5 burning-hot storylines 49ers will face in training camp

49ers training camp question No. 3: Will Deebo Samuel get his extension?

Perhaps the only other San Francisco-related offseason storyline that came close to matching the Jimmy Garoppolo-Trey Lance ongoing saga was the trade request put in by All-Pro wide receiver Deebo Samuel, whose relationship with the team seems to be better despite both sides not having reached an agreement on a well-deserved extension.

Samuel was in attendance during mandatory minicamp, which is a good sign. Yet there’s a strong chance the 49ers’ top offensive weapon from a year ago refuses to partake in any on-field drills once training camp rolls around.

At least not until he receives a new contract.

The Niners have had a recent history of waiting until camp to get such deals done. Linebacker Fred Warner didn’t receive his extension until just days before camp a year ago, while tight end George Kittle had to wait a few days into camp back in 2020.

If this trend continues, it’d make sense if San Francisco was able to put pen to paper with Samuel right around the time camp begins.

The longer it drags out, however, the bigger the chance a standoff between the two parties magnifies.

Not what the 49ers need heading toward the regular season.