Deebo Samuel: A Potential Trade Candidate for the San Francisco 49ers

Deebo Samuel’s Future in San Francisco
San Francisco 49ers’ star wide receiver Deebo Samuel has been a pivotal player for the team in recent seasons, but as the franchise grapples with looming financial commitments and roster-building challenges, Samuel is emerging as a top trade candidate this offseason. With his contract situation and the team’s evolving needs, Samuel could become the odd man out, especially with the 49ers eyeing significant extensions for key players. The financial landscape in San Francisco is changing, and the team may be forced to consider moving Samuel for cap relief.

The Financial Reality for the 49ers
Deebo Samuel is entering the final year of a three-year, $71 million contract extension he signed in 2022. As quarterback Brock Purdy prepares for a lucrative extension, and with key figures like George Kittle, Dre Greenlaw, and Talanoa Hufanga in line for new deals, the 49ers’ salary cap situation is growing more complicated. The team has already made a long-term commitment to fellow wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, making it more challenging to maintain Samuel’s hefty contract. In order to stay financially competitive and address other roster needs, the 49ers may have no choice but to trade Samuel.

Deebo Samuel’s Decline in Production
Over the past few years, Deebo Samuel has been an essential piece of head coach Kyle Shanahan’s offensive system. Known for his versatile hybrid role as both a wide receiver and running back, Samuel has been a dynamic playmaker. However, the emergence of wide receiver Jauan Jennings as a reliable option may make Samuel more expendable. Jennings, who stepped up during the 2024 season with career-high numbers, recorded 975 yards and six touchdowns on 77 receptions. As a result, the 49ers may feel confident in moving forward without Samuel and saving valuable cap space.

Trade Rumors Resurface
The rumors surrounding Samuel’s potential trade are not new. Before signing his contract extension in 2022, Samuel requested a trade, forcing General Manager John Lynch to field offers from other teams. Even during the 2024 offseason, Lynch admitted to receiving calls about Samuel during the NFL Draft, though he ultimately chose to retain the star receiver. However, with the team’s current financial situation, the circumstances may now dictate a different outcome. Samuel’s production took a dip in 2024, as he recorded just 806 yards from scrimmage and four touchdowns on 93 touches, his lowest numbers outside of his injury-plagued 2020 season. While these figures may reduce his trade value, Samuel is still a talented player on the right side of 30, and he could bounce back with a fresh start elsewhere.

Potential Trade Destinations
Deebo Samuel’s versatility and ability to make explosive plays have caught the attention of several potential suitors. Teams like the Washington Commanders and Pittsburgh Steelers are among the top contenders for Samuel’s services. Both franchises are playoff-caliber but lack depth in their receiving corps, making Samuel an attractive target. His playmaking ability and multifaceted skill set would be an asset to any offense with Super Bowl aspirations.

The Bittersweet Decision for the 49ers
For the 49ers, trading Deebo Samuel would be a bittersweet decision. His unique ability to impact the game in multiple ways has been instrumental in the team’s success over the past several seasons. However, the team must weigh his value against the need to maintain a balanced roster that can continue to compete for championships. Moving Samuel would free up significant cap space and potentially yield valuable draft picks, giving the 49ers the flexibility to address other areas of need.

Financial Impact of Trading Deebo Samuel
According to OvertheCap, Deebo Samuel is scheduled to earn $1.1 million in 2025, with a cap hit of just under $16 million. If the 49ers trade Samuel after June 1st, they would save $17 million in cap space over the 2025 and 2026 seasons. This financial relief could provide the team with the flexibility to sign other key players and build a more balanced roster moving forward.

What Lies Ahead for Deebo Samuel and the 49ers
Ultimately, the decision on whether to trade Deebo Samuel will come down to whether General Manager John Lynch and the front office believe they can afford to keep Samuel without compromising the long-term future of the roster. With the offseason officially underway, all eyes will be on Samuel’s trade market as the 49ers navigate a crucial chapter in their pursuit of another Super Bowl appearance. As the 49ers work to make their roster decisions, Deebo Samuel’s future with the team remains uncertain, and his next move could have significant implications for both his career and the 49ers’ chances at another championship.