The move comes after wide receiver Ricky Pearsall experienced swelling in his knee related to the PCL injury that limited him last season. There is growing concern that Pearsall could require surgery, potentially jeopardizing his availability for the 2026 campaign.
The 49ers probably would not be bringing in Samuel if they were confident that Pearsall would return soon. Additionally, veteran wide receiver Christian Kirk is also dealing with an injury, as he recovers from a calf strain.
Samuel spent last season with the Washington Commanders after being traded by the 49ers. He finished the year with 72 receptions for 727 yards and five receiving touchdowns while adding 17 carries for 75 rushing yards and one rushing score. While solid numbers, Samuel hasn't come close to approaching the production of his breakout 2021 season in San Francisco, when he totaled 1,770 scrimmage yards and 14 touchdowns.
After news broke of his return, Samuel shared the following post on Instagram, suggesting that he might be planning to wear No. 19 again with the 49ers. He last wore No. 1 with San Francisco, which is currently owned by Pearsall.
Since the 49ers selected Samuel in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft, he has recorded 406 career receptions for 5,519 receiving yards and 27 receiving touchdowns. Now 30, San Francisco hopes the veteran can provide a spark for a revamped receiving corps that also added longtime Tampa Bay Buccaneers star Mike Evans in free agency and selected De'Zhaun Stribling with the No. 33 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Evans and Stribling have both impressed during training camp, and Samuel's presence gives the 49ers another proven playmaker while providing depth and veteran experience to a receiving corps that has suddenly been hit hard by injuries.
Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area recently stated that he believed Samuel may have been hoping for another opportunity to return to Santa Clara after realizing that his time with Washington was over.
"I do think Deebo had an interest in returning to the 49ers and was maybe even a little miffed that the 49ers so quickly signed Mike Evans as a free agent," Maiocco said.
If Samuel can stay healthy, the reunion could prove beneficial for quarterback Brock Purdy and the 49ers' offense during the 2026 season.
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