It wasn’t long ago when San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. was running rampant on NFL defenses. Now, three years later, Samuel has requested his way out of town. He’s spent six years in San Francisco and seems poised to take his talents elsewhere.
49ers general manager John Lynch broke his silence on the trade request — and by the looks of it, Samuel will get his wish.
John Lynch Reveals Stance on Deebo Samuel Sr. Trade Request
Even though Samuel requested a trade, Lynch has no obligation to honor that request. The 49ers receiver remains under contract for one more season, but Lynch and Samuel have a good relationship, with the former seeming ready to honor the latter’s request.
“He asked for a fresh start and we’re going to honor that,” said Lynch on Samuel’s desire to be traded.
John Lynch says they're on good terms with WR Deebo Samuel and they will honor his trade request:
"He asked for a fresh start and we're going to honor that."
— Clayton Holloway (@HollowayNFLN) February 26, 2025
Samuel’s production has been declining ever since his first-team All-Pro season in 2021. He tallied 1,770 total scrimmage yards and 14 touchdowns that season but has only reached 1,000 scrimmage yards once in the last three years.
A fresh start for Samuel looks like it could be best for both parties. The 49ers will be able to get some cap relief to afford quarterback Brock Purdy’s looming extension, while Samuel can get to work in a new environment to hopefully recapture his 2021 form.
Star wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk has taken over the role of No. 1 pass catcher the last few years and just landed a massive extension last offseason, making the blow of Samuel’s impending departure a little easier to swallow.
Samuel has given his all for the 49ers organization and Lynch respects all that he has poured into the team. Their good relationship has allowed this trade request to go smoothly and not cause internal drama between the two parties.
What’s Next for Samuel?
Samuel will bring explosiveness to whichever team acquires him. He brings almost 6,000 scrimmage yards and 42 touchdowns with him, along with six years of experience competing on one of the NFL’s best teams. Reaching two Super Bowls in San Francisco, unfortunately falling short in both, he knows what it takes to win and make it deep in the playoffs.
Samuel will now be waiting for the news of his next destination to hit the timeline. There should be some leading candidates and potential landing spots, with PFSN’s Kyle Soppe breaking down some potential suitors.
One team that could benefit from acquiring Samuel is the Denver Broncos. Coming off a surprising playoff berth ending their long playoff drought, the Broncos will be looking to improve their offensive weapons to support up-and-coming QB Bo Nix. Outside of Courtland Sutton, Denver doesn’t have reliable receiving weapons to which Samuel could help with.
Other teams that could be interested in Samuel are the New England Patriots and Washington Commanders. The Patriots’ pass catchers struggled mightily this past season, and the Commanders will be looking to pair another stud next to Terry McLaurin.
A common theme among all three teams is finding improved weapons to provide to their budding young quarterbacks.
Nevertheless, plenty of teams could use Samuel’s services and will certainly bid for him.