What’s going on between Deebo Samuel and the San Francisco 49ers
Trade requests, mega contracts, discontent and free agency. Just a few of the factors in the story that’s developing between the star WR and his team.
Just when you thought there might be some form of conclusion, it appears the saga surrounding the 49ers star is set to go on a little longer.
49ers Deebo Samuel stands firm
The situation between the San Francisco 49ers and their star wide receiver Deebo Samuel has been contentious at best and absurd at worst. Having requested a trade due to discontent over his role as well as his desire for a new long term contract, a blockbuster trade was expected by most. Even more fuel was added to the fire when it was understood that he skipped out on the team’s OTAs. Yet there he was at the mandatory mini-camp, which at the time seemed to suggest that both the team and the player had found a middle ground. That, however, is not the case as reports now indicate that Samuel has not rescinded his trade request.
What do the 49ers and the NFL have to say?
To date the The 49ers have maintained their position, which is to say they have no desire to grant Samuel his request and as such will not be entertaining the idea of trading him. Needless to say that message has been received loud and clear across the league. In truth, there are no teams at present who have indicated that they intend to make a move for the talented wide out. As for the 49ers it’s clear they understand quite clearly the value of the asset they currently hold. “Well, we haven’t traded him, and - I’ve used the word fool - I’d be a fool to trade him,” 49ers GM John Lynch said earlier this month. “So yes, Deebo will be part of the 49ers this season.” With that in mind it’s understandable why no franchise has stepped forward in an attempt to begin negotiations.
What’s the low down on Deebo Samuel?
To understand the current situation, it’s important to have a look at Samuel’s contractual situation. Entering the final year of his rookie contract the ‘two way’ sensation will become an unrestricted free agent in the next off-season if the 49ers opt out of making him the marquee player of the franchise. Should that be the case, one can expect Samuel to command one of the most lucrative contracts in the league.
For perspective, let’s consider Samuel’s draft classmate and fellow second-round pick A.J. Brown. The Titans star had a similar stand off with his team in this very same off-season before finally being traded to the Philadelphia Eagles. The Eagles then proceeded to grant him a four year $100 million contract with $57 million guaranteed. According to reports, if Samuel goes to the market it’s likely that he will garner a contract that sees him receive in the neighborhood of $25 million per season.
Is Deebo Samuel worth it?
At 26 years old, let’s be honest: Deebo Samuel is in his prime. The 2021 season was clearly a breakout campaign, in which he actually led the NFL with 18.2 yards per reception and had 1,770 total yards from the line of scrimmage. Indeed, one could say Samuel was a victim of his own success as 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan eventually chose to play Samuel as a running back as well. While shocking, it was no surprise that Samuel took to the role like a fish in water as he accumulated 365 yards and eight touchdowns on 59 carries. At this point the stand off continues, but one can appreciate why the franchise would be hesitant - saying the least - to let him go.