San Francisco 49ers receiver Deebo Samuel is seeking to leave the Bay Area. Supporters are familiar with this melody. The veteran sought a trade in 2022 due to halted contract discussions. Nonetheless, that scenario concluded with Samuel and the 49ers reconciling and reaching a contract extension agreement.
This moment seems distinct. The 49ers seem to be accommodating Samuel regarding his recent trade demand. Actually, they have allowed him and his representative to investigate trade possibilities. In contrast to 2022, the two parties appear to be moving towards an unavoidable separation.
Samuel continues to be a beloved figure, but Tim Kawakami from The San Francisco Standard delivers disappointing news for anyone clinging to the possibility of another reconciliation.
“Looked into the Deebo Samuel situation a bit,” Kawakami shared on social media. “I inquired whether this resembles 2022 when he requested a trade, the 49ers explored options, but he eventually rejoined on a new contract.”
Kawakami remarked, “I’ve been informed that this is not comparable.” Everyone is prepared for Deebo to become a former 49er shortly.
Samuel’s name appears in trade rumors each offseason. As his performance fails to warrant his large salary, it seems the 49ers are considering the option of parting ways with their former dynamic offensive asset.
Samuel’s impressive 2021 season resulted in 1,770 scrimmage yards and 14 total touchdowns, resulting in the contract extension he received afterwards. Nonetheless, his output has decreased since that time. Samuel recorded only 806 scrimmage yards and four touchdowns this past season—his lowest figures since a season hindered by injuries in 2020.
Certainly, there are monetary obstacles to address. Samuel will tally $15.87 million towards the salary cap in 2025. Dealing him before June 1 would result in a substantial $31.55 million dead cap penalty for the 49ers.
The team might postpone until after June 1, enabling them to cut Samuel loose and let him decide his next location, minimizing their cap hit. Nonetheless, that situation would imply receiving nothing back for the skilled playmaker.