When Washington wide receiver Curtis Samuel was sidelined toward the end of the team’s offseason program, fans began to worry. There was a “here we go again” feeling with Samuel, who appeared in only five games last season.
But the Commanders had a plan to ensure they had a healthy Samuel for Week 1 and the entire 2022 season. Early in training camp, head coach Ron Rivera spoke of Washington wanting to take it easy with Samuel by gradually ramping up his activity throughout the summer. As Rivera said, this was all about conditioning.
Over the past week, Samuel has practiced, including making an impressive touchdown reception in Washington’s practice at FedEx Field on Saturday. He was back at practice this week.
Now, Samuel wants to set the record straight.
In an interview with Scott Abraham of ABC 7 in Washington, D.C., Samuel spoke to directly to fans — or anyone listening — about his health and availability for Week 1.
“Everybody, don’t worry about anything,” Samuel says smiling looking directly into the camera. “We have a plan, and it’s working. I feel good, I’m confident, the coaches are confident, we got a plan, and we’re sticking to it.”
And finally, Samuel offered the following declaration:
“I will be out there Week 1,” he said. “Trust me when I tell you, I’m taking care of myself.”
The Commanders host the Jaguars in Week 1 of the 2022 season.
