Deebo Samuel has been one of the most versatile weapons in the NFL in recent years. But he is headed for perhaps the least-productive season of his career in 2024, and his future status with the team is very much up in the air.
It appears that the dynamic wide receiver is becoming increasingly frustrated.
Deebo Saumel Tweets His Frustrations
Back in Week 10 in the 49ers’ game against the Buccaneers, Samuel got into a verbal and physical confrontation with some of the team’s specialists. After three missed field goals by Jake Moody, the kicker was confronted by Samuel on the sideline. Long-snapper Taybor Pepper stepped in in defense, and ended up with Deebo’s hand around his neck.
San Francisco wound up winning that game, and head coach Kyle Shanahan ensured that there was no bad blood between Samuel and Pepper. But the 49ers have lost 3 of 4 games since, and Deebo Samuel hasn’t had more than 22 yards receiving in any of them. He hasn’t been getting his usual touches in the running game, either, with just 6 attempts in the last four games (5 of those came against the Bears). His snap count is down slightly (71%), and is the lowest mark since his rookie year.
Despite a streak-snapping win this past Sunday, Samuel has continued to show his displeasure. On Monday evening, he shot off a tweet ensuring the world that he was not struggling, but instead is not getting the ball enough to be productive. The post was met with mixed feelings, with some wondering if he was calling out his quarterback. A follow-up tweet said that he was in fact not “hating on any of my teammates”.
Not struggling at all just not getting the ball!!!!!!! 🤷🏾♂️
— Deebo (@19problemz) December 9, 2024
Samuel’s claims to a lack of usage don’t hold up well. He has 40 targets so far this year, which is on pace for 53. That would be just 7 fewer than last season, and he is already just 5 rushing attempts shy of his total from 2023. The problems instead appear to be his success rate (39% down from 56%) and catch percentage (2nd lowest of his career).
Frustrated or not, it is possible that Deebo Samuel is playing his final games in a 49ers uniform. The team will have some tough payroll decisions during the coming off-season, and his contract may be one that they will look to rid themselves of. He is owed nearly $16 million for 2025, but can save themselves over $5 million if they cut or trade him after June 1st.
