Dolphins HC Mike McDaniel Wants Players With Deebo Samuel Mentality: “You Don’t Look At It Like, ‘I Need The Next Deebo’. Deebo Wasn’t Found By Looking For Deebo.”

NFL franchise Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel seems to be a fan of his former player, San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel. Both were integral for each other’s success with the 49ers, and it seems their bromance has only blossomed. A reason for Deebo’s breakout season in 2021 was McDaniel and his motivational discussions predicting the possibilities that can happen with hard work.

Samuel ended up accumulating 1,770 all-purpose yards and 14 total touchdowns on his way to attaining NFL stardom. His success from the backfield in the recently concluded season has given many franchises to search for players who possess that kind of skill and mentality.

When it mattered the most, he showed leadership by carrying the ball. He did so at least five times in all eight games in crucial moments. Though Samuel had all the physical attributes to be a great player, it was McDaniel who was transforming his outlook.

It seems McDaniel and his new team in the Miami Dolphins want to look for a similar kind of player. He states, “You don’t look at it like, ‘I need the next Deebo’. 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?’”

McDaniel might have another Deebo Samuel on his hands

It seems the new Dolphins head coach is excited to work with WR Jaylen Waddle, who has a potential Deebo-style player on his new team. He could be the difference-maker McDaniel turned Samuel into during his time with the 49ers franchise. McDaniel believes he can repeat his magic trick on Waddle quite similar to his previous project. He believes the wideout understands his leadership role in the team.

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The Dolphins coach trusts Waddle to be a phenomenal talent on quick passes and having speed with the ball in his hands. He also expects the Dolphins offense to get the ball to the receiver more in 2022. It seems the young wideout is en route to a Year 2 eruption despite being not similar to Samuel.

The young wide receiver was the sixth overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. Waddle was a consistent and reliable target for his Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa. He did end up catching 104 of 140 receptions for 1,015 yards and six touchdowns. It was his work that helped the Dolphins finish with a 9-8 record. It is in that ability that coach McDaniel will be looking to amplify next season.

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