The San Francisco 49ers have traded former Gamecock wide receiver Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders in exchange for a fifth-round draft pick. Samuel, known for his versatility, joins Pro Bowl receiver Terry McLaurin and quarterback Jayden Daniels in Washington’s offense.
Over six seasons with the 49ers, Samuel played 81 regular-season games, totaling 334 receptions for 4,792 yards and 22 touchdowns. In the most recent season, he recorded 51 receptions for 670 yards and three touchdowns, along with 42 rushes for 136 yards and one touchdown.
“It was a difficult conversation to have with Kyle [Shanahan] because of the bond we share,” Samuel said earlier this month, according to ESPN. “But I have to do what’s best for me. I’m incredibly grateful to the Niners for giving me the opportunity of a lifetime, but I believe it’s time to move on and find another team.”
Samuel was one of the most talented wide receivers to ever play at Williams-Brice Stadium for the Gamecocks. Over the course of his college career, he recorded an impressive 148 receptions for 2,076 yards and 28 total touchdowns—16 receiving, seven rushing, four on kickoff returns, and one on a fumble recovery. He even threw a touchdown pass himself.
