The San Francisco 49ers have signed Deebo Samuel to a one-year contract with the team, despite not being the original plan. The move was seen as a move that reeks of desperation and carries significant emotional baggage. Samuel, who was shipped off to Washington for a fifth-round draft pick three years ago, knows Shanahan's playbook inside and out and can provide some insulation for the Niners' lacking tight-end room with George Kittle sidelined. Despite not being a 1-for-1 replacement for Ricky Pearsall, Samuel's return could bolster the running back Jordan James, and possibly Christian McCaffrey. He is more physically equipped to handle his role as a second-line wide receiver and an extra blocker.