In 2022, Deebo Samuel signed a contract extension that runs through 2025 with $41 million in guarantees. However, the contract allows the 49ers to move on after 2024, leaving Samuel’s future uncertain. Despite this uncertainty, Samuel remains focused on his performance on the field and is not letting contract talks distract him.
Before the 2024 draft, there were rumors that Samuel’s name was being floated in trade discussions. The team received calls about both Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk, but General Manager John Lynch made it clear after the draft that the 49ers were not interested in trading either player. With the team looking to sign Aiyuk to a long-term deal that will place him among the highest-paid in the league, it is unlikely they will be able to afford Samuel beyond the current season.
Aiyuk had an impressive season in 2023, earning second-team All-Pro honors with 75 catches for 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns. Meanwhile, Samuel, a first-team All-Pro in 2021, totaled 1,117 scrimmage yards and 12 touchdowns last season. Despite contract negotiations and trade rumors, Samuel has shown his support for Aiyuk, who recently skipped a mandatory minicamp. Samuel acknowledges the waiting game that comes with contract negotiations and the back and forth discussions between agents and teams but remains focused on improving and performing on the field.
