus Detroit.

    Published: Sun, Dec 15 at 3:08pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Three touches against Rams

    Samuel caught two of three targets for 15 yards and rushed once for one yard in Sunday's 44-42 loss to the Rams.

    Analysis: Samuel played 36 of the Bills' 60 offensive snaps Sunday, behind Khalil Shakir (47) and Mack Hollins (46), but ahead of Amari Cooper (32). The veteran wideout continued what has been a mostly disappointing season in Buffalo, recording just 23 receptions for 200 yards and one touchdown in 12 appearances this season. Samuel has also found little success on the ground this season, totaling just five rushes for 14 yards in the 2024 campaign. Due to his inconsistent and underwhelming production,…read more

    Published: Tue, Dec 10 at 2:40pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Cleared to face Rams

    Samuel (foot) doesn't carry an injury designation into Sunday's game against the Rams.

    Analysis: Samuel upgraded to full practice participation Friday after a pair of limited sessions, eliminating any doubt about his availability for Sunday's matchup at SoFi Stadium. He has just 185 receiving yards and one touchdown in what has been a disappointing first season in Buffalo, and Samuel will likely see limited usage against the Rams, especially if rookie wideout Keon Coleman (questionable, wrist) suits up.

    Published: Fri, Dec 6 at 11:54am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Another limited listing

    Samuel (foot) was limited at practice Thursday.

    Analysis: With back-to-back limited listings Wednesday and Thursday, Samuel will presumably need to practice fully Friday in order to approach Sunday's game against the Rams without an injury designation. The same applies to fellow wideout Keon Coleman (wrist), who hasn't played since Week 9. If Coleman is able to return to action this weekend, Samuel's Week 14 fantasy upside figures to take a hit, with Amari Cooper and Khalil Shakir also in the mix.

    Published: Thu, Dec 5 at 12:46pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Listed as limited Wednesday

    Samuel (foot) was listed as a limited participant in Wednesday's walk-through.

    Analysis: The veteran wideout played 20 offensive snaps and took one carry for seven yards in Sunday night's blowout win over the 49ers. However, it now appears he picked up a foot injury in the process. Samuel's practice participation Thursday and Friday will likely offer the best insight into whether he can suit up in Week 14, when the Bills face the Rams.

    Published: Wed, Dec 4 at 12:14pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • One touch in Week 13

    Samuel rushed once for seven yards in Sunday's 35-10 win over the 49ers.

    Analysis: Samuel failed to record a single target Sunday, marking the first time Josh Allen has not looked his way through the air this season. The veteran wideout continued his mostly disappointing 2024 campaign, as he now has recorded just 21 catches for 185 yards and one touchdown, adding four rushes for 13 yards through 11 games. Samuel remains difficult to trust for fantasy purposes heading into a Week 14 matchup with the Rams.

    Published: Wed, Dec 4 at 3:24am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Posts five catches, TD in Week 11

    Samuel caught five of six targets for 58 yards and one touchdown during Sunday's 30-21 victory versus the Chiefs.

    Analysis: Fellow wide receiver Keon Coleman has missed back-to-back games due to a wrist injury, and Samuel has responded with a 9-93-1 line on 14 targets during that span. Samuel even was on the receiving end of QB Josh Allen's sole TD pass from 12 yards out early in the fourth quarter to extend the Bills' lead to nine points. Buffalo has a Week 12 bye on the schedule, meaning Coleman could be back in action when the team next takes the field Sunday, Dec. 1 against the 49ers. If that comes to pass,…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 17 at 6:30pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Reels in four passes

    Samuel caught four of eight targets for 35 yards in Sunday's 30-20 win over the Colts.

    Analysis: Samuel's eight targets and four receptions were both season-high totals. Despite his increased involvement in the offense, the veteran wideout's production remained low. With both Amari Cooper (wrist) and Keon Coleman (wrist) sidelined, Samuel led all Buffalo wide receivers in offensive snaps (66), and he could be in line for a bigger workload again in Week 11 against Kansas City.

    Published: Tue, Nov 12 at 10:14pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Ready for Sunday

    Samuel (pectoral) doesn't have a designation for Sunday's contest at Indianapolis.

    Analysis: Samuel sat out Week 8 in Seattle due to a pectoral injury, but he was able to suit up this past Sunday versus the Dolphins, when he failed to haul in his only target, Despite being limited in all three Week 10 practices, he'll be available Sunday along with Khalil Shakir and Mack Hollins (shoulder). Meanwhile, Keon Coleman (wrist) has been ruled out, and Amari Cooper (wrist) is listed as questionable.

    Published: Fri, Nov 8 at 11:40am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Stays limited Thursday

    Samuel (pectoral) remained a limited participant in Thursday's practice.

    Analysis: After missing the Bills' Week 8 win over the Seahawks with the pec injury, Samuel was able to play in last Sunday's victory over the Dolphins, logging 26 percent of the offensive snaps. Samuel finished with zero catches on one target in Week 9 and has totaled a 12-92-0 receiving line on 19 targets this season. He's well off the fantasy radar with his current role.

    Published: Thu, Nov 7 at 12:57pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Limited practice participant

    Samuel (pectoral) was a limited practice participant Wednesday.

    Analysis: Samuel missed Week 8 with the same injury but played in Sunday's 30-27 win over the Dolphins. He's gotten four or fewer targets and no more than one carry in each game this season, and he's played more than 40 percent of the snaps on just one occasion. Samuel typically plays only 25-to-40 percent of the snaps on offense even if the Bills have injury concerns at his position, which is the case this week with both Amari Cooper and Keon Coleman nursing wrist injuries.

    Published: Wed, Nov 6 at 11:33am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Cleared to play Sunday

    Samuel (pectoral) is active for Sunday's game against the Dolphins.

    Analysis: Samuel had been listed as questionable after he was a limited participant in practices throughout the week while nursing the pec injury, which kept him out for last Sunday's win over the Seahawks. The Bills will be without top wideout Amari Cooper (wrist) in Week 9, potentially opening the door for Samuel to take on more snaps. However, while Cooper was out of the picture from Weeks 1 through 6 before arriving in a trade with Cleveland, Samuel wasn't a noteworthy fantasy producer, as he…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 3 at 8:47am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Deemed questionable for Week 9

    Bills head coach Sean McDermott said Friday that Samuel (pectoral) will be listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Dolphins, Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: After sitting out the Week 8 win over the Seahawks, Samuel was a limited participant in the Bills' first two practices of the week and evidently isn't in line to do enough work at Friday's practice to fully convince the coaching staff that he'll be ready to go Sunday. Provided Samuel is able to maintain at least limited practice activity Friday, he should still have a decent chance at playing against the Dolphins, though the 28-year-old wideout probably won't be in store for a significant role…read more

    Published: Fri, Nov 1 at 8:07am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Limited at practice

    Head coach Sean McDermott said that Samuel (pectoral) will be a limited participant in practice Wednesday, Chris Brown of the Bills Radio Network reports.

    Analysis: Samuel missed Buffalo's win over Seattle in Week 8 due to a pectoral injury, one which could reasonably force him out for another game this Sunday versus Miami. He was unable to practice in any fashion last week, so Samuel's ability to begin Week 9 prep as a partial participant is a step in the right direction.

    Published: Wed, Oct 30 at 9:20am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Could be facing multi-week absence

    Coach Sean McDermott relayed Friday that Samuel (pectoral) may be out "more than one week," but McDermott doesn't believe Samuel will go on injured reserve, Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel has already been ruled out for Sunday's game in Seattle, and it sounds like he's far from a lock to return Sunday, Nov. 3 against the Dolphins in Week 9. He's unlikely to play a significant role even when healthy, as Samuel has exceeded 22 receiving yards only once for a Bills passing game that likely will have even fewer targets to go around after trading for Amari Cooper last Tuesday.

    Published: Fri, Oct 25 at 10:12am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Won't play Sunday

    Head coach Sean McDermott noted Friday that Samuel (pectoral) will be out for Sunday's game against the Seahawks, Maddy Glab of the Bills' official site reports.

    Analysis: Samuel didn't practice Wednesday or Thursday due to a pectoral injury, with his next chance to see game action arriving Nov. 3 against the Dolphins. In his absence this weekend, Amari Cooper, Khalil Shakir and Keon Coleman are in line to lead the Bills' Week 8 WR corps, with Mack Hollins (shoulder) -- if available -- and presumably a practice-squad elevation or two on hand in reserve.

    Published: Fri, Oct 25 at 8:21am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Absent from practice Thursday

    Samuel (pectoral) is not participating in Thursday's practice, Katherine Fitzgerald of The Buffalo News reports.

    Analysis: Samuel remains sidelined due to a pectoral injury that forced him out of Buffalo's win over Tennessee in Week 7. He's trending in the wrong direction for Sunday's road matchup against the Seahawks, but an absence on Samuel's part may not impact the Bills offense too notably. Through seven games this season, Samuel has yet to rack up a 100 yards from scrimmage.

    Published: Thu, Oct 24 at 10:53am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Misses practice with pec injury

    Samuel didn't practice Wednesday due to a pectoral injury.

    Analysis: Samuel left in the first quarter of Buffalo's Week 7 win over the Titans with what was deemed a shoulder injury, but it's his pectoral that kept him off the practice field Wednesday. Even if Samuel returns to practice prior to Sunday's game against the Seahawks, he isn't expected to be a key contributor, as he has only 12 catches for 92 yards this season.

    Published: Wed, Oct 23 at 12:35pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Won't return versus Tennessee

    Samuel (shoulder) has been ruled out for the remainder of Sunday's game against the Titans.

    Analysis: Samuel was injured early in the first quarter and has now been deemed unable to return. He failed to catch his lone target before the injury. The Bills will roll with Amari Cooper, Khalil Shakir, Keon Coleman and Mack Hollins at receiver for the rest of Sunday's contest.

    Published: Sun, Oct 20 at 11:55am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Suffers shoulder injury

    Samuel injured his shoulder during Sunday's game against the Titans.

    Analysis: After QB Josh Allen couldn't connect with Samuel on second down early in the first quarter, the wide receiver was seen down on one knee on the sideline with the training staff checking him out. Shortly thereafter, Samuel was deemed questionable to return. As long as Samuel is sidelined, Amari Cooper, Khalil Shakir, Keon Coleman and Mack Hollins will be the options at the position.

    Published: Sun, Oct 20 at 10:27am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Three catches against Jets

    Samuel caught three of four targets for 44 yards in Monday's 23-20 win over the Jets.

    Analysis: Samuel's 44 receiving yards in the contest were a season high for the veteran. The 28-year-old wideout played just 25 of the Bills 69 offensive snaps, behind Mack Hollins (46), Keon Coleman (44) and Khalil Shakir (26). Samuel will likely see his playing time take even more of a hit going forward with the Bills acquisition of Amari Cooper from a trade with the Browns on Tuesday. This muddying of the target distribution in Buffalo's passing attack should push Samuel further off the fantasy radar.…read more

    Published: Wed, Oct 16 at 2:51am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • All ready for Monday

    Samuel, who missed practice time this week with a toe issue, does not carry an injury designation into Monday's contest against the Jets.

    Analysis: Samuel has at least two targets in every game this season, but some assumed the offseason addition would thrive significantly more in the Joe Brady offensive scheme, similar to the duo's days in Carolina. Expect Samuel to continue to operate in a depth role, as top wideout Khalil Shakir (ankle) is trending in the right direction for Monday's game.

    Published: Sat, Oct 12 at 12:09pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Remains limited Friday

    Samuel (toe) was listed as limited again at practice Friday.

    Analysis: Samuel and Mack Hollins (shoulder) have kicked off Week 6 prep with consecutive capped practices, while Khalil Shakir (ankle) sat out both sessions. After holding a walkthrough Friday, the Bills will practice Saturday before providing injury designations for Monday's game against the Jets.

    Published: Fri, Oct 11 at 11:09am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Returns to practice Thursday

    Samuel (foot/toe) is participating in practice Thursday, Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel missed Wednesday's session due to foot and toe injuries, but he's back on the field in at least a limited capacity Thursday. That bodes well for the versatile veteran WR's odds of returning to health in time for Monday's divisional matchup against the Jets, though definitive word on Samuel's status for Week 6 may not arrive until Saturday's final official practice of the week.

    Published: Thu, Oct 10 at 10:26am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Misses practice Wednesday

    Bills head coach Sean McDermott said that Samuel will not participate in practice Wednesday due to foot and toe injuries, Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel previously dealt with turf toe during the preseason, but he's since suited up for all five of Buffalo's regular-season contests. While the Bills were without Khalil Shakir (ankle) in this past Sunday's 23-20 loss to the Texans, Samuel logged a season-high 58 percent offensive snap share and drew his highest target total (four) of 2024, but he ended the day with zero yards through the air and one rush for minus-1 yard. Samuel has been a non-factor on offense to begin his Bills tenure, and…read more

    Published: Wed, Oct 9 at 9:18am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Non-factor against Texans

    Samuel caught one of four targets for zero yards and rushed once for minus-1 yard in Sunday's 23-20 loss to the Texans.

    Analysis: The four targets were a season-high for the veteran receiver, but he was unable to make the most of his opportunities. Despite also recording a season-high 58 percent offensive snap share while No. 1 wideout Khalil Shakir (ankle) was sidelined, Samuel turned in his worst statistical game of the season. Through five games, Samuel has totaled just nine catches for 48 yards, as he's struggled to break through in a receiving corps that's desperate for a spark.

    Published: Wed, Oct 9 at 1:57am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Minimal production in loss

    Samuel caught both of his targets for eight yards and handled one carry for seven yards in Sunday's 35-10 loss to the Ravens.

    Analysis: Samuel played 37 percent of the Bills' offensive snaps Sunday, his highest snap share of the season. Even so, the veteran wideout's role in Buffalo's offense continues to be minimal. Through four weeks, Samuel has recorded just eight catches for 49 yards. Buried on the depth chart behind Khalil Shakir (ankle), Keon Coleman, Mack Hollins and Marquez Valdes-Scantling, the 28-year-old is extremely difficult to trust for consistent fantasy production. Samuel's next opportunity to get more involved…read more

    Published: Tue, Oct 1 at 11:20pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Four touches against Jacksonville

    Samuel reeled in all three of his targets for 22 yards in Monday's 47-10 win over the Jaguars. He also carried once for no gain.

    Analysis: Samuel continued his quiet start to the 2024 campaign while quarterbacks Josh Allen and Mitchell Trubisky spread targets around to 10 different players Monday. The veteran wideout played just 17 offensive snaps in the contest, and unless his playing time picks up dramatically in the weeks to come, Samuel will remain largely off the fantasy radar.

    Published: Wed, Sep 25 at 2:08am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Slow start continues

    Samuel caught one of two targets for three yards in Thursday's 31-10 win over Miami.

    Analysis: Samuel has just four targets through two games. His lack of involvement could be due to the lingering effects of a turf toe injury he had heading into the season, though that hasn't affected Samuel's practice reps. Regardless of the cause, Samuel's modest role thus far will make him tough to trust Week 3 against the Jaguars.

    Published: Fri, Sep 13 at 10:14am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Two grabs in win

    Samuel reeled in both of his targets for 15 yards in Sunday's 34-28 win over the Cardinals.

    Analysis: Samuel operated as the Bills' fourth wide receiver Sunday, playing just 17 of Buffalo's 62 offensive snaps behind Keon Coleman (45), Mack Hollins (36) and Khalil Shakir (33). The first look at the receiving corps in Buffalo provided some clarity as to how Samuel could be deployed in the offense, as the 28-year-old was minimally involved despite the Bills finding themselves in a pass-heavy game script for much of the contest. Samuel will look to get more involved in Week 2 when the Bills visit…read more

    Published: Tue, Sep 10 at 11:02pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Avoids Week 1 injury designation

    Samuel (toe) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Cardinals.

    Analysis: Samuel has been dealing with turf toe, but he never seemed to be in any danger of sitting out the regular-season opener, as he was a full participant in all three of Buffalo's practices during the week. He'll make his Bills debut as part of a remade receiving corps vying for the attention of star quarterback Josh Allen. Khalil Shakir and rookie Keon Coleman also are expected to play prominent roles, with Mack Hollins and Marquez Valdes-Scantling on hand for depth.

    Published: Fri, Sep 6 at 12:39pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Set for full practice

    Samuel (toe) is scheduled to be a full practice participant Wednesday, Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel has been dealing with turf toe, but the wideout's looming return to full practice Wednesday has him on track to be available for Sunday's season opener against the Cardinals. Samuel thus appears set to claim a key role in a retooled Buffalo receiver corps that also includes Khalil Shakir, Keon Coleman, Mack Hollins and Marquez Valdes-Scantling (neck). With Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis no longer in the mix, targets are up for grabs in the Bills offense, and beginning in Week 1, the…read more

    Published: Wed, Sep 4 at 9:13am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Taking practice reps

    Samuel (toe) participated in the portion of Wednesday's practice open to the media, Sal Capaccio of WGR Sports Radio 550 Buffalo reports.

    Analysis: Samuel is practicing in at least a limited capacity while wearing full pads Wednesday, which is a notable step in the right direction as he works to get healthy for Week 1. The versatile 28-year-old looks set for a significant role in Buffalo's wide receiver corps, but clarity on his status for the season opener against Arizona on Sept. 8 won't arrive until next week, when the Bills' first injury reports of 2024 are released.

    Published: Wed, Aug 28 at 1:12pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Week 1 return possible

    When asked about the chances of Samuel (turf toe) and fellow WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling (neck) playing Week 1, coach Sean McDermott expressed some optimism, Alec White of the Bills' official site reports.

    Analysis: "I feel like those two, from what I've heard so far, have a real good chance of being back, just not committing to it yet," McDermott said of the injured pass-catching duo. Added context regarding Samuel's status for the Bills' Sept. 8 contest against the Cardinals will arrive no later than the posting of the team's initial practice/injury report ahead of Week 1, but once the 28-year-old is healthy he'll have a chance to claim a key role in Buffalo's retooled wide receiver corps.

    Published: Thu, Aug 22 at 10:24am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Week-to-week

    Samuel is week-to-week due to turf toe, Maddy Glab of the Bills' official site and Adam Schefter of ESPN report.

    Analysis: Meanwhile, Marquez Valdes-Scantling (neck) could miss multiple weeks, so the Bills' WR depth is being challenged ahead of Week 1. For now, the team's top options at the position are Khalil Shakir and Keon Coleman, with Mack Hollins and KJ Hamler candidates to see added reps for any length of time Samuel is sidelined.

    Published: Mon, Aug 19 at 12:28pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Making noise at camp

    Samuel has been a standout through the first two days of Bills training camp, Anthony Prohaska of Cover 1 Sports reports.

    Analysis: Samuel's explosiveness and versatility have flashed early at training camp, per Matt Parrino of The Syracuse Post-Standard, and those are traits that could be maximized in offensive coordinator Joe Brady's familiar scheme. It was while paired with Brady that Samuel enjoyed a career year with Carolina in 2020, surpassing 1,000 yards from scrimmage. He now faces opportunity in a high-powered offense with significant competition, but no truly solidified pecking order. Rookie second-round pick Keon…read more

    Published: Thu, Jul 25 at 10:33am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Gets competition via draft

    Samuel has a new teammate in the receiving room after the Bills took Keon Coleman out of Florida State with the first pick of the second round Friday.

    Analysis: Samuel, signed as a free agent in March, was never going to be a No. 1 or even a No. 2 in Buffalo, but now we at least know who's been brought in ahead of him on the depth chart. It's a mild surprise the Bills chose only one receiver with their 10 draft picks, so for now the versatile Samuel likely sits No. 3 in the pecking order behind Khalil Shakir and Coleman. That said, this is a perfect offense for Samuel's skill set, and he'll be a weapon of some sort once things get going, just not the…read more

    Published: Mon, Apr 29 at 4:12pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Inks three-year deal with Buffalo

    The Bills and Samuel agreed to a three-year, $24 million contract Thursday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: Over the last two seasons in Washington, Samuel combined for 126 catches (on 183 targets), 1,269 yards and eight touchdowns in 33 regular-season games. He also boasts an average of 5.9 yards on 121 carries across seven years as a pro. With Buffalo, Samuel will bring a versatile aspect to a passing game headlined by QB Josh Allen, WRs Stefon Diggs and Khalil Shakir and TE Dalton Kincaid.

    Published: Thu, Mar 14 at 3:04pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Scores five TDs in contract season

    Samuel finished 2023 with 62 catches for 613 yards and four touchdowns on 91 targets and seven carries for 39 yards and a touchdown.

    Analysis: Samuel was one of five Commanders to catch four TD passes and otherwise finished second to Terry McLaurin in the major receiving categories. Second-year pro Jahan Dotson was a disappointment as the No. 2 receiver and took a step back from his rookie season, whereas Samuel's 2023 receiving numbers were nearly identical to those from 2022 (62-613-4 receiving line). A lack of rushing opportunities was the biggest change for the 27-year-old, as he got just seven carries under new offensive…read more

    Published: Tue, Jan 9 at 5:35am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Cleared to play Week 18

    Samuel (hamstring) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against Dallas, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was a full practice participant Wednesday, sat out Thursday and then came back Friday. He'll face a tough Dallas secondary to finish out the season, catching passes from QB Sam Howell.

    Published: Fri, Jan 5 at 9:53am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Sitting out Thursday's practice

    Samuel isn't participating in Thursday's practice due to a hamstring injury, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel appeared Wednesday on the Commanders' initial Week 18 injury report with the same hamstring issue, but he was a full participant in practice that day. The Commanders haven't relayed that Samuel experienced any setbacks in Wednesday's practice, so his absence one day later could well be maintenance-related. Either way, Samuel's status for Sunday's season finale against the Cowboys will gain some clarity by his participation -- or lack thereof -- in the Commanders' final practice session…read more

    Published: Thu, Jan 4 at 9:20am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Modest production in Week 17

    Samuel secured three of four targets for 33 yards in Sunday's 27-10 loss to the 49ers.

    Analysis: Samuel played just 50 percent of the Commanders' offensive snaps Sunday, his lowest snap share since Week 11, when he was ejected for his role in a fight in the second quarter of that contest. As the veteran wideout continues to produce inconsistently this season, he remains a sub-optimal fantasy option heading into a matchup with the Cowboys in Week 18.

    Published: Wed, Jan 3 at 5:04am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • One catch in loss

    Samuel caught one of six targets for 16 yards and handled two carries for four yards in Sunday's 30-28 loss to the Jets.

    Analysis: Samuel's six targets tied for a team-high Sunday, but the wideout was unable to take advantage of his opportunities. The Washington offense could bounce back Week 17 against the 49ers if the team elects to bench struggling starting quarterback Sam Howell in favor of Jacoby Brissett, but Samuel would still be difficult to rely upon as anything more than a flex plays in lineups for those in deeper leagues.

    Published: Wed, Dec 27 at 5:48am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Scores twice in loss

    Samuel recorded five receptions on nine targets for 41 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 28-20 loss to the Rams.

    Analysis: Samuel was overshadowed from a yardage perspective by teammate Terry McLaurin, though he keyed a second-half comeback for the Commanders. He doubled his touchdown total for the season with his two scores, which came from 19 and three yards away. While Samuel isn't likely to replicate this type of performance moving forward, he now has at least five targets in four of his last five games, either finding the end zone or topping 50 receiving yards three times in that span.

    Published: Sun, Dec 17 at 6:36pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Four catches in lopsided loss

    Samuel secured four of five targets for 65 yards in the Commanders' 45-15 loss to the Dolphins on Sunday.

    Analysis: Samuel led the Commanders in receiving yards on the afternoon, with the versatile veteran accounting for more than half of Sam Howell's 127 passing yards. Samuel also tied with Antonio Gibson and Jahan Dotson for the team lead in targets, and his yardage tally tied for his second highest of the season. Samuel takes a 13-165 line on 17 targets over his last two games into a Week 15 road matchup against the Rams following a Week 14 bye.

    Published: Sun, Dec 3 at 2:40pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Hits century mark in loss

    Samuel caught nine of 12 targets for 100 yards in Thursday's 45-10 loss to the Cowboys.

    Analysis: The veteran slot receiver was Sam Howell's top option on the day, leading the Commanders in catches, targets and yards as he posted his first 100-yard receiving game since coming to Washington in 2021. Samuel's grabs and targets were also season highs, and it seems safe to say that he's fully recovered from the toe issue that limited him to a 3-11-0 line on eight targets over the prior two contests. He'll look to stay in the spotlight in Week 13 against the Dolphins.

    Published: Thu, Nov 23 at 5:14pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Gets ejected Sunday

    Samuel was ejected from Sunday's game against the Giants for his role in a fight that occurred late in the second quarter, Dan Duggan of The Athletic reports. He'll finish the game with one catch for five yards on two targets.

    Analysis: The fight occurred in the aftermath of Sam Howell's eight-yard touchdown run, when some Commanders players took offense to a late hit Howell took while crossing the goal line. Samuel and Giants cornerback Cor'Dale Flott were tossed from the contest for their involvement in the fight.

    Published: Sun, Nov 19 at 11:36am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Cleared for Week 11 action

    Samuel (toe) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Giants.

    Analysis: Samuel returned from the injury last week and ended up playing slightly less than usual -- 51 percent of snaps -- in a 29-26 loss at Seattle. It's hard to say if that was a product of the toe injury or more a matter of the Commanders wanting to get Dyami Brown some playing time. Either way, Samuel is averaging only 37.6 receiving yards per game and hasn't been used much as a runner (four carries for 20 yards and a TD) under new offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy.

    Published: Fri, Nov 17 at 10:06am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Remains limited at practice

    Samuel (toe) was a limited practice participant Thursday.

    Analysis: Samuel has strung together back-to-back capped sessions to begin Week 11 prep, giving him only one more chance to get back to all activity before the Commanders potentially tag him with an injury designation ahead of Sunday's game against the Giants. He was able to play through his toe injury Week 10 in Seattle, but he hauled in just two of six targets for six yards.

    Published: Thu, Nov 16 at 1:15pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Limited Wednesday

    Samuel (toe) practiced in a limited fashion Wednesday.

    Analysis: Samuel sat out Week 9 due to a toe injury, but he was able to play this past Sunday in Seattle, where he handled a 51 percent snap share on his way to two catches (on six targets) for six yards. The issue may persist for weeks, but he'll have opportunities Thursday and Friday to prove he's good to go ahead of Sunday's game versus the Giants.

    Published: Wed, Nov 15 at 1:14pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Struggles in return

    Samuel caught two of six targets for six yards in a 29-26 loss at Seattle on Sunday

    Analysis: Samuel returned to the No. 3 WR role after missing the previous game and a half with toe/foot injuries, though his 51 percent snap share Sunday was somewhat lower than usual (he landed between 55 and 74 percent each of the first seven weeks of the season). He has just four rushing attempts all year and is averaging 5.4 targets per game and 6.9 yards per target, making him a suboptimal fantasy option even with a friendly matchup ahead in Week 11 against the struggling Giants.

    Published: Tue, Nov 14 at 4:01am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Suiting up Sunday

    Samuel (toe) is active for Sunday's game at Seattle.

    Analysis: After missing a Week 9 road matchup with the Patriots due to a toe injury that he suffered one week prior, Samuel was able to practice in a limited capacity during Week 10 prep before the Commanders gave him a questionable designation. Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reported Saturday that Samuel was in line to play Sunday, which has come to fruition. Samuel thus will be available against a Seahawks defense that has allowed the ninth-most catches (118) to opposing wide receivers in eight contests…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 12 at 11:58am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Likely available for Sunday

    Samuel (toe), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Seahawks, is expected to play, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel practiced on a limited basis all week and looks poised to suit up Sunday even though he might be less than 100 percent healthy. The veteran receiver had been a critical part of the team's passing attack, recording at least four receptions in each of the past five games before missing last Sunday's win over the Patriots.

    Published: Sat, Nov 11 at 10:05am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Questionable to face Seattle

    Samuel (toe) remained limited at practice Friday and is listed as questionable for Sunday's game at Seattle, Ben Standig of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was a limited participant Wednesday through Friday and might end up a game-time decision ahead of the 4:25 ET kickoff Sunday. The Commanders mostly used Jamison Crowder as their slot receiver during Samuel absence for last week's win over New England, though Dyami Brown and Byron Pringle also got a few more snaps than usual.

    Published: Fri, Nov 10 at 9:53am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Stays limited Thursday

    Samuel (toe) was limited at Thursday's practice.

    Analysis: Samuel now has strung together back-to-back capped sessions to begin Week 10 prep. He'll have one more chance this week to get back to all activity before the Commanders potentially hand him a designation for Sunday's contest at Seattle. Samuel is seeking to contain his absence to just one game as a result of the toe injury that he suffered Week 8.

    Published: Thu, Nov 9 at 4:05pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Back in limited fashion

    Samuel (toe) practiced in a limited capacity Wednesday, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Samuel took part in his first official on-field work since injuring his toe Oct. 29 against the Eagles. He'll have two more opportunities to get back to a full session this week, but considering his lengthy history of lower-body injuries, the Commanders may continue to cap his reps Thursday and Friday, at which point the team could make a ruling on his availability for Sunday's game at Seattle.

    Published: Wed, Nov 8 at 12:50pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Won't suit up against New England

    Samuel (toe) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Patriots.

    Analysis: With Samuel sidelined, Jamison Crowder should be in line for an expanded role out of the slot. Crowder had seven catches for 95 yards and a touchdown in the Commanders' 38-31 Week 8 loss to the Eagles, which Samuel left early due to his toe injury. Samuel's next chance to take the field will come in Week 10 against the Seahawks.

    Published: Fri, Nov 3 at 10:23am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • No practice Thursday

    Samuel (toe) missed Thursday's practice, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel now has back-to-back absences under his belt this week due to the toe injury that he suffered this past Sunday against the Eagles. If he's limited or sidelined this weekend, the most likely candidates to see more work are Dyami Brown and Jamison Crowder behind starters Terry McLaurin and Jahan Dotson.

    Published: Thu, Nov 2 at 10:43am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Doesn't practice Wednesday

    Samuel (toe) was a non-participant at Wednesday's practice.

    Analysis: Samuel made an early departure from this past Sunday's loss to the Eagles due to a toe injury. On Monday, head coach Ron Rivera described Samuel as dealing with soreness as a result, per Ben Standig of The Athletic. Samuel's lack of on-field work to kick off Week 9 prep isn't an encouraging sign for his upcoming availability, but his listing on the Commanders' next two injury reports may shed light into whether an absence is possible Sunday at New England.

    Published: Wed, Nov 1 at 1:48pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Sore following Sunday's early exit

    Coach Ron Rivera said Monday that Samuel is dealing with soreness after leaving Sunday's loss to the Eagles early due to a toe injury, Ben Standig of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: In the lead-up to Sunday's game, Samuel kicked off Week 8 prep with an absence before logging back-to-back limited sessions and entering the weekend as questionable to play due to a foot issue. After Samuel's exit Sunday, though, Rivera didn't get into specifics regarding the new injury Monday but did tell Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post that the wide receiver will be evaluated further to determine its extent. It's thus unclear if Samuel is in danger of missing any time, but if he does,…read more

    Published: Mon, Oct 30 at 12:16pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Not returning Sunday

    Samuel (toe) won't return to Sunday's contest against the Eagles, Ben Standig of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: After tending to a foot injury in advance of this contest, Samuel suited up Week 8 but eventually exited due to a toe issue. Considering the Commanders ruled him out, he'll finish with four catches on as many targets for 22 yards.

    Published: Sun, Oct 29 at 12:50pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Tending to toe issue

    Samuel suffered a toe injury during Sunday's game versus the Eagles and is questionable to return.

    Analysis: Samuel dealt with a foot issue during Week 8 prep and now is tending to a more specific concern in that area of the body. At the time of his departure early in the fourth quarter, he had hauled in all four targets for 22 yards.

    Published: Sun, Oct 29 at 12:22pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Playing Sunday

    Samuel (foot) is active for Sunday's game against the Eagles.

    Analysis: Samuel was contained to a pair of capped sessions during Week 8 prep due to a foot injury, but it won't stop him from suiting up for the eighth time in as many opportunities this season. Overall, he's fared well to date, gathering in 31 of 39 targets for 310 yards and two touchdowns while also recording four carries for 20 yards and another score. Samuel seemingly has a plus matchup for fantasy purposes on tap against a Philadelphia defense that has given up the second-most catches (110) to…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 29 at 8:46am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Considered game-time decision

    Samuel (foot) is viewed as a game-time decision for Sunday's contest against the Eagles, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Samuel is officially listed as questionable for the Week 8 contest, but his status appears as though it may hinge on how he fares during a pregame warmup. Official word on Samuel's availability will come when the Commanders release their inactive list roughly 90 minutes ahead of Sunday's 1 p.m. ET kickoff. If Samuel were to miss time, Terry McLaurin and/or Jahan Dotson could end up handling more slot snaps, while Dyami Brown would likely step in as the Commanders' No. 3 wideout.

    Published: Sun, Oct 29 at 2:38am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Questionable to face Philly

    Samuel (foot) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Eagles.

    Analysis: Samuel seems to be on track to play, having missed just one practice this week before returning to the field Thursday as a limited participant. If he were to end up inactive ahead of Sunday's 1 p.m. ET kickoff, the Commanders likely would turn to Dyami Brown as their No. 3 receiver, which might also mean more slot snaps for Terry McLaurin and/or Jahan Dotson.

    Published: Fri, Oct 27 at 10:05am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Returns to limited practice

    Samuel (foot) was limited at Thursday's practice.

    Analysis: After beginning the week as a non-participant at practice due to a foot injury Wednesday, Samuel was able to mix into some drills one day later. He'll have one more opportunity to prove his health before the Commanders potentially give him a designation for Sunday's game against the Eagles. In Week 4 at Philadelphia, Samuel had a season-high seven catches (on eight targets) for 51 yards and also scored a one-yard touchdown on the ground.

    Published: Thu, Oct 26 at 2:17pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Practicing Thursday

    Samuel (foot) took part in Thursday's practice, Ben Standig of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was listed as a DNP for the third time this season Wednesday due to a foot injury after previously missing practice due to an illness (Week 3) and a quadriceps issue (Week 5). He was spotted running routes Thursday, but his activity level ultimately won't become known until the Commanders post their second Week 8 injury report.

    Published: Thu, Oct 26 at 10:51am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Tending to foot issue

    Samuel was a non-participant at Wednesday's practice due to a foot injury.

    Analysis: Samuel is no stranger to lower-body issues, as he's already tended to hip and quadricep concerns this season. He's been listed as a non-participant on Commanders practice reports just two times prior to Wednesday's absence, but he hasn't missed any game action en route to a 31-310-2 receiving line on 39 targets to go with four carries for 20 yards and another score while logging a weekly snap shares between 57 and 75 percent. Samuel will have two more chances to practice this week before the…read more

    Published: Wed, Oct 25 at 1:29pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Held to 25 yards

    Samuel caught four of eight targets for 25 yards in Sunday's 14-7 loss to the Giants.

    Analysis: Samuel snapped a three-game streak with at least 42 receiving yards and a touchdown, and he finished without a carry for the third time in seven appearances this season. He's outproduced No. 2 receiver Jahan Dotson but isn't exactly getting big-time volume (5.6 targets per game) and hasn't done any better than 65 total yards in a a game this season. Samuel did have a season-high seven catches the last time Washington faced the Eagles, their upcoming opponent for Week 8.

    Published: Sun, Oct 22 at 10:31pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Gets into end zone Sunday

    Samuel secured all four targets for 42 yards and a touchdown in the Commanders' 24-16 win over the Falcons on Sunday. He also rushed once for no gain.

    Analysis: The versatile wideout scored for the second consecutive game on a seven-yard touchdown grab just past the midway point of the third quarter. Samuel has at least four receptions in three straight contests going into a Week 7 road battle against the Giants.

    Published: Sun, Oct 15 at 3:22pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Productive in blowout loss

    Samuel brought in six of seven targets for 65 yards and a touchdown in the Commanders' 40-20 loss to the Bears on Thursday night.

    Analysis: The versatile veteran turned in a trademark performance, excelling as a mid-range target for Sam Howell and bringing in his first touchdown reception of the season on a three-yard grab in the fourth quarter. Samuel had dealt with a quadriceps injury on the short week, but his yardage total served as his best yet through five games and his reception tally was second only to that which he recorded in the overtime loss to the Eagles in Week 4. Samuel next takes aim at the Falcons defense in a Week…read more

    Published: Thu, Oct 5 at 9:16pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Set to face Bears on Thursday

    Samuel (quadriceps) doesn't have an injury designation for Thursday's game against the Bears.

    Analysis: Samuel was listed as a non-participant for Monday's walk-through session and was limited in practices Tuesday and Wednesday, but he'll be good to go Thursday. Washington usually has a package of short throws and jet sweeps in place for the shifty Samuel, who has 17 catches on 20 targets for 178 yards to go with 20 yards and a touchdown on three rushing attempts through four games. He'll look to make the most of those touches against a porous Chicago defense that has given up 34.3 points per…read more

    Published: Wed, Oct 4 at 10:25am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Turns in limited practice

    Samuel (quadriceps) was a limited participant at Tuesday's practice.

    Analysis: Washington labeled Samuel as a non-participant in Monday's walkthrough session, but he was able to take a step forward during the second day of Week 5 prep. So long as he's able to maintain limited practice participation Wednesday, Samuel should have a good chance at being available for Thursday's game against the Bears.

    Published: Tue, Oct 3 at 1:04pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Sits out walkthrough

    Samuel was listed as a non-participant on Monday's estimated practice report with a quadriceps injury.

    Analysis: Samuel might have picked up the injury in the Commanders' 34-31 overtime loss to the Eagles on Sunday, when he played 52 snaps on offense and finished with seven catches for 51 yards and a one-yard touchdown run. The Commanders held a walkthrough Monday, so Samuel's activity level Tuesday and Wednesday will be more telling with regard to his status for Thursday's game against the Bears.

    Published: Mon, Oct 2 at 1:11pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Gets into end zone against Philly

    Samuel caught seven of eight targets for 51 yards and scored a one-yard touchdown on his lone carry in Sunday's 34-31 overtime loss to the Eagles.

    Analysis: The grabs and targets were season highs for Samuel, but his first score of the year came on a jet sweep at the goal line in the first quarter. Samuel has been a steady contributor in the Washington passing game so far, topping 50 receiving yards in three of four games, and he stands a good chance of being productive again in Week 5 against the Bears.

    Published: Sun, Oct 1 at 2:27pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Team-high receiving yardage in loss

    Samuel brought in two of four targets for 54 yards in the Commanders' 37-3 loss to the Bills on Sunday.

    Analysis: Samuel tallied a team-high receiving yardage total with the help of a game-long 37-yard reception. The versatile veteran continues to hold down a complementary role in the Commanders' air attack, having posted a 10-127 line through three games while adding a pair of rushes for 19 yards. However, given his similar offensive profile to other players that enjoyed success in coordinator Eric Bienemy's Chiefs offenses over the years, Samuel's role could certainly expand as the season unfolds.

    Published: Sun, Sep 24 at 3:35pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Good to go for Sunday

    Samuel (illness) was removed from the injury report Saturday and will play Sunday against the Bills.

    Analysis: Samuel didn't practice Friday due to an illness, but the 27-year-old appears to be fine entering Sunday's contest against the Bills. The veteran didn't get as much work in the Week 2 win over the Broncos (three catches, 19 yards), but he's been a reliable option for quarterback Sam Howell and does pose a speed threat that the Commanders sorely need. Expect Samuel to play around his customary 40-45 snaps in what could be a high-scoring affair.

    Published: Sat, Sep 23 at 8:31am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Dealing with illness at end of week

    Samuel missed Friday's practice because of an illness and is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against Buffalo, Ben Standig of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: The same goes for safety Kam Curl, who is arguably more important to Washington's defense than Samuel is to the offense. His role as the No. 3 receiver and occasional ballcarrier does have value, of course, though perhaps more so for real life than fantasy. Samuel has eight targets, two carries and 92 total yards through two weeks, playing 63 percent of snaps in Washington offense that has nine players with at least three targets and none with more than 12. An absence this Sunday for Samuel…read more

    Published: Fri, Sep 22 at 10:16am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Held to 32 total yards

    Samuel caught each of his three targets for 19 yards and took one carry for 13 yards in a 35-33 win over the Broncos on Sunday.

    Analysis: Samuel got a bit less playing time than Week 1, mostly because the Commanders had a lead in the second half and used some multi-TE formations. He ran a route on 63 percent of Sam Howell's dropbacks and was one of nine Commanders to draw multiple targets on a day when Terry McLaurin's six represented the team high. Samuel and Co. will face another veteran-laden secondary Week 3 when the Commanders host Buffalo.

    Published: Mon, Sep 18 at 12:52pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Good to go for Week 2

    Samuel (hip) will play Sunday in Denver, Ben Standig of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was a limited practice participant throughout the week, with head coach Ron Rivera confirming Friday that the wide receiver will play through a minor injury Sunday. The 27-year-old missed most of his first season in Washington with injuries but then played all 17 games in 2022 and now finds himself in the final year of his three-year contract. He was Washington's No. 3 receiver in terms of playing time during a 20-16 win over Arizona in Week 1, though he finished with a team-high 54…read more

    Published: Fri, Sep 15 at 10:09am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Remains limited at practice

    Samuel (hip) practiced in a limited fashion Thursday.

    Analysis: Samuel continued to have a cap on his on-field reps as the Commanders make their way through Week 2 prep. He now has just one more opportunity to get back to all activity before the team potentially gives him a designation for Sunday's game at Denver. If Samuel is limited or out this weekend, Dyami Brown likely would be the biggest beneficiary behind Washington's top WR duo of Terry McLaurin and Jahan Dotson.

    Published: Thu, Sep 14 at 1:44pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Tending to hip issue

    Samuel was a limited practice participant Wednesday due to a hip injury.

    Analysis: Samuel is no stranger to health concerns since entering the league in 2017, playing 76 of a possible 99 games in his career. He was able to log a full 17-game slate in 2022 on his way to a 64-656-4 receiving line on 92 targets while also chipping in 187 rushing yards and a score on the ground. Samuel kicked off the current campaign this past Sunday against the Cardinals by hauling in all five targets for 54 yards and gaining six yards on his lone carry. Samuel's health will need to be monitored…read more

    Published: Wed, Sep 13 at 1:31pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Leading receiver in win

    Samuel caught all five of his targets for 54 yards in Sunday's 20-16 win over the Cardinals.

    Analysis: The veteran receiver led the Commanders in receiving yards while tying Jahan Dotson for the lead in catches on a fairly quiet day overall for the passing game. Samuel is No. 3 on the depth chart behind Dotson and Terry McLaurin, which will likely limit his volume and ceiling as the season progresses, but new offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy's scheme could keep all three wideouts involved in a Week 2 meeting with the Broncos.

    Published: Sun, Sep 10 at 5:04pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Quiet in full half of play

    Samuel caught his lone target for 11 yards in Monday's preseason matchup with Baltimore.

    Analysis: It wasn't the most encouraging performance given that Washington's starters played the entire first half and Sam Howell attempted 25 passes. Of course, it's a small sample against backup defenders in a preseason game, and by most measures Samuel looks like one of the better No. 3 receivers in the league. Fellow wideouts Jahan Dotson and Terry McLaurin combined for eight catches and 115 yards on 10 targets, though McLaurin did exit early with a toe injury that doesn't initially appear to be too…read more

    Published: Mon, Aug 21 at 7:16pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Finishes season with whimper

    Samuel lost six yards on two touches in Sunday's 26-6 win over Dallas.

    Analysis: Samuel's second year in Washington went much better than the first, as he played more than half the offensive snaps in all 17 games after taking only 84 snaps total the year before while plagued by lower-body injuries. His healthy 2022 started with averages of 9.0 targets and 66.4 total yards over the first five weeks, before he shifted to a more ground-based role after Carson Wentz was benched and averaged 4.3 targets and 3.5 carries over an eight-game stretch Weeks 7-15. Samuel was less…read more

    Published: Mon, Jan 9 at 11:05am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Gets one touch

    Samuel caught one of two targets for six yards in Sunday's 24-10 loss to Cleveland.

    Analysis: Samuel's best stretch of the season came with Carson Wentz playing quarterback in September, but things went different in Wentz's return to the starting role. The Commanders might even turn back to Taylor Heinicke for Week 18 against Dallas, though it'll be hard to trust Samuel in any scenario after he averaged only 4.3 targets per game in Heinicke's nine starts. Samuel did at least get 3.2 carries for 15.6 yards in those games, whereas Sunday's loss marked his first outing without a rush since…read more

    Published: Mon, Jan 2 at 10:58am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Catches TD in loss

    Samuel caught all five of his targets for 52 yards and a touchdown while rushing once for two yards in Saturday's 37-20 loss to San Francisco.

    Analysis: Samuel was stymied on the ground for the second week in a row, but he offset that with his first receiving touchdown since Week 9. The Commanders' slot man has been a sneaky fantasy asset in 2022 with his unique mix of receiving and rushing numbers -- 843 combined yards and five touchdowns -- a skillset that vaguely resembles a player on the 49ers' roster who shares the same last name. Samuel will look to continue his hot play against the Browns on New Year's Day.

    Published: Sat, Dec 24 at 9:06pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Gains 45 yards on eight touches

    Samuel caught three of five targets for 44 yards and rushed five times for one yard in Sunday's 20-12 loss to the Giants.

    Analysis: Samuel's five rushing attempts tied his previous season high, but the one rushing yard was his worst total with an attempt through 14 games. The Giants were able to snuff out the versatile wideout's designed runs, perhaps studying the Commanders' tendencies from their recent matchup two weeks ago. Samuel was effective as a receiver, and he has 107 yards over his last two games after totaling just 28 receiving yards over his previous three. Washington draws a tough matchup against San Francisco…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 18 at 11:21pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Posts 86 total yards in tie

    Samuel brought in six of seven targets for 63 yards and rushed three times for 23 yards in the Commanders' 20-20 tie with the Giants on Sunday.

    Analysis: Samuel checked in second in receptions and receiving yards on the afternoon while logging the third-most targets. The versatile wideout's afternoon was his busiest in terms of total touches since Week 7, while his receiving yardage total was his third-highest of the campaign. Samuel gets another crack at the Giants defense in Week 15 following Washington's Week 14 bye.

    Published: Sun, Dec 4 at 4:19pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • No targets, only carries in win

    Samuel wasn't targeted in Sunday's 19-13 win over Atlanta, finishing with four carries for 13 yards on a season-low 60 percent of snaps.

    Analysis: Samuel had season lows for targets and snap share the week before and went even lower against Atlanta, though he did take multiple carries for a fifth time in the past six games. He's seen four or fewer targets in five straight now, with his new role perhaps more conducive to team success but doing no favors for his fantasy value. While useful in real life as a dual threat, Samuel can't be relied on for much in fantasy at this point as the Commanders prepare for a Week 13 game against the…read more

    Published: Mon, Nov 28 at 12:53pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Saved by rushing touchdown Sunday

    Samuel caught one of two targets for 10 yards and rushed twice for 18 yards and one touchdown in Sunday's 23-10 win over the Texans.

    Analysis: Samuel's fantasy day was salvaged by a 10-yard rushing score early in the second quarter, but the versatile 26-year-old has been limited to a combined 14 targets and nine carries across Washington's last four contests. Samuel also played a season-low 40 offensive snaps Sunday, but a Week 12 matchup versus the Falcons contains upside for all the Commanders' skill players.

    Published: Tue, Nov 22 at 4:39pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Good to go

    Samuel (shin) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game in Houston, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel will play for an 11th time in as many games this season, after making only five appearances his first year in Washington. He's accounted for only 20 of the 113 targets (17.7 percent) from Taylor Heinicke while Terry McLaurin has seen 36 (31.9 percent), but the Commanders have gotten Samuel more involved in the run game to make up for it, with the 26-year-old averaging 3.5 carries for 20.8 yards through four Heinicke starts. The Commanders haven't committed to Heinicke beyond Week 11, and…read more

    Published: Fri, Nov 18 at 10:07am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Stays limited Thursday

    Samuel (shin) practiced on a limited basis Thursday.

    Analysis: The Commanders may be exercising the utmost caution with Samuel after he was limited to five appearances with the team in 2021, capping his reps so far this week. He'll have one more chance to get back to all activity Friday before he potentially is handed a designation for Sunday's game in Houston. In 10 games this season, Samuel has combined for 617 yards from scrimmage and three receiving TDs on 69 touches.

    Published: Thu, Nov 17 at 1:20pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Tending to shin injury

    Samuel was listed as a limited participant at Wednesday's walk-through practice due to a shin injury.

    Analysis: After an injury-plagued first season with Washington in 2021, Samuel mostly has avoided practice reports this year, only dealing with an illness ahead of Week 5 action. Overall, he's turned 69 touches into 617 yards from scrimmage and three receiving scores in 10 appearances. With a new health concern in tow, Samuel's status will be one to monitor in the coming days as the Commanders prepare for Sunday's contest at Houston.

    Published: Wed, Nov 16 at 2:53pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Four targets, four rushes in win

    Samuel caught two of four targets for 28 yards and rushed four times for 12 yards in Monday's 32-21 win over Philadelphia.

    Analysis: Samuel's biggest contribution hardly registered in the box score, as it was only a one-yard run, but converted a fourth-and-1 deep in Eagles territory late in the first half. Washington went on to score a touchdown on that drive to take a 17-14 lead that the team never relinquished. This was the third consecutive week in which Samuel tied his season low with four targets after he had been thrown to at least eight times in five of the first seven games. While his rushing opportunities offer a…read more

    Published: Mon, Nov 14 at 9:36pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Team-high receiving yards in loss

    Samuel brought in three of four targets for 65 yards and a touchdown and rushed once for 16 yards in the Commanders' 20-17 loss to the Vikings on Sunday.

    Analysis: Samuel was effective in his usual versatile role, leading the Commanders in receiving yards largely on the strength of a 49-yard touchdown grab early in the third quarter. Samuel's receiving yardage total was his highest since Week 2 and second best of the season overall, and he's now recorded at least 50 receiving yards in three straight contests. The talented veteran will likely play an integral role once again during a tough Week 10 Monday night road matchup Nov. 14 against the Eagles.

    Published: Sun, Nov 6 at 3:10pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Seven total touches

    Samuel recorded three receptions on four targets for 50 yards in Sunday's 17-16 win over the Colts. He added four rushes for 29 yards.

    Analysis: Samuel saw a downturn in involvement as a pass catcher, primarily due to Antonio Gibson and J.D. McKissic combining to account for 12 targets. Nevertheless, Samuel was very efficient as a receiver, tallying receptions of 20, 18 and 12 yards. He also remained involved as a rusher and has at least three carries in four of eight games on the campaign. Despite the positives, Samuel could see his role further decrease once Jahan Dotson (hamstring) is able to return.

    Published: Sun, Oct 30 at 9:24pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Five catches, five carries in win

    Samuel caught five of eight targets for 53 yards and rushed five times for 26 yards in Sunday's 23-21 win over the Packers.

    Analysis: Samuel was involved as both a rusher and a pass catcher, notching double-digit touches for the third time in seven games. His eight targets tied Terry McLaurin for the most looks from quarterback Taylor Heinicke. Samuel should continue to play a prominent role in Week 8 against the Colts.

    Published: Sun, Oct 23 at 3:43pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Drops two passes, held to six yards

    Samuel caught two of five targets for six yards in a 12-7 win over the Bears on Thursday.

    Analysis: Samuel led the Commanders in targets for a sixth consecutive game to start the season, but this was his third in a row without a carry and fourth in a row without a touchdown and fewer than 65 total yards. Thursday's performance was his worst of the season from both a fantasy and real-life standpoint, with Samuel dropping what would've been a 40-yard touchdown late in the second quarter and then dropping a short pass shortly thereafter. He'll face a tough Green Bay secondary in Week 7, though…read more

    Published: Fri, Oct 14 at 6:36am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Leads team in targets again

    Samuel caught six of eight targets for 62 yards in a 21-17 loss to the Titans on Sunday.

    Analysis: Samuel led the team in targets for a fifth straight game, but he's mostly seeing short passes (4.5 aDOT) and now has gone back-to-back games without a carry after taking eight over the first three weeks. He did get one deep look against the Titans and caught it for a 32-yard gain, helping bump his average up to 8.8 yards per catch for the season (sixth lowest among qualified WRs). Next up for Samuel is a Week 6 road game against the Bears, followed by a home matchup with the Packers in Week 7.

    Published: Mon, Oct 10 at 10:47am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Good to go

    Samuel (illness) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Titans, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Rookie wideout Jahan Dotson (hamstring) is ruled out, and while he hasn't seen many targets overall, his surprising dominance of Carson Wentz's TD passes (four out of eight) is part of the reason Samuel and Terry McLaurin have only three combined TDs from 527 combined total yards. Both Samuel and McLaurin get favorable individual matchups this week against a shaky group of cornerbacks, but Tennessee's interior pass rush and talented safeties could spell trouble for QB Carson Wentz and his…read more

    Published: Fri, Oct 7 at 9:45am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Still missing from practice

    Samuel (illness) was absent from the Commanders' practice Thursday, Pete Hailey of NBC Sports Washington reports.

    Analysis: Samuel remained home for the second day in a row while he continues to recover from an unspecified ailment. The Commanders will hope that Samuel makes enough progress overnight to return to the field in some capacity Friday, but for the time being, his availability for Sunday's game against the Titans looks to be in flux. Washington is already expected to be down one of its starting wideouts this weekend in rookie Jahan Dotson (hamstring), who was working off to the side at practice Thursday…read more

    Published: Thu, Oct 6 at 9:16am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Dealing with illness

    Samuel isn't practicing Wednesday due to an illness, Matthew Paras of The Washington Times reports.

    Analysis: Samuel has two more chances to return to practice ahead of Sunday's contest against Tennessee, so it's too early to have any serious concern about his Week 5 status. With Jahan Dotson (hamstring) looking likely to sit out Sunday, Washington can scarce afford to have a versatile wideout of Samuel's caliber sidelined this weekend.

    Published: Wed, Oct 5 at 9:15am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Held to 38 yards

    Samuel caught four passes for 38 yards on six targets against Dallas on Sunday.

    Analysis: Samuel saw zero carries for the first time all year, and he otherwise was limited by the poor production of quarterback Carson Wentz. The pass rush was once again a big issue for Washington, and until that's figured out, it might be difficult for Samuel to spring the big play, though he certainly has the ability to.

    Published: Sun, Oct 2 at 1:48pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Big usage again

    Samuel caught seven passes for 48 yards on 10 targets against Philadelphia on Sunday.

    Analysis: Samuel also saw three carries for 13 yards. Samuel's fantasy point total was underwhelming in this game, but the volume of touches was again sky high, giving reason for his fantasy investors to feel continued optimism even though the final numbers were modest relative to Samuel's first pair of contests. Samuel is up to 30 targets and eight carries in three games -- if he even continues to approximate that type of usage, he'll be one of the bigger fantasy steals of 2022.

    Published: Sun, Sep 25 at 2:33pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Seven catches, TD in Week 2

    Samuel caught seven of nine targets for 78 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 36-27 loss to the Lions. He added a 21-yard rush on his lone carry.

    Analysis: Samuel finally got the Commanders on the board with a 15-yard touchdown in the third quarter and wound up with at least a share of the team lead in targets, catches and receiving yards. After failing to get into the end zone in an injury-riddled first season with Washington, Samuel has shown the skills that made him an attractive free agent for Washington in the 2021 offseason, opening the 2022 campaign with a two-game touchdown streak. He'll look to build on this hot start at home against the…read more

    Published: Sun, Sep 18 at 3:19pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Combines for 89 yards in win

    Samuel had eight receptions on 11 targets for 55 yards and a touchdown, adding four carries for 17 yards in Sunday's 28-22 win over Jacksonville.

    Analysis: Samuel did his best Deebo Samuel impression Sunday, racking up fantasy points both on the ground and in the air. The versatile wideout is no stranger to getting rushing attempts (he had 60 carries for 330 yards and three touchdowns from 2019-2020), so his role as the Commanders' gadget/slot man could result in more fantasy-friendly lines this season. Samuel and the Commanders will take on the Lions next Sunday.

    Published: Sun, Sep 11 at 4:59pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Out against Baltimore

    Samuel will not play in Saturday's preseason matchup against the Ravens, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: The Commanders are opting to rest the majority of their starters on both sides of the ball after playing mostly everyone in the last week's exhibition loss. Dyami Brown and Dax Milne should see a bevy of playing time, with the duo expected to fight for one of the team's final spots on the 53-man roster.

    Published: Sat, Aug 27 at 2:39pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Two catches against Panthers

    Samuel caught both of his targets for 14 yards in Saturday's 23-21 preseason loss to the Panthers.

    Analysis: Samuel was the target of Carson Wentz's first pass, which went for a gain of six yards. Two possessions later, he chipped in an eight-yard reception to give the Commanders a fresh set of downs. Most importantly, Samuel appears to be fully healthy after he managed only 79 total snaps with Washington in 2021.

    Published: Sat, Aug 13 at 5:20pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Set to play Saturday

    Samuel will play in Saturday's preseason game against Carolina, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Samuel missed some practices at the start of training camp, reportedly due to a conditioning issue, but there hasn't been any report of a setback with the groin or hamstring injuries that ruined his first season in Washington. Coach Ron Rivera said he expects his starters to play around 15-20 snaps Saturday. The 26-year-old figures to be Washington's No. 2 or 3 wide receiver this year.

    Published: Thu, Aug 11 at 10:17am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Practicing with team

    Samuel took part in team drills Wednesday and even caught passes on back-to-back snaps, Zach Selby of the Commanders' official site reports.

    Analysis: Samuel's participation in the early portion of training camp has been limited, with Commanders head coach Ron Rivera mentioning "football conditioning" issues Monday. The wide receiver was also limited during the offseason program, which was believed to be a matter of maintenance rather than an injury or conditioning concern. Rivera said Samuel didn't have any lingering problems this offseason after an injury-plagued 2021.

    Published: Wed, Aug 3 at 8:00am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Conditioning an issue

    Coach Ron Rivera said Monday he has "some concern about football conditioning" in reference to Samuel, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel has had his reps managed throughout all offseason workouts, and he's practicing off to the side during Monday's session. Rivera confirmed that none of Samuel's current limitations have to do with last season's injuries, which restricted him to just five appearances, but the 25-year-old's status still warrants monitoring. If Samuel isn't back to full form by Week 1, rookie first-round pick Jahan Dotson could see a clearer opportunity to entrench himself as the No. 2 wideout behind Terry…read more

    Published: Mon, Aug 1 at 8:34am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Reps managed at minicamp

    Samuel has come on and off the field during mandatory minicamp practices, but he isn't dealing with any injuries, Pete Hailey of NBC Sports Washington reports.

    Analysis: Coach Ron Rivera said the training staff feels Samuel is in a "good spot" after his participation in OTAs and Tuesday's minicamp session, but that the team is exercising caution about how many reps the wideout handles. The 25-year-old appears back to full health after missing all but five games of the 2021 campaign, but the Commanders are nonetheless being precautionary for now. With top wideout Terry McLaurin skipping minicamp due to contract negotiations and Samuel sometimes off the field,…read more

    Published: Thu, Jun 16 at 8:08am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Looks 'really good' during workouts

    Commanders head coach Ron Rivera said Monday that Samuel (hamstring) looks "really good" during workouts so far, Pete Hailey of NBC Sports Washington reports.

    Analysis: Samuel signed a three-year, $34.5 million contract ahead of the 2021 campaign, but he battled a lingering groin injury from the summer through the fall and later added a hamstring issue after a brief return to action Weeks 12-14. In total, he played 84 offensive snaps across five games, catching six of nine targets for 27 yards while rushing four times for 11 yards during his first campaign with Washington. After an injury-plagued start to his Commanders career, it appears the 25-year-old…read more

    Published: Mon, Apr 25 at 11:44am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Ends season with another absence

    Samuel (hamstring) is ruled out for Sunday's game against the Giants, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Signed to a three-year, $34.5 million contract in the offseason, Samuel battled a groin injury from summer through fall, later adding the hamstring issue after a brief return to action Weeks 12-14. All in all, he played 84 snaps on offense across five games, catching six of nine targets for 27 yards and taking four carries for 11 yards. It's miles from what was expected, but given the injuries, the contract and his age (25), Samuel should get another shot next year to be the No. 2 receiver…read more

    Published: Fri, Jan 7 at 9:29am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Remains sidelined at practice

    Samuel (hamstring) was held out of practice Thursday, Ben Standig of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: With back-to-back absences to begin Week 18 prep, Samuel is setting himself up for a fourth straight absence and 12th overall this season on Sunday at the Giants. Friday's injury report may reveal as much, and if so he'll end his first campaign in Washington with 10 touches for 38 yards from scrimmage in five brief appearances.

    Published: Thu, Jan 6 at 11:02am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Not at practice

    Samuel (hamstring) didn't practice Wednesday, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Samuel's absence from the Football Team's first practice of the week isn't a promising early sign he'll be able to play in the season finale against the Giants, though he at least has two more chances to practice before Sunday. He last played Week 14 and has made only five appearances this season, logging 25 or fewer snaps each time.

    Published: Wed, Jan 5 at 10:33am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Not playing Sunday

    Samuel (hamstring) is listed as inactive Sunday against the Eagles.

    Analysis: For a second week in a row, Samuel was listed as questionable after logging limited practices Wednesday through Friday. And for a second straight contest, he's unavailable to Washington's offense. Samuel thus will focus on getting healthy enough for a Week 18 road matchup with the Giants. In the meantime, Terry McLaurin, Cam Sims and Adam Humphries will continue to serve as the Football Team's top options at wide receiver.

    Published: Sun, Jan 2 at 8:39am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Deemed questionable for Week 17

    Samuel (hamstring) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Eagles, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel seemingly has a real shot to return after missing the past two games, but he's yet to see more than 25 snaps or four targets in a game this season, clearly far removed from the form he showed last year in Carolina when he was healthy. He's unlikely to get more of a handful of touches if he plays Sunday.

    Published: Fri, Dec 31 at 9:30am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Another limited session

    Samuel (hamstring) practiced in a limited capacity Thursday, Sam Fortier of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Such is the status quo for Samuel, who was listed as limited on all three Week 16 practice reports before being tabbed as inactive this past Sunday at Dallas. There's no telling if he'll do enough this week to be able to play Sunday against the Eagles, or alternatively log his 11th absence of the season.

    Published: Thu, Dec 30 at 10:30am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Limited at practice

    Samuel (hamstring) was a limited practice participant Wednesday, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel has been in and out of the lineup throughout the season, with a minimal role even when active. He missed the past two games and isn't likely to do much against the Eagles even if he plays this Sunday.

    Published: Wed, Dec 29 at 10:25am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Not suiting up in Week 16

    Samuel (hamstring) is listed as inactive Sunday at Dallas.

    Analysis: Despite being listed as limited on Washington's practice reports during Week 16 prep, Samuel won't be available to the offense for the 10th time this season. Instead, the team will turn to Terry McLaurin, Adam Humphries, DeAndre Carter, Cam Sims, Dyami Brown and Dax Milne at wide receiver Sunday.

    Published: Sun, Dec 26 at 4:28pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Game-time decision in Week 16

    Samuel (hamstring) is a game-time decision for Sunday night's game against the Cowboys,Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Samuel is listed as questionable after logging limited practices this past week, with Rapoport suggesting that there's not a high level of optimism the wideout will be able to go. Considering Washington's 8:20 ET kickoff and Samuel's limited role of late, he's a risky Week 16 lineup option.

    Published: Sun, Dec 26 at 5:00am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Questionable to play in Dallas

    Samuel (hamstring) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Cowboys.

    Analysis: Samuel missed his ninth game of the season Tuesday against the Eagles after failing to practice in any capacity leading up to the contest, but he should have a better chance of making it back in action Week 16. He managed limited activity in all three of Washington's practices this week, potentially making him a game-day decision leading up to Sunday's 8:20 p.m. ET. If Samuel is cleared to play, Washington likely wouldn't trust him with anything more than a part-time role, given that he's been…read more

    Published: Fri, Dec 24 at 12:49pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Upgrades to limited activity

    Samuel (hamstring) was a limited participant in Thursday's walk-through practice, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: The wideout has taken the first tangible step forward in his recovery from the hamstring injury, which he likely suffered in Washington's Week 14 loss to Dallas. The injury prevented him from practicing in any fashion last week before he was ruled out in advance of Washington's 27-17 loss to Philadelphia on Tuesday. He remained listed as a non-participant on the Football Team's initial Week 16 injury report released Wednesday, but his upgrade to limited participation a day later seemingly gives…read more

    Published: Thu, Dec 23 at 11:25am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Not practicing

    Samuel (hamstring) was a limited practice participant Wednesday.

    Analysis: Samuel didn't practice at all last week and was inactive for Tuesday's loss to the Eagles. He'll likely have a limited role even if he does make it back this Sunday in Dallas, having struggled with a groin injury for most of the season and now bothered by his hamstring.

    Published: Wed, Dec 22 at 1:40pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Ruled out for Week 15

    Samuel (hamstring) is listed as out for Tuesday's game against the Eagles.

    Analysis: Even with the NFL pushing back the Football Team's Week 15 game two days due to COVID-19-related concerns within the Washington organization, Samuel wasn't able to demonstrate enough progress in his recovery from the hamstring injury to get the green light to play. He'll end up sitting out his ninth game of the season Tuesday, with his previous eight absences stemming from a groin injury.

    Published: Mon, Dec 20 at 12:10pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • No practice Saturday

    Samuel (hamstring) didn't practice Saturday, Adam Caplan of SiriusXM NFL Radio reports.

    Analysis: After stringing together three appearances in a row, Samuel again showed up on Washington injury reports this week, only this time sitting out with a hamstring issue as opposed to the groin concern he's dealt with since the offseason program. He'll have a bit more time than normal to get himself right with with the team's Week 15 game in Philadelphia getting pushed back to Tuesday. That said, if Samuel misses his ninth contest of the campaign, Terry McLaurin (concussion), DeAndre Carter, Adam…read more

    Published: Sat, Dec 18 at 2:42pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Washington-Eagles moved to Tuesday

    Samuel (hamstring) and Washington will no longer play the Eagles on Sunday, after the NFL officially rescheduled the matchup between the two teams for Tuesday at 7 p.m. ET.

    Analysis: Due to ongoing COVID-19-related issues within Washington's organization, the NFL is hopeful that by delaying the game two days, the Football Team will restore enough players from the reserve/COVID-19 list to alleviate depth concerns on the roster. Though Samuel isn't one of the several Washington players who has tested positive for the virus, he could benefit from the two-day delay, given that he was held out of practice Wednesday through Friday with a sore hamstring. Washington will decide by…read more

    Published: Fri, Dec 17 at 2:00pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Kept out of practice due to hammy

    Samuel was sidelined for Thursday's practice due to a hamstring injury, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel has been a fixture on injury reports throughout the season due to a groin issue that dates back to training camp, but it's another lower-body concern that has been attributed to his absences from practices Wednesday and Thursday. Washington hasn't yet commented on Samuel's potential availability for Sunday's game in Philadelphia, but the injury prone wideout will likely have to get back on the field in some capacity Friday to have a shot at playing. Even if he's active this weekend,…read more

    Published: Thu, Dec 16 at 11:50am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Sore again

    Samuel (groin) didn't practice Wednesday, with Washington head coach Ron Rivera noting that the wideout felt sore after Sunday's 27-20 loss to Dallas, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Though there were some murmurs of Samuel's role expanding prior to the Week 14 game, he ultimately saw just two targets (no catches) and played 14 snaps (21 percent), finishing with less than 20 yards for a fifth time in as many appearances this season. Even if he does keep fighting through the groin injury, Samuel clearly isn't the best version of himself this year and doesn't seem likely to move into a full-time role anytime soon.

    Published: Wed, Dec 15 at 11:52am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Invisible again

    Samuel (groin) caught neither of his two targets against Dallas on Sunday.

    Analysis: Samuel was an effective, versatile player in Carolina before the 2021 season, so his struggles with Washington are likely largely attributable to the groin injury he's been playing through. Naturally, that's no solace for fantasy managers. Nevertheless, Samuel may have a golden opportunity for more work in Week 15 if Terry McLaurin (concussion) is unable to play against the Eagles.

    Published: Sun, Dec 12 at 2:55pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Active Sunday, may get larger role

    Samuel (groin) is active for Sunday's game against the Cowboys, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was a limited participant in practices Wednesday through Friday and was listed as questionable heading into the weekend, but with Washington not indicating that he suffered any sort of setback in his two games since returning to action, there was little doubt the wideout would suit up Sunday. In fact, Samuel looks like he could be in store for his largest workload of the season this week, as Ben Standig of The Athletic relays that the 25-year-old is on track to see increased reps after…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 12 at 8:50am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Likely headed for more snaps

    Samuel (groin), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Cowboys, is expected to suit up and see increased reps Week 14, Ben Standig of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Washington has eased Samuel along slowly in his return from a groin injury, which sidelined him from Weeks 6 through 11. In his first two games back in action, Samuel has played 20 and 19 snaps, respectively, workloads that have equated to less than one-third of Washington's offensive plays in both contests. Though Standig didn't provide a projection for what kind of snap share Samuel will take on Sunday, expect him to have some involvement while lining up at receiver and out of the backfield.…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 12 at 7:01am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Lining up to play

    Samuel (groin), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Cowboys, is considered likely to play, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: Samuel has played in both of Washington's last two games, albeit while taking on limited snaps. After he was able to practice on a limited basis throughout the week, Samuel's expected availability for Sunday comes as little surprise. Even so, Samuel won't be officially cleared until he avoids the inactive list, which will be released 90 minutes prior to Sunday's 1 p.m. ET kickoff.

    Published: Sat, Dec 11 at 9:49pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Listed as questionable again

    Samuel (groin) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Cowboys, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: The most likely outcome is Samuel suiting up for a third straight week and handling a small role again, though it isn't exactly a lock. He has two catches for eight yards and three carries for three yards over the past two games, logging 40 total snaps on offense (24 percent, 30 percent).

    Published: Fri, Dec 10 at 9:50am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Stays limited Thursday

    Samuel (groin) practiced in a limited capacity Thursday.

    Analysis: Washington continues to manage the groin injury that has plagued Samuel since the offseason program back in June. To date, he's made just four appearances in his first season with the team, but he does have positive momentum considering he suited up in both of the past two contests. Still, Samuel's production has been lacking, as he has 10 touches for 38 yards from scrimmage and no touchdowns on 65 offensive snaps on the campaign.

    Published: Thu, Dec 9 at 1:05pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Limited Wednesday

    Samuel (groin) was a limited practice participant Wednesday, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel made his third and fourth appearances of the season in Washington's past two games, earning 25 and 31 percent of offensive snaps in those contests and combining for five touches for 11 yards from scrimmage. Head coach Ron Rivera told Ben Standig of The Athletic that the team is capping Samuel's reps as a precaution as he gets back into form following the nagging groin injury that has bothered him since the summer. Such limitations may continue as the week goes on, but Samuel doesn't seem…read more

    Published: Wed, Dec 8 at 9:55am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Three touches in Week 13

    Samuel caught one pass for minus-1 yard and rushed twice for minus-1 yard during Sunday's 17-15 win over the Raiders.

    Analysis: Samuel has struggled to stay healthy this year, as he played in back-to-back games for just the second time this season. The 5-foot-11 wide receiver continues to be utilized in numerous ways, but the production hasn't been there in his limited opportunities. With J.D. McKissic dealing with a concussion, Samuel may have gotten more snaps in the backfield during Week 13 than he normally would, but his versatility continues to make him an intriguing option for fantasy managers. Nonetheless, the…read more

    Published: Mon, Dec 6 at 5:08pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Active in Week 13

    Samuel (groin) is active for Sunday's game against the Raiders.

    Analysis: Samuel was finally able to get back on the field Week 12 against the Seahawks after a five-game absence and logged 20 snaps in the win over Seattle. He'll be out there for a second straight game for only the second instance all season, with the first occasion seeing him exit after just four snaps against the Saints in Week 5 following an aggravation of his groin injury.

    Published: Sun, Dec 5 at 11:41am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Listed as questionable, officially

    Samuel (groin) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Raiders, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Per John Keim of ESPN.com, Samuel is expected to play for a second straight week, and while his role might grow compared to the two touches and 24-percent snap share he handled in last week's win over Seattle, he's unlikely to be a full-time player. Any extra snaps for Samuel this Sunday -- assuming he plays -- likely will come at the expense of DeAndre Carter and/or Adam Humphries.

    Published: Fri, Dec 3 at 10:08am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Limited again in practice

    Samuel (groin) was a limited participant in Thursday's practice, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Though Samuel likely isn't 100 percent healthy while tending to a groin injury that has bothered him since minicamp back in June, he demonstrated enough progress last week to gain clearance to play for the first time since Week 5. He played just a quarter of Washington's offensive snaps and earned just two touches, but perhaps more importantly, the Football Team hasn't indicated that Samuel experienced any setbacks coming out of the contest. As such, his limitations in practices Wednesday and…read more

    Published: Thu, Dec 2 at 10:01am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Limited at practice

    Samuel (groin) was a limited practice participant Wednesday, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel took two touches for 13 yards in Monday's 17-15 win over Seattle, playing 20 snaps on offense (24 percent) in his first appearance since Week 5. Assuming he's not dealing with any setbacks coming out of that contest, he could have larger role this Sunday in Las Vegas, though it's possible he'll remain a part-time player all year while managing the lingering groin injury.

    Published: Wed, Dec 1 at 9:52am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Suiting up Monday

    Samuel (groin) is listed as active Monday against the Seahawks.

    Analysis: After practicing in a limited capacity all week, Samuel will be making his first appearance since a Week 5 matchup with the Saints. Per Sam Fortier of The Washington Post, Samuel likely will be on a snap count to ensure he has no setbacks with his nagging groin injury. In two games this season, Samuel has logged 26 offensive snaps and hauled in four of five targets for 19 yards.

    Published: Mon, Nov 29 at 3:51pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Questionable, should play Monday

    Samuel (groin) is questionable for Monday's game against the Seahawks, and coach Ron Rivera is hopeful the wideout will be able to play, Sam Fortier of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Samuel hasn't seen the field since Week 5 due to the lingering groin injury, but he was able to practice as a limited participant all week heading into Monday's matchup with Seattle. The 25-year-old will be on a strict snap count if available, which could limit the fantasy upside in his return to the field.

    Published: Sat, Nov 27 at 9:49am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Limited in practice again

    Samuel (groin) was a limited participant in Friday's practice, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Samuel returned to practice as a limited participant last Friday and now has taken part in at least four sessions. That doesn't necessarily mean he'll play in Monday's game against Seattle, but coach Ron Rivera is at least leaving the door open for that possibility.

    Published: Fri, Nov 26 at 11:05am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Gets in limited work Thursday

    Samuel (groin) was listed as limited on Thursday's injury report.

    Analysis: After Wednesday's unofficial on-field work, coach Ron Rivera relayed to Matthew Paras of The Washington Times that Samuel practiced "pretty well" and would have been a limited participant if Washington was required to post a practice report. Now that the Football Team has done so, Samuel has upheld Rivera's statement, but it remains to be seen if he'll be given clearance to suit up Monday against the Seahawks, which would mark his first game action since Week 5.

    Published: Thu, Nov 25 at 2:21pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Remains unavailable Sunday

    Samuel (groin) is inactive for Sunday's game in Carolina.

    Analysis: Samuel's return to practice Friday on a limited basis gave him a chance to suit up Sunday for the first time since Week 5, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. Ultimately, that single session wasn't enough for Washington to trot Samuel out there, but he is drawing closer to making his third appearance of the campaign. The team's next game is Monday, Nov. 29 against the Seahawks, giving him more than a week to get healthy enough for game action. Still, coach Ron Rivera relayed to Sam…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 21 at 8:44am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Small chance to play in Week 11

    Samuel (groin), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Panthers, has a "small chance" to play this week, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports. He logged a limited practice Friday.

    Analysis: The wideout hasn't suited up since Week 5, but he took a positive step forward Friday by returning to practice on a limited basis. Washington's decision to avoid placing Samuel on season-ending injured reserve to this point at least bodes well for his chances of returning to action Week 12 against the Seahawks if he can't play in Carolina. Either way, final confirmation of Samuel's Week 11 status will arrive prior to the first wave of games Sunday, with Washington and Carolina kicking off at 1…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 21 at 4:25am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Returns to practice, could play

    Samuel (groin) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game in Carolina, with Washington coach Ron Rivera saying he'll "stick to that pitch count, no matter what," if the wide receiver ends up playing, Sam Fortier of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Given his lack of tangible progress in recent weeks, Samuel's return to practice Friday came as a surprise, though ESPN's John Keim suggests the 25-year-old was limited to individual drills before moving back to the side/rehab field. Samuel may end up a game-time decision ahead of Sunday's 1:00 ET kickoff, though it sounds like he won't get much of a workload even if he's able to suit up. Samuel's only appearances this season came in Weeks 4-5, when he took just 30 snaps (and saw five targets)…read more

    Published: Fri, Nov 19 at 10:04am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Another missed practice

    Samuel (groin) was spotted working off to the side during the open portion of Thursday's practice and will go down as a non-participant on Washington's official report, Rhiannon Walker of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel, who was sporting a jersey but no pads or a helmet in his workout, hasn't practiced in any capacity since aggravating a groin injury in Washington's Oct. 10 game against the Saints. Washington has thus far resisted placing Samuel on injured reserve for a second time -- which would end his season -- but things seem to be trending in the direction. At the very least, Samuel should be viewed as doubtful, at best, for Sunday's game at Carolina, which would mark his fifth consecutive absence.

    Published: Thu, Nov 18 at 9:16am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • No return Wednesday

    Samuel (groin) isn't practicing Wednesday, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Washington head coach Ron Rivera is giving Samuel more time before potentially placing the wideout on injured reserve for a second time, which would rule him out for the season. That being said, each practice Samuel continues to miss puts him a little closer to that unfortunate potential outcome. Samuel last played Week 5 and has taken only 30 snaps total since signing with Washington this offseason.

    Published: Wed, Nov 17 at 9:28am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Out again this week

    Samuel (groin) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against Tampa Bay, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: As expected, with the wideout again unable to practice this week and still limited to side work with the training staff. Coach Ron Rivera said Friday that the team will exhaust all possibilities before placing Samuel back on IR and making him ineligible for the rest of the season, but it does seem that could happen within the next few weeks if he doesn't turn a corner with the groin injury.

    Published: Fri, Nov 12 at 9:48am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Not practicing again Friday

    Samuel (groin) isn't participating at Friday's practice, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel has yet to practice this week and met with doctors Thursday to have his groin evaluated as he trends toward his fourth consecutive absence. The 25-year-old has four catches for 19 yards in two games this season while battling the groin injury he originally sustained in June.

    Published: Fri, Nov 12 at 8:58am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Gets groin exam, likely out Sunday

    Samuel didn't participate in Thursday's practice and instead met with doctors to receive another evaluation of his injured groin, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: While it's unclear if Samuel's appointment was a pre-scheduled arrangement or the result of a setback following Washington's bye week, his continued absence from practice more than likely means he won't be available for Sunday's game against the Buccaneers. The first season of the three-year, $34.5 million deal Samuel signed with the Football Team in March has been a disaster thus far, as he's suited up in just two of Washington's first eight games while logging 26 snaps in total.

    Published: Thu, Nov 11 at 10:09am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • No practice out of bye week

    Samuel (groin) didn't take part in practice Wednesday, Rhiannon Walker of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Even with the benefit of Washington's Week 9 bye, Samuel hasn't made noticeable progress from the groin injury that's plagued him since the offseason program and limited him to just two brief appearances in Weeks 4 and 5. He's already had one stint on injured reserve this season, so he'll remain on the active roster for the time being with the intention he'll be healthy enough to suit up at some point in the second half of the campaign.

    Published: Wed, Nov 10 at 10:39am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Out again, as expected

    Samuel (groin) has been ruled out for Sunday's game in Denver, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Coach Ron Rivera did mention Friday that Samuel won't be placed on injured reserve, as a second stint would rule him out for the rest of the season, per Ben Standig of The Athletic. Rivera still expects Samuel to contribute down the stretch this season, though he didn't mention a specific timeline for the wideout to return after the team's Week 9 bye.

    Published: Fri, Oct 29 at 10:19am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Still not practicing

    Samuel (groin) was a non-participant at Thursday's practice, Ben Standig of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel hasn't practiced since aggravating his nagging groin injury Week 5 against the Saints. The issue has limited the wide receiver to just two of a possible seven games so far this season. On a semi-positive note, he was working on a side field during the portion of Wednesday's session open to the media, per John Keim of ESPN.com, but it remains to be seen if Samuel is able to avoid another stint on injured reserve.

    Published: Thu, Oct 28 at 10:59am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Misses another practice

    Samuel (groin) didn't practice Wednesday, Rhiannon Walker of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: John Keim of ESPN.com reports that Samuel did some work on a side field, along with fellow injured wideouts Terry McLaurin (hamstring) and Dyami Brown (knee). Head coach Ron Rivera has been optimistic about Samuel avoiding a second stint on injured reserve, but that could be in the cards if the receiver doesn't return to practice within the next few days.

    Published: Wed, Oct 27 at 10:26am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Out another week, but no IR yet

    Samuel (groin) has been ruled out for Sunday's game in Green Bay, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: He's played just twice this season and is out for a second straight week, but head coach Ron Rivera told Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post that he wasn't ready to consider another injured reserve stint for the wideout. Samuel's groin injury has allowed Dyami Brown to operate as Washington's No. 2 outside receiver when healthy, though snaps haven't necessarily led to targets.

    Published: Fri, Oct 22 at 9:52am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Working on side field

    Samuel (groin) wasn't participating in position drills and was instead working on a side field during Friday's practice, Ben Standig of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel has yet to practice this week as he continues to manage a groin injury, and his outlook doesn't appear to have improved Friday. The 25-year-old aggravated the issue in Week 5 after missing the first three weeks of the season, and he's likely to miss his second straight game Sunday against the Packers.

    Published: Fri, Oct 22 at 8:51am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Sits out Thursday's practice

    Samuel (groin) was a non-participant at Thursday's practice, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: This may be the status quo for Samuel at this point after aggravating the groin injury in Week 5 that he's been tending to since early June and capped him at just two appearances this season. Until he makes inroads on the practice field, game action may not be a possibility for Samuel.

    Published: Thu, Oct 21 at 11:13am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • DNP on Wednesday

    Samuel (groin) didn't practice Wednesday, Sam Fortier of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Samuel seems poised for another absence Sunday against the Packers after aggravating his groin issue Week 5 against the Saints. While the issue isn't believed to be season-ending just yet, it's worth noting that he's been dealing with the injury since early June. In his first season in Washington, Samuel has managed just four catches (on five targets) for 19 yards in two appearances.

    Published: Wed, Oct 20 at 11:24am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Could land on IR again

    Ron Rivera acknowledged Friday that Samuel (groin) could be placed on injured reserve again, though the coach also said the wide receiver has been doing better the past few days, per John Keim of ESPN.com.

    Analysis: Samuel will miss at least one game, with Rivera suggesting he'll be evaluated again Monday after Washington faces the Chiefs on Sunday. It's the same groin injury that's been bothering Samuel since early June; the latest aggravation occurred during the Week 5 loss to New Orleans.

    Published: Fri, Oct 15 at 4:35pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Out again

    Samuel (groin) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against Kansas City, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Samuel missed practice all week after reinjuring his troublesome groin during the Week 5 loss to New Orleans. Another IR stint can't be ruled out, but the team does seem to be hoping for a quicker return this time.

    Published: Fri, Oct 15 at 9:59am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Not seen again Friday

    Samuel (groin) wasn't seen during Friday's practice, Rhiannon Walker of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel officially has yet to practice this week, though he was spotted at Wednesday's session doing some work on the side with the training staff. The 25-year-old was labeled week-to-week after suffering the groin injury Week 5, and he doesn't appear to be heading in the right direction to be available for Sunday's game against the Chiefs.

    Published: Fri, Oct 15 at 8:55am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Missing from practice

    Samuel (groin) wasn't spotted at Thursday's practice, Ben Standig of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was seen working out off to the side at Wednesday's practice and ultimately went down as a non-participant on Washington's first Week 6 injury report. He'll be listed the same Thursday, likely foreshadowing his fourth absence of the season Sunday against the Chiefs. With Cam Sims (hamstring) also seemingly trending toward being inactive, DeAndre Carter and rookie Dyami Brown (knee) -- if healthy -- could see more reps alongside Terry McLaurin and Adam Humphries at receiver.

    Published: Thu, Oct 14 at 9:25am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Works on side at practice

    Samuel (groin) was spotted working out on a side field with the training staff during Wednesday's practice, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Samuel will go down as a non-participant on Washington's first Week 6 injury report, an expected development after head coach Ron Rivera deemed the wide receiver week-to-week following the latest aggravation of the wideout's groin injury. While it's a good sign that Samuel is on the field at all, it would be surprising if the team tries to rush him back into action this week, given the multitude of setbacks he's had over the past four months. That said, Washington does eventually need him, as…read more

    Published: Wed, Oct 13 at 9:29am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Considered week-to-week

    Washington head coach Ron Rivera said Monday that Samuel (groin) is considered week-to-week, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Samuel missed the start of the year with a groin injury but played in each of the last two games after he was activated from injured reserve. However, he was removed from Sunday's loss to the Saints after he aggravated the issue. Rivera said the team will take a cautious approach to avoid a serious injury.

    Published: Mon, Oct 11 at 9:47am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Ruled out of Sunday's game

    Samuel (groin) won't return to Sunday's contest against the Saints.

    Analysis: There's a good chance Samuel aggravated the hamstring injury that has plagued him since the offseason program back in June. If so, there's no telling when he may gain clearance to play again. Washington's wide receiver room is banged up at the moment, with Dyami Brown (knee) and Cam Sims (hamstring) inactive Sunday. With that trio on the sideline, Terry McLaurin, Adam Humphries, DeAndre Carter, Dax Milne and Antonio Gandy-Golden are the team's healthy and available players at the position.

    Published: Sun, Oct 10 at 12:48pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Injures groin Sunday

    Samuel left Sunday's game against the Saints due to a groin injury.

    Analysis: Samuel has been dealing with a groin injury since the offseason program back in June, so he may have aggravated the issue. If he's unable to return, he'll emerge from Week 5 with one eight-yard carry and no catches on one target. In the event he doesn't get back into the game, Samuel will join inactive teammates Dyami Brown (knee) and Cam Sims (hamstring) as wide receivers unavailable to Washington's offense.

    Published: Sun, Oct 10 at 11:30am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Cleared for Week 5

    Samuel (groin) is active for Sunday's game against the Saints.

    Analysis: After missing Washington's first three games due to the core-muscle injury, Samuel returned to action Week 4 against Atlanta and caught four passes for 19 yards while playing only 22 offensive snaps. The wideout doesn't appear to be 100 percent just yet, as he was withheld from two practices before logging a limited session Friday. Samuel will be good to go Sunday after checking out fine following a pregame workout, but it's possible he faces a lighter snap load for the second straight week.

    Published: Sun, Oct 10 at 8:41am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Availability hinges on pregame warmup

    Samuel (groin) remains listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Saints and is set to go through a pregame warmup before Washington decides on his status, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: After Samuel turned in a limited practice Friday, head coach Ron Rivera expressed optimism the wideout would be ready to go for the Week 5 matchup. Assuming Samuel experiences no setbacks while working out early Sunday, he should avoid the inactive list, but how extensively he might be used is tough to predict. After missing Washington's first three games while recovering from the core-muscle injury that had bothered him since early June, Samuel played just 35 percent of the offensive snaps in…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 10 at 5:18am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Trending toward playing Week 5

    Samuel (groin) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against New Orleans, with head coach Ron Rivera saying Friday that the wideout is trending in the right direction, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel made his Washington debut last week after struggling with the groin injury since the beginning of June. He was limited to four targets and a 35-percent snap share in the 34-30 win over Atlanta, but he could see more work this week even if he isn't 100 percent, as depth wideouts Dyami Brown (knee) and Cam Sims (hamstring) both have been ruled out for Week 5. Rivera mentioned that DeAndre Carter will get some work, though the extent of his role likely depends in part on Samuel's health. To…read more

    Published: Fri, Oct 8 at 10:01am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Back at practice Friday

    Samuel (groin) is taking part in position drills at Friday's practice, Ben Standig of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel sat out practice the past two days with the same groin injury that had kept him on injured reserve for the first three games of the season, so it's good to see him back on the field Friday, even if he's only a limited participant. The 25-year-old played just 35 percent of the team's offensive snaps during his season debut last weekend against the Falcons, as his groin issue obviously remains a factor.

    Published: Fri, Oct 8 at 9:10am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Doesn't practice Thursday

    Samuel (groin) didn't practice Thursday, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was spotted stretching prior to the session, but once individual drills kicked off he moved to a side field to get in some work, according to Ben Standig of The Athletic. With back-to-back absences following his only appearance of the season to date, Samuel appears to have aggravated the groin injury that has plagued him since the offseason program back in June. It's unclear if a DNP is on his docket this Sunday versus the Saints, but his position group also is banged up, with Dyami…read more

    Published: Thu, Oct 7 at 10:57am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Absent with same groin injury

    Samuel was listed as a non-participant in Wednesday's practice with a groin injury, Rhiannon Walker of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: It isn't yet clear if Samuel is dealing with a setback in his recovery from the groin injury that sidelined him for the first three games of the season, as the team could just be resting Samuel after his Washington debut in Sunday's 34-30 win over the Falcons. Still, fantasy managers can't be thrilled to see Samuel listed as a non-participant with an injury that had been nagging him since the first week of June. Coach Ron Rivera didn't provide answers about Samuel's outlook for the Week 5 game…read more

    Published: Wed, Oct 6 at 10:40am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Absent from practice

    Samuel isn't practicing Wednesday, Sam Fortier of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Samuel's absence to begin the week is somewhat concerning after he returned from a groin injury to make his Washington debut in Sunday's 34-30 win over Atlanta, catching each of his four targets for 19 yards while playing 37 percent of offensive snaps. With fellow wideouts Dyami Brown (knee) and Cam Sims (hamstring) coming out of that game nursing injuries, Washington could really use a full-strength Samuel in the lineup for Week 5 against the Saints.

    Published: Wed, Oct 6 at 9:18am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Four catches in Washington debut

    Samuel (groin) caught all four of his targets for 19 yards in Sunday's 34-30 win over Atlanta.

    Analysis: Samuel didn't play a significant role in his first game for Washington after being activated off injured reserve. His four targets tied with Ricky Seals-Jones for third on the team behind Terry McLaurin (13) and J.D. McKissic (five). Samuel's versatility should earn him some touches on short passes, gadget plays and runs moving forward, but he's more of a supporting player rather than a go-to wideout of McLaurin's ilk.

    Published: Sun, Oct 3 at 3:30pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Removed from injured reserve

    Washington activated Samuel (groin) from injured reserve Friday, clearing him to make his season debut Sunday in Atlanta.

    Analysis: Earlier Friday, coach Ron Rivera said that Samuel, who has been dealing with a groin injury, was "ready to roll" after proving his health in practice this week, per Zach Selby of the team's official site. The aforementioned health concern for Samuel has lingered since June, so it'll be interesting to see if he can handle a full workload out of the gate, or if Washington caps his snaps. Once healthy, though, he should serve as the team's No. 2 wide receiver behind Terry McLaurin, with rookie…read more

    Published: Fri, Oct 1 at 12:40pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Cleared for Sunday return

    Coach Ron Rivera said Friday that Samuel (groin) will play in Sunday's game against the Falcons, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was designated to return from IR at the beginning of the week and now will be activated to the 53-man roster Friday or Saturday. His return presumably drops Dyami Brown to the No. 4 receiver role, though it is possible Samuel plays limited snaps right out of the gate, after a groin injury that was initially believed to be minor ended up keeping him off the field for the better part of June through September. He does get a good matchup for his return, albeit with backup QB Taylor Heinicke…read more

    Published: Fri, Oct 1 at 9:47am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Returns to practice, wearing pads

    Samuel (groin) is in pads for Wednesday's practice and was designated to return from injured reserve, JP Finlay of NBC Sports Washington reports.

    Analysis: Washington now has a three-week window to either place Samuel on the active roster or return him to IR for the rest of the season. The team won't need to list Samuel on injury reports until he's back on the 53-man roster, meaning updates on his progress will depend on media access to practice -- which is limited in-season -- and any comments the player or his coaches make this week. It isn't clear whether Samuel has a realistic chance to play this Sunday in Atlanta, but if he does, Washington…read more

    Published: Wed, Sep 29 at 9:21am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Likely to practice Wednesday

    Samuel (groin) is expected to return to practice Wednesday, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Samuel's likely return to practice will open a three-week window for Washington to either activate him from injured reserve or leave him there for the rest of the season. The team is hoping it will be the former after Samuel took some extended time off to rest, perhaps finally shaking the groin injury that bothered him all summer. He previously tried to resume practicing right before Week 1, only to be placed on IR two days prior to the season opener. Samuel is eligible to return as soon as…read more

    Published: Wed, Sep 29 at 8:25am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Spotted runing on side field

    Samuel (groin) was seen running along the sideline during Wednesday's practice, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Samuel's workout marks his first reported on-field activity since he was placed on injured reserve Sept. 10. He's ineligible to return until after Week 3 and may miss additional time beyond that, but there's at least now a sign of progress, even if it's a far cry from actually participating in practice. Meanwhile, rookie third-round pick Dyami Brown has been quiet in the No. 2 receiver role, catching four of 10 targets for 32 yards on a 90 percent snap share through two weeks.

    Published: Wed, Sep 22 at 1:43pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Placed on IR

    Samuel (groin) was placed on injured reserve Friday.

    Analysis: The team hopes to have Samuel back when first eligible Week 4, but skepticism is a reasonable response after his delayed return from what was initially said to be a minor groin injury in early June. In any case, Washington will now look to Adam Humphries, Dyami Brown and Cam Sims behind No. 1 receiver Terry McLaurin.

    Published: Fri, Sep 10 at 12:54pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Headed for IR

    Coach Ron Rivera relayed Friday that the team plans to place Samuel (groin) on injured reserve, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Jhabvala adds that Samuel's looming stint on IR is not expected to be lengthy, with the wideout potentially returning to the mix after missing just three games to start the coming season. In Samuel's absence, added snaps will be available for Adam Humphries, Dyami Brown and Cam Sims behind No. 1 receiver Terry McLaurin.

    Published: Fri, Sep 10 at 9:17am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Takes no reps Thursday

    Samuel (groin) went down as a non-participant in Thursday's practice, Sam Fortier of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: According to JP Finlay of NBC Sports Washington, Samuel was present for the practice session, but only took part in stretching with the team and had no involvement in individual drills or walk-throughs with the rest of the Washington wideouts. After he was seen limping off the field at Wednesday's practice, Samuel appears to have suffered another setback with his nagging groin injury, and his lack of activity Thursday suggests he's trending toward an inactive status for the Football Team's…read more

    Published: Thu, Sep 9 at 9:49am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Potential setback with groin injury

    Samuel (groin) acknowledged after Wednesday's practice that he still doesn't feel right, Rhiannon Walker of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Scott Abraham of 7 News Washington reports that Samuel limped off the field and visited with trainers after pulling up short on a route at Wednesday's practice. Regardless of whether the team views this as a setback or just more of the same, Samuel now appears to be a long shot to play in Sunday's opener against the Chargers. He had just returned to practice at the beginning of the week, stepping in for team reps for the first time since early June. Samuel's likely absence Week 1 leaves extra…read more

    Published: Wed, Sep 8 at 11:03am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Practices Monday

    Coach Ron Rivera noted that Samuel (groin) "looked good" and "moved around well" during Monday's practice, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: That said, Rivera adds that the team "had a limited amount of plays" for Samuel lined up Monday in order not to overwork the wideout during the session. What Samuel does in Wednesday's practice, and how Washington subsequently lists his participation level, will provide added context with regard to his chances of suiting up Sunday against the Chargers. At this point, Rivera suggests that Samuel's path to the team's lineup hinges largely on his level of conditioning.

    Published: Mon, Sep 6 at 10:50am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Scheduled for Monday return

    Samuel (groin) is scheduled for a return to full-team work at Monday's practice, Peter Hailey of NBC4 Washington reports.

    Analysis: Samuel has been limited to individual drills since his removal from the PUP list Aug. 15, but coach Ron Rivera said Thursday that he's highly confident the wideout will play Week 1 against the Chargers. A return to practice Monday would be a big step forward, with Samuel's absence now stretching to three months. Rivera said Samuel will either be cleared for his full workload or held out entirely, rather than being eased into action the first few weeks. Granted, Rivera's statements aren't…read more

    Published: Thu, Sep 2 at 1:07pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Expected to play Week 1

    Coach Ron Rivera said Thursday that he's "very confident" Samuel (groin) will play in Washington's Sept. 12 season opener against the Chargers, Sam Fortier of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was removed from the PUP list Aug. 15 but still hasn't participated in team drills since his groin injury was first reported in early June. Rivera cautions not to mistake the length of Samuel's absence for the severity of the injury, suggesting that faster players take longer to recover from groin issues, per Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post. Rivera also mentioned that he's noticed Samuel's speed and quickness coming back the past few days, with the wideout apparently making good…read more

    Published: Thu, Sep 2 at 9:37am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Limited to side work

    Samuel (groin) is working off to the side during Thursday's practice, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel still hasn't practiced with the team since his groin injury was first reported in early June. He's now been off the PUP list for two and a half weeks, but progress has been slow/intermittent, even after coach Ron Rivera said he was "pretty optimistic" about Samuel returning to practice this week. The wideout appears no better than 50/50 to suit up for Week 1 against the Chargers.

    Published: Thu, Sep 2 at 8:29am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Could practice next week

    Head coach Ron Rivera noted Wednesday that he's "pretty optimistic" Samuel (groin) will practice "sometime next week," Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: That comment effectively rules Samuel out of Saturday's preseason finale against the Ravens, but assuming the wideout in fact is able to practice next week and avoid any setbacks in the process, he'd be trending in the right direction in advance of Washington's Sept. 12 season opener against the Chargers.

    Published: Wed, Aug 25 at 10:41am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Return timetable unclear

    Coach Ron Rivera did not give a firm timetable when asked if Samuel (groin) would return to practice suggesting the wide receiver has "a little over 21 days" before the start of Week 1, Ben Standig of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel not surprisingly did not suit up for Friday's preseason win over the Bengals and could be in danger of missing the team's final exhibition contest given the lack of a concrete return timeline. The free-agent acquisition has missed most of training camp with a groin injury.

    Published: Sat, Aug 21 at 3:12pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Unsurprisingly out Friday

    Samuel (groin) did not play in Friday's preseason win over the Bengals, Ben Standig of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Perhaps more alarming, Standig suggested Samuel may be in danger of missing the preseason finale if he's unable to practice at any point this week. The big-ticket offseason signing has yet to participate in training camp thanks to a lingering groin injury, but coach Ron Rivera has continually downplayed the absence suggesting Samuel already has solid knowledge of the Scott Turner offense thanks to his days with the Panthers.

    Published: Sat, Aug 21 at 8:17am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Held back by poor weather

    Samuel (groin) went through individual drills Sunday, but he worked on a side field at Monday's rainy practice, Sam Fortier of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Coach Ron Rivera was clear about bad weather being the reason for Samuel's reduced involvement. Washington activated the 25-year-old from the PUP list Sunday, potentially allowing for an appearance in the preseason finale Aug. 28 against Baltimore. With Samuel out for the exhibition opener last week, Cam Sims reprised his role from the second half of last season as the No. 2 receiver. It figures to be a much-higher-volume role now that Samuel and his three-year, $34.5 million contract are…read more

    Published: Mon, Aug 16 at 8:26am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Reinstated from PUP list

    Washington activated Samuel (groin) from the PUP list Sunday.

    Analysis: Samuel is now cleared to join Washington for practice after stints on the reserve/COVID-19 list and PUP list delayed his ability to get on the field and build chemistry with the team's quarterback. Even though he's officially been reinstated to the roster, Samuel likely will be brought along slowly this week while he works his way back from the groin issue that also kept him sidelined for mandatory minicamp. At this stage, Samuel may have a tough time gaining clearance for Friday's preseason…read more

    Published: Sun, Aug 15 at 6:03am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Shifts to PUP list

    Washington activated Samuel (groin) from the reserve/COVID-19 list Monday, causing him to revert to the PUP list.

    Analysis: Samuel has fully cleared the league's protocols related to COVID-19, but he hasn't yet recovered from his lingering groin injury. Coach Ron Rivera said Sunday that Samuel still remains without an exact timetable for his return, per Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post. However, Rivera also downplayed the importance of Samuel missing practice reps, noting the wide receiver already is familiar with offensive coordinator Scott Turner's scheme due to their time together in Carolina from 2018-19.

    Published: Mon, Aug 9 at 1:23pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Return timetable TBD

    Coach Ron Rivera noted Sunday that it's unclear when Samuel (reserve/COVID-19 and groin injury) will return to action, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports. "There's no timetable for Curtis," Rivera said of the wideout. "He's been in the system, he knows it. Yeah, you'd love for him to catch a few reps maybe in the last preseason game, but we're not going to rush him out there."

    Analysis: Samuel, who was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list July 29, is also bouncing back from a groin injury. With both issues in mind, the team plans to proceed deliberately with the wideout, who was signed by Washington this offseason to a three-year, $34.5 million contract, with the intention of pairing him with rising star Terry McLaurin. According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, Samuel is expected to come off the COVID-19 list this week but remains without a return timeline due to the groin issue.…read more

    Published: Sun, Aug 8 at 11:45am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Rejoins team

    Samuel (groin) will rejoin Washington for practice Sunday, but he's expected to remain on the reserve/COVID-19 list for at least a couple more days while he works his way back into playing shape, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Before he was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list July 29, Samuel hadn't practiced since June on account of the groin injury. Once he's activated from the COVID list, Samuel could revert to the PUP list, where he had resided prior to being ruled out through the NFL's protocols for the coronavirus. The time Samuel already has missed in camp makes him unlikely to gain clearance for Washington's upcoming preseason game Thursday at New England, but he should have enough time to get back up to full…read more

    Published: Sun, Aug 8 at 5:42am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Keeping pace despite missed time

    Coach Ron Rivera isn't worried about Samuel (groin) missing practice, noting that the wide receiver previously worked with Washington offensive coordinator Scott Turner in 2018-19 for the Panthers, JP Finlay of NBC Sports Washington reports.

    Analysis: Samuel may be comfortable with the concepts and playbook, but he could still probably benefit from the reps as he adjusts to a new team and new group of quarterbacks. He started training camp on the PUP list due to a groin injury from the offseason program, before being moved to the reserve/COVID-19 list July 29. Still, Rivera has said multiple times that he isn't worried, though he hasn't gone so far as to provide a return timeline or estimate. Samuel signed a three-year, $34.5 million…read more

    Published: Tue, Aug 3 at 8:32am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Placed on COVID list

    Samuel has been placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list.

    Analysis: Samuel, who had been dealing with a minor groin injury and was on the preseason PUP list, thus will miss some time, though for now there's not a clear timetable for when he'll gain clearance to return to the field.

    Published: Thu, Jul 29 at 2:02pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Held out from first practice

    Head coach Ron Rivera said his concern is "very low" with Samuel, who was held out of practice Wednesday with a groin injury, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel suffered the injury eight weeks ago and still hasn't returned to practice, but Rivera suggested the wide receiver will be eased into action at training camp soon enough. After signing a three-year, $34.5 million deal this offseason that includes $23 million guaranteed, Samuel is locked in as Washington's No. 2 wide receiver.

    Published: Wed, Jul 28 at 10:02am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • On PUP list to start camp

    Samuel (groin) was placed on the PUP list Tuesday, Field Yates of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was forced to sit out June minicamp due to a groin injury, and he isn't back to full health in time for the start of training camp. The Football Team may simply be taking a cautious approach to the health of their prized free-agency signing, but for the time being Samuel's health will need to be monitored. As long as he remains sidelined, depth options like Dyami Brown, Cam Sims, Steven Sims, Kelvin Harmon and Antonio Gandy-Golden could benefit from increased reps behind Terry McLaurin…read more

    Published: Tue, Jul 27 at 2:12pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Misses minicamp

    Samuel (groin) didn't participate in June minicamp, Chris Russell of 106.7 The Fan reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was first held out of practice June 2 and never made it back for mandatory minicamp June 8-10. He should be ready for the start of training camp July 27, but if not, the likes of Cam Sims, Adam Humphries and Dyami Brown could see more work with the first-team offense. Samuel figures to be the No. 2 wide receiver in Washington, after signing a three-year, $34.5 million contract in March.

    Published: Tue, Jun 29 at 1:56pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Absent from practice again

    Samuel (groin) missed practices Tuesday and Wednesday, JP Finlay of NBC Sports Washington reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was first sidelined one week ago after noticing a "twinge" in his groin. There's still no indication of it being a serious injury, but he could be sidelined until training camp nonetheless, missing out on a few chances to build chemistry with his new team's quarterbacks.

    Published: Wed, Jun 9 at 7:07am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Dealing with minor groin injury

    Samuel was held out of Wednesday's practice after feeling a "twinge" in his groin, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: The injury is seemingly minor, considering Samuel was out on the field to observe practice and even did some work on the side, according to Keim. Samuel should be the No. 2 wide receiver in Washington this season, a step up from No. 3 status in his final year with the Panthers. Despite being behind Robby Anderson and DJ Moore in the pecking order in Carolina, Samuel delivered his best season yet in 2020 with 1,051 total yards and five touchdowns in 15 games. He'll celebrate his 25th birthday…read more

    Published: Wed, Jun 2 at 8:17am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Multi-faceted usage expected

    Samuel was spotted taking snaps out of the backfield during OTAs, Ben Standig of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: This confirms what many assumed when Washington signed Samuel to a lucrative three-year, $34.5 million contract during the early stages of free agency. Positional versatility has been a theme for the Football Team this offseason, particularly on defense, but it appears as if the mindset also applies to offensive coordinator Scott Turner, who utilized Antonio Gibson, J.D. McKissic and Samuel in a wide variety of looks throughout this week's OTAs. The talented 24-year-old put together a career…read more

    Published: Fri, May 28 at 11:12am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Lands in Washington

    Samuel agreed Wednesday with Washington on a three-year, $34.5 million contract, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: Coming off a career year in Carolina, Samuel should slot in as the new No. 2 receiver in Washington as he reunites with former Panthers head coach Ron Rivera. Samuel will provide Washington with another dynamic weapon to pair with other top offensive talents in Terry McLaurin and Antonio Gibson. Samuel's signing could also help set in motion additional deals for the other high-end wideouts in this year's free-agency class, Kenny Golladay and JuJu Smith-Schuster.

    Published: Wed, Mar 17 at 5:05pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Caps career year with a bang

    Samuel caught seven of 11 targets for 118 yards and gained six yards on three carries during Sunday's 33-7 loss to the Saints.

    Analysis: Samuel led the team in targets and receptions as he set a new career high in receiving yardage. This big game caps off what has been a breakout year for Samuel, who set new high marks in receptions (77), receiving yards (851) and scrimmage yards (1,054), all while posting a stellar catch rate of 89 percent. Samuel will be an unrestricted free agent this offseason and should command a significant amount of interest from teams in need of a dynamic playmaker on offense.

    Published: Sun, Jan 3 at 6:16pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Does it all in Week 16

    Samuel recorded five receptions on five targets for 106 yards in Week 16 against Washington. He added seven rush attempts for 52 yards.

    Analysis: Samuel led the Panthers in both rushing and receiving yards, torching the Washington defense for several big plays. Nearly all of his rushing production came on a run off the right side of the line as he dragged defenders for a 45-yard gain early in the second quarter. Samuel was also productive through the air, logging 44-, 22- and 16-yard receptions to reach 100 receiving yards for the second time this season. He'll look to close the season strong in a Week 17 matchup against the Saints.

    Published: Sun, Dec 27 at 4:51pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Four receptions in loss

    Samuel secured four of nine targets for 42 yards and rushed twice for six yards in the Panthers' 24-16 loss to the Packers on Saturday night. He also fumbled once but recovered.

    Analysis: The versatile wideout paced the team in targets while checking in second to DJ Moore in both receptions and receiving yards. Samuel's catch and receiving yardage totals were both his lowest figures of the last four games, however, so he'll look to bounce back with better production in a Week 16 matchup against Washington on Sunday, Dec. 27.

    Published: Sat, Dec 19 at 8:49pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Suits up Saturday

    Samuel (hamstring) is listed as active for Saturday's game against the Packers.

    Analysis: As long as the versatile Samuel avoids any in-game setbacks, he should see his share of touches Saturday, even with DJ Moore back from the COVID-19 list. Through 12 games this season, Samuel has logged a 61/585/3 stat line as a receiver, while adding 29 carries for 139 yards and a pair of scores via the ground game.

    Published: Sat, Dec 19 at 4:00pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Status in question for Saturday

    Samuel (hamstring) is listed as questionable for Saturday's game in Green Bay, Alaina Getzenberg of The Charlotte Observer reports.

    Analysis: After going through the practice week unscathed prior to Thursday, Samuel made a surprise appearance on the final Week 15 injury report as a limited participant, clouding his status for this weekend. He's so far putting together his best season as a pro, with 724 yards from scrimmage and five total touchdowns in 12 contests. The Panthers will make a decision on Samuel's status about 90 minutes before Saturday's 8:15 p.m. ET kickoff.

    Published: Thu, Dec 17 at 11:32am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Posts 90 scrimmage yards in loss

    Samuel corralled seven of nine targets for 68 yards, adding two carries for 22 yards during Sunday's 32-27 loss to Denver.

    Analysis: No matter that a stint on the reserve/COVID-19 list held Samuel to just one practice session this week, he and Robby Anderson remained the clear-cut No. 1 and 2 options for signal-caller Teddy Bridgewater. With DJ Moore (ankle) remaining on the reserve/COVID-19 list, Samuel attracted three times as many targets as the Panthers' third-leading WR, translating that volume into his third consecutive outing with 65-plus receiving yards. The Ohio State product also boasts five total touchdowns…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 13 at 3:23pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Suits up Sunday

    Samuel is active for Sunday's game against the Broncos, David Newton of ESPN.com reports,

    Analysis: It's worth noting that the Panthers are listing Brandon Zylstra as a starter opposite Robby Anderson on Sunday, but that could simply be a nod to the fact that he practiced more this week than Samuel, who was limited to one day of practice after being activated from the reserve/COVID-19 list. With that in mind, Bill Voth of the Panthers' official site doesn't believe that Samuel's level of playing time will be impacted much, despite the team's posted Week 14 starters.

    Published: Sun, Dec 13 at 9:50am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Back at practice Friday

    Samuel (undisclosed) was activated from the reserve/COVID-19 list and is practicing Friday, Joe Person of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: The 24-year-old landed on the COVID list Monday, but he apparently tested negative for the virus all week and was able to make a quick return to the active roster. Fellow wideout DJ Moore (ankle) remains on the COVID list for now, and Samuel could have a larger role Sunday versus Denver should Moore be unavailable.

    Published: Fri, Dec 11 at 8:44am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Could return this week

    Samuel (undisclosed) was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list Monday as a close contact, Joe Person of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel will be required to isolate in quarantine as a result of his placement on the COVID list, but as long as he's able to continue returning negative test results, he could gain clearance in time for Sunday's game against the Broncos. It remains to be seen whether the same can be said for fellow starting wideout D.J. Moore (ankle).

    Published: Mon, Dec 7 at 1:19pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Lands on COVID list

    The Panthers placed Samuel (undisclosed) on the reserve/COVID-19 list Monday, Darin Gantt of the team's official site reports.

    Analysis: The Panthers placed both Samuel and fellow starting wideout DJ Moore (ankle) on the COVID-19 list Monday, leaving Teddy Bridgewater (undisclosed) with a subpar receiving corps as Sunday's contest against the Broncos approaches. The Panthers aren't allowed to disclose whether players placed on the reserve list have tested positive or simply are quarantining after exposure, so it can't yet be determined when Samuel or Moore will be eligible to return.

    Published: Mon, Dec 7 at 11:23am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Solid receiving effort in loss

    Samuel brought in all five targets for 72 yards and gained five yards on one rush in the Panthers' 28-27 loss to the Vikings on Sunday.

    Analysis: The versatile wideout checked in second to Robby Anderson in receiving yardage for the Panthers while pacing the team in catches. Samuel saved his best for last as well, recording a tough 35-yard grab down the middle on Carolina's final drive to get the ball just short of midfield. Samuel has now had back-to-back busy weeks, posting a combined 13-142-1 line through the air over that span. He'll look to carry that momentum over into a Week 14 matchup against the Broncos following the Week 13…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 29 at 2:37pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Tallies scoring grab in win

    Samuel secured eight of 10 targets for 70 yards and a touchdown and rushed once for four yards in the Panthers' 20-0 win over the Lions on Sunday.

    Analysis: The versatile wideout finished with the team lead in receptions while checking in second in both receiving yards and targets to DJ Moore. Samuel hauled in spot starter P.J. Walker's first career NFL touchdown on a nicely thrown touch pass in the right corner of the end zone early in the third quarter. The productive performance was a welcome resurgence for Samuel, who'd slumped to 3-8-0 line in Week 10 versus the Buccaneers after producing a season-best nine receptions and 125 yards the contest…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 22 at 1:55pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Stymied against Bucs

    Samuel caught three of five targets for eight yards and rushed three times for four yards in Sunday's 46-23 loss to the Buccaneers.

    Analysis: Samuel entered Sunday with increased expectations following his strong recent form and projected upside in helping replace Christian McCaffrey (shoulder). Although the utility weapon drew three carries for the third straight week, Samuel hardly found anywhere to run against a stingy Bucs defense, and didn't fare any better in the passing game. Overall, those struggles amounted to a season low in scrimmage yards for Samuel, as he failed to deliver on his enhanced outlook. Whether or not…read more

    Published: Mon, Nov 16 at 6:33am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Likely to aid CMC-less backfield

    Samuel is expected to have a heavier role in the Panthers' game plan Sunday against the Buccaneers than he did in Carolina's previous matchup with Tampa Bay in Week 2, David Newton of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel played 70 percent of the Panthers' offensive snaps Sept. 20 in the 31-17 loss to Tampa Bay, carrying four times for 26 yards and hauling in two targets for 13 yards. While he likely won't see a major bump in his snap count this weekend, Samuel should be in store for a more pronounced role coming off his best outing of the season Week 9 against the Chiefs (nine receptions for 105 yards and a touchdown, three carries for 13 yards). With star tailback Christian McCaffrey (shoulder) inactive…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 15 at 9:16am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Compiles 118 total yards, TD

    Samuel secured all nine targets for 105 yards and a touchdown and rushed three times for 13 yards in the Panthers' 33-31 loss to the Chiefs on Sunday.

    Analysis: Samuel drew even with Robby Anderson for the team lead in receptions on the day among the team's wideouts, with the versatile receiver's receptions, receiving yardage and targets all qualifying as season highs. Samuel's 14-yard scoring grab in the second quarter also was his second in as many games, and he continued to have a minor role in the ground attack despite the return to action of Christian McCaffrey (ribs). Samuel will look to build on Sunday's season-best effort against the Buccaneers…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 8 at 2:22pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Scores through ground and air

    Samuel rushed three times for 23 yards and a touchdown and brought in four of five targets for 31 yards and another score in the Panthers' 25-17 loss to the Falcons on Thursday night.

    Analysis: The versatile receiver was nearly the entire Panthers offense for the night and certainly the star of the first half. Samuel initially scored on a 12-yard rush in the first quarter and then hauled in a perfectly thrown 29-yard pass from Teddy Bridgewater on a flea flicker early in the second quarter to give Carolina its largest lead of the night at 14-6. Samuel's usage in the running game will likely take a hit when Christian McCaffrey returns from his ankle injury, which is slated to occur…read more

    Published: Thu, Oct 29 at 9:16pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Posts rushing TD in loss

    Samuel secured all six of his targets for 48 yards and rushed once for a five-yard touchdown in the Panthers' 27-24 loss to the Saints on Sunday.

    Analysis: The former part-time college running back displayed some of his skills on the ground with a third-quarter scoring run up the middle, his first time finding the end zone on his 15 rush attempts this season. Samuel's reception tally also was a season-best figure, and he's now posted a solid 11-84-0 line with a perfect catch rate over his last pair of contests. The versatile third-year pro will look to continue producing in a Week 8 Thursday night matchup versus the Falcons.

    Published: Sun, Oct 25 at 2:06pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Cleared to play

    Samuel (knee) is active for Sunday's game against the Saints.

    Analysis: Samuel will return to action after sitting out last week's loss to the Bears with the knee injury. He should immediately reclaim a regular spot in three-receiver sets alongside Robby Anderson and DJ Moore, resulting in Seth Roberts moving back into a depth role. Over his five outings this season, Samuel has hauled in 19 of 23 targets for 183 yards while also carrying 15 times for 63 yards.

    Published: Sun, Oct 25 at 8:49am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Expected to suit up Sunday

    Samuel (knee) is expected to play Sunday against the Saints, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was inactive last week against the Bears, but it looks like he'll be back for Sunday's 1:00pm ET kickoff after a one-game absence. In the five games he has suited up for, Samuel hasn't been a high-volume option in the Carolina passing game (19 catches on 23 targets for 183 yards), but he has at least picked up some extra touches in that span, having also logged 15 carries for 63 yards.

    Published: Sun, Oct 25 at 5:06am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Questionable again

    Samuel (knee) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game in New Orleans.

    Analysis: Samuel missed the Panthers' Week 6 game against Chicago after logging three straight limited practices. He followed the same routine in practice this week, so it's best to treat him as truly questionable ahead of Sunday's 1:00 p.m. ET kickoff. Keith Kirkwood filled in as Carolina's No. 3 receiver last week, playing 51 percent of snaps and catching one of two targets for 13 yards.

    Published: Fri, Oct 23 at 10:37am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Limited again Thursday

    Samuel (knee) practiced in a limited capacity Thursday, Myles Simmons of the Panthers' official site reports.

    Analysis: Since it was revealed Samuel was dealing with a knee injury last week, his practice reps have been monitored closely, and he was even spotted in a green non-contact jersey Thursday, per Simmons. Samuel has one more opportunity to be a full participant this week, but the fact he hasn't taken contact yet isn't a great sign for his availability Sunday at New Orleans.

    Published: Thu, Oct 22 at 2:18pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Remains limited at practice

    Samuel (knee) was a limited practice participant Wednesday, Jonathan M. Alexander of The Charlotte Observer reports.

    Analysis: Samuel's practice reps were capped last week before he was deemed inactive ahead of Sunday's loss to the Bears. He seems to be in a similar spot this week, but he has two more chances to prove his health to the Panthers' training staff. Another absence from Samuel this weekend at New Orleans would mean more offensive snaps for Seth Roberts and Pharoh Cooper.

    Published: Wed, Oct 21 at 1:50pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Sidelined Week 6

    Samuel (knee) is inactive for Sunday's game against Washington, Myles Simmons of the Panthers' official site reports.

    Analysis: Per a report from David Newton of ESPN.com earlier Sunday, Samuel was expected to suit up, but in the interim the Panthers have opted to keep him sidelined due to the knee concern that limited him in practice this week. In Samuel's absence, Seth Roberts and Pharoh Cooper will fill in behind starting wide receivers DJ Moore and Robby Anderson.

    Published: Sun, Oct 18 at 8:43am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Slated to play Sunday

    Samuel (knee) is expected to play Sunday against the Bears, David Newton of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was listed as a limited participant in practice all week with a knee injury, but it doesn't appear as if it'll be a hinderance to his ability to suit up. Assuming the Panthers deem him active, he'll serve as the team's No. 3 wide receiver and occasionally take snaps out of the backfield when Mike Davis needs a break.

    Published: Sun, Oct 18 at 7:17am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Deemed questionable

    Samuel (knee) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Bears.

    Analysis: There hasn't been any suggestion Samuel's knee injury is serious, but it's possible he's treated as a game-time decision, considering he never made it to full practice participation this week. He was a limited participant Wednesday through Friday, dealing with an injury that appears to have been picked up in last week's win over the Falcons. Samuel had five catches for 36 yards and four carries for 28 yards in that contest, primarily serving as the Panthers' No. 3 receiver but also taking some…read more

    Published: Fri, Oct 16 at 10:53am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Gets in limited practice

    Samuel (knee) practiced on a limited basis Thursday, Alaina Getzenberg of The Charlotte Observer reports.

    Analysis: Near the tail end of last season, Samuel tended to a knee injury in advance of two different games but still suited up. On this occasion, the Panthers capped his practice reps for a second day in a row, leaving him one more opportunity to elevate to full participation. During Christian McCaffrey's (ankle) absence, Samuel has been used as both a pass catcher and rusher, but he's only surpassed 50 yards from scrimmage two times and has no touchdowns through five contests.

    Published: Thu, Oct 15 at 2:43pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Limited by knee

    Samuel was limited in practice Wednesday due to a knee injury, Alaina Getzenberg of The Charlotte Observer reports.

    Analysis: Samuel has received the occasional carry during Christian McCaffrey's (ankle) three-game absence, helping him total 22 touches during that span after accounting for 12 in the first two contests of the season. Still, Mike Davis is the unquestioned lead back for the Panthers at the moment, and DJ Moore and Robby Anderson are more active in the passing game, making Samuel a bit player in the offense.

    Published: Wed, Oct 14 at 1:11pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Season-high nine touches in win

    Samuel caught all five of his targets for 36 receiving yards, adding four rushes for 28 yards during Sunday's 23-16 win against the Falcons.

    Analysis: The 2017 second-round draft choice established new season highs in offensive touches and scrimmage yards as the Panthers defeated the Falcons for the first time since Week 9 of Samuel's rookie campaign. Robby Anderson (13 targets) and Mike Davis (10) accounted for over 65 percent of the passing-game looks, but it's also notable that Samuel tied D.J. Moore for third on the team in targets. Tampa Bay was able to spread the ball around against Chicago by ushering four different players to 40-plus…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 11 at 5:55pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Another five touches

    Samuel caught three of four targets for 51 yards in Sunday's 31-21 win over the Cardinals. He also lost three yards on two carries.

    Analysis: Samuel hauled in a pass of 24 yards for the second straight week, tying for Carolina's longest play of Sunday's game. That contribution helped Samuel place second on the team in receiving yards despite ranking fifth in targets. With a couple of carries as well, the Panthers continued to use Samuel in a variety of ways, but he failed to make a positive impact on the ground. Through four games this season, Samuel has totaled 25 touches for 182 yards but is yet to score a touchdown, capping his…read more

    Published: Mon, Oct 5 at 6:04am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Garners eight touches

    Samuel caught all four of his targets for 45 yards and rushed four times for seven yards in Sunday's 21-16 win over the Chargers.

    Analysis: Samuel went for a 24-yard gain early in the game, marking his longest play of this season. That contribution helped Samuel post his highest yardage total through three weeks, as he again was involved both in the air and on the ground. With Christian McCaffrey (ankle) sidelined, Samuel garnered four carries for the second game in a row, and although he struggled to get anything going from those touches, his eight overall trailed only replacement tailback Mike Davis' 21 among Carolina's…read more

    Published: Mon, Sep 28 at 6:49am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • More involvement on tap

    Panthers offensive coordinator Joe Brady said Thursday that he wants to get Samuel more involved in Carolina's future game plans, Steve Reed of the Associated Press reports. "Good things happen when the ball is in his hands," Brady said of Samuel.

    Analysis: Samuel has taken on offensive snap shares north of 70 percent in both of Carolina's first two games of the season, logging 10 targets and five rushing attempts between the two contests. While Samuel may continue taking a back seat to D.J. Moore and Robby Anderson in the passing game, he could be a candidate to take on more work as a runner as the Panthers look to replace star back Christian McCaffrey (ankle), who is expected to miss the next 4-to-6 weeks. Mike Davis is in line to start at…read more

    Published: Thu, Sep 24 at 11:00am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • More runner than receiver in loss

    Samuel secured both of his targets for 13 yards and added four rushes for 26 yards in the Panthers' 31-17 loss to the Buccaneers on Sunday.

    Analysis: The speedy wideout put together a modest receiving day for the second time in as many games to open the campaign, but he saw an uptick in rushing work. That's partly the byproduct of offensive coordinator Joe Brady looking for different ways to get the ball in the talented Samuel's hands, but it also stemmed from Christian McCaffrey's early exit due to an ankle injury. The fact the third-year pro has been only a minimal subject of quarterback Teddy Bridgewater's attention through their first…read more

    Published: Sun, Sep 20 at 3:23pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Garners six touches

    Samuel caught five of eight targets for 38 yards and also rushed once for five yards in Sunday's 34-30 loss to the Raiders.

    Analysis: Samuel played 75 percent of Carolina's offensive snaps, trailing only D.J. Moore and Robby Anderson among the team's wide receivers. Although his yardage total wasn't anything special, it's encouraging to see Samuel get six touches. The speedster will hope to remain similarly involved while boosting his efficiency in Week 2 versus the Buccaneers.

    Published: Mon, Sep 14 at 6:21am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Quiet at camp

    Samuel has not been impressive throughout training camp, Jonathan M. Alexander of the Charlotte Observer reports.

    Analysis: Samuel got off to a hot start during the first week of team activities, but he evidently hasn't flashed since camp first began. Alexander notes that Samuel is dealing with a minor hamstring injury, something which could contribute to his lack of noise in camp even if it doesn't seem to have any chance of impacting his availability for the season opener Sept. 13. Samuel is entering the final year of his rookie contract, and there was speculation that the Panthers could shop him after signing…read more

    Published: Tue, Sep 1 at 4:48pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Won't be actively shopped

    The Panthers aren't shopping Samuel and will only trade him if they get a "really good" offer, Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: The late-March addition of Robby Anderson sparked trade rumors, and while other NFL teams are smart to check in, the Panthers seem happy to have three talented wide receivers at Teddy Bridgewater's disposal. New offensive coordinator Joe Brady was part of a record-setting spread attack at LSU last year, and the Panthers don't have much at tight end behind Ian Thomas. In all likelihood, the team plans to lean on three-wide formations with Samuel, Anderson and D.J. Moore all on the field at the…read more

    Published: Fri, Apr 24 at 12:42pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Subject of heavy trade interest

    Teams have been "consistently calling" the Panthers to inquire about trading for Samuel, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.

    Analysis: Trade rumors started when the Panthers signed Robby Anderson in late March, but a report shortly thereafter suggested the team wasn't shopping Samuel. That doesn't mean the 24-year-old receiver can't be had for the right price, as the Panthers don't need him for a high-volume role in an offense that also has Anderson, D.J. Moore and Christian McCaffrey demanding targets.

    Published: Fri, Apr 24 at 8:58am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Not being shopped

    The Panthers aren't shopping Samuel, despite the recent signing of Robby Anderson, Joe Person of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: This doesn't mean the team will ignore trade offers, but it does suggest Anderson wasn't signed as a direct replacement for Samuel, even though both players largely operated as deep threats for their respective teams last year. Samuel's 14.3 aDOT was tied for third deepest among 38 players with triple-digit targets, while Anderson had a 15.1 aDOT on 96 passes. Both finished in the bottom 10 for catch rate among qualified receivers, in part because Sam Darnold and Kyle Allen were bottom five in…read more

    Published: Thu, Apr 2 at 6:37am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Slow finish to third season

    Samuel, who caught two passes for 13 yards in Sunday's 42-10 loss to the Saints, finishes up the 2019 season with 54 receptions (on 105 targets) for 627 yards and six touchdowns. He also rushed 19 times for 130 yards and another score while playing all 16 games.

    Analysis: Samuel was hampered by injuries during his first two seasons, resulting in 10 missed games, but was able to put together a full campaign while seeing his role expand in 2019. As the Panthers' No. 2 receiver, Samuel trailed only top option D.J. Moore and backfield superstar Christian McCaffrey in catches, targets and receiving yards, yet his six touchdown grabs marked a team high. As usual, the speedster was also incorporated here and there in the running game, where he actually placed second on…read more

    Published: Tue, Dec 31 at 10:06am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Kept to 17 yards in loss

    Samuel caught two of five passes for 17 yards during Sunday's 38-6 loss to the Colts. He added four yards on two carries.

    Analysis: It would be easy to blame Sunday's poor outing on rookie Will Grier's first career start, but Samuel has been held to under 40 yards receiving in six of his last seven games. Samuel might get some more attention in the season finale against the Saints depending on the health of lead receiver D.J. Moore, who left Sunday's game with a concussion. In Week 12's game against the Saints, Samuel caught just one pass for nine yards but added 40 yards on the ground. It will be up to Grier to help Samuel…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 22 at 3:24pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Suiting up Sunday

    Samuel (knee) is active for Sunday's game against the Colts.

    Analysis: As interim coach Perry Fewell predicted after Friday's practice concluded, Samuel is available to play Week 16, despite sitting out the Panthers' final session of the week due to the knee injury. The team hasn't indicated that Samuel's snaps will be limited by the injury, but the knee issue further muddles his already cloudy fantasy outlook. Samuel had drawn between four and seven targets in each of his past seven games, but it's unclear how much involvement he'll retain in the passing game…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 22 at 8:44am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Expected to play

    Samuel (knee) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game at Indianapolis, with coach Perry Fewell saying he expects the wide receiver to play, Joe Person of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel's practice routine hinted at trouble, as he was added to the injury report Thursday as a limited participant before downgrading to non-participation Friday. The Panthers don't seem too concerned about his knee injury, but fantasy managers should nonetheless look out for the team's inactive list prior to Sunday's 1:00 p.m. ET kickoff. Between the knee injury and quarterback Will Grier making his first NFL start, Samuel comes with some major drawbacks for the final two weeks of what has…read more

    Published: Fri, Dec 20 at 9:55am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Not practicing Friday

    Samuel (knee) did not take part in Friday's practice, Alaina Getzenberg of The Charlotte Observer reports.

    Analysis: Samuel's practice participation decreased for the second day in a row, which certainly is not a good sign with Sunday's matchup with the Colts drawing closer at the same time. The Panthers will provide an official update on Samuel's status for Week 16 when their final injury report of the week is released.

    Published: Fri, Dec 20 at 8:40am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Limited by knee Thursday

    Samuel (knee) was a limited practice participant Thursday, Alaina Getzenberg of The Charlotte Observer reports.

    Analysis: Samuel received a 'limited' tag on one of the Panthers' Week 13 practice reports due to a knee injury, only to ditch the designation prior to the contest. He'll have one more chance to do so this week, but perhaps of more interest in Carolina is the change at quarterback from Kyle Allen to rookie Will Grier. D.J. Moore and Christian McCaffrey are the top two receivers in this offense, so it remains to be seen how Samuel will fare as the third option, at best.

    Published: Thu, Dec 19 at 11:46am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Finds end zone vs. Seahawks

    Samuel caught five of eight targets for 31 yards and a touchdown Sunday against the Seahawks. He also carried four times for 23 yards in the 30-24 loss.

    Analysis: Samuel finished third on the team in targets, but his long gain went for just 12 yards as he finished averaging 6.2 yards per catch. He salvaged his day from a fantasy perspective with a five-yard touchdown catch in the fourth quarter and supplemented that production with a handful of carries as well. Although Samuel hasn't racked up massive yardage this season, his six total touchdowns have given him some fantasy appeal in favorable matchups. His next chance to contribute will come Sunday…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 15 at 4:20pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Quiet day against Falcons

    Samuel ran for 17 yards on three carries and caught two of four targets for 25 receiving yards during Sunday's 40-20 loss to Atlanta.

    Analysis: The Ohio State product has been a boom-bust option throughout 2019, providing start-worthy statistical production one week and saddling fantasy GMs with a "bust" in his next outing. Samuel's style of play does not translate particularly well to PPR formats, as he owns a putrid 50.6 percent catch rate and has only reached five receptions in a game two times all year. His big-play potential and touchdown production otherwise make him a high-ceiling fantasy asset, though his effectiveness may be…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 8 at 3:41pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Finds end zone vs. Redskins

    Samuel caught four of seven targets for 65 yards and a touchdown during Sunday's 29-21 loss to the Redskins.

    Analysis: Samuel finished behind only D.J. Moore in receiving yards while recording his third-best output of the season in that category. He scored a four-yard touchdown in the first quarter, giving him four trips to the end zone in the last seven games. Samuel also ripped off a 33-yard gain, which was his fourth reception of at least 30 yards this season. He will look to build on this successful outing next Sunday against the Packers.

    Published: Sun, Dec 1 at 4:06pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Puts in full practice Thursday

    Samuel (knee) practiced fully Thursday, Alaina Getzenberg of The Charlotte Observer reports.

    Analysis: Limited by a knee injury at Wednesday's session, Samuel was back to full capacity one day later. He has yet to surpass 100 yards from scrimmage in a given game this season, but typically he's been good for 40-plus such yards, which he's done seven times in 11 contests.

    Published: Thu, Nov 28 at 10:11am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Limited in practice Wednesday

    Samuel was limited in Wednesday's practice due to a knee injury, Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel appears to have picked up the injury during Sunday's loss to the Saints. There's not yet any reason to worry about the 23-year-old's availability for the Week 13 tilt with Washington, but his participation in practice the next two days will be worth monitoring nonetheless. Samuel has logged three straight games with fewer than 40 receiving yards, but he's set for a favorable matchup against Washington's secondary if healthy.

    Published: Wed, Nov 27 at 11:16am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Trending in wrong direction

    Samuel caught just one of four targets for nine yards but added 40 yards on four carries in Sunday's 34-31 loss to the Saints.

    Analysis: Samuel took a back seat to Christian McCaffrey and D.J. Moore, who scored two touchdowns apiece. His involvement on some running plays was nice, but Samuel has now seen his receiving yardage total trend south for three consecutive games. Luckily, he'll have a nice opportunity to reverse that trend in Week 13 with the vulnerable Redskins secondary coming to town.

    Published: Sun, Nov 24 at 3:02pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Held in check by Falcons secondary

    Samuel caught four of seven targets for 25 receiving yards during Sunday's 29-3 loss to Atlanta.

    Analysis: When it comes to Samuel's value, the equation for verifying whether he was a worthwhile start in a given week boils down to whether or not he got into the end zone. In four contests this season in which Samuel has scored a touchdown, he has accounted for four receptions and 55.5 yards per game. In six outings without a score, however, he's been held to just 3.7 receptions and 40.7 yards, while only exceeding the 50-yard mark once. The workload has been there to justify him as a weekly starting…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 17 at 2:46pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Hauls in touchdown

    Samuel caught four of eight targets for 35 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 24-16 loss to the Packers.

    Analysis: Samuel opened the scoring with a two-yard touchdown midway through the first quarter, now giving him four end-zone trips over his last four games. The wideout also has posted two of his three best yardage totals of the campaign over that same span, boosting his value at an important time in the season. Next up for Samuel is a home date against the Falcons, whose defense has widely underwhelmed despite playing surprisingly well Week 10 versus the Saints.

    Published: Mon, Nov 11 at 3:38pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Cleared for Sunday

    Samuel (hamstring) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game in Green Bay.

    Analysis: Held out of Wednesday's practice, Samuel returned Thursday and Friday as a full participant. He should be ready for his usual role Sunday against the Packers, facing a secondary that has a pair of starters -- Adrian Amos (hamstring) and Jaire Alexander (groin) -- listed as questionable.

    Published: Fri, Nov 8 at 2:32pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Back to full participation

    Samuel (hamstring) practiced in full Thursday, Brendan Marks of The Charlotte Observer reports.

    Analysis: Samuel appears to be good to go for Week 10 after logging an absence at Wednesday's session. While Sunday's opponent (the Packers) has given up nearly 10 yards per target to wide receivers this season, the unit is tied for the fifth-fewest touchdowns allowed to the position (five) through nine contests.

    Published: Thu, Nov 7 at 11:51am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Dealing with hamstring injury

    Samuel (hamstring) didn't practice Wednesday, Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was plagued by a hamstring issue during his first offseason program and preseason in 2017, and while he missed 10 combined games due to other injuries during his first two seasons, he hasn't missed any action in the current campaign. He'll have two more sessions this week to prove the health of his hamstring before the Panthers head to Green Bay for a Week 10 matchup.

    Published: Wed, Nov 6 at 12:08pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Finds end zone

    Samuel hauled in three of his six targets for 64 yards and a touchdown in Week 9 against the Titans. He also added one rush for 10 yards.

    Analysis: Samuel saw limited volume, but he made the most of his opportunities by turning in multiple big plays. The first came on a 32-yard reception down the right sideline late in the first quarter, but his biggest contribution came just before halftime when he found the end zone on a 12-yard reception. Though he's surpassed 70 receiving yards just once this season, Samuel has seen at least six targets in every game but Week 1.

    Published: Sun, Nov 3 at 4:59pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Suiting up Week 9

    Samuel (shoulder) is listed as active Sunday versus the Titans, Brendan Marks of The Charlotte Observer reports.

    Analysis: After putting in a DNP/FP/DNP practice regimen this week, Samuel will tough out his shoulder injury and continue to serve as one of the Panthers' starting wide receivers. He has a fair matchup on tap against a Tennessee defense that has allowed 8.4 yards per target and six touchdowns to wideouts through eight games.

    Published: Sun, Nov 3 at 8:36am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Listed as questionable

    Samuel (shoulder) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Titans, David Newton of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel didn't practice Wednesday or Friday, but he was a full participant Thursday. While the unusual sequence might lead to some concern, Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic relays that Samuel is expected to play in Sunday's game. A 1 p.m. ET kickoff is good news for fantasy managers, allowing for plenty of alternatives if Samuel unexpectedly ends up on the inactive list.

    Published: Fri, Nov 1 at 10:19am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Not practicing Friday

    Samuel didn't practice Friday as a result of his shoulder injury, Joe Person of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was a full participant at Thursday's practice after being held out the day before, but he's not out of the woods with his injury just yet. The Panthers will reveal Samuel's official status for the Week 9 game against the Titans when they release their final injury report later Friday.

    Published: Fri, Nov 1 at 8:36am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
More news and analysis available at NFL.com
2025 Fantasy Stats
  RushingReceivingFumFantasy
WkOppYdsTDYdsTDLostPts
1BAL,
W 41-40
-----0.00
2@NYJ,
W 30-10
-----0.00
3MIA,
W 31-21
-----0.00
4NO,
W 31-19
--9--9.10
5NE,
L 20-23
--261-17.00
6@ATL,
L 14-24
-----0.00
7Bye-----0.00
8@CAR,
W 40-9
-----2.30
9KC,
W 28-21
--6--0.60
10@MIA,
L 13-30
--21--4.00
11TB,
W 44-32
--19--3.40
12@HOU,
L 19-23
-----0.00
13@PIT,
W 26-7
-----0.00
14CIN,
W 39-34
-----0.00
15@NE,
W 35-31
-----0.00
16@CLE,
W 23-20
-----0.00
17PHI,
L 12-13
-----0.00
NFL Fantasy

Videos

Curtis Samuel
WR #1 BUF | Manager: FA
< Back
Continuous Play:
View All Curtis Samuel Videos