Mike McDaniel gives interesting take on finding the next Deebo Samuel

During his one season as San Francisco 49ers offensive coordinator in 2021, Mike McDaniel had an interesting weapon in Deebo Samuel. Now the Miami Dolphins head coach, people wondered if he’d try to find the next Samuel, a do-it-all, gadget-type of wide receiver.

He shared an interesting take about that prior to the NFL Combine this week.

Samuel proved to be a dual-threat in McDaniel’s offense this past season. He not only had 1,405 receiving yards and six receiving touchdowns, but he totaled 365 yards and eight touchdowns on the ground. Now that McDaniel is in Miami — and taking on an offense that has Jaylen Waddle in tow — he said he’s not trying to find another Samuel. Instead, his focus is on getting the most out of his players.

“You don’t look at it like, ‘I need the next Deebo,'” McDaniel said, via NFL.com. “Deebo wasn’t found by looking for Deebo. You look for good football players who are committed, passionate, and maybe that challenges you as a coach to say, ‘Hey, what other way can we utilize this skillset?'”

In 16 games as a rookie in 2021, Waddle had 1,015 receiving yards and caught six touchdowns for the Dolphins. But he also showcased his running ability on special teams, taking nine kickoffs for 158 yards. He could make a case to become the next dual-threat receiver under McDaniel’s tutelage.

Mike McDaniel makes bold statement on Jaylen Waddle

Last month, McDaniel shared his excitement about the duo of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa rookie receiver Jaylen Waddle.

When asked on The Dan Le Batard Show about who on the team — other than Tagovailoa — he’s most excited about coaching, McDaniel didn’t hesitate. He answered “Waddle” right away.

“I just talked with him on Monday, and I think he understands his leadership role on this team,” McDaniel said. “He’s a phenomenal talent. And guess what, the best and easiest way to get yards is give it to a really talented player. “

With the 49ers, McDaniel was able to unleash the full potential of wide receiver Deebo Samuel. He has plans on doing the same with Waddle, and went on to make a bold proclamation.

“The 49ers, the last four or five years, have led the league in YAC. The reason is because we were addicted to getting our skill position players that are good with running the ball,” said McDaniel. “So yes, I would start him in fantasy. Beyond that, I think you should see some jumps in the Miami Dolphins’ offense next year. What those look like will be determined this offseason and the way the players work and attack things moving forward.”