Wide receiver Deebo Samuel, in his third season with the San Francisco 49ers, is becoming a bonafide NFL star. The team can consider locking up their second-round pick in 2019 to a long-term deal starting this offseason.
While the 49ers are focused on Saturday night's playoff bout with the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field, one NFL insider discussed the possibility of a 49ers-Samuel contract negotiation starting once their playoff run is over.
"Deebo Samuel has emerged as one of the top weapons in the NFL," Ian Rapoport said Saturday on NFL Network, "and it sounds like he's about to get paid like one. Here's why. The San Francisco 49ers are among the most proactive teams when it comes to contract extensions.
"Deebo Samuel [is] heading into the final year of his [rookie] deal and has emerged as the go-to guy for the team, likely their MVP. [He's] third in the NFL in all-purpose yards for a receiver, which is just crazy."
From @NFLGameDay: #49ers WR Deebo Samuel is a top contractual priority for SF this offseason. pic.twitter.com/6vGOjIDqMx
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 22, 2022
Samuel is the 49ers' leading receiver, catching 77 passes for 1,405 yards and six touchdowns through 16 games this season. He also carried the football 59 times for 365 rushing yards and a team-leading eight rushing touchdowns.
Samuel added 10 carries for 72 rushing yards, a rushing touchdown, and three catches for 38 receiving yards in the 49ers' 23-17 playoff win against the Dallas Cowboys last weekend.
"I'm told both sides are interested in looking at a potential blockbuster deal this offseason," Rapoport continued. "There is motivation to do it because his price is only getting higher. He's a receiver who can also play running back. No doubt he's going to want to get paid like a receiver. The key question here: Does this reach $20 million per year?"