The San Francisco 49ers and wide receiver Deebo Samuel appear to be on a collision course, with reports indicating the team is open to exploring trade options for the dynamic playmaker. While Samuel’s unique skillset would undoubtedly garner significant interest from multiple teams, the specific contours of a potential deal remain uncertain.
Among the potential suitors, the Los Angeles Chargers have emerged as a logical landing spot. Former NFL General Manager Mike Tannenbaum, during a recent appearance on “Get Up,” suggested an LA-SF trade as a plausible scenario.
Is Deebo Samuel The Right WR For Los Angeles Chargers?
“Chargers trade for Deebo Samuel right down the California highway,” Mike Tannenbaum said. “When you look at where LA is, they hit on Ladd McConkey, Quentin Johnston really hasn’t worked out. You go back a year ago, they moved on from Keenan Allen, Mike Williams. If Justin Herbert‘s going to get to where he can go, which I think is a superstar, they need someone like Deebo Samuel who can run after catch and be more productive in this passing game.”
Samuel’s discontent with the 49ers culminated in a formal trade request during the team’s exit interviews. This decision followed a season marked by escalating tensions between Samuel and the organization.
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Samuel’s production dipped significantly in 2024, with 51 receptions for 670 yards and three touchdowns – his lowest totals since a seven-game season in 2020. This decline coincided with a now-deleted tweet where Samuel acknowledged that he was not “struggling,” but rather, “just not getting the ball.”
Samuel is now 29 years old, he has spent his entire career with the 49ers, including being named a First-Team All-Pro selection in 2021. He will be under contract for a $15.8 million cap hit in 2025.