The San Francisco 49ers have agreed to trade star wide receiver Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders in exchange for a fifth-round pick, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
The deal, like all trades at this stage, will become official when the new NFL league year begins on March 12. As part of the agreement, Washington will take on the remainder of Samuel’s contract, including his full $17.55 million salary for the 2025 season.
Reports suggest that defensive tackle Jonathan Allen was initially part of trade discussions, but ultimately, he was not included in the final deal.
Instead, Washington secures a dynamic playmaker to bolster its receiving corps and provide quarterback Jayden Daniels with another top-tier weapon.
The trade marks the end of an eventful six-year tenure for Samuel in San Francisco, one filled with highlight-reel moments but also ongoing contract and trade disputes.
For the 49ers, the move carries significant financial implications, with the team absorbing a $31.55 million dead cap hit this season.
Meanwhile, Washington will have Samuel on the books for $17.5 million, with the possibility of a contract extension looming.
Samuel, drafted in the second round in 2019, quickly became a key piece of San Francisco’s offense under Kyle Shanahan.
His versatility as both a receiver and a runner made him one of the most unique weapons in the NFL.
Over his six seasons, he has accumulated 4,792 receiving yards, 1,143 rushing yards, and 35 total touchdowns. His breakout 2021 campaign, 1,770 scrimmage yards and 14 touchdowns, nearly carried the 49ers to the Super Bowl.
However, Samuel’s production has dipped in recent years. Over the past three seasons, he has averaged just 56 receptions for 731.3 yards and four touchdowns per year, alongside 40 rushing attempts for 197.7 yards and three touchdowns.
Injuries have also played a role, with the 28-year-old missing time due to various ailments, including calf, wrist, oblique, and rib injuries in 2024.
