It sounds like San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel will be back in action sooner than expected.
NFL Insider Jordan Schultz reported Saturday evening that Samuel is planning to play against the New England Patriots on Sunday.
Samuel strained his calf late in the 49ers’ Week 2 loss to the Minnesota Vikings. He was quickly ruled out for Week 3, and head coach Kyle Shanahan initially indicated the wide receiver would miss a couple weeks.
It was a small surprise that Samuel returned to practice Thursday ahead of Week 4. He practiced again Friday and was officially listed as questionable.
Samuel’s return could be bad news for wide receiver Jauan Jennings who saw a career-high 60 snaps in Week 3 with Samuel sidelined. Jennings also hauled in 11 receptions for 175 yards and three touchdowns. His role was already going to dip some with tight end George Kittle back from a hamstring injury, but Samuel’s return leaves Jennings without a starting role.
Whether Samuel has a full workload Sunday remains to be seen. In two games he racked up 23 touches thanks to 13 receptions and 10 rushing attempts. That total ranks fifth among wide receivers through three weeks despite the fact Samuel has played in only two games. It stands to reason a player coming back from a calf injury may see a small reduction in snaps and touches.
Samuel is vital to the 49ers’ offense though thanks to his run-after-catch ability and positional versatility. Even if his role is reduced some in Week 4, just having him back at all will be a huge help for San Francisco.
