The NFL offseason is in full swing, meaning trade rumors are at the forefront of many discussions.
The San Francisco 49ers aren't an exception when it comes to the offseason trade scene. Star wide receiver Deebo Samuel was granted permission to seek a trade earlier due to his being unhappy with his exit meeting with the 49ers following an underwhelming 2024 campaign.
Players as talented as Samuel aren't available every day, which is why several teams have since been linked to the 49ers for a potential deal. Mindsets change with time, though, and it looks like one potential suitor is no longer willing to make a trade with San Francisco.
49ers Rumors: Patriots No Longer Interested in Deebo Samuel Trade
As the NFL scouting combine continues in Indianapolis this week, MassLive's Karen Guregian is reporting that sources close to the New England Patriots aren't fans of how Samuel would fit in the new-look offense.
"San Francisco’s Deebo Samuel isn’t viewed as a good fit in Josh McDaniels’ system, according to an industry source," Guregian wrote.
Tidbits gathered during the week on what we're hearing about the Patriots at the NFL Combine. With @ByMarkDaniels and @ByChrisMason https://t.co/HGMd0fvSPy
— Karen Guregian (@kguregian) February 28, 2025
Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel brought in offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels shortly after the former was hired in January. Having said that, it isn't surprising that the Patriots would want to drop out of the Samuel sweepstakes if McDaniels doesn't think the 49ers WR will work in his scheme.
Samuel is known as a 'wide back' due to his combination of receiving and rushing skills, making him one of the most unique players in the NFL. Nevertheless, the former South Carolina Gamecock's unique skill set also means he's more effective in offenses that will play to his dual-threat capabilities.
Although he was once a focal point in the offense, Samuel's role in San Francisco's attack has regressed with each passing year. The 29-year-old star went from racking up 1,770 scrimmage yards and 14 touchdowns while averaging 13.0 touches per game with the 49ers in 2021 to tallying just 93 touches for 806 yards and four TDs last season.
Losing out on a potential trade partner isn't fun, however, the Patriots' lack of interest doesn't mean the 49ers don't have any suitors left. Samuel is one of the most gifted receivers in the league, and it's hard to imagine there not being at least one other team willing to see how he can impact their receiving and rushing situation.
With the NFL's trade market officially reopening on Wednesday, March 12, it might not be long before 49ers-Samuel trade discussions heat up again.