Deebo Samuel rejoins 49ers on one-year deal

Deebo Samuel reunited with the San Francisco 49ers on a one-year, $7 million deal amidst injuries to key wide receivers. According to ESPN/NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, this move follows Samuel's previous six seasons with the 49ers after he was drafted in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft. In 2021, he achieved his career peak with 1,405 receiving yards, 365 rushing yards, and 14 total touchdowns, earning him All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors.

During his tenure in San Francisco, Samuel contributed significantly to two NFC Championship-winning teams. Last season, he played for the Washington Commanders where he led the team with 72 receptions for 727 yards and five touchdowns, his best totals since 2021. His return to the 49ers comes at a crucial time as the team copes with injuries to other receivers. Ricky Pearsall, a first-round pick in 2024, is currently facing knee swelling from a past PCL injury, limiting his appearances. Meanwhile, Christian Kirk, acquired in the offseason, suffered a calf injury during the opening of training camp.

The 49ers now rely on free-agent signing Mike Evans and rookie De'Zhaun Stribling as their top wide receivers, with veteran Demarcus Robinson expected to fill in as needed. Samuel is anticipated to take over the "Z" receiver spot, a position where he excelled in his previous stint with the team. Although his workload might be lighter compared to before, his ability as a yards-after-catch receiver remains valuable, and he has previously been used by coach Kyle Shanahan in backfield roles. Samuel was recognized as the No. 53 free agent in this class by analyst Pete Prisco.