Overview
- Samuel, who injured his right hamstring and was ruled out during the 49ers’ Week 5 win in Seattle on Sunday, left after a handoff that produced a fumble and required immediate sideline evaluation.
- Coach Kyle Shanahan said Samuel will be out “at least a couple of weeks,” while NFL insiders have warned the recovery could stretch to several weeks pending Monday’s MRI.
- San Francisco plans short‑term roster moves rather than an immediate injured‑reserve placement and has already leaned on veterans like Brandin Cooks and Mike Evans plus possible practice‑squad elevations for Week 6.
- Samuel’s absence removes a versatile weapon who contributed as a receiver, rusher and primary kick returner, which will force the 49ers to adjust play calls and redistribute touches to Evans, Cooks and running back usage.
- The loss adds to an already depleted receiver group that includes players on IR and increases the value of the Week 8 bye as a timing option for recovery and roster management while the team monitors returns such as Nick Bosa and Kyle Juszczyk.