'It sucks, dude': 49ers' Brock Purdy opens up on losing Deebo Samuel

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy signed a five-year, $265 million contract extension this offseason, cementing his status as the team's long-term solution under center. But as the 2025 season approaches, he finds himself leading a roster that looks very different from last season's.

One of the most significant offensive changes was the trade of wide receiver Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders. This move left Purdy without one of his most trusted offensive weapons. While Samuel's production declined following his breakout 2021 season, he and Purdy had developed strong chemistry on and off the field.

Purdy recently appeared on the Bussin' With The Boys podcast and opened up about what Samuel's departure means to him.

"It sucks, dude. He's my boy," Purdy said. "I love Deebo. Day one, he's always had my back and believed in me when I got in. I didn't really know how the guys were going to take it when I did get thrown in. Jimmy went down; I was the last quarterback, and Deebo was nothing but just great to me, dude, building me up, and just giving me confidence."

That early support from Samuel, Purdy explained, played a key role in his development after being thrust into the starting job as a rookie in 2022.

"In games, we fed off each other's energy and building each other up," he continued. "It was awesome, and over the last couple of years, same thing. So, we created just a great relationship. He's my brother."

Now entering his fourth NFL season, Purdy has experienced the highs and lows of the league. He also knows the NFL is a business. While he understands the realities of roster turnover, that didn't make saying goodbye to teammates like Samuel any easier.

However, the quarterback hopes the wideout flourishes in his new surroundings.

"But, again, that's just how this business goes, and I hope he goes to Washington and kills it and does great," Purdy said. "Anytime you get Deebo the ball, you never know what can happen. He's an explosive player, exciting to watch. He's got a lot of great ball in front of him, too."

Recently, a viral video surfaced showing Samuel appearing sluggish during a Commanders practice, prompting some fans and media to question his effort. 49ers tight end George Kittle defended his former teammate, explaining that the clip likely came from a team install session, where players often jog through plays.

"Deebo is still Deebo," Kittle insisted. "He's going to go out there, he's going to truck some people, he's going to make some insane plays that no one else can make. He's going to catch a screen pass, break four tackles, and go 60 yards to the house. So Deebo's gonna Deebo."

Purdy echoed Kittle's remarks, suggesting the footage was likely taken out of context and reaffirming his belief in Samuel's ability.

"I know when the season comes rolling around, too, Deebo's gonna have a chip on the shoulder this year, for sure," Purdy added, "and he's gonna be just fine. I don't buy into any of that stuff."

As the 49ers prepare for the upcoming season, Purdy will look to establish new connections with a reshaped receiving corps. Still, there is no doubt he will be rooting for his former teammate to thrive with the Commanders.