The NFL’s new league year officially kicked off on Wednesday at 4 p.m. ET, finalizing many previously agreed-upon trades.
Among them was the San Francisco 49ers’ deal to send wide receiver Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders, an agreement first reached on March 1. In exchange, the 49ers received a 2025 fifth-round pick.
Samuel spent all six of his NFL seasons in San Francisco after being drafted in the second round in 2019. He became a key playmaker in the 49ers’ offense but struggled last season, seeing a dip in production. The former South Carolina Gamecock finished with just four touchdowns—his lowest total since missing nine games due to injury in 2020. Ultimately, he requested a trade afterward.
"He's asked for a fresh start, and we're going to honor that," 49ers general manager John Lynch said.
After the trade became official on Wednesday, Samuel posted messages on his Instagram story for several of his former offensive teammates, including quarterback Brock Purdy.
"Get what you deserve family," the newest Commanders' wide receiver wrote.
Samuel and Purdy have built a close relationship since Purdy entered the league ahead of the 2022 NFL season. Together, they led the 49ers to two NFC Championships and a Super Bowl appearance.
Now, the 6-foot, 215-pound wideout joins a Washington team coming off its best season since 1991. Samuel will get the opportunity to team up with wide receiver Terry McLaurin and quarterback Jayden Daniels.
