49ers bring back Deebo Samuel to fill void left by Ricky Pearsall's knee injury: report

The 2026/27 NFL season is 6 weeks away, and Danny Parkins lists the biggest stories entering training camp, including the San Francisco 49ers’ core having

The San Francisco 49ers’ receiving corps took an early training camp hit as Ricky Pearsall’s knee injury became a growing concern.

That uncertainty led San Francisco back to a familiar name. Former All-Pro wide receiver Deebo Samuel agreed Thursday to return to the 49ers on a one-year deal worth up to $7 million, ESPN reported.

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San Francisco 49ers player Deebo Samuel Sr. warms up before a game against the Seattle Seahawks at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, on Nov. 17, 2024. (Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)

Samuel's NFL career started in the Bay Area after the 49ers spent a second round draft pick on the South Carolina standout in 2019.

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Samuel went on to spend the first six years of his NFL run with the Niners and helped the team reach the Super Bowl twice. He earned All-Pro honors in 2021 when he had 1,770 yards from scrimmage and 14 touchdowns.

Washington Commanders player Deebo Samuel (1) warms up before a game at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland, on Dec. 20, 2025. (Michael Owens/Getty Images)

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Samuel was traded to Washington in 2025 for a fifth-round draft pick and had 72 catches for 727 yards and five touchdowns for the Commanders last season.

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr., left, cannot catch a pass while being defended by Los Angeles Rams safety Kamren Kinchens during the second half of an NFL football game in Santa Clara,