A New Chapter for Deebo Samuel
Deebo Samuel, the dynamic and versatile wide receiver who has been a key player for the San Francisco 49ers since 2019, is set to begin a new chapter in his NFL career. The 49ers have agreed to trade Samuel to the Washington Commanders for a fifth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, a source confirmed to NBC Sports Bay Area’s Matt Maiocco on March 1, 2025. ESPN’s Adam Schefter was the first to report the news. While the trade cannot be officially completed until March 12, the start of the new league year, it marks the end of an era for the 49ers and the beginning of a new journey for Samuel.
Washington Commanders Embrace Deebo
The Washington Commanders are taking on the remainder of Samuel’s contract and will pay his full $17.55 million salary for the 2025 NFL season, according to Schefter’s sources. This significant investment underscores the Commanders’ belief in Samuel’s ability to transform their offense. Known for his dual threat as a receiver and a rusher, Samuel’s unique skill set is expected to provide the Commanders with a versatile weapon that can create mismatches and open up the field. The Commanders’ official confirmation of the trade on X, formerly Twitter, with an appropriate GIF, signals their excitement and readiness to welcome Samuel to the team.
Deebo’s Emotional Farewell
Shortly after the news broke, Samuel took to social media to express his deep gratitude and farewells to the 49ers. His emotional post highlighted the significance of his time in San Francisco, where he became not just a fan favorite but a crucial part of the team’s success. Selected in the second round (No. 36 overall) by the 49ers in 2019, Samuel quickly made an impact with his exceptional versatility, yards-after-catch ability, and bruising style of play. Over six seasons, he amassed 334 receptions for 4,792 receiving yards and 22 receiving touchdowns, while also contributing on the ground with 202 rushing attempts for 1,143 yards and 20 rushing touchdowns. Samuel’s contributions have been instrumental in elevating the 49ers’ offense to new heights and in their two near-Super Bowl runs.
The Trade Request
Samuel’s request for a trade was made during his exit interview shortly after the 2024 NFL season. Recognizing the mutual benefit of a fresh start, the 49ers gave Samuel and his agent, Tory Dandy, permission to seek a trade on February 9, 2025. This decision came as it became increasingly clear that the sides were headed towards a split this offseason. The 49ers’ offense already boasts several high-profile stars with significant contracts, including wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, tight end George Kittle, running back Christian McCaffrey, and potentially quarterback Brock Purdy. These financial commitments, coupled with the sizable contracts of numerous defensive stars, made Samuel a likely candidate for a salary cap adjustment.
Lynch’s Tribute to Deebo
John Lynch, the president of football operations and general manager of the 49ers, addressed Samuel’s trade request during the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. Lynch expressed a willingness to honor Samuel’s desire for a new beginning, stating, “He’s asked for a fresh start, and I think we’re going to honor that.” Despite the impending separation, Lynch emphasized the team’s deep appreciation for Samuel’s contributions, saying, “There would be nothing but love and gratitude for what he’s done for our organization.” Lynch’s words reflect the mutual respect and fondness that Samuel has earned during his time with the 49ers.
Moving Forward Without Deebo
As the 49ers prepare for the 2025 season, they must now adapt to life without Deebo Samuel, one of the cornerstone players who helped bring them close to Super Bowl glory twice. The trade will provide the 49ers with additional draft capital to bolster their roster in other areas. Despite the financial constraints, the team remains committed to fielding a competitive squad and will likely focus on reinforcing their offense through free agency and the draft. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the 49ers’ offense evolves in Samuel’s absence and whether the Commanders can fully harness his unique talents to elevate their own performance on the field.
