49ers Grant Deebo Samuel Permission to Seek Trade, Raiders Emerge as Potential Suitor
The San Francisco 49ers are facing a pivotal offseason, with Brock Purdy’s potential contract extension looming as a major financial commitment. In an effort to create cap space, the team has reportedly granted Deebo Samuel permission to seek a trade, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Samuel on the Trade Block
According to Schefter, Samuel requested a trade during his exit meeting with head coach Kyle Shanahan, citing a need to explore new opportunities.
“It was a hard conversation to have with Kyle because of the relationship that we have,” Samuel told Schefter. “But I have to do what’s best. I’m more than thankful for the Niners giving me the opportunity of a lifetime, but now I think it’s best that we find another team.”
Samuel signed a three-year, $71 million extension in 2022, following an All-Pro season. However, the emergence of Brandon Aiyuk as a primary receiving threat and the arrival of Christian McCaffrey have reduced Samuel’s offensive workload.
Raiders Among Potential Trade Partners
One of the teams reportedly interested in Samuel is the Las Vegas Raiders. Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox proposed the following trade scenario:
- 49ers receive: 2025 conditional third-round pick
- Raiders receive: WR Deebo Samuel
Knox explains the logic behind the deal:
“Las Vegas has the cap space needed to immediately sign Samuel to an extension, and it could then use the rest of its financial flexibility on other areas, like its offensive line and backfield,” wrote Knox.
Additionally, the Raiders’ new head coach, Pete Carroll, was reportedly interested in drafting Samuel back in 2019 while coaching the Seattle Seahawks, according to Schefter. If the trade goes through, Las Vegas would essentially be replacing Davante Adams with Samuel.
What’s Next for San Francisco?
With Samuel potentially on the way out, the 49ers could focus on extending Aiyuk while restructuring other contracts to manage cap space. The team remains a Super Bowl contender, but Samuel’s departure would signal a shift in their offensive strategy.
This developing situation will be closely monitored as the offseason progresses.
