It sounds like the San Francisco 49ers have made strides in regards to a contract extension with wide receiver Deebo Samuel.
General manager John Lynch said the team has had “productive talks” with Samuel in regards to his extension. And it’s certainly encouraging that Samuel has reported to training camp.
“We’ve had productive and substantive talks,” Lynch said. “I don’t want to get everyone excited that something’s imminent because we’re not there yet. But we’re really hopeful, in the near future, we’ll be able to announce something that’s exciting for everyone involved.”
Samuel requested a trade earlier this offseason, which NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport noted has to do with his usage on offense. But it seems like the dust is finally settling as the two sides continue to work on a deal to keep Samuel in San Francisco.
On Monday, head coach Kyle Shanahan said he wasn’t concerned about a long-term deal getting done.
Deebo Samuel has reported to training camp. GM John Lynch said the 49ers have had productive talks with Samuel regarding a contract extension.
— Tyler Dragon (@TheTylerDragon) July 26, 2022
John Lynch on Deebo Samuel heading into the first week of #49ersCamp. pic.twitter.com/138nDcgiEZ
— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) July 26, 2022
Samuel had a breakout season with the 49ers in 2021, where he earned First-Team All-Pro honors. Samuel had 77 catches for 1,405 yards and six touchdowns. He added 59 rushes for 365 yards and eight scores.
Samuel is entering the final year of his rookie deal, where he’s expected to cash in on a huge payday. We’ll see how quickly the 49ers are able to get it done.