Report: Star WR Deebo Samuel requests trade from 49ers
Yet another high-profile receiver could be donning a new jersey in 2022.
First reported by Jeff Darlington of ESPN, dual-threat WR Deebo Samuel has officially requested a trade from the San Francisco 49ers.
The request was reportedly submitted to the organization around a week ago, with Samuel becoming increasingly unhappy with his on-field usage.
Breaking News: I just spoke to wide receiver Deebo Samuel — and he told me that he has asked the 49ers to trade him.
— Jeff Darlington (@JeffDarlington) April 20, 2022
He did not want to discuss specific reasons behind his request, but he has indeed let the 49ers know his desire to leave the organization. More to come.
Samuel’s stellar 2021 season
Utilized at virtually every possession on the field, Samuel had one of the most productive seasons in recent memory by a wide receiver:
| Receiving | Rushing |
| 77 receptions | 59 attempts |
| 1,405 yards | 365 yards |
| 18.6 yards/catch | 6.2 yards/carry |
| 6 TDs | 8 TDs |
Receiving TDs. Rushing TDs. Even a passing TD. Deebo Samuel's Top 10 plays of the season are 🤯@19problemz | #FTTB pic.twitter.com/TctKcJ1APN
— NFL (@NFL) February 27, 2022
Samuel carried the 49ers through the playoffs and all the way to the NFC Championship Game, where they fell to the eventual Super Bowl Champions.
With how receivers have gotten paid this offseason, it was widely speculated that Samuel, along with AJ Brown and Terry McLaurin, would seek new contracts as they enter the final year of their rookie deals.
As mentioned above, Samuel’s issues with San Francisco aren’t all centered around money. The All-Pro receiver hopes to be more of a traditional wideout with his next team. However, his versatility is what makes Samuel so valuable, so it’ll be interesting to see how teams will approach trade talks.
Read more: Howie Roseman doubles down on Jalen Hurts following trade with Saints >>
Where could Deebo be headed?
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Jets, Packers, Chiefs, and Lions are potential landing spots for Samuel. I expect all teams with a need at wide receiver — including Philadelphia — to inquire about Samuel’s services.
Sportsbook Promos
Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
