In the heart of the NFL’s annual selection spectacle, whispers of trades and picks can make or break a fan’s heart. But seems like for Deebo Samuel, the noise is just that—noise. Breaking through the speculation, Dianna Russini delivered the hard snap: Samuel, the electric wide receiver for the San Francisco 49ers, isn’t going anywhere.
“I know what’s going on,” he highlighted in his recent comment, further adding, “but it is what it is. I’m good staying with them. I’m chilling.” It’s a clear signal to fans and rivals alike that Samuel remains a steadfast part of the 49ers’ game plan. Yet, the 49ers’ draft strategy was as precise as a quarterback’s throw, selecting Ricky Pearsall, a wide receiver whose stats speak volumes. With 65 receptions, 965 receiving yards, and an average of 80.4 yards per game in the 2023 season, Pearsall is no mere understudy.
I spoke to Deebo Samuel on the phone and asked his reaction to the 49ers’ drafting of his potential replacement, and to the reports that they explored trading him. “I know what’s going on,” he said, “but it is what it is. I’m good staying with them. I’m chilling.”
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) April 26, 2024
His versatility is lauded, “He’s going to go over the middle and do anything he can to catch that ball and not worry about anything else,” declared coach Kyle Shanahan at the post draft press conference. Critics may have their say, but the 49ers’ choice is clear: they’re building a team that’s more than just a one-season wonder.
