As the 2024 NFL season winds down, many questions remain about the future of San Francisco 49ers’ star wide receiver, Deebo Samuel. Despite a challenging year both personally and for the team, Samuel remains steadfast in his commitment to the 49ers, offering a matter-of-fact answer regarding his return for the 2025 season.
When asked about the uncertainty surrounding his future with the 49ers, Samuel gave a short and direct response: “No, no questions at all.” His comments reflect his belief that his place with the team is secure, even as the 49ers have a potential opt-out clause in his contract for the 2025 season. Samuel’s answer speaks volumes about his confidence in staying with San Francisco despite a tumultuous year.
For Samuel, 2024 was a year filled with struggles. Despite his undeniable talent, his numbers took a significant dip. He caught 51 passes from 81 targets, amassing 670 yards and three touchdowns. Additionally, he carried the ball 42 times for 136 yards and one rushing touchdown. Compared to his breakout 2023 season, where he totaled 12 touchdowns, these figures were far below expectations. The 49ers, too, faced challenges on the field, which certainly contributed to the decline in Samuel’s production.
Samuel’s contract, which he signed in 2022, keeps him tied to the 49ers through the 2025 season. The three-year, $71.5 million extension followed a highly publicized holdout and gives the team an opt-out option. However, if the 49ers were to move on from Samuel, it would result in a substantial dead cap hit of over $31 million, making the decision less financially appealing.
Given the 49ers’ current salary cap and roster construction, it seems unlikely that they will part ways with Samuel anytime soon. His leadership and playmaking ability, coupled with the salary cap situation, make him an essential part of the team’s plans moving forward.
Looking ahead to the 2025 season, the 49ers are hoping for greater depth at the wide receiver position. Injuries to key players like Brandon Aiyuk and Ricky Pearsall in 2024 left the 49ers with fewer reliable options at the position. The team’s receiving corps for 2025 includes Samuel, Aiyuk, and the promising young talents of Jauan Jennings and Jacob Cowing, both of whom are under contract.
Given Aiyuk’s uncertain return timetable, Samuel’s presence on the roster becomes even more crucial. His versatility—able to contribute both as a wide receiver and as a running back—gives the 49ers a unique weapon that few other teams have. Keeping Samuel in the fold for 2025 ensures the 49ers will have a dynamic and reliable playmaker to complement their other offensive weapons.
Deebo Samuel’s matter-of-fact response regarding his future with the 49ers signals that the All-Pro wide receiver is committed to returning in 2025. Despite a down season and a contract that could allow the team to move on, the 49ers are likely to keep Samuel as part of their plans. With greater depth needed at the wide receiver position and a lack of certainty surrounding other key players, Samuel’s return provides much-needed stability for the team heading into the new season.
For 49ers fans, Samuel’s reaffirmation of his commitment should come as a welcome relief. As the team continues to chase another Super Bowl title, having a star like Samuel on the roster will be crucial to their success in the years to come.