The market hasn't moved as quickly as Deebo Samuel likely expected. The former Washington Commanders wide receiver remains available, waiting to see if an NFL team comes calling.
San Francisco's wide receiver room has undergone significant changes this offseason. Gone are Kendrick Bourne and Skyy Moore, while Brandon Aiyuk and Jauan Jennings are both unlikely to return.
The 49ers have added veterans Mike Evans and Christian Kirk and are expected to target a playmaking wideout in the 2026 NFL Draft. Yet, former 49ers defensive back Richard Sherman believes the team should consider reuniting with Samuel.
"It all leads back home for these guys because that's where he's had his greatest success," Sherman said on his podcast. "He had an All-Pro season in San Francisco because [head coach] Kyle [Shanahan] uses him in very unique ways that really, really showcase his abilities in really cool fashions. And, again, with Mike Evans in the fold, he takes so much pressure off everyone else."
Some of these FREE AGENT moves could make A LOT of sense for The @49ers #49ers #DeeboSamuels #TyreekHill pic.twitter.com/UCQIQqXZMq
— Richard Sherman Podcast (@RShermanPodcast) March 26, 2026
Samuel played just one season with Washington following a trade from the 49ers, recording 72 catches for 727 yards and five receiving touchdowns, along with one rushing score. While solid numbers, Samuel hasn't come close to matching his breakout 2021 campaign in San Francisco, when he posted 1,770 scrimmage yards and 14 total touchdowns.
"Maybe it's not even in the cards, or interest, [GM] John Lynch and the San Francisco 49ers—or anybody—and I'm just throwing stuff against the wall," Sherman added.
At 30 years old, Samuel is no longer in his prime, but Sherman believes he still has plenty to offer an NFL team. He wonders if Shanahan could once again maximize the wideout's skills.
"If Deebo Samuel is motivated, he can make a lot of plays, and he can make the offense even more explosive, in my personal opinion," Sherman concluded.
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