49ers signed WR Deebo Samuel to a one-year contract.
The deal is worth “up to” $7 million, presumably with the “up to” doing some heavy lifting. Trying to wait out underwhelming free agent offers until the right opportunity presented itself, 30-year-old Samuel has found the perfect opportunity in reuniting with coach Kyle Shanahan and company. Although his efficiency had been declining even before last season’s trade to the Commanders, we have little doubt it will rebound to a degree under Shanny. The question becomes where he fits in a receiver jigsaw that includes an injured Ricky Pearsall and Christian Kirk, aging Mike Evans, and unproven De’Zhaun Stribling. Samuel isn’t going to be the usage monster of his prime, but then again, the 49ers also lack proven backfield touches behind Christian McCaffrey. Perhaps even “rushing Samuel” will be in for something of a revival. Although summer fantasy drafters might have been hoping for Samuel to end up in a skill corps with less touch competition, this is ultimately a good outcome for those hoping for top-40 upside.
