"Week 1 of 2024, it looks like they both will be [on the roster]," Rapoport told guest host Tom Pelissero on "The Rich Eisen Show."
However, nothing in the NFL is ever certain.
"Now, look, crazy things can happen," Rapoport continued. "Someone loses a star receiver, they decide to give the 49ers something of value for this year that they need. Theoretically, it's possible that [one] could get traded."
Of course, timing is crucial. With the 2024 NFL Draft in the rearview mirror, finding an immediate-impact replacement for either player becomes more challenging, even if a trade makes long-term sense.
"It's like, you can't replace him now," Rapoport commented. "So, if the 49ers wanted to trade Deebo Samuel, or if the Bengals wanted to trade Tee Higgins, you can do it, you can get really good value, it just won't help you right now. ... The 49ers are a team that could win the Super Bowl. So, what makes sense for them to move on from someone really good if it hurts your chances to win a Super Bowl this year?
"So, I think, as it seems, I would say both these guys are probably coming back, and the more calls I made ... the more people kept going, 'Well, yeah, but why would they trade him?' And I'm like, 'Well, that's a good point.'"
For now, the 49ers are once again loaded with talent and poised to make another championship run. Hopefully, they will reach their ultimate goal this time and secure the Super Bowl victory.
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