On Tuesday night, NFL insider Tony Pauline of Pro Football Network said rumors were swirling that the San Francisco 49ers have given Deebo Samuel's camp permission to seek a trade. Of course, he acknowledged that they were just rumors. This information came a day after general manager John Lynch said he "can't ever imagine wanting to move on" from the team's do-it-all wide receiver.
Then Pauline reported that the New York Jets, considered the front-runners to acquire Samuel, are putting together a trade package they hope the 49ers won't be able to refuse.
This offseason took an unexpected turn. Most felt that contract extensions for both Samuel and Nick Bosa would eventually get done. While the latter is still likely, the former has reportedly halted discussions with the 49ers and wants out of the Bay Area.
Former NFL executive turned NFL insider Michael Lombardi joined 95.7 The Game on Wednesday morning and shared what he's hearing about the Samuel situation.
"They're asking for two number ones," Lombardi said on The Morning Roast. "If they're asking for two number ones, that means you've got to give them two number ones, and then you've got to pay him 22, 23, 24 million [dollars] a year."
That's a lot to give up. Of course, Samuel brings a lot to an NFL offense. He amassed 1,770 all-purpose yards and 14 total touchdowns, even throwing a touchdown pass.
Most believe that if Samuel isn't dealt before or during the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft, which kicks off on Thursday night, he is unlikely to be traded.
You can listen to the entire conversation with Lombardi below.