‘Cocky’ Deebo Samuel doesn’t have a straight answer about his viral tweet
In 2024, Deebo Samuel has only 40 receptions for 553 yards amid a 6-7 season for the San Francisco 49ers.
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Deebo Samuel (Image via Imago)
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel stirred up a storm on social media this week. Samuel expressed frustration over his lack of production during the least effective stretch of his six-year NFL career.
Deebo Samuel’s involvement in the 49ers’ offense has effectively diminished this season. Samuel is currently averaging six touches per game, one fewer than his average over his first five seasons. His opportunities have noticeably decreased. Additionally, his efficiency with the ball has declined.
The six-year veteran has recorded 40 receptions for 553 yards so far this season. This decline stands in stark contrast to his standout 2021 season, where he earned All-Pro honors with 77 receptions for 1,405 yards and six receiving touchdowns, alongside 365 rushing yards and 8 rushing touchdowns. Following that remarkable performance, Samuel was rewarded with a three-year, $73.5 million contract extension.
In a now-deleted post on X, Samuel appeared to blame his quarterback, stating, “Not struggling at all just not getting the ball!” The comment quickly went viral, drawing widespread attention and even prompting a response from X’s community notes, adding fuel to the media frenzy.
The explosive tweet, accompanied by a shrugging emoji, was later deleted. However, speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Samuel stood by his statement.
You read what you read. I was frustrated, for sure.
Deebo Samuel said
Here's a compilation of Deebo Samuel answering questions from the media about his "not struggling at all just not getting the ball" tweet. pic.twitter.com/ULeioqEjBi
— KNBR (@KNBR) December 10, 2024
Kyle Shanahan and Brock Purdy downplay Deebo Samuel’s thoughts
49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan and quarterback Brock Purdy downplayed the incident, characterizing it as typical behavior from the WR. However, they also acknowledged that the star wide receiver might have a valid point.
On Tuesday, head coach Kyle Shanahan was asked if his outspoken wide receiver had voiced any frustration regarding his role in the offense.
Deebo and I talk every day, so I understand where he’s coming from. Deebo wants to contribute, and the best way he can do that is by getting the ball more. We want to involve him more, and we’ll continue working on making that happen.
Kyle Shanahan said
Purdy, on his part, heaped major praise on Samuel and he also expressed he will do better to hand the veteran some of the balls.
I think he’s right. He’s doing great right now with what we ask of him in the offense, and he’s not struggling… I want to get Deebo the ball every play if I could. I want to have him break all the records as best as possible. I want Deebo to do Deebo things, and we all do in this building. So, that’s just how the games have gone. But I love my guy, and I’m going to do everything I can to give him the ball.
Brock Purdy said
The 49ers (6-7) need a strong performance from Deebo Samuel to defeat the Rams (7-6), who are coming off a thrilling 44-42 win over the Buffalo Bills. With four games remaining, both teams need a victory to boost their playoff hopes.
San Francisco is tied for last in the NFC West with Arizona and one game behind the Rams, who trail the first-place Seattle Seahawks (8-5).
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Mohammed Bazim
(364 Articles Published)