Deebo Samuel -- I'll repay Commanders 'trust in me' after trade - ESPN

ASHBURN, Va. — After the Washington Commanders traded for him, then guaranteed the last year of his contract receiver Deebo Samuel said he wants to repay the belief he says they've shown in him.

«They put this much trust in me,» Samuel said. «I can't come in here and let them down.»

Washington acquired Samuel from San Francisco for a fifth-round pick in a deal agreed upon on March 1 and made official 11 days later. Samuel had requested a trade after the season.

Washington declined his option bonus of $15.4 million that would have allowed the Commanders to spread out his cap hit over two seasons by adding another year to his deal — but which would have been automatically voided.

Instead, the Commanders guaranteed the last year of his contract — none of which had been previously guaranteed — and added another $3 million in incentives. He'll count $17.55 million vs. Washington's cap.

Meanwhile, Washington also signed receiver Michael Gallup to a one-year deal. He retired last year after signing with Las Vegas shortly after being cut by Dallas.

For Samuel, Washington represents a fresh start after six seasons with San Francisco. In his first press conference since the trade Samuel said asking the 49ers to trade him was «tougher than you think» but that he can't wait to show his new team what he can still do.

«They're getting a motivated Deebo,» he said via a video conference call. «You get a dawg out there. These young legs are still moving, this body is still working pretty well.»

Samuel had told 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan after the season that he wanted to be traded.

Washington was one of five teams on Samuel's list of desired organizations. He said the reason was simple — and his answer highlighted Washington's quick