Home / Sports / Deebo Samuel Declines Handshake During NFL Network Interview
Deebo Samuel Declines Handshake During NFL Network Interview
3 Aug
Summary
- Deebo Samuel avoided a handshake with NFL Network's Mike Garofolo
- Samuel cited a jammed finger as the reason for declining the handshake
- The awkward moment made Samuel visibly uncomfortable
On August 3rd, 2025, an awkward situation arose during a sit-down interview between Washington Commanders' star wide receiver Deebo Samuel and NFL Network's Mike Garofolo. According to Garofolo, he typically gives a handshake to players after an interview, but this time, Samuel refused, saying, "No, no, no, no. I got a little - I jammed my finger today. Jammed my finger."
The moment was described as cringeworthy and made Samuel extremely uncomfortable, as evidenced by the emotion that came across his face. These types of situations, while rare, can occur in the often cordial but sometimes personal relationship between the media and players.
Despite the awkward exchange, NFL Network was able to complete the interview with Samuel, who is currently focused on fine-tuning his chemistry with offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury and quarterback Jayden Daniels. Samuel is expected to play a key role in elevating the Commanders' offense, which showed signs of becoming one of the NFL's elite in 2024, as long as the team can secure a contract extension for star wide receiver Terry McLaurin before the season begins.
