If any receiver epitomizes the mentality that Kyle Shanahan is looking for from the wide receiver position better than Samuel, show him to me. I don't believe he exists. When the ball is in his hands, Samuel turns from wide receiver to running back and brings a punishing running style that eludes 1 tackler and puts a beating on the next. The 49ers' top two targets towards the end of the season shared this common trait, both Deebo Samuel and George Kittle played with a toughness that cannot be found on paper. No statistic can accurately describe what Samuel brings to the 49ers offense.
To understand Samuel's ascension look no further than to his descending team mate, Dante Pettis. Both wide receivers were selected in the 2nd round, Pettis in 2018 and Samuel in 2019. Head Coach Kyle Shanahan played wide receiver in college, so his connection to this position is stronger than any other on the field. These were the 2 highest drafted receivers during his tenure as 49ers coach. In Super Bowl 54, Samuel was featured prominently, setting a Super Bowl record for rushing yards from a wide receiver. Pettis on the other hand, was wearing a t-shirt and sweat pants. While Pettis is talented, he doesn't possess the heart of Deebo Samuel. A heart to fight for every yard, battle for every contested pass, take on blocks in the run game and impose his will on the opposing defense. Samuel is Anquon Boldin mixed with Jerry Rice. A bruiser who can run straight past you in a flash. What a find.
2019 Performance
Rookie wide receivers usually struggle to put up big numbers on the stat sheet. While the transition from college to the pros can be difficult, this wasn't the case for Deebo Samuel. During the regular season Samuel recorded 57 receptions for 802 yards and 3 receiving TDs while rushing for 159 yards and 3 rushing TDs. His production continued into the post-season, where in 3 games Samuel racked up 10 catches for 157 yards while rushing for 102 yards. Pro Football Focus graded Samuel out at a 74.5. Other players with a similar rating were Minnesota WR Adam Thielen (76.0), LAR WR Cooper Kupp (74.4) and Atlanta WR Calvin Ridley (74.9).
2020 Cost
Samuel is only in the 2nd year of his rookie deal. Therefore, his contract is a blessing. As a 2nd round pick, Samuel is scheduled to cost the 49ers a cap hit of $1.7 million in 2020. Quite the deal.
Future Outlook
If Samuel can continue on his current trajectory, expect him to be a 49er for a very long time. His game is the perfect match for the 49ers offensive scheme and their physical mentality. Samuel becomes a free agent in 2023, so the 49ers have 3 more years to enjoy the production of this rising star at the bargain bin cost. Samuel has what it takes to be the best 49ers WR since Terrell Owens. 49ers fans, get your popcorn ready.
- Gilbert Brink
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Written by:49ers outsider, residing in the Hudson Valley, representing 30+ years of the 49ers experience
