The San Francisco 49ers' struggles this season, which have dropped them to 5-7 following a 35-10 loss in snowy Buffalo, stem from several factors. Injuries have played a significant role, most recently with running backs Christian McCaffrey and Jordan Mason heading to injured reserve. However, the team's aging core of playmakers has also contributed to its decline.
NFL analyst Brian Baldinger joined Bay Area radio station 95.7 The Game on Tuesday to discuss the 49ers' disappointing 2024 campaign. One topic of conversation was the underwhelming play of wide receiver Deebo Samuel, a versatile player once seen as a cornerstone of the franchise.
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Samuel has failed to surpass 22 receiving yards in each of his last three games and has just 531 receiving yards on the season. After a breakout 2021 campaign, in which he tallied 1,405 receiving yards and earned a lucrative contract extension, Samuel has not reached 900 receiving yards in any season since.
Once a key part of his dominant game, Samuel's yards after the catch have diminished. According to Pro Football Focus, he is averaging a career-low 7.8 yards after the catch per reception this season. Samuel has also failed to make an impact in his once duel-threat role as a ball carrier, averaging a career-low 2.9 yards per carry.
"Nothing's going on with Deebo," Baldinger said. "I mean, he doesn't separate. He's not getting open. There's nothing that looks exceptional about him. We liked him in the dual role. But why would you hand the ball off to him if you had—before this game—[RBs Christian] McCaffrey and [Jordan] Mason, who both played really well, and [RB Isaac] Guerendo? What carries do you want to take away from those guys to give it to Deebo? You don't."
Samuel may see increased opportunities following the injuries to McCaffrey and Mason. However, many have noted that the wide receiver appears to have lost a step this season, potentially a consequence of his physically demanding playing style over the years.
Baldinger also questioned Samuel's role in the 49ers' offense, noting that his versatility—which once made him such a weapon—now seems diminished.
"So, we've seen games where he lined up and started the game at tailback because of injuries and stuff," Baldinger continued. "So you're taking that away from him. And now, what is he? Is he a slot receiver? Is he an outside receiver? He really doesn't have a position right now. He's just kind of a playmaker when given the chance, but he's not really going to be able to create a whole lot on his own by getting open."
Samuel's lackluster production raises questions about his future with the 49ers. With his hefty contract taking up significant salary-cap space, the team may need to reevaluate his role. Some might argue that Samuel could benefit from a fresh start elsewhere.
The 49ers already have a significant financial commitment to wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, who signed a massive deal before the season. Jauan Jennings also earned an extension, and rookie Ricky Pearsall—selected with a first-round draft pick—remains a significant part of the team's plans despite being largely invisible in recent weeks.
The 49ers may face a difficult decision with Samuel in the offseason. Whether he can rediscover his dynamic form or the team chooses to move on will be one of the key storylines to watch in the months ahead.
You can listen to Baldinger's entire interview below.
