The New England Patriots have reportedly had “preliminary trade discussions” with the San Francisco 49ers regarding one of their All-Pro wide receivers.
According to Josina Anderson, the Patriots have shown interest in trading for Deebo Samuel.
Samuel has been with the 49ers since 2019. This past season, he racked up 892 receiving yards and 225 rushing yards.
The 49ers have Samuel under contract through the 2025 season. If the trade him this weekend, they’d take on over $21 million in dead money.
So, what would the 49ers want in return for Samuel? According to NFL insider Mike Silver, the reigning NFC champions want at least a second-round pick.
From the San Francisco Chronicle:
According to multiple front-office and coaching sources from teams that had been negotiating potential swaps with the 49ers, it’s Samuel who is likely to be the odd man out. A deal could come together before the start of Friday’s second round, or perhaps when a trading partner is on the clock. The 49ers are believed to be seeking second- and third-round selections for Samuel, a first-team All-Pro in 2021.
Samuel has been the heart and soul of the 49ers for the past few seasons. That being said, the front office just selected wide receiver Ricky Pearsall from Florida.
If the 49ers want to adjust their offensive personnel while keeping their championship window open, they may want to consider moving Samuel – for the right price, of course.