Future Hall of Fame offensive lineman Trent Williams has predicted that wide receiver Deebo Samuel will have the best season of his career in 2026 following his return to the San Francisco 49ers.
Samuel, who spent six seasons with the 49ers before being traded to the Washington Commanders last offseason, signed a one-year deal with San Francisco at the end of July. He is now reunited with several former teammates, including Williams.
"Deebo is such a talented player, I think this might be the first time he’s ever faced adversity in his career where he may have felt doubted as a player," Williams said during the broadcast of the 49ers' preseason opener against the Tennessee Titans. "So I think we probably getting the best Deebo the league has ever seen."
If Williams' prediction holds true, Samuel would surpass his 2021 performance, when he earned Pro Bowl honors with a combined 1,770 rushing and receiving yards and 12 touchdowns.
Samuel experienced a slow free agency process, with some questioning his ability to maintain his physical style of play. However, playing for the 49ers is expected to provide a familiar system where the versatile receiver can thrive.
Last season, the 30-year-old Samuel recorded 72 catches for 727 yards and five touchdowns for the Commanders. He also added 17 carries for 75 yards and a touchdown. The 49ers had traded Samuel to Washington for a fifth-round pick prior to the previous season.
The 49ers' decision to pursue Samuel was also influenced by the loss of wide receiver Ricky Pearsall, who is expected to miss the 2026 season after undergoing surgery. This opens an opportunity for Samuel to re-establish himself as a primary offensive weapon for San Francisco.