sfgate
In a move that reunites one of the franchise's most dynamic offensive weapons with his former squad, Deebo Samuel is set to return to the San Francisco 49ers on a one-year agreement. The deal, which can reach a maximum value of $7 million, brings Samuel back to the red and gold for the 2026 campaign, according to multiple reports. NFL Network's Ian Rapoport was the first to break the news, and Samuel himself confirmed it via an Instagram post, exclaiming that he's "Baxxkkkkk" with the Niners.
The timing of the announcement is significant, coming just one day after the 49ers revealed that Ricky Pearsall, their 2024 first-round draft pick, is experiencing swelling in his knee—a complication stemming from a PCL injury sustained last year. The team is currently evaluating treatment options, and insider Matt Maiocco suggested on KNBR Thursday that Pearsall might miss the entire season. This development likely prompted the front office to act swiftly, bringing Samuel back to fill the void.
Samuel's return marks a homecoming of sorts, as he spent the 2025 season with the Washington Commanders after being traded for a fifth-round pick. In his lone year in the nation's capital, Samuel showcased his versatility, hauling in 72 receptions for 727 yards and scoring six total touchdowns—five through the air and one on the ground. His previous tenure with San Francisco was nothing short of spectacular, as he helped the team reach two Super Bowls and four NFC Championship games, earning first-team All-Pro honors in 2021 with 1,770 total yards and 12 touchdowns.
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However, Samuel's final season with the 49ers in 2024 was rocky, marked by career lows in receiving yards per game and yards per touch, along with just four touchdowns—his fewest since an injury-plagued 2020. Off-field incidents, including a sideline altercation with long snapper Taybor Pepper, social media complaints about his usage, and a critical dropped pass against the Rams, added to the drama. Yet, those issues appear to be water under the bridge now, as several 49ers stars publicly welcomed him back on social media.
Samuel's Instagram post also hinted at a return to his original jersey number, 19, after he switched to No. 1 in 2024. With Pearsall having taken over No. 1 after Samuel's departure, that number is now available again, assuming Pearsall is sidelined. If Pearsall is out for the season, Samuel will join a revamped receiver corps that includes free-agent acquisitions Mike Evans and Christian Kirk, rookie DeZhaun Stribling, and young options Jacob Cowing and Jordan Watkins.
Originally reported by sfgate.