San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel might be better off playing for a different team before the end of the season instead of staying alongside Brandon Aiyuk. According to a recent analysis by Bleacher Report, the New York Jets could be an ideal destination for Samuel.
Samuel recently made NFL history as the first wide receiver to achieve both 20 receiving touchdowns and 20 rushing touchdowns, demonstrating his unique versatility and redefining the role of wide receivers in the game.
In the 49ers’ recent win over the Seattle Seahawks, Samuel caught a 76-yard touchdown pass, marking his second receiving touchdown of the season and the 20th of his career. While his rushing numbers in 2024 haven’t matched his impressive 2021 season, where he recorded 1,408 receiving yards and 365 rushing yards, Samuel continues to showcase his all-around abilities.
Only 19 players in NFL history have reached the 20 receiving and 20 rushing touchdowns milestone, mostly running backs like Alvin Kamara and Christian McCaffrey. Samuel stands alone among wide receivers in this category, with Jerry Rice’s 10 rushing touchdowns being the next closest.
Although Samuel may not repeat his stellar 2021 performance, his impact both as a receiver and runner cements his place in NFL history. His achievement not only highlights his exceptional talent but also sets a new standard for wide receivers, potentially inspiring future players to develop diverse skills that blur traditional positional lines in football.
If things don’t improve for Samuel with the 49ers, he might consider seeking a trade. Bleacher Report’s David Kenyon suggests the New York Jets as a potential destination for the wide receiver.
The offseason drama involving Brandon Aiyuk has put Deebo Samuel’s future with the 49ers in question again. With the NFL trade deadline approaching, rumors are swirling about a possible move to New York, where Samuel’s dynamic abilities could greatly benefit the Jets, particularly given quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ challenges with downfield passes.
In return, the 49ers might receive a 2025 third-round pick. While this trade scenario is still speculative, it reflects the evolving strategies and decisions that NFL teams may confront in the near future.