49ers Bring Deebo Samuel Back to Replace Injured Pearsall
By Tom Jensen
Published on July 31, 2026.
The 49ers have brought free agent receiver Deebo Samuel back to replace injured Ricky Pearsall, who may need season-ending knee surgery. Samuel will reportedly return on a one-year deal worth up to $7 million with incentives. Pearsal's PCL injury flared again this week, indicating rest will not work. Christian Kirk is also out due to a strained calf. Samuel fills several key needs for the team, including a healthy receiver who knows the system and has the full trust of Kyle Shanahan and Brock Purdy. The 49ers ranked 19th in receiving yards after catch last year and Samuel ranked 14th in the league in YAC and 6th among receivers. Despite the risks, Samuel is a gamble that Shanahan is comfortable with and can immediately contribute immediately.
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