49ers Re-Sign Deebo Samuel for $7M as Pearsall Injury Looms

The San Francisco 49ers are bolstering their receiving corps by bringing back veteran playmaker Deebo Samuel. The team is reportedly signing Samuel to a one-year contract worth $7 million, a move that shores up the roster depth following a discouraging update on Ricky Pearsall.

Samuel returns to the franchise where he spent his first six seasons, reuniting with head coach Kyle Shanahan’s system. His arrival on the market followed a stint with the Washington Commanders in 2025. Last season, Samuel demonstrated his continued utility as a dual-threat weapon, recording 72 receptions for 727 yards and adding 17 carries for 75 yards, totaling six touchdowns. His performance peaked in 2021 when he secured first-team All-Pro honors with 1,770 all-purpose yards.

The signing serves as immediate insurance for the 49ers after reports surfaced regarding Pearsall’s availability. The 2024 first-round pick is currently managing knee swelling stemming from a PCL injury suffered last season. According to NBC Sports Bay Area, the swelling puts Pearsall’s status for the upcoming season in doubt, with expectations that he will not be a significant contributor in 2026.

With Samuel back in the fold, the team’s projected receiver depth chart now lists Samuel as the WR2, slotting in behind Mike Evans and alongside Christian Kirk in the slot. The trio presents a formidable challenge for defenses, though the group carries notable risk regarding age and durability, as all three projected starters are 29 years or older.

The developments have implications for the broader sports media landscape. As the 49ers aim to remain competitive in the NFC, their performance and star power drive viewership interest for rights holders. Comcast Corporation (CMCSA), the parent company of NBCUniversal, holds significant interests in sports broadcasting. With the 49ers positioned as a high-profile team, their on-field success remains a key driver for engagement across media platforms. Comcast currently trades with a market capitalization of approximately $80.9 billion.

What to watch

• Updates on Ricky Pearsall’s knee rehabilitation and potential return to practice.
• Official confirmation of the 49ers Week 1 starting wide receiver rotations.
• Comcast’s quarterly earnings for insights on sports viewership trends.

Source: original release