The San Francisco 49ers are gearing up for another potential championship run, and they might just be adding a familiar face to their wide receiver corps. Deebo Samuel, a former star for the 49ers, is back on the market after his one-year stint with the Washington Commanders. With his contract expired, Samuel is now a free agent, and some of his former teammates are speaking out about a potential reunion.
Samuel, 30, had a solid season with the Commanders in 2025, catching 72 passes for 727 yards and five touchdowns. While his average depth of target was relatively low at 5.2 yards per target, he still managed to have some impressive performances, especially early in the season. His ability to make big plays and his versatility as a receiver make him an attractive option for the 49ers.
The 49ers have already made some significant moves at wide receiver this offseason, signing Mike Evans and Christian Kirk, and drafting De'Zhaun Stribling. However, Samuel could provide a unique set of skills that the team might be missing. He is a proven playmaker who can stretch the defense and create opportunities for his teammates. Additionally, his familiarity with the 49ers' system and culture could be a significant advantage.
What makes this scenario particularly intriguing is the potential for a cost-effective solution. Samuel is a low-risk, high-reward option, especially considering his age and the fact that he is still relatively young for a wide receiver. The 49ers have expressed a desire to get younger and cheaper, and Samuel fits that bill perfectly. He can provide depth and reliability without breaking the bank.
The comments from George Kittle and Kyle Juszczyk on Samuel's Instagram post further fuel the speculation. Their welcoming messages and references to guest houses suggest a strong desire to have Samuel back in the Bay Area. The 49ers' front office might be considering this option, especially with the team's recent additions of veterans like Evans and Kirk.
However, it's essential to consider the broader implications. Samuel might be seeking a more prominent role and more playing time, which could be challenging to find in San Francisco with the current depth at wide receiver. The Commanders, for instance, are in a similar situation, with no proven options behind Terry McLaurin. This could be a factor in Samuel's decision-making process.
In my opinion, the 49ers should strongly consider bringing Samuel back. He brings a unique skill set and a winning mentality to the team. While the wide receiver position is deep, Samuel's ability to create big plays and his chemistry with the quarterback cannot be overlooked. The team's desire to maximize their championship window might just be fulfilled with a familiar face returning to the fold.
