However, against the Rams, Samuel managed just three catches for 16 receiving yards and totaled only 19 scrimmage yards. To make matters worse, he had a critical drop that could have shifted the game's momentum. Over the past five games, Samuel has amassed just 22 receptions for 116 scrimmage yards and no touchdowns.
"After you complain about not getting that many touches, you cannot drop the football because everybody is going to get down on you, and they're going to come after you," Rice said during a Monday morning interview on Bay Area radio station 95.7 The Game.
Reflecting on his Hall of Fame career, Rice shared that he never resorted to complaining about a lack of opportunities.
"I just worked, man," Rice said. "I just kept working. If you show it during practice, they're going to make the call during the actual football game where you're going to have opportunities where you can make catches, get into a rhythm, and be productive."
The Levi's Stadium crowd made their frustration known after Samuel's costly drop, letting out a chorus of boos directed at the wideout.
"Very, very frustrating," Samuel admitted to reporters after the game, taking accountability for the miscue. "At the end of the day, if I catch that ball, there's nothing there but end zone. I've just got to catch that route."
Samuel's production this season has been underwhelming, with 43 receptions for 569 yards and one receiving touchdown, as well as 34 carries for 95 rushing yards and a single rushing touchdown. He is on pace for his worst statistical season since 2020.
As the 49ers prepare to face the Miami Dolphins on Sunday at Hard Rock Stadium, the pressure will be on Samuel to step up and silence his critics.
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