Overview
- Samuel re-signed with the 49ers and returned to practice after passing a physical, a move reported on Saturday that reunited him with the coaching staff and teammates.
- General manager John Lynch said the team will use Samuel as a receiver, an occasional running back, and a kickoff returner, putting him into multiple game roles.
- The roster spot opened when rookie wide receiver Ricky Pearsall was placed on injured reserve and scheduled for PCL surgery, ending Pearsall’s 2026 season.
- The deal is short-term and incentive-heavy, reflecting a cooled market for veteran receivers and giving Samuel a low-risk chance to rebuild value in Kyle Shanahan’s offense.
- Samuel has prior experience as a rushing threat and kickoff returner and said there is no lingering bad blood with 49ers leadership, a factor that should ease his on-field reintegration and locker-room fit.