The San Francisco 49ers' decision to reunite with wide receiver Deebo Samuel on a one-year deal makes sense. There is plenty of familiarity between Samuel and the organization, allowing him to quickly get back up to speed with his teammates during training camp.

However, offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak acknowledged that Samuel still has some extra work to do as he catches up on what he missed last season. Samuel requested a trade in 2025, resulting in a one-year stint with the Washington Commanders.


After Monday's practice, Kubiak was asked about the plan for Samuel heading into the 2026 season and what the veteran receiver's workload might look like.

"I mean, Deebo's in great shape, first of all," Kubiak said. "He looks really good to me in terms of where his body's at. He can run all day. So no issues there, and Deebo still looks like Deebo to me. I mean, when he has the ball in his hand, there's nobody more explosive, more dynamic on the field.

"In terms of managing his load, Deebo's got to be able to affect the game in a lot of ways. And that's our plan with him, and being out a year, there's things he's still catching up on in the offense a little bit. But we're going to keep getting him the reps he needs and getting him ready to play a multitude of spots, and being a versatile player."

There are several playing-time and production incentives attached to Samuel's one-year contract. One particularly interesting bonus is tied to kick returns. In fact, general manager John Lynch said Samuel has committed to contributing as a returner on special teams.

Right guard Dominick Puni, who was two lockers down from Samuel during the offensive lineman's rookie 2024 season, is excited to have his former teammate's energy back in the building.


"It's the same in the locker room, it's the same on Sundays," Puni said. "He's just Deebo. He came back in the locker room, and he just started yelling everybody's name. It was just good to see him, good to have him back ... I missed his energy in the locker room, and it's good to have him back."

Samuel has enjoyed a solid training camp since returning to the 49ers, and there is growing optimism inside the building that he could return to form in 2026.

"I just feel really good about where he's at physically, and he's out there every day working and getting better," Kubiak added. "So it's all we can ask for."

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