Deebo Samuel has been one of the most dynamic and productive offensive weapons in the NFL for a number of years and 2023 was no different, the wide receiver playing a key role as the San Francisco 49ers reached Super Bowl LVIII, where they lost to the Kansas City Chiefs.
The 28-year-old finished the most recent season with60 receptions for 892 receiving yards and seven receiving touchdowns, as well as rushing for 225 yards. His versatility and explosiveness in the wide receiver position saw him named to the All-Pro and Pro Bowl teams in 2021.
Samuel, who was drafted in the second round (36th overall) by the Niners in 2019, has quickly established himself as a fan favorite and a leader in the locker room. He previously formed a lethal duo with Trey Lance, who was drafted in the first round in 2021 before the quarterback was traded to the Cowboys.
Samuel initially signed a four-year contract with the San Francisco 49ers in July 2019 but in 2022 signed a three-year extension worth $71.55 million (up to $73.5 million with incentives), with $58.1 million guaranteed. That will keep him in California until 2025, until when he will earn an average salary of $23.85 million per year, making him one of the highest-paid receivers in the NFL.
The fact the South Carolina native signed an improved deal reflected, who kept their core players together to reach last season’s Super Bowl. They came up just short in their attempt to win a first championship since 1994.
Despite Samuel’s influence, there had been some speculation over his future in San Francisco, who selected two receivers in the 2024 NFL Draft. The Niners reportedly fielded trade offers for Deebo but nothing came of them, which suggests he will stay put for at least one more year.
