Deebo Samuel, a familiar face to San Francisco 49ers fans, is expected to become a free agent in 2026 following a challenging year with the Washington Commanders. Despite recording 727 yards and six touchdowns during the 2025 season, Samuel was unable to deliver the offensive impact that general manager Adam Peters had anticipated when signing him last year.
The Commanders finished the season with a disappointing 5-12 record while preparing to build a new stadium, and appear ready to let Samuel test the free agency market. The NFL currently ranks him as the 69th-best available free agent for 2026, suggesting he will draw interest, though his strongest potential fit seems to be with a team that knows him well.
Deebo Samuel’s History with the San Francisco 49ers
Samuel spent the first six years of his NFL career with the 49ers, who selected him 36th overall in the 2019 NFL Draft. During his time in San Francisco, he earned Pro Bowl honors and enjoyed a standout 2021 campaign in which he amassed a career-high 1,405 receiving yards and helped the team reach the NFC Championship Game.
He also played in Super Bowl LVIII with the 49ers, although the team ultimately lost to the Kansas City Chiefs. Samuel’s best performances and milestones were achieved with the 49ers, making a return a possibility that resonates with many fans.
WWE Star Bayley Supports Reuniting Samuel with the 49ers and Encourages Kittle’s Recovery
Bayley, the professional wrestler and notable 49ers supporter from San Jose, has publicly advocated for the franchise to bring Deebo Samuel back. Known for her dedication both inside the wrestling ring and as a football fanatic, Bayley has followed the team closely and regularly attends games at Levi’s Stadium.
She has also formed a friendship with star tight end George Kittle, who is recovering from a severe Achilles injury. In a recent talkSPORT interview, Bayley downplayed the pain of watching the Seattle Seahawks win Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium and expressed optimism about Kittle’s recovery timeline.
“Shout out to George Kittle though, feel better my dawg. He’ll probably be good to go in two months, because he’s the man.”
Bayley responded enthusiastically when the idea of Deebo Samuel rejoining the 49ers was raised.
“That would be nice, would be pretty cool (to get the old team back together).”
Interest in Samuel’s Return Supported by NFL Analysts and Kittle
Bayley is not alone in backing a Samuel comeback to San Francisco. George Kittle himself hinted at the possibility by revealing that he recently spent time with Samuel and expressed admiration for his former teammate.
NFL analyst Gregg Rosenthal has also commented on Samuel’s free agency prospects, predicting that the 49ers are likely Samuel’s primary option due to limited interest from other teams. Rosenthal suggested a deal could be worked out on terms favorable to both parties.
“I can absolutely see Deebo Samuel coming back to the 49ers on a 2-year, $12m contract because he doesn’t have a market elsewhere.”
Potential Impact of Samuel’s Return and Kittle’s Recovery on 49ers’ Future
Deebo Samuel’s return to San Francisco would reunite two key offensive weapons for the 49ers, potentially reigniting a potent connection that faded over Samuel’s last seasons. Combined with George Kittle’s anticipated recovery from his Achilles injury, this could provide a significant boost to the team’s offensive capabilities heading into the 2026 season.
With free agency approaching, the prospects of these moves are generating attention among fans and analysts alike, offering hope that the 49ers can rebuild their offense around familiar, proven talent. How the team manages these opportunities will be closely watched in the coming months.
