San Francisco 49ers star wide receiver Deebo Samuel, once a cornerstone of the team’s offense, might soon be on the move. Reports from Super Bowl 59 weekend revealed that the 49ers have granted Samuel and his agent permission to seek a trade. The 29-year-old wideout is entering the final year of his three-year, $71.5 million contract, but the team’s financial constraints and shifting priorities seem to signal the end of his tenure in San Francisco.
The 49ers are faced with some tough decisions, especially with quarterback Brock Purdy also entering the final year of his rookie contract and in need of an extension. Additionally, the emergence of young talent like Jauan Jennings and 2024 first-round pick Ricky Pearsall suggests that Samuel’s role in the offense could diminish even further by 2025.
As a result, the front office appears willing to part ways with their former All-Pro receiver for what many would consider a surprisingly modest price. According to ESPN’s Nick Wagoner, the team would “probably” be content with “one or two Day 3 draft picks” in exchange for Samuel.
This modest asking price is likely influenced by Samuel’s recent struggles. In 2024, he recorded just 51 receptions for 670 yards and three touchdowns, adding 136 rushing yards and one rushing score. These numbers mark the lowest output of his career outside of his injury-shortened 2020 season.
Samuel’s low price could spark bidding war
Despite his down year, Samuel’s versatility and game-changing ability remain undeniable. His breakout 2021 season saw him rack up 1,405 receiving yards, 1,770 scrimmage yards, and an NFL-best 18.2 yards per reception, earning him First-Team All-Pro honors.
While Samuel’s stock may have dipped slightly, he is still expected to draw significant interest on the trade market. Teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers, Baltimore Ravens, Kansas City Chiefs, Denver Broncos, Green Bay Packers, and Los Angeles Chargers all stand out as potential suitors. Each of these playoff-contending franchises could benefit from Samuel’s unique skill set as both a pass-catcher and a dynamic weapon out of the backfield.
As Wagoner notes, “Because Samuel is coming off a down year and is entering the final year of his contract with other top receivers set to be available in free agency or trade,” his current market value may present an enticing opportunity for teams looking to bolster their offense.
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