The San Francisco 49ers have signed wide receiver Deebo Samuel to a one-year contract worth up to $7 million, ESPN reported. The move comes as a precautionary measure following a knee injury sustained by fellow receiver Ricky Pearsall, an early training camp concern for the upcoming 2026-27 NFL season.
Samuel, who previously played six seasons with the 49ers after being drafted in the second round in 2019, brings a familiar presence back to the team's receiving corps. During his tenure with San Francisco, he earned All-Pro honors in 2021 and was instrumental in the team's two Super Bowl appearances. In that 2021 season, he recorded 1,770 scrimmage yards and 14 touchdowns.
Following his time with the 49ers, Samuel was traded to the Washington Commanders in 2025 for a fifth-round draft pick. Last season, he caught 72 passes for 727 yards and five touchdowns for the Commanders. He became a free agent in March before agreeing to rejoin the 49ers.
