The San Francisco 49ers are dealing with another setback in their receiving corps as Deebo Samuel is confirmed to be out for at least two weeks due to a hamstring strain, as announced by head coach Kyle Shanahan on Monday.
The injury occurred during the 49ers’ narrow 32-29 victory over the Seattle Seahawks. Samuel’s absence adds to the team’s struggles at the wide receiver position, which has been severely affected by injuries this season.
Several players, including Christian Kirk, Demarcus Robinson, and De’Zhaun Stribling, are currently sidelined. Ricky Pearsall is out for the season following PCL reconstruction surgery. Samuel had initially joined the 49ers in 2021, earned All-Pro honors, and returned to the team after a stint with the Washington Commanders, signing a one-year deal this off-season.
This season, Samuel has been a key contributor, amassing 206 receiving yards, 79 rushing yards, and scoring three touchdowns over five games. He has also been effective in special teams, returning 11 kickoffs for 281 yards.
The injury occurred in the third quarter of the game against Seattle, following a tackle by Seahawks linebacker Drake Thomas. Samuel remained on the ground before being helped off the field.
Despite the challenges, the 49ers managed to finish the game with four healthy wide receivers. Mike Evans proved instrumental in their NFC West win, delivering 113 yards and a touchdown.
With the team facing a depleted receiver unit, general manager John Lynch may need to look into bolstering the lineup. Among the remaining healthy wide receivers, Jordan Watkins has a modest contribution of only two catches this season.
Shanahan’s announcement indicates Samuel will miss not only the anticipated match against his former team, the Commanders, on “Monday Night Football,” but possibly a crucial Week 7 game against the Atlanta Falcons. Following these games, the team will enter its bye week.