Packers and 49ers Eyed as Landing Spots for Former $71M All-Pro

The veteran wide receiver is still on the market after the first wave of NFL free agency.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 12:09am by Ben Kaplan

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The Green Bay Packers and San Francisco 49ers have been identified as potential landing spots for former All-Pro wide receiver Deebo Samuel, who is still a free agent after the initial wave of NFL free agency. Both teams have needs at the receiver position and could benefit from Samuel's experience and production.

Why it matters

Adding an established playmaker like Samuel would provide a significant boost to the receiving corps of either the Packers or 49ers, two NFC contenders looking to improve their offenses. Samuel's versatility and proven track record could make him an attractive option for both teams as they aim to strengthen their rosters ahead of the upcoming season.

The details

Deebo Samuel, a 30-year-old wide receiver, is coming off a season with the Washington Commanders in which he recorded 72 receptions for 727 yards and 5 touchdowns, despite inconsistent quarterback play. The Packers are in need of experienced receiver talent to complement their young group, while the 49ers could see Samuel as a natural fit to pair with Mike Evans and Ricky Pearsall in their offense. At this stage, Samuel should be available at a relatively affordable price, making him an intriguing target for both teams.

  • Samuel is currently a free agent after the initial wave of NFL free agency.
  • The 2026 NFL season is set to begin in September.

The players

Deebo Samuel

A 30-year-old wide receiver who is currently a free agent after spending the 2025 season with the Washington Commanders, where he recorded 72 receptions for 727 yards and 5 touchdowns.

Jordan Love

The starting quarterback for the Green Bay Packers.

Kyle Shanahan

The head coach of the San Francisco 49ers.

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What they’re saying

“Adding an established pass-catching option for quarterback Jordan Love would be a logical move.”

— Mark Morales-Smith, NFL Analyst

“A reunion in San Francisco is also an option for Samuel. The South Carolina product would pair well with Evans and Ricky Pearsall, and already knows Kyle Shanahan's offense very well.”

— Mark Morales-Smith, NFL Analyst

What’s next

The Packers and 49ers will likely continue to evaluate their roster needs and monitor the free agent market for potential additions like Deebo Samuel in the coming weeks and months leading up to the start of the 2026 NFL season.

The takeaway

The availability of a proven playmaker like Deebo Samuel presents an intriguing opportunity for both the Packers and 49ers to bolster their receiving corps and strengthen their chances of contending in the NFC. The veteran's experience and versatility could make him an attractive target for either team as they look to improve their offenses ahead of the upcoming season.