San Francisco 49ers fans will have to say goodbye to one of their most productive playmakers. On Saturday, the team traded wide receiver Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders in exchange for a fifth-round draft pick. The move clears cap space for San Francisco while giving Washington a proven offensive weapon.

Samuel had reportedly expressed interest in a trade weeks ago, and the 49ers ultimately honored his request. While player-team breakups can sometimes be messy, Samuel left on good terms. Taking to Instagram, he posted a heartfelt video montage of his journey with the team, from draft day to his biggest plays in the Bay Area. His message to fans? “Appreciate y’all for everything!!!!!”

You can check out Deebo’s Instagram post here:

A New Start For Deebo Samuel In Washington

Deebo Samuel (Photo By Kirby Lee/Imagn Images)

Despite his dip in production last season, Samuel remains a versatile threat. Now 29, he heads to a Washington team that was one win away from the Super Bowl and features rising star quarterback Jayden Daniels. If Samuel can rekindle his 2021 form, he could be the missing piece for the Commanders’ offense.

Meanwhile, Denver Broncos fans might be wondering what could have been. Reports indicated that Deebo Samuel was interested in playing for the Broncos or Texans, but neither team made an offer. Denver, in particular, opted to stick with 22-year-old receiver Marvin Mims, who is younger and far more affordable.

For San Francisco, the trade signals a shift in priorities. Shedding Samuel’s $21.7 million contract gives the team flexibility to address other needs. But losing a dynamic playmaker like him is never easy.

As Deebo Samuel moves on to his next chapter in Washington, one thing is certain, that he left a lasting impact in San Francisco. Whether he can help push the Commanders over the top remains to be seen, but fans on both sides will be watching closely.