49ers Bring Back Deebo Samuel on One-Year Deal as Receiver Injuries Mount
The San Francisco 49ers are turning to a familiar playmaker after agreeing to bring back veteran wide receiver Deebo Samuel on a one-year contract reportedly worth up to $7 million. The move comes as the team faces growing uncertainty at the wide receiver position during training camp.
Samuel, one of the most versatile offensive weapons in franchise history, returns to the Bay Area after spending the 2025 season with the Washington Commanders. His reunion with San Francisco provides immediate experience and flexibility at a time when the 49ers are dealing with multiple injuries.
Why the 49ers Re-Signed Deebo Samuel
The biggest concern for San Francisco is the health of Ricky Pearsall, who is dealing with swelling in the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) of his right knee. While the team continues evaluating treatment options, there is concern that Pearsall could miss significant time if surgery becomes necessary.
Adding to the problem, veteran receiver Christian Kirk has been sidelined by a calf strain during training camp.
Rather than relying solely on inexperienced receivers, the 49ers opted to bring back a proven playmaker who already understands head coach Kyle Shanahan's offensive system.
A Familiar Star Returns
The 49ers selected Samuel in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft, and he quickly developed into one of the NFL's most unique offensive threats.
His ability to line up both as a receiver and running back earned him the nickname "wide back."
Samuel's breakout came in 2021 when he produced one of the most dynamic seasons by any offensive player:
- Over 1,700 total yards from scrimmage
- 12 total touchdowns
- First-Team All-Pro honors
- Pro Bowl selection
- Helped lead San Francisco to the NFC Championship Game
Although he was traded to Washington before the 2025 season, he remained productive.
2025 Season with Washington
Samuel finished last season with:
- 72 receptions
- 727 receiving yards
- 5 receiving touchdowns
- 17 rushing attempts
- 75 rushing yards
- 1 rushing touchdown
His versatility should once again become a valuable asset for the 49ers.
What Samuel's Return Means
San Francisco now has an experienced offensive weapon capable of contributing immediately alongside veteran receiver Mike Evans.
The return also eases pressure on younger receivers including:
- De'Zhaun Stribling
- Jordan Watkins
- Jacob Cowing
Samuel's familiarity with Shanahan's offense should allow him to transition quickly without requiring a lengthy adjustment period.
If Pearsall misses significant time, Samuel could become a major part of the offensive game plan from Week 1.
Saints Reward Chris Olave with Massive Extension
Meanwhile, the New Orleans Saints made one of the biggest financial commitments of the offseason by signing star wide receiver Chris Olave to a four-year extension worth up to $132 million, including $90 million guaranteed.
The agreement keeps Olave under contract through the 2030 season, making him one of the highest-paid receivers in franchise history.
Negotiations between both sides had continued for nearly a year before reaching an agreement just as training camp intensified.
Olave Becomes the Face of the Saints' Passing Attack
Since entering the league as a first-round selection in 2022, Olave has steadily developed into one of the NFL's most reliable young receivers.
Despite battling injuries earlier in his career, he delivered a breakout 2025 campaign.
Chris Olave's 2025 Statistics
- 100 receptions
- 1,163 receiving yards
- 9 touchdowns
- Played 16 games
His performance confirmed his status as the cornerstone of New Orleans' passing offense.
Health Was Part of Contract Discussions
Olave's journey hasn't been without challenges.
Over the past two seasons, he has dealt with multiple concussions and later battled a blood clot that required treatment with blood thinners.
According to the Saints, Olave has now been fully cleared for football activities and has participated throughout offseason workouts.
The organization has repeatedly expressed confidence in both his health and long-term future, making the extension a significant vote of confidence.
Looking Ahead
Both NFC teams made important moves for different reasons.
For San Francisco, bringing back Deebo Samuel provides immediate stability while injuries threaten the receiving corps. His experience, versatility, and knowledge of the offensive system could prove invaluable during the upcoming season.
For New Orleans, locking up Chris Olave ensures the franchise has a true No. 1 receiver entering the next phase of its rebuild. With his long-term future secured, the Saints can continue building their offense around one of the league's emerging stars.
As the 2026 NFL season approaches, both transactions could have a significant impact on the NFC playoff race.
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