Deebo Samuel responds to Jimmy Garoppolo criticism, says his QB is ‘already elite’

Deebo Samuel was one of the most exciting receivers from last year's draft class because of the versatility that he showed on offense during his rookie campaign. And he's a little tired of the media criticizing his quarterback, Jimmy Garoppolo.

Samuel was watching ESPN's First Take debate whether or not Garoppolo is ready to become an elite quarterback. The receiver responded by posting on Instagram that Garoppolo is "already elite," and begged for media personalities, like First Take host Stephen A. Smith, to "stop playing," referring to the criticisms of the 49ers quarterback.

Said Smith during the First Take segment: "That defense, that running game, Travis Kelce (Note: he meant George Kittle), and Kyle Shanahan are people you think about before Jimmy G ever enters your head, and you're the quarterback for the team. Stop it. I mean, please. Is he ready to be a star? He's ready to look like a star because he's got stars around him."

Garoppolo had a spectacular regular season in 2019. In fact, it was one of the best single-season performances by a 49ers quarterback in franchise history, which is saying a lot when you consider some of the names that have played for the team. Garoppolo passed for 3,978 yards, the fourth-most in franchise history, 27 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions in 2019.

Garoppolo was underutilized in the postseason, though, and that has been the focus of the criticisms against him. Of course, a lot of that has to do with San Francisco's ability to dominate opponents with its punishing rushing attack.

Then you have the 49ers' fourth-quarter collapse in Super Bowl LIV, forcing Garoppolo to shoulder much of the offseason blame.

It would seem Samuel, one of the individuals catching passes from Garoppolo, believes the criticisms are unwarranted, and people should stop wondering if the 49ers quarterback will ever reach an elite status. Samuel believes Garoppolo is already there.