San Francisco 49ers Sign Deebo Samuel to $7M Deal Amid Pearsall Injury Concerns

Deebo Samuel is heading back to San Francisco. The former All-Pro wide receiver has agreed to a one-year, $7 million deal with the 49ers, according to SF Chronicle. The move comes after receiver Ricky Pearsall suffered a knee injury, leaving the team short-handed at the position.
Samuel spent six seasons with the 49ers from 2019 to 2024 before playing one year with the Washington Commanders. He returns to the Bay Area as San Francisco scrambles to rebuild its receiver room heading into the season.
Ricky Pearsall is dealing with swelling in his knee, and the team is weighing all options — including surgery, according to 49ers Web Zone. Pearsall was seen as a key piece of San Francisco's receiving corps this season. A surgical fix could sideline him for a significant stretch.
The injury to Pearsall wasn't the only blow. NY Post reported that receiver Christian Kirk also suffered an injury, further thinning the depth chart. Losing two receivers pushed the front office to act fast and bring back a familiar face.
Samuel joined the Commanders in 2024 after the 49ers moved on from him. He put up solid numbers — 72 catches, 727 yards, and five touchdowns. It was a respectable season, but Washington did not bring him back. That made him a free agent this offseason.
During his time in San Francisco, Samuel became one of the most dynamic receivers in the NFL. He earned All-Pro honors and was known for his ability to line up anywhere and run after the catch. The 49ers clearly believe he still has that juice at 29 years old.
The one-year, $7 million contract is a modest deal by NFL standards, according to Audacy. It gives San Francisco a proven veteran without a long-term commitment. If Samuel plays well, both sides benefit. If not, the team isn't locked in.
For Samuel, the deal gives him a chance to play in a familiar system with familiar faces. The 49ers run one of the most receiver-friendly offenses in the league. A strong year could set him up for a better deal in free agency next spring.
With Samuel back, the 49ers now have a veteran presence to anchor the position. The team had leaned on Pearsall to step into a bigger role this season. His potential absence makes Samuel's return even more critical to the offense's chances in 2025.
San Francisco's front office has shown it is willing to move quickly when injuries strike. Adding a 72-catch receiver in the offseason is a clear sign the team is not willing to let its passing game take a step back. The 49ers are betting on reunions to keep them competitive.
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