Deebo Samuel's Trade Ambitions Halted by Market Challenges

Deebo Samuel is eager to part ways with the San Francisco 49ers, yet the current trade interests aren’t aligning with his desires. At least, not at this moment.

Following the conclusion of the 2024 season, Samuel met with the 49ers’ front office and requested a trade for the upcoming offseason. General Manager John Lynch assured that he intends to accommodate Samuel’s request before the 2025 season begins, acknowledging the need to clear salary-cap space as quarterback Brock Purdy is slated for a significant contract renewal.

According to The Athletic’s Diana Russini, Samuel has shown interest in joining the Denver Broncos or Houston Texans. Despite his interest, those teams aren’t anticipated to make any trade offers.

The Broncos had a surprising 2024, ending their season at 10–7 and breaking an eight-year playoff drought, largely due to the improved performance of rookie QB Bo Nix. Courtland Sutton was Nix’s favorite target, racking up 81 catches for 1,081 yards and eight touchdowns. While there’s a need to bolster the receiving corps for Nix, Denver seems uninterested in acquiring Samuel, given his $15.8 million cap hit for 2025.

The Texans, unable to capitalize on a promising 2023, mirrored their 10–7 record, only to fall in the divisional round once more. The team’s struggles were partly due to injuries among receivers: Nico Collins missed five games, Stefon Diggs endured a season-ending knee injury in Week 8, and Tank Dell suffered severe knee injuries in Week 16.

Although Collins is expected to return as the primary target for QB C.J. Stroud, Diggs will be testing the waters as a free agent, and Dell’s recovery from significant injuries will likely sideline him for a large part of the 2025 season. Still, it seems the Texans are not currently inclined to trade for Samuel.

There might be other teams interested in Samuel this offseason. The Washington Commanders have ample cap space and might consider adding another weapon for the reigning NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, Jayden Daniels, alongside Terry McLaurin. Potential buyers also include the Pittsburgh Steelers, Los Angeles Chargers, and New England Patriots, all of whom are expected to be searching for receiver talent.

After a less productive year, with only 806 total yards on 93 touches, Samuel remains confident in his future performance on the field. The challenge lies in the 49ers finding a trade partner who shares that belief.