Deebo Samuel is returning to the San Francisco 49ers for a second stint after starting wide receiver Ricky Pearsall was sidelined by a knee injury. Samuel has agreed to a one-year contract worth up to $7 million, according to a person familiar with the deal who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the agreement had not yet been announced.
NFL Network first reported the agreement. Samuel’s return gives San Francisco an experienced receiving option as the team deals with uncertainty surrounding Pearsall’s availability.
Deebo Samuel returns after one season with Washington
Samuel spent his first six NFL seasons with the 49ers after San Francisco selected him in the second round of the 2019 draft. During that first stint, he helped the team reach the Super Bowl twice and earned All-Pro recognition in 2021.
That 2021 season was particularly productive for Samuel, who finished with 1,770 yards from scrimmage and 14 touchdowns.
The 49ers traded Samuel to Washington in 2025 in exchange for a fifth-round draft pick. He played one season for the Commanders, recording 72 receptions for 727 yards and five touchdowns.
Samuel became a free agent in March before agreeing to return to San Francisco.
Samuel brings strong production after the catch
Samuel has built a reputation as one of the NFL’s most dynamic players with the ball in his hands. Over his career, he has recorded 406 receptions for 5,519 yards and 27 touchdowns.
His effectiveness after the catch stands out among NFL receivers. Since 2019, Samuel’s average of 8.7 yards after the catch per reception ranks first among receivers with at least 100 catches during that period.
He has also contributed as a runner, accumulating 1,218 rushing yards and 21 rushing touchdowns across 97 career games.
Ricky Pearsall knee injury creates need at receiver
Samuel’s return comes one day after the 49ers announced that Pearsall was sidelined because of a knee injury that could require surgery.
The team said Pearsall had swelling in his right knee associated with the posterior cruciate ligament injury that caused him to miss eight games during the 2025 regular season. The 49ers were evaluating their options after Pearsall took part in only two training camp practices.
The latest issue adds to concerns over Pearsall’s availability. Since being selected in the first round of the 2024 draft, he has shown flashes when healthy but has had difficulty staying on the field.
Pearsall has faced injuries since entering NFL
Pearsall missed much of his rookie training camp because of a shoulder injury. He was then shot during a robbery attempt shortly before the start of the 2024 season.
He eventually returned and caught 31 passes for 400 yards and three touchdowns in 11 games.
With Pearsall’s knee injury creating uncertainty ahead of the season, the 49ers are bringing back a familiar player in Samuel. His previous production, versatility and experience with the organisation give San Francisco another established option at wide receiver.
Source: AP News
