The San Francisco 49ers have two major roster issues to settle.
First, they must find a trade partner for Jimmy Garoppolo, who is still on the roster while rehabbing his throwing shoulder away from the team’s practice facility.
Then there’s the situation with Deebo Samuel, who is skipping the on-field workout program due to a contract holdout.
The 2022 season will be Samuel’s final year on his rookie contract, and he’s set to earn a base salary of $3,986,000.
That’s a massive bargain for the 49ers, considering that he had 1,770 total yards and 14 touchdowns last season.
Samuel would like to earn his keep, especially now that the wide receiver market is surging.
However, critics argue that the South Carolina alumnus is premature because he’s only had one great season.
The Athletic’s David Lombardi came to his rescue.
Lombardi tweeted, “One piece of misinformation that should be cleared up re: Deebo Samuel — he’s delivered more than one robust season. His 2020 was obviously derailed by injury. But in 2019, Samuel played 18 games and actually led the NFL in YAC/per catch (a stat he’s led in all 3 years).”
Samuel had 802 receiving yards and three touchdowns in his rookie campaign.
What’s more impressive is that he averaged 14.1 yards per catch.
Last season, his average went up to 18.2 yards, and he caught 51 passes for first downs.
No Buffer Year For San Francisco
It’s now or never for the 49ers because Samuel isn’t eligible for a fifth-year option due to being drafted in the second round.
San Francisco would have picked up that option if it was available, given Samuel’s stellar 2021 season.
Unfortunately, the 49ers must spend more money to retain their versatile wide receiver after Tyreek Hill, and Davante Adams created a new ceiling for the market.
The Niners have one season to make Samuel agree to terms on a lucrative extension.
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