49ers Face Financial and Strategic Dilemma Over Deebo Samuel's Future

The team must decide between trading or releasing the star receiver, as financial constraints and declining performance complicate the situation.

Deebo Samuel has requested a trade, but the 49ers have given him permission to explore options with other teams, signaling a likely end to his tenure in San Francisco.
Financial implications make trading Samuel challenging, with a potential $31.55 million dead cap hit in 2025 if traded before March 22, rising to $47 million after his option bonus is due.
A post-June 1 release is considered the most financially viable option, spreading the cap hit across 2025 and 2026 while saving the team approximately $5 million this year.
Declining production, including a drop to 806 scrimmage yards and four touchdowns in 2024, and concerns over injuries have diminished Samuel's trade value, with potential compensation unlikely to exceed a Day 3 draft pick.
Tensions over his role in the offense, the emergence of Brandon Aiyuk as the primary receiver, and a strained relationship with fans have contributed to Samuel's desire for a fresh start.