The San Francisco 49ers took a major step in reshaping their roster this offseason by trading wide receiver Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders. General manager John Lynch made the move as part of his broader effort to create a younger, more cost-effective team. While strategic, the trade marked a significant shift for the 49ers’ offense and proved especially difficult for longtime teammates like George Kittle, who viewed Samuel’s departure as a tough goodbye.
Deebo Samuel’s exit from San Francisco seemed bound to happen after repeated injuries and a noticeable drop in output following his standout 2021 campaign with 1,405 receiving yards. While his versatility as both a receiver and ball-carrier still held value in Kyle Shanahan’s offense, his impact had waned.
Facing growing salary cap challenges tied to major deals—like George Kittle’s four-year, $76 million extension—the 49ers chose to part ways. Lynch finalized the trade with Washington, making the decision official just ahead of free agency.
George Kittle and Deebo Samuel
Speaking on the Bussin’ With The Boys podcast, George Kittle opened up about Deebo Samuel’s departure, sharing mixed emotions about the move. While he expressed sadness over losing a close teammate, Kittle emphasized that he supports Samuel’s decision to seek a new opportunity.
“Guys need a fresh start sometimes, and he wanted a fresh start, and so, I’m very happy for him. I’m sad that I don’t have him on my team anymore because I just loved having him around the locker room and stuff like that. But I’m happy for him,” said Kittle.
Samuel’s arrival comes at a key moment for the Commanders. After a strong 2024 campaign that ended in the NFC Championship Game, Washington is counting on him to energize their offense. With Jayden Daniels, the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year, returning at quarterback and Terry McLaurin firmly established as the top receiving threat, Samuel is set to play a vital supporting role that could help push the offense to another level.
The 29-year-old’s flexibility to play as both a receiver and running back provides Washington with a valuable weapon capable of enhancing their offensive approach. His talent for converting short throws into significant yardage is something Jayden Daniels has already imagined becoming a central part of their game plan.
Although the 49ers and Commanders won’t meet during the regular season, a possible playoff matchup could bring Samuel back face-to-face with his old teammates—only this time, they’d be competing as opponents with a postseason berth at stake.
