There's a growing chorus of San Francisco 49ers players who feel a reunion with Washington Commanders wide receiver Deebo Samuel wouldn't just be welcomed but also possible.
First, running back Christian McCaffrey pointed out how both coaches and players "love Deebo," and then tight end George Kittle hinted a reunion might be in the works after the receiver was spotted at a Super Bowl party with several members of the Niners roster and front office.
Granted, San Francisco might have little interest in bringing Samuel back after trading him away to Washington last offseason. His 2021 All-Pro days are long in the past, and at 30 years old, he'd be little more than a complementary player to the rest of the 49ers' offensive core.
But, the Niners are in desperate need of receivers, so there's that to consider.
However, should general manager John Lynch and Co. be in a position to strongly consider the reunion, there's likely another suitor for Deebo's services that might pry him away from San Francisco's grasp.
Dolphins could be a bigger suitor for Deebo Samuel than 49ers
One of the theories behind Samuel's departure from the Bay Area was a desire to be back on the East Coast where he's originally from. Exactly how true that is remains to be known, but it's not unreasonable to think a team like the Miami Dolphins would be in play once Samuel hits free agency this offseason.
In fact, that's what Pro Football Focus' Nathan Jahnke argued:
"If Samuel isn’t returning to Washington, the Dolphins would make for a great destination for Samuel. The team is expected to release Tyreek Hill. Jaylen Waddle was the only Miami wide receiver to achieve at least 325 receiving yards last season, so there is room for significant targets for Samuel.
Miami promoted Bobby Slowik as its offensive coordinator this offseason. Slowik was the 49ers' pass game specialist in 2021, which was Samuel’s one year as an All-Pro player. He caught 77 passes for 1405 yards that season and had 14 total offensive touchdowns that season. Miami would be the best place for Samuel to revitalize his career."
Slowik's name is worth monitoring here, as he was on head coach Kyle Shanahan's staff during that memorable 2021 campaign. And while Samuel likely won't ever have that kind of impact again, reuniting with a coach who helped him reach the pinnacle of his career certainly makes sense.
Especially considering Samuel is likely to cash in on one more lucrative contract before his career comes to a close.
San Francisco might not be willing to offer that. Short of offensive talent, particularly in light of Hill's uncertain future, the Dolphins may be tempted to give Samuel what he wants.
So, for 49ers fans who are in the camp of a Deebo reunion, don't be surprised if Miami gets