Deebo Samuel’s time in San Francisco is over.
The 49ers agreed to trade the star wide receiver to the Commanders in exchange for a fifth-round draft pick, according to multiple reports.
ESPN reported that the Commanders will pay Samuel his full $17.55 million salary this season, the last one of his current contract
The outlet added that San Francisco is on the hook for $31,550,012 in dead money on its 2025 salary cap.
Samuel revealed earlier in February that he requested a trade.
“It was a hard conversation to have with [head coach Kyle Shanahan] because of the relationship that we have,” Samuel told ESPN last month. “But I have to do what’s best. I’m more than thankful for the Niners giving me the opportunity of a lifetime but now I think it’s best that we find another team.”
General manager John Lynch said this week at the NFL combine that he’d let Samuel — who initially requested a trade in 2022 before signing a three-year extension — continue to seek a trade partner.
“We’re at least allowing him to look,” Lynch told reporters. “We’re on good terms with Deebo. He’s asked for a fresh start, and I think we’re going to honor that. I don’t like seeing great players leave, and he is a great player.”
The 29-year-old Samuel now gets his wish.
In Washington, he’ll play alongside two-time Pro Bowl wideout Terry McLaurin with AP Offensive Rookie of the Year Jayden Daniels under center.
The Athletic reported the two teams discussed defensive tackle Jonathan Allen as part of a potential deal, but ultimately, the Washington lineman was not included in this transaction.
An All All-Pro in 2021, Samuel had a down year in 2024 by his standards.
His 806 yards from scrimmage marked the second-lowest total of his career as the 49ers finished last in the NFC West — just one season removed from winning the NFC crown.
At his best, Samuel is one of the most electric players in football.
He’s a weapon in both the pass and rush game with 11.1 yards per scrimmage touch and 42 combined scores through the air and ground in his career.
