49ers consider signing Deebo Samuel after Ricky Pearsall's injury update

2 sources2 min read • Latest: Jul 30, 2026, 7:00 AM

Last updated Jul 30, 2026

49ers consider signing Deebo Samuel after Ricky Pearsall's injury update
Summary

The San Francisco 49ers are evaluating their wide receiver options following an injury scare with Ricky Pearsall, who experienced swelling in his knee just days into training camp. After appearing in only nine games last season due to a PCL injury, Pearsall's status is now uncertain. Former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III has suggested that the 49ers should bring back Pro Bowl receiver Deebo Samuel, who is currently a free agent. With only Mike Evans as the fully healthy primary target and other options dealing with injuries, the 49ers may rethink their receiving depth strategy. Samuel, previously traded to the Washington Commanders, expressed confidence in his ability to contribute despite his mixed performance last season, finishing with 72 receptions for 727 yards.

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Status Watch
  • Ricky Pearsall has swelling in his right knee related to a previous injury.
  • Robert Griffin III advocates for Deebo Samuel's return to the 49ers.
  • With Pearsall uncertain, Mike Evans is the only healthy primary target.
  • Deebo Samuel is an unrestricted free agent after being traded last year.
  • Samuel insists he has productive seasons ahead despite recent challenges.
Latest Updates
  • 7:00 AMYahoo Sports‘You Can’t Count on Ricky Pearsall’ — Former Pro Bowler Loses Faith, Pushes 49ers To Bust Out Deebo Samuel Insurance Policy
  • 5:07 AMYahoo Sports‘Sign Deebo Samuel’ — Ex-NFL Star Urges 49ers To Reunite With the Pro Bowl WR After Latest Ricky Pearsall Injury
What they're saying
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It’s training camp season, and Deebo Samuel is still pondering his options (or lack thereof) this NFL season. Samuel, one of the more high-profile free agents on the market, has long been linked with a return to his old team, the San Francisco 49ers, and the speculation only ramped up after Ricky Pearsall’s training camp was interrupted by a flare-up of his posterior cruciate ligament on Wednesday.

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The San Francisco 49ers entered training camp hoping Ricky Pearsall would finally enjoy a healthy stretch after an injury-hit 2025 campaign. The wide receiver appeared in only nine games last season because of a posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injury in his right knee.

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