Is Deebo Samuel Playing Today? Commanders Confirm Star WR’s Status for Week 8

Deebo Samuel Sr. is officially active for the Washington Commanders’ Week 8 matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs on Monday Night Football. The veteran wide receiver returns to action after missing last week’s game with a heel injury, giving Washington a much-needed boost on offense.

Head coach Dan Quinn confirmed that Samuel was cleared to play following a full week of practice. His participation was closely monitored throughout the week, but he carried no injury designation heading into Monday night, signaling he’s ready for a full workload.

Deebo Samuel Injury Update and Return Details

Samuel had been dealing with a heel issue that kept him sidelined for the Commanders’ Week 7 loss to the Dallas Cowboys. The team chose to rest him to avoid aggravating the problem, and the decision appears to have paid off. Reports from team insiders noted that he practiced in full on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, showing no visible limitations.

The Commanders confirmed that both Deebo Samuel and Terry McLaurin would be available against Kansas City, marking the first time this season the duo will share the field fully healthy. With quarterback Jayden Daniels still out due to a hamstring injury, veteran Marcus Mariota will start under center and look to rely heavily on Samuel’s playmaking ability to move the chains.

Samuel’s versatility is key to Washington’s offensive plan. Known for his ability to line up both as a receiver and running back, he provides head coach Dan Quinn and offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury with an all-purpose weapon who can create mismatches in space. His physicality after the catch also adds a spark the Commanders lacked in their previous outing.

What Samuel’s Return Means for Washington

Getting Deebo Samuel back is a major positive for a Commanders team that has battled significant injury setbacks this season. Several key starters remain unavailable — including Daniels, defensive tackle Daron Payne, and kicker Matt Gay — leaving Washington short-handed in multiple areas. Samuel’s activation provides stability and energy to an offense that has struggled to find rhythm without its top weapons.

Even with Mariota at quarterback, the presence of Samuel allows for more creative play design and short-yardage options that can help sustain drives. His chemistry with McLaurin could force Kansas City’s secondary to adjust its coverage schemes, potentially opening up deeper opportunities downfield. While the Commanders enter the game as heavy underdogs, the return of their star receiver gives them a fighting chance to keep pace with the reigning Super Bowl champions.

In the long term, staying healthy will be crucial for Samuel, who has battled multiple minor injuries throughout the year. His leadership and competitiveness remain invaluable to a locker room that continues to fight despite adversity.

In summary: Deebo Samuel is active for Week 8. After overcoming his heel injury, the Commanders’ star receiver is set to play a key role against the Chiefs in prime time.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Is Deebo Samuel playing today?

Yes. The Commanders confirmed Deebo Samuel is active for Week 8 against the Chiefs.

Q2: Why did Deebo Samuel miss the last game?

He was recovering from a heel injury that required rest and treatment.

Q3: Who is starting at quarterback for Washington?

With Jayden Daniels sidelined due to a hamstring strain, Marcus Mariota will start in Week 8.

Q4: How does Samuel’s return impact the offense?

It gives Washington more flexibility and a proven target for Mariota, improving the team’s ability to sustain drives.

Q5: What other players are missing for the Commanders?

Daron Payne and Matt Gay are also unavailable or limited due to injuries, continuing a tough stretch for Washington’s roster.