Curtis Samuel: From College Standout to NFL Playmaker
Curtis Samuel, born on August 11, 1996, is an American professional football player renowned for his versatility and playmaking ability. Currently a wide receiver for the Buffalo Bills in the National Football League (NFL), Samuel's journey to the professional ranks was paved with success at both the high school and collegiate levels.
Early Years and High School Career
Growing up in Brooklyn, New York, Curtis Samuel established himself as a football prodigy at Erasmus Hall High School. As a star running back for the school's football team, he showcased his exceptional talent and athleticism.
In 2012, during his junior year, Samuel rushed for an impressive 1,047 yards and scored 13 touchdowns, averaging 11.5 yards per carry. His outstanding performance earned him the prestigious title of City Player of the Year by the New York Daily News.
Samuel's athletic prowess extended beyond the football field. He excelled in track, winning the 55-meter race at the New York State championships with a remarkable time of 6.44 seconds. In addition to his rushing abilities, Samuel also demonstrated his versatility by scoring three receiving touchdowns and two punt return touchdowns.
During his senior year, Samuel continued to dominate, rushing for 1,461 yards and 17 touchdowns, averaging an astounding 15.8 yards per rush. His exceptional performance led to him being named the New York Gatorade Player of the Year in 2013.
Read also: The Jared Curtis Story
College Career at Ohio State
As a highly-rated recruit, Curtis Samuel committed to play college football for the Ohio State Buckeyes. He played for the Buckeyes from 2014 to 2016, making a significant impact on the team's success.
2014 Season
In his freshman year, Samuel showcased his potential by rushing for 383 yards and scoring six rushing touchdowns. He also contributed as a receiver, catching 11 passes for 95 yards.
2015 Season
During the 2015 season, Samuel's role in the offense continued to evolve. He ran for 132 yards and one touchdown, contributing to the Buckeyes' offensive efforts. Notably, he helped the team win the 2015 College Football Playoff National Championship.
2016 Season
The 2016 season marked Samuel's breakout year. He ran for 771 yards and eight touchdowns, showcasing his explosiveness and versatility as a runner. Additionally, he excelled as a receiver, catching 74 passes for 865 yards and seven touchdowns.
His exceptional performance earned him first-team All-Big Ten honors and All-American recognition. In the 2016 season, he had 97 carries for 771 rushing yards and eight rushing touchdowns to go along with 74 receptions for 865 receiving yards and seven receiving touchdowns.
Read also: Five-Star Recruit Impact
NFL Career
Carolina Panthers (2017-2020)
Before the NFL Draft, Curtis Samuel showcased his skills at the NFL Scouting Combine, further solidifying his status as a top prospect. He was drafted by the Carolina Panthers in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft, selected as the 40th overall pick.
In Week 2 against the Buffalo Bills, Samuel made his first two catches. He had a long 31-yard run in Week 3. Unfortunately, his rookie season was cut short in Week 10 due to a left ankle injury sustained during a game against the Miami Dolphins. He underwent surgery and was placed on the injured list, having played in nine games.
In 2018, Samuel scored his first career touchdown on October 7 against the New York Giants. He had a productive season, recording 39 receptions for 494 yards and five touchdowns.
In Week 3 of the 2019 season, Samuel caught his first touchdown of the year against the Arizona Cardinals, contributing to the Panthers' 38-20 victory. He finished the season with 54 receptions for 627 yards and six touchdowns.
The 2020 season proved to be a strong one for Samuel. In Week 9, he had nine catches for 105 yards and a touchdown against the Kansas City Chiefs. He followed that up in Week 11 with eight catches for 70 yards and a touchdown from quarterback P. J. Walker. After a brief break due to NFL health and safety protocols, he had a season-high 118 receiving yards against the New Orleans Saints in Week 17. He concluded the 2020 season with 77 catches for 851 yards and three touchdowns.
Read also: The Tommy Curtis Story
Washington Commanders (2021-2023)
On March 18, 2021, Curtis Samuel signed a three-year contract with the Washington Football Team. He was excited to reunite with his college roommate, Terry McLaurin. Samuel signed a three-year, $34.5 million contract with the Washington Football Team on March 18, 2021. By signing with the Commanders, he was reunited with his college roommate, Terry McLaurin.
However, Samuel faced challenges with injuries and health protocols during training camp. He was placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list due to a groin injury and later had to take a break due to health and safety rules. He returned to the PUP list on August 9 and was placed back to the active roster on August 15.
In the opening game of the 2022 season against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Samuel contributed to Washington's victory with 55 receiving yards, 17 rushing yards, and his first touchdown for Washington. The next game, he had seven catches for 78 yards, 21 rushing yards, and another touchdown against the Lions. Samuel played in the entirety of the 17 game season and was occasionally used as a running back as well as a wide receiver.
In the 2023 season, Samuel changed his uniform number to 4. He continued to be an important player for the Commanders. In the 2023 season, he had 62 receptions for 613 yards and four touchdowns.
Buffalo Bills (2024-Present)
On March 14, 2024, Curtis Samuel signed a three-year contract with the Buffalo Bills. In the 2024 season, he had 31 catches for 253 yards and one touchdown.
Samuel made his first appearance in the NFL playoffs in the Wild Card round against the Denver Broncos. He scored his first career playoff touchdown on a 55-yard catch from quarterback Josh Allen, helping the Bills secure a 31-7 victory. Samuel began the 2025 season operating as a backup wide receiver, recording seven receptions for 81 yards and a touchdown across six appearances.
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