Andrew Buller-Russ
After several seasons of his name popping up in San Francisco 49ers trade rumors, the team has finally admitted their plans to shop Deebo Samuel around to other teams this offseason. The former All-Pro wide receiver and occasional running back has a unique skillset and any team that needs another playmaking weapon should have interest in the 29-year-old.
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With Samuel set to be traded, let’s look at some potential landing spots for the 49ers receiver this offseason.
Los Angeles Chargers
The Los Angeles Chargers overhauled their receiving corps last offseason as the team cut costs. Now after returning to the playoffs in Jim Harbaugh’s first season as head coach, the front office could look to surround Justin Herbert with more playmakers. Samuel isn’t a No. 1 wideout but his skills as a runner/receiver could intrigue a team with a desire to establish the run like the Chargers have.
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Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers have already admitted a desire to upgrade at the receiver position this offseason. That could include discussing George Pickens trades, however if they wanted to complement their star receiver, why not add a proven weapon like Samuel? He’d still elevate this offense, plus he’d add another unique element for Arthur Smith to work with.
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Dallas Cowboys
CeeDee Lamb is a bonafide No. 1 receiver, but the Dallas Cowboys proved they need a No. 2 receiver with a higher floor. Samuel could be the perfect solution, adding a playmaker capable of turning short gains into big chunks of yardage.
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Buffalo Bills
The Buffalo Bills keep getting to the doorstep, but they can’t reach the Super Bowl. Perhaps if they get more aggressive in adding impact players this offseason, the Bills can finally reach the NFL’s championship stage. Adding a playoff-tested vet like Samuel could be just what Josh Allen needs to push through.
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Houston Texans
The Houston Texans made a splashy acquisition last offseason, trading for Stefon Diggs, who tore his ACL. With Diggs set for free agency, the Texans could turn to the trade market to solve their secondary receiver needs again, and Samuel could be a strong fit in Houston as a complementary option behind Nico Collins.
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