Deebo Samuel reunites with the San Francisco 49ers, signing a one-year, $7 million deal as the team seeks to bolster its receiving corps amid injuries. This move comes as Ricky Pearsall deals with knee swelling from a prior PCL injury, and Christian Kirk suffers a calf injury sustained during training camp.

Samuel, 30, previously spent six successful seasons with the 49ers after being drafted in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft. His standout performance in 2021 saw him rack up 1,405 receiving yards, 365 rushing yards, and 14 total touchdowns, earning him All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors. He played a crucial role in two NFC Championship victories for San Francisco.

Last season, Samuel played for the Washington Commanders, leading the team with 72 receptions, 727 yards, and five touchdowns—his best numbers since his time with the 49ers.

As injuries plague the 49ers' receiver lineup, they now rely on free-agent acquisition Mike Evans and rookie De'Zhaun Stribling as primary options. Veteran Demarcus Robinson is positioned as the next man up.

Expected to fill the “Z” receiver role, Samuel has demonstrated his ability to create yards after the catch. While his workload may be lighter than before, head coach Kyle Shanahan has utilized him in various positions, including the backfield, indicating Samuel's versatility remains a significant asset for the team.