This time feels different. The 49ers don't appear to be fighting Samuel on his latest trade request. In fact, they've given him and his agent permission to explore trade options. Unlike 2022, the two sides seem headed for an inevitable split.
Samuel remains a fan favorite, but Tim Kawakami of The San Francisco Standard has bad news for those holding onto hope for another reconciliation.
"Checked around a little on the Deebo Samuel situation," Kawakami wrote on social media. "I asked if this is at all similar to 2022, when he asked to be traded, the 49ers looked, but then he came back on a new deal."
Kawakami added, "I'm told, no, this is not similar. Everybody's set for Deebo to be an ex-49er soon."
Samuel's name seems to surface in trade rumors every offseason. With his production no longer justifying his hefty salary, it appears the 49ers are open to the possibility of moving on from their one-time explosive offensive weapon.
Samuel's breakout 2021 season saw him rack up 1,770 scrimmage yards and 14 total touchdowns, earning him the contract extension that followed. However, his production has declined since then. Samuel managed just 806 scrimmage yards and four total touchdowns this past season—his lowest totals since an injury-plagued 2020 campaign.
Of course, there are financial hurdles to overcome. Samuel will count $15.87 million against the salary cap in 2025. Trading him before June 1 would instead leave the 49ers with a massive $31.55 million dead cap hit.
The team could wait until after June 1, allowing them to release Samuel and let him choose his next destination, reducing their cap penalty. However, that scenario would mean getting nothing in return for the talented playmaker.
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
NFL insider to 49ers fans: Don't panic
Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated recently joined The Rich Eisen Show to reassure San Francisco 49ers fans who may be panicking over the team's concerning offseason and the perception that the roster has significantly weakened after a six-win 2024 season. On Monday, Breer... -
49ers insider: Brock Purdy needs to be making over $50 million a year
Reports are emerging that contract negotiations between the San Francisco 49ers and quarterback Brock Purdy could take longer than expected. While both sides initially hoped for a quick and drama-free resolution, it now appears that an agreement might not be reached until after... -
Report: Insider reveals key details on 49ers' and Dolphins' offers to Joey Bosa [update]
The Athletic's Michael Silver reports that the San Francisco 49ers and Miami Dolphins have both made offers to free-agent pass rusher Joey Bosa. Each team presents a unique incentive to entice the five-time Pro Bowler. With the 49ers, Bosa would have the rare opportunity to... -
Insider: 49ers, Brock Purdy negotiations remain far apart; Geno Smith deal could be key
According to Benjamin Allbright, who covers the Denver Broncos for KOA radio and is well-connected across the NFL, the San Francisco 49ers and quarterback Brock Purdy remain far apart in their contract extension negotiations. Both sides had hoped the talks would progress...