Later, it was reported that Samuel had requested a trade and cut off contract extension talks, which launched a barrage of speculation from the media surrounding what went south between the player and the 49ers.
Even after not being traded during the draft, a report emerged that Samuel remained intent on playing elsewhere.
This latest move seems to give fans some hope that maybe not all is lost with the fan-favorite player. Perhaps the relationship can be salvaged.
"We're trying really hard with Deebo to work through whatever the issues might be," general manager John Lynch told KNBR this week, without revealing the obstacles in keeping Samuel. "I always have really believed that there is a sacredness to those conversations and that they remain private, especially with things like this. I think it's in everyone's best interest we don't get into that.
"I don't think [the obstacles] are insurmountable. I think we can find a way to resolution, and we're hopeful for that because we know what he's been to this organization. Thirty-sixth pick in 2019, and he's been so good on and off the field. Obviously, a tremendous player. ... He makes us better. I think we make him better. And we're hopeful that we get everything right and that we're rolling forward."
Samuel contributed 1,770 all-purpose yards and 14 total touchdowns for the 49ers in 2021 and appears on a path to becoming one of the highest-paid receivers in the NFL. While the 49ers did receive trade offers for the receiver, his contributions on offense are too valuable with which to part.
Lynch was asked if he believed Samuel would remain on the roster in 2022.
"It's a yes for me, and that's our job," the GM responded. "He's too good of a player. We've got too good of a thing going, and we want to keep that going. That's where I'll leave that."
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