Deebo Samuel has officially been granted permission by the San Francisco 49ers to seek a trade ahead of the 2025 season, signaling the end of his six-year tenure with the team.
Entering the final year of his three-year, $71.55 million contract, Samuel carries a manageable $15.87 million cap hit, making him an attractive short-term option for teams in need of an offensive playmaker.
While his production dipped in 2024—posting just 670 receiving yards and four total touchdowns—his versatility as a receiver and runner remains valuable. “It was a hard conversation to have with Kyle [Shanahan] because of the relationship that we have,” Samuel told ESPN. “But I have to do what’s best.”
With multiple teams looking to upgrade their receiving corps, he should draw plenty of interest.
The 49ers have granted Deebo Samuel and his agent Tory Dandy permission to find a trade partner for the wide receiver, Samuel told ESPN. This comes after Samuel asked San Francisco to trade him during the players’ exit meetings after the season.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 9, 2025
“It was a hard conversation to… pic.twitter.com/uuEsxgFHIJ
Several contenders are expected to make a push for Samuel.
The Los Angeles Chargers need reinforcements for Justin Herbert, especially after Quentin Johnston's struggles, and Jim Harbaugh’s run-heavy scheme could maximize Samuel’s skill set.
The Pittsburgh Steelers, who previously pursued Brandon Aiyuk, could now pivot to Samuel to complement George Pickens in Arthur Smith’s offense.
The New England Patriots, armed with the most cap space in the league, could add Samuel to help second-year quarterback Drake Maye develop.
The Washington Commanders, fresh off Jayden Daniels' Offensive Rookie of the Year campaign, need another reliable target alongside Terry McLaurin and have the cap flexibility to absorb Samuel’s contract.
The Denver Broncos, with Bo Nix coming off a surprise postseason run, are also searching for a proven playmaker to pair with Courtland Sutton.
This was the turning point for Deebo Samuel this year. His approach with the media was different after this, especially coming off his not enough touches tweet.
— Matt Lively (@mattblively) February 9, 2025
Fans booed him after this drop and I’m sure he heard it loud and clear. pic.twitter.com/ME3Va6Ov3X
Other potential destinations include the Buffalo Bills, who are always searching for more firepower for Josh Allen, and the Las Vegas Raiders, where Samuel could team up with Brock Bowers in a revamped passing attack.
The Dallas Cowboys need another receiving threat alongside CeeDee Lamb after struggling in the postseason.
If Stefon Diggs leaves in free agency, the Houston Texans could also be a fit, giving C.J. Stroud another elite option.
Photo Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images
