49ers Grant Deebo Samuel Permission to Seek Trade Amid Contract and Production Decline
The wide receiver, once a cornerstone of San Francisco's offense, is exploring trade options after expressing dissatisfaction with his role and production.
- Deebo Samuel requested a trade during his end-of-season meeting with head coach Kyle Shanahan, citing the need for a fresh start.
- The 49ers have granted Samuel and his agent, Tory Dandy, permission to find a trade partner ahead of his $15.4 million option bonus due on March 22.
- Samuel's production has declined since his All-Pro 2021 season, with career lows in receiving yards and touchdowns in 2024, partly due to injuries and reduced opportunities.
- San Francisco faces significant financial implications with a potential trade, including a $31.55 million dead cap hit if executed before June 1, though a post-June 1 trade would lessen the cap burden.
- Several teams, including the Commanders, Texans, and Steelers, are speculated to be potential trade destinations for Samuel, given his versatility as a receiver and runner.