This year, Samuel has just 553 receiving yards and two total touchdowns (one receiving, one rushing) through 12 games, making it unlikely he will reach the 900-receiving-yard milestone again. On Monday, Samuel responded to criticism about his performance in a now-deleted social media post, deflecting blame for his lack of production.
"Not struggling at all just not getting the ball!!!!!!!" Samuel wrote.
On Tuesday morning, 49ers general manager John Lynch joined Bay Area radio station KNBR to address the perception of Samuel's struggles.
Lynch acknowledged that the 49ers' unique use of Samuel over the years has been mimicked by other teams, leading to defenses better adapting to defending those types of versatile players.
"I think people are becoming more familiar with it," Lynch said. "Deebo's a really good football player. He's created such a high standard for himself that, I think, frustration mounts. But he's made so many plays for us.
"I think we've got to give this guy some grace and bring him along because we need him the rest of the way. We're going to need him Thursday night."
The 49ers face a quick turnaround following Sunday's victory over the Chicago Bears. They'll host the Los Angeles Rams at Levi's Stadium on Thursday night, aiming to even their record at 7-7.
"Deebo's a big part of this team, and we're all right," Lynch continued. "We can all learn from situations, and a lot of different things in the world these days that you can get caught up in, but I think Deebo's in a good place from the way he's working, and we've got a lot of football to be played, and he'll be a big part of our season moving forward."
You can listen to Lynch's entire interview below.
Related News
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
Deebo Samuel's Latest Comments Are a Powerful Reminder of His 49ers Legacy
Deebo Samuel remains unsigned, but he's confident that his best football is still ahead of him. As training camps begin across the league, Samuel is still one of the top free agents available. In a video on his YouTube channel, he dismissed the idea that his career is... -
49ers insider believes Deebo Samuel wanted a return to San Francisco
Former San Francisco 49ers and Washington Commanders wide receiver Deebo Samuel remains a free agent as training camps begin across the NFL. However, the veteran playmaker still hopes to continue his career in 2026. Last offseason, Samuel expressed his desire to move on from... -
Should the 49ers bring back Deebo Samuel? Pros and cons of a reunion
Fullback Kyle Juszczyk and tight end George Kittle are both open to Deebo Samuel returning to the San Francisco 49ers. Samuel shared an Instagram post reading, "Let the chips fall where they may," and the two All-Pros said they have guest rooms available if needed. Naturally,... -
Analyst warns 49ers against potential Deebo Samuel reunion
Former San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel remains a free agent, fueling speculation about a possible return to the team. Two of his former teammates—tight end George Kittle and fullback Kyle Juszczyk—have already made it clear they would welcome a...