On a loaded roster like the San Francisco 49ers, it’s tough to pinpoint a singular catalyst. Anyone in this constellation of stars can play the hero for the NFL’s most talented team. It’s part of what makes San Francisco so unflappable in big moments — there’s always someone capable of stepping up when needed.
But there’s something different about the 49ers when they’re riding a red-hot Deebo Samuel.
If they get the one-man yards-after-catch machine in a groove — like when he scored three touchdowns on Sunday against the rival Philadelphia Eagles — the 49ers might truly be an unbeatable juggernaut. Because no one humbles defenders in the open field quite like the do-it-all receiver. After Samuel’s latest magical performance, All-Pro defensive Nick Bosa shared some rather insightful thoughts about his teammate’s greatness.
It’s a profound reflection that highlights why the 49ers feel destined to finally break through with their first Super Bowl championship since the halcyon days of George Seifert and Steve Young:
Nick Bosa says Deebo Samuel is the "epitome of unselfishness" and praises his ability to "thrive" in hostile environments 😤 pic.twitter.com/tq1LBf7Rui
— 49ers on NBCS (@NBCS49ers) December 4, 2023
Man. That answer almost sounds like Bosa thinks Samuel is a future Hall of Famer. Honestly, as a workhorse sparkplug liable to score a touchdown any time he touches the ball, I would find that assessment hard to disagree with.
Let’s see Bosa’s glowing comments about Samuel in focus:
Nick Bosa's thoughts on Deebo Samuel were profound:
"I think he's the epitome of unselfishness. He got paid and obviously that comes with a lot of pressure to be the guy. And when you have so many dudes, you're not going to get those opps very often. But I love the fact that he…
— David Lombardi (@LombardiHimself) December 4, 2023
I understand if someone wanted to highlight Christian McCaffrey, Brandon Aiyuk, or George Kittle before Samuel. They’re probably more “classic” and “traditional” players who don’t always necessarily need a schemed-up play to make an impact.
But I’m still of the opinion that Samuel is a cut above here. He’s one of the greatest big-play threats I’ve ever seen, and he’s in an offense tailor-made to take advantage of his electric ability with the ball in his hands. Sunday’s dominance against the Eagles was just one prime example. If these 49ers finally get the Super Bowl monkey off their back, I’d be willing to bet a lot of money it happens on the strength of a whirlwind Samuel performance.
They’re just a completely different team when he’s rolling.