Deebo Samuel’s Next Destination: Where Will the Star Receiver Land?

Deebo Samuel Seeks a Fresh Start

Deebo Samuel has officially expressed his desire to leave the San Francisco 49ers. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the star wide receiver requested a trade during his exit meeting after the 2024 season. Now, with just one year left on his contract before hitting free agency in 2026, Samuel is expected to be a hot commodity on the trade market.

Despite a down year, where he recorded 51 receptions for 670 yards and three touchdowns, Samuel remains a dynamic playmaker who can impact the game both as a receiver and a rusher. His versatility and ability to line up in multiple positions make him an attractive option for teams looking to boost their offensive firepower.

So, where could Samuel land next season? Let’s explore some of the most intriguing potential destinations.

Los Angeles Chargers: A Perfect Fit for Justin Herbert

The Chargers need offensive weapons, and Deebo Samuel could be exactly what they’re missing. Rookie sensation Ladd McConkey had an impressive debut season with 1,149 receiving yards, but former first-round pick Quentin Johnston has yet to develop into a reliable option.

Head coach Jim Harbaugh loves a strong running game, and Samuel’s ability to contribute as both a receiver and rusher would fit seamlessly into Harbaugh’s offensive system. Lining up alongside McConkey and veteran Keenan Allen, Samuel could give Justin Herbert the dynamic support he needs to lead the Chargers back to playoff contention.

New England Patriots: A Much-Needed Playmaker for Drake Maye

The Patriots have their quarterback of the future in Drake Maye, but they lack elite playmakers at wide receiver. New England hasn’t had a 1,000-yard receiver since Julian Edelman in 2019, and their current receiving corps doesn’t inspire much confidence.

Tight end Hunter Henry led the team in receiving yards last season with just 674, and second-year receiver Demario Douglas has yet to prove himself as a true No. 1 option. Adding Samuel would instantly elevate New England’s offense, especially if they use their No. 4 draft pick on another playmaker like Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter or Arizona’s Tetairoa McMillan.

With the most salary cap space in the NFL, the Patriots are in prime position to make a big move, and Samuel could be the game-changer they desperately need.

Las Vegas Raiders: Pairing Deebo with a New Quarterback

The Raiders enter the offseason with an estimated $92 million in cap space, the second-most in the NFL. With uncertainty at the quarterback position, Las Vegas is expected to make a splash in free agency or the draft to find their next franchise signal-caller.

Regardless of who lines up under center, the Raiders need more playmakers to complement Jakobi Meyers and rookie tight end Brock Bowers. Samuel’s versatility and ability to create yards after the catch would provide an immediate boost to an offense that finished near the bottom of the league in explosive plays last season.

Pittsburgh Steelers: A New Weapon for a Struggling Offense

Pittsburgh’s offense finished 27th in passing yards last season, and while George Pickens is a rising star, the Steelers need another proven playmaker to take their offense to the next level.

With Pickens entering the final year of his rookie contract, there are questions about his long-term future in Pittsburgh. Whether the Steelers decide to extend him or move on, adding a player like Samuel would give them an experienced, reliable option in the passing game.

Interestingly, Pittsburgh was rumored to be interested in 49ers wideout Brandon Aiyuk before he signed an extension. Could they pivot to another San Francisco receiver and make a deal for Samuel instead?

Denver Broncos: The Final Piece for Sean Payton’s Offense?

Few teams exceeded expectations in 2024 like the Denver Broncos. Rookie quarterback Bo Nix led the team to a surprising 10-7 record and their first playoff appearance since 2015. However, their offense still has significant room for improvement.

Javonte Williams struggled as the team’s lead back, finishing with just 513 rushing yards, while no receiver other than Courtland Sutton recorded more than 503 yards.

Samuel doesn’t have to be a No. 1 receiver to thrive in Denver—he just needs to provide another reliable option for Nix in an offense that is still developing. With head coach Sean Payton looking to take the next step in 2025, acquiring Samuel could be a game-changing move for the Broncos.

The Future for Deebo Samuel

Deebo Samuel may not have had his best season in 2024, but his skill set remains highly valuable in today’s NFL. Whether he lands with a team in need of a top receiver or a creative offensive system that can maximize his versatility, Samuel will have plenty of suitors.

As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on where the explosive playmaker lands next. Will he join a contender looking for one final piece, or will he be the centerpiece of a rebuilding team’s new-look offense? Either way, Samuel’s departure from San Francisco will be one of the biggest stories to watch.