The San Francisco 49ers have two major concerns on their hands.
First, their timetable for quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo isn’t going as planned and he’s still with the team.
That setback could have an adverse effect on Trey Lance who is set to become the team’s starter.
If nothing happens, Garoppolo will become an expensive backup and Lance will always be looking over his shoulder.
Second, All-Pro wide receiver Deebo Samuel requested a trade, stating that he didn’t like the way he is being used on offense.
Last season, the former South Carolina standout had a breakout year with 1,405 receiving yards and six touchdowns.
He also set an NFL record for most rushing touchdowns by a wide receiver in a season with eight, to go with 365 rushing yards.
Despite that success, he preferred being a full-time wideout instead.
Several teams will flood the 49ers’ phone lines once the team announces that Samuel is on the trading block.
However, general manager John Lynch couldn’t imagine trading away a talented player like Samuel.
Likewise, the Niners are also ready to make a financial commitment for him based on market trends.
It now seems like the front office is gaining ground after a monumental development on social media.
Deebo Samuel follows the 49ers IG account again 🙌🙌 pic.twitter.com/Sx8CcHqOk4
— PFF (@PFF) May 5, 2022
Pro Football Focus shared that Samuel is following the 49ers’ Instagram account again.
Could this indicate that he will sign a long-term deal with San Francisco?
Samuel Is In For A Huge Payday
Samuel will be earning a $3.9 million base salary in 2022.
Unfortunately, he is not eligible for a fifth-year option because he was drafted in round two of the 2019 NFL Draft.
Therefore, both parties must get a deal done before his rookie deal expires.
The 49ers could assign their 2023 franchise tag to him, but that is just a one-year rental.
It would be better for the Niners to lock him up to a lucrative deal for the long run.
NEXT: 49ers Must Play Trey Lance To Know If He's Ready