Deebo Samuel had a spectacular break-out third season in the NFL. He proved to be one of the most versatile players in the league, leading the team in receiving 1,405 receiving yards, and racking up 365 rushing yards and 14 total touchdowns (eight rushing, six passing). He amassed 154 receiving yards, 137 rushing yards, a receiving touchdown, and a rushing touchdown through the team's three playoff games.
At one point, Samuel, labeled as a wide receiver, was asked how he would describe the position he played.
"A wide back," he responded. "Wide receiver playing running back."
The wide back position took its toll on Samuel's body through this extended season that included 17 regular-season outings plus three more playoff games. However, he has no problem doing it again in 2022, if that's what's asked of him.
"Yeah, I'm perfectly fine with it," Samuel said. "Like I stated all year long, I'm down for whatever to help this team win in every aspect."
Samuel was named to his first Pro Bowl this season. The game takes place this weekend, which nearly slipped the wide back's mind. Samuel confirmed he plans to play, though. However, Samuel was excited to go home and see his newly born son, Tyshun Raequan Samuel Jr., who Samuel hasn't seen since his birth on December 27, 2021.
"Then they come up to me, and they was like, 'The Pro Bowl is this coming weekend,'" Samuel shared. "I totally forgot about that. But after that, [I plan to] go spend time with my family, especially my son. Then you've got to take time off for your body, your mind. So take a couple of vacations before I get back to training."
As for his future, Samuel isn't sure what that might look like. Obviously, he stands to become one of his position's wealthiest players. This offseason will be the 49ers' first opportunity to try and lock Samuel up to a contract extension. However, the wide back didn't have any insight on that.
"That is not my call. That is out of my hands," Samuel said.