What Would Re-Signing a Former Pro Bowl Receiver Mean for the 49ers
Former 49er Pro Bowl wide receiver Deebo Samuel looks to head into unrestricted free agency. After signing a two-year deal worth $26.6 million after being traded to the Commanders in March of 2025, Samuel and the Commanders have yet to produce the same spark between the receiver and the Niners. Coming off a five touchdown and 727 receiving yards season, Samuel looks to get back to his best and win a Super Bowl on a different team. With multiple teams interested in his services, a reunion between the Niners and Samuel looks increasingly likely.
49er Favorite
Drafted by the 49ers in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Deebo Samuel was a cornerstone of the dynamic Shanahan offense become the first ever player to score 20 receiving and 20 rushing touchdowns in their career. Throughout his time as a Niner, his bubbly personality and impressive on-field performances made him a fan favorite and also a locker room leader. 49er running back Christian McCaffrey has recently publicly advocated for a reunion, stating, “there's no question that he would be welcomed back.” Having been a Niner for multiple seasons, Samuel has been a leader in the locker room during the multiple Super Bowl runs the team has experienced and would provide invaluable veteran leadership in that locker room.
Is It Worth It?
An ideal signing on the surface, re-signing Deebo Samuel remains a financial hurdle and strategic risk for the Niners. Having extended quarterback Brock Purdy on a five-year, 265-million dollar deal back in 2025, the Niners have limited cap space to sign new players. Also having just recently turned 30 earlier this January, the Niners will have to assess the risk of signing an older receiver whose game relies heavily on physical contact and speed. With the Super Bowl window for the Niners quickly closing after multiple unsuccessful attempts, the Niners have no room for error and must evaluate Samuel’s signing with careful precision.
What Does Samuel Bring to the Niners?
Having been so close to winning the ultimate prize twice, Samuel and the Niners are chasing the story tale ending of finally bringing a Super Bowl to San Francisco after 31 years. As business remains unfinished, the Niners are looking to reinforce their injury prone lineup and lack of offensive threats as Brandon Aiyuk and Jauan Jennings look to leave the Niners. Having thrived in Shanahan’s system for multiple seasons, Samuels would provide desperately needed offensive firepower instantly, without having to learn a completely new system. His speed and power, ability to carry the ball after the catch, and offensive versatility will provide invaluable for a Niners offense giving Brock Purdy a reliable target. With everything to lose but also everything to win, both sides will be reconsidering a reunion in the Bay to close out a thrilling story in winning fashion.
