Could Deebo Samuel Be the Swiss Army Knife the Raiders Need in Klint Kubiak’s Offense?
Deebo Samuel might be heading back to familiar territory - not just geographically, but schematically. After a quieter season in Washington, the former 49ers star could find a fresh start in Las Vegas, where new head coach Klint Kubiak is building an offense that plays right into Samuel’s strengths.
Let’s be clear: Samuel’s 2025 campaign didn’t live up to the standard he set in San Francisco. Even with Jayden Daniels under center, the production just wasn’t there.
But context matters. Samuel’s value has never been limited to the stat sheet.
His versatility - lining up out wide, in the slot, or even in the backfield - makes him one of the league’s most unique offensive weapons when used correctly.
That’s where Kubiak comes in.
A Seamless Fit in a Creative Scheme
Kubiak’s offensive philosophy is rooted in movement, misdirection, and maximizing matchups - all of which align perfectly with what Samuel brings to the table. He’s not just a receiver; he’s a matchup nightmare. Whether it’s a jet sweep, a bubble screen, or a quick hitter that turns into a 20-yard gain, Samuel thrives in space and forces defenses to play honest across the entire field.
This is the kind of player who can stretch a defense horizontally before someone like Brock Bowers stretches it vertically. And when you add in the physical, downhill style of Ashton Jeanty, suddenly you’ve got a three-headed monster that can attack from every angle.
Samuel’s ability to line up in the backfield gives Kubiak even more flexibility. He can spell Jeanty without changing the personnel group, keep defenses guessing, and create mismatches against linebackers and safeties. In an offense that treats quick throws and screens as extensions of the run game, Samuel’s skill set becomes even more valuable.
Leadership for a Young Locker Room
Samuel turns 30 this season, and while that might raise eyebrows in terms of long-term upside, it also brings a different kind of value. The Raiders are building around a young offensive core, and Samuel’s experience - both in terms of preparation and in-game poise - could be a major asset in that locker room.
He’s been through deep playoff runs, navigated multiple offensive systems, and knows what it takes to perform on the biggest stages. That kind of leadership can’t be measured in yards or touchdowns, but it shows up in the meeting rooms, on the practice field, and when the game’s on the line.
What the Market Might Look Like
When it comes to the business side of things, Samuel's résumé is a bit of a mixed bag. He’s a household name, sure, but he’s only got one first-team All-Pro and one Pro Bowl nod to his name. That, combined with his age, could limit his leverage in contract talks.
Still, his versatility and proven impact in the right system will keep him in demand. He’s likely to land in a similar financial ballpark as Rashid Shaheed, another name connected to the Raiders this offseason thanks to his own familiarity with Kubiak.
If both players are commanding deals in the neighborhood of $18 million per year, Samuel arguably offers more bang for the buck. He’s a more complete offensive weapon - a guy who can contribute in the passing game, the run game, and even as a decoy to open things up for others.
Final Thoughts
This potential pairing makes a lot of sense. Samuel needs a system that knows how to maximize his unique skill set.
Kubiak needs smart, versatile players who can execute a layered game plan. The Raiders need veteran leadership and offensive firepower.
Samuel checks every box.
It’s not just about bouncing back from a down year - it’s about putting a proven playmaker in a system designed to let him be himself. And if this move happens, don’t be surprised if Deebo Samuel reminds everyone just how dangerous he can be.