As the San Francisco 49ers face hardships with salary cap constraints and looming contract decisions, speculation has swirled around the futures of star receivers Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk. Nevertheless, recent reports provide clarity on Samuel’s status with the team, putting to rest any rumors of a potential trade.
Meanwhile, Mike Silver of the San Francisco Chronicle reported that Samuel has received assurances from team management that he would not be traded during or after this week’s NFL draft.
After signing a lucrative three-year, $71.55 million extension before the 2022 season, Samuel has solidified his position as a cornerstone of the 49ers’ offense. The notion of a trade involving Deebo Samuel initially surfaced due to financial constraints faced by the 49ers.
Spotrac highlights Samuel’s significant cap hits for 2024 and 2025, suggesting that these financial considerations might sway the 49ers’ decision-making process. This could lead the team to entertain the idea of shaking up their roster and exploring potential trades for one of their star receivers, provided the right offer comes along.
With uncertainty surrounding Aiyuk’s future, it seemed unlikely that the team could afford to retain both receivers under their current salary cap situation. Given the option between the receivers, the 49ers could lean towards Aiyuk, who has been on an upward trajectory in recent seasons and has avoided the injury woes that Samuel has faced.
Brandon Aiyuk vs Deebo Samuel 49ers stat
Brandon Aiyuk wrapped up the 2023 regular season on a high note, achieving a new personal best in receiving yards with an impressive total of 1,332 yards, 75 receptions, and seven touchdowns. In contrast, Deebo Samuel concluded the season with 892 yards, catching 60 passes and also tallying seven touchdowns, per ESPN.
As Aiyuk enters his fifth season with the 49ers, he already has 269 receptions for 3,931 yards and 27 touchdowns to his name. Notably, hr has achieved two consecutive 1,000-yard seasons in both 2022 and 2023.
On the other hand, with 283 receptions for 4,122 yards and 38 touchdowns, Samuel has been a dynamic playmaker for the team throughout his five-season career in San Francisco. His achievements include joining Pro Football Hall of Famer Charley Taylor as one of the few players to surpass 4,000 receiving yards and 1,000 rushing yards within their first five seasons in the league.
