In 2019, the Seattle Seahawks selected wide receiver DK Metcalf with the No. 64 overall pick in the NFL Draft. However, if their original plan had worked out, Metcalf wouldn't have been the only rookie wideout headed to the Pacific Northwest that year.
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Seahawks had every intention of drafting Deebo Samuel as well—potentially altering the trajectory of the NFC West for years to come.
"The Seattle Seahawks intended to draft both receivers in the second round that year, and thought they had a deal in place to do it, league sources told ESPN on Saturday," Schefter reported.
"During the first round, the Seahawks traded pick No. 30 to the New York Giants for Nos. 37, 132 and 142 with the idea that -- the next night -- they would move back up from No. 37 to No. 35 to select Samuel."
Seattle believed they had secured a trade with the Raiders to acquire the No. 35 pick, but the Raiders instead struck a deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars. With their opportunity gone, the 49ers drafted Samuel at No. 36 overall.
"But the Seahawks' grand plan in the second round was to get Samuel near the top and Metcalf later," Schefter added. "They did wind up getting Metcalf when they traded up to the last pick in the round, No. 64 overall. Seattle traded third- and fourth-round picks to the New England Patriots for that selection."
In the six seasons since, both players have become cornerstones of their respective teams. Samuel has amassed 5,677 scrimmage yards and 40 total touchdowns, showcasing his versatility as a dual-threat weapon in the passing and running games.
Metcalf, meanwhile, has tallied 5,900 receiving yards and 46 touchdowns with Seattle, surpassing the 1,000-yard milestone three times in his career. He has missed the last two games due to a knee injury.
On Sunday afternoon, the 49ers and Seahawks will face off at Levi's Stadium in an NFC West showdown, with both stars playing pivotal roles in the clash.