One prominent NFL analyst believes the San Francisco 49ers will trade Deebo Samuel, with the Chargers and Steelers being the most likely suitors.
There is a strong probability the San Francisco 49ers may trade Brandon Aiyuk or Deebo Samuel before the season starts. Shortly after the Super Bowl, Aiyuk and his inner circle hinted at a prospective trade, and the receiver did little to put out the rumors. While an extension may appease the former first-round pick, it could mean the end for Deebo Samuel. Samuel, a second-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, has already received a large payout, but San Francisco may face a difficult business decision. If they keep Aiyuk, Samuel is unlikely to stick around.
For what it’s worth, the 49ers appear to be coping with this reality. The team chose Ricky Pearsall in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, added another wide receiver later in the draft, and extended veteran pass-catcher Jauan Jennings. With just so many roster spaces available, San Francisco may part ways with one of its top players, and Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer feels Deebo Samuel is the most likely trade candidate.
49ers Likely To Take Calls For Deebo Samuel Trade
Breer’s argument for trading Deebo Samuel is based on his relatively redundant skill set with Christian McCaffrey. While Aiyuk is more of a classic WR1, Samuel is most dangerous when used across the field and out of the backfield. The same is true for McCaffrey, the All-Pro running back who works effectively between the tackles and executes routes like a receiver. Additionally, the 49ers must pay Brock Purdy sooner or later, and selling Samuel would free up $22 million in salary space.
Even if the 49ers sell Deebo Samuel, they will still have one of the league’s most talented pass-catching corps. Brandon Aiyuk is one of the game’s top young players, George Kittle is one of the best all-around tight ends, and Christian McCaffrey can’t be praised enough. This doesn’t even account for the potential of first-round pick Ricky Pearsall, so the 49ers are stacked with pass-catching skill in a league where there aren’t enough consistent receivers to match demand.
The Two Best Fits
Breer never indicates which clubs might be interested in a Deebo Samuel trade, but the Los Angeles Chargers and Pittsburgh Steelers seem the most likely. Los Angeles possesses the league’s lowest group of pass-catching talent by a wide margin. Ladd McConkey, a second-round choice, has the potential to become a consistent player, but he is far from a lock. Samuel would undoubtedly be the top receiver on this team, but he could also be the best rushing back. This is another selling factor for a creative offensive mind like Jim Harbaugh, who wants to run the ball as much as he possibly can.
Meanwhile, the Steelers have George Pickens, a fantastic young receiver, but not much else. Russell Wilson will be an upgrade over Kenny Pickett, but the current version of the quarterback requires more assistance to lead this club to a deep postseason run. Say what you will about offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, but his success with Cordarrelle Patterson demonstrates that he knows how to get the most out of hybrid players. If the Steelers trade for Deebo Samuel, expect similar use this season.
