The San Francisco 49ers are making moves that speak volumes about their receiving corps. By bringing back a familiar face, they've essentially signaled that one of their young stars might not be ready to hit the field this season.
According to multiple reports, Ricky Pearsall is still battling swelling in his knee from a PCL injury suffered during the 2025 campaign. The concern is real enough that the team is considering "all options," including the possibility that he could miss the entire 2026 season. That's a tough blow for a player who was expected to be a key piece of the offense.
In response, the 49ers have agreed to a one-year deal with Deebo Samuel, worth up to $7 million. Samuel, who starred in San Francisco from 2019 to 2024, amassed 5,935 yards from scrimmage and 42 total touchdowns during his first stint. After a dip in production with the Washington Commanders last year—72 catches for 727 yards and five touchdowns—he's now back in familiar territory.
Samuel's return is more than just a sentimental reunion. He knows Kyle Shanahan's system inside and out, which makes him an immediate fit. With Pearsall likely sidelined, Samuel slots in as the No. 2 option behind Mike Evans, giving quarterback Brock Purdy a reliable target who can also contribute in the return game.
The move has sparked plenty of reactions across the NFL world. Analyst Emmanuel Acho praised the signing, saying, "I actually love the Niners signing Deebo Samuel, because now he's back as a No. 2 wide receiver." 49ers reporter David Lombardi echoed that sentiment, noting Samuel's versatility as a "specialty weapon" who can backfill the offense and even handle punt returns.
Fans and analysts alike see the logic. One observer pointed out that Samuel will have "nice space around CMC, George Kittle AND Big Mike Evans," while another warned fantasy football owners to "basically be off your fantasy draft board" regarding Pearsall until his status is clarified.
This isn't the first setback for Pearsall, and it raises questions about his long-term outlook. The team's decision to bring back Samuel—a player they traded away just a year ago—suggests they're preparing for life without Pearsall in 2026. It's a pragmatic move, but it also underscores how injuries can derail even the most promising careers.
For more on Pearsall's situation, check out the latest on his knee setback. Meanwhile, the 49ers are also getting Nick Bosa back for training camp, which should bolster their defense.
The 49ers open their season on Sept. 10 against the Los Angeles Rams. With Samuel back in the fold, they'll hope to hit the ground running—even if Pearsall's absence looms large.
