Wide receiver Deebo Samuel has asked the San Francisco 49ers for a trade.
What his brother commented on social media days ago is true.
It’s now clearer why Samuel requested to delay contract extension talks.
San Francisco was willing to pay him a fair price, but he called off the negotiations.
Not having the versatile wideout would be a significant loss for the Niners.
Aside from being an essential part of their passing game, Samuel also contributed to the running game.
Anything can happen as he plays out the final year of his rookie deal.
Samuel might change his mind and sign an extension with the team that drafted him.
However, the team is already preparing for the inevitable by scouting wide receiver prospects.
The #49ers just wrapped up a pre-draft visit with #Tennessee WR Velus Jones Jr, Versatile player as a returner/receiver who moves well with the football in his hands. If only the Niners had a need for somebody like that…
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) April 20, 2022
NFL Network insider Mike Garafolo tweeted, “The #49ers just wrapped up a pre-draft visit with #Tennessee WR Velus Jones Jr, Versatile player as a returner/receiver who moves well with the football in his hands. If only the Niners had a need for somebody like that…”
The 2022 draft class has a deep wide receiver pool, and the 49ers must take advantage to compensate for Samuel’s departure.
Replacing someone with a massive impact on their offense would be difficult, but they must look for answers.
What Does Jones Bring To The Table?
Like Samuel, Jones is also a versatile player who can line up on both offense and special teams.
He was part of the 2019 Second-Team All-Pac-12 and the 2021 First-Team All-SEC.
The Tennessee wideout is also last year’s SEC Co-Special Teams Player of the Year.
Jones finished his final collegiate season with 807 yards and seven touchdowns.
Aside from his ability to make catches, it’s his return skills that could make much difference for the Niners.
NEXT: NFL Insider Shares Intriguing Deebo Samuel Contract Theory