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  • Team WAS
  • Pos WR
  • Status AActive

News

  • Three grabs in win over Giants

    Samuel caught three of five targets for 43 yards in Sunday's 29-21 win over the Giants.

    Analysis: Marcus Mariota completed only 10 passes in total on the day, with Samuel and Terry McLaurin the only players to catch more than one of them, but Samuel's longest gain went for only 18 yards. The veteran wideout has hauled in multiple passes in every game he's played this season, and his 65 receptions through 13 contests are already the second-highest total of his career after his 77 in 2021 with the 49ers. Samuel will look for his first TD since Week 11 in a Week 16 clash with the Eagles.

    Published: Sun, Dec 14 at 2:08pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Suiting up Sunday

    Samuel (illness) is active for Sunday's game at the Giants.

    Analysis: Samuel didn't practice Friday due to an illness and ultimately was deemed questionable for Week 15 action. His lack of inclusion on the Commanders' list of inactives Sunday has cleared him to resume his typical role, which has meant 70-plus percent of the offensive snaps in nine of his 12 appearances this season. Having said that, with top TE Zach Ertz out for the rest of the campaign due to an ACL tear that he suffered last Sunday in Minnesota, Samuel may experience a slight uptick in his…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 14 at 8:39am by Rotowire.com
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  • In line to suit up Sunday

    Samuel, who is officially questionable to play against the Giants on Sunday due to an illness, is expected to give it a go, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: Samuel came down with an illness near the end of the week and didn't practice Friday. However, he seems to be feeling better and thus appears likely to take the field against New York. He'll be working with QB Marcus Mariota, as Jayden Daniels has been ruled out due to a left elbow injury.

    Published: Sat, Dec 13 at 8:10pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Questionable due to illness

    Samuel (illness) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game at the Giants.

    Analysis: The Commanders added Samuel to their injury report at the end of the week, labeling him as a non-participant Friday. He'll have a couple of days to recover before a favorable matchup with the Giants at 1:00 p.m. ET on Sunday. With TE Zach Ertz (knee) out for the season, QB Marcus Mariota already is running low on reliable pass catchers beyond Terry McLaurin.

    Published: Fri, Dec 12 at 1:06pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Misses practice with illness

    Samuel missed Friday's practice due to an illness, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Terry McLaurin also was absent, but in his case it was a planned maintenance day. Samuel's absence is somewhat more concerning, though he'll have a couple of days to get healthy before a matchup with the Giants on Sunday. Commanders coach Dan Quinn didn't comment Friday on expectations for Samuel's availability.

    Published: Fri, Dec 12 at 9:39am by Rotowire.com
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  • Team-high four grabs in loss

    Samuel caught four of six targets for 27 yards in Sunday's 31-0 loss to the Vikings.

    Analysis: The four receptions led the Commanders while the six targets tied Terry McLaurin for the team lead, but the volume didn't amount to much yardage. Washington's passing attack struggled even with Jayden Daniels returning to action, but the second-year QB left the game in the third quarter after appearing to aggravate his dislocated left elbow. Regardless of whether Daniels or Marcus Mariota is under center in Week 15 against the Giants, Samuel figures to be involved in the offense -- he's seen at…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 7 at 1:17pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Overshadowed in OT loss

    Samuel recorded five receptions on seven targets for 64 yards in Sunday's 27-26 overtime loss to the Broncos.

    Analysis: Samuel was overshadowed by strong showings from both Terry McLaurin and Zach Ertz, but he had a solid performance of his own. He did the majority of his damage in overtime, recording a 38-yard reception down the right sideline that came two yards shy of the end zone. Samuel has at least five targets in each of his last five games, and his usage down the field has started to rebound, as he has three receptions of at least 20 yards combined across his last two games.

    Published: Sun, Nov 30 at 10:25pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Finds end zone in OT loss

    Samuel caught seven of eight targets for 74 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 16-13 overtime loss to the Dolphins. He added three rushing yards on his only carry.

    Analysis: The veteran wideout scored Washington's only TD of the day on a 20-yard catch-and-run in the third quarter. Samuel has gotten into the end zone in back-to-back games, and he'll take a 53-470-5 line on 68 targets for the season into the Commanders' Week 12 bye. He's also chipped in 52 yards and a touchdown on the ground.

    Published: Sun, Nov 16 at 10:18am by Rotowire.com
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  • Receiving score saves day

    Samuel recorded four receptions on five targets for 29 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 44-22 loss to the Lions.

    Analysis: The Commanders attempted only 22 passes, leaving no pass catcher with more than five targets. That limited the upside for any individual player, though Samuel was even more limited with only short-area targets. He now has fewer than 45 yards in four straight games, with only a four-yard touchdown catch midway through the third quarter saving his performance. Samuel's production is likely to remain volatile so long as Jayden Daniels (shoulder) is sidelined.

    Published: Sun, Nov 9 at 6:49pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Modest production in blowout loss

    Samuel recorded five receptions on six targets for 41 yards in Sunday's 38-14 loss to the Seahawks. He added one rush for three yards as well as one kick return for 30 yards.

    Analysis: No Commanders offensive skill-position player had a particularly strong showing in Sunday night's loss, though Samuel did lead the team in both targets and receptions. His most significant contribution was a 19-yard gain that came primarily after the catch late in the third quarter. Samuel may still be slowed by a heel injury, having logged three straight games with 45 yards from scrimmage or fewer. His chance of turning things around moving forward is also complicated by the likely absence of…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 2 at 9:06pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Minuscule production in return

    Samuel (heel) brought in three of six targets for 11 yards and rushed once for one yard in the Commanders' 28-7 loss to the Chiefs on Monday night.

    Analysis: Samuel's return from a one-game absence did next to nothing to boost the offense, one that was led by QB Marcus Mariota due to Jayden Daniels' (hamstring) absence. The veteran wideout tied a season low in receiving yards, and he has an anemic 7-26-0 line on 11 targets over his last two appearances overall. Samuel could be a primary beneficiary if Daniels is able to return for Sunday night's Week 9 matchup against the Seahawks.

    Published: Mon, Oct 27 at 8:42pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Good to go for Week 8

    Samuel (heel) doesn't have a designation ahead of Monday night's game against the Chiefs.

    Analysis: Samuel was able to play through a heel injury during the Commanders' Week 6 win over the Chargers, but it prevented him from playing against the Cowboys in Week 7. The seventh-year pro was able to string together a full week of practices, and he and fellow wideout Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) will both suit up against Kansas City on Monday. The returns of Samuel and McLaurin will give the Commanders a much-needed boost on offense with Marcus Mariota under center after Jayden Daniels (hamstring)…read more

    Published: Sat, Oct 25 at 9:36am by Rotowire.com
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  • Logs full practice Thursday

    Samuel (heel) practiced in full Thursday.

    Analysis: The same can be said for fellow WR Terry McLaurin (quadriceps), signaling that Washington's top options at the position are past their respective health concerns ahead of Monday's game at Kansas City. Samuel sat out Week 7 due to a lingering heel injury but was spotted performing hard cuts during individual drills at Thursday's session, according to Commanders writer Ben Standig.

    Published: Thu, Oct 23 at 1:10pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Trending in right direction

    Commanders coach Dan Quinn said Wednesday that Samuel (heel) is "trending right" for Monday's game against the Chiefs, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Quinn said that Samuel and Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) are both expected to practice throughout Week 8 as Monday's road matchup at Kansas City approaches. Washington's first official practice report will be released Thursday, at which point Samuel is on track to be listed as at least a limited participant. He wasn't able to suit up Week 7 versus the Cowboys despite having played through his heel injury the prior two games. Meanwhile, the status of quarterback Jayden Daniels (hamstring) remains…read more

    Published: Wed, Oct 22 at 8:51am by Rotowire.com
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  • Won't play against Dallas

    Samuel (heel) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Cowboys.

    Analysis: Samuel was able to draw the questionable tag for Week 7 after logging a limited practice Friday, but the seventh-year wideout will not travel with the team to Dallas due to a lingering heel injury. The Commanders will be without Samuel, Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) and Noah Brown (groin) for Sunday's NFC East tilt, which leaves Luke McCaffrey, rookie fourth-rounder Jaylin Lane and Chris Moore as the top wideouts in the passing game for Jayden Daniels. Tight end Zach Ertz would also be in line…read more

    Published: Sat, Oct 18 at 11:38am by Rotowire.com
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  • Uncertain to face Cowboys

    Samuel (heel) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game at Dallas, Commanders writer Ben Standig reports.

    Analysis: Samuel returned to practice Friday, but he was a limited participant and suggested to reporters that he's not sure if he'll play Sunday. He did play through the same injury the past two weeks, including Week 5 when he had an 8-96-1 receiving line against the Chargers. Samuel slumped to 4-15-0 in Monday's loss to the Bears, but his playing time wasn't impacted, handling a 72 percent snap share and 90 percent route share. With Terry McLaurin (quad) out again and TE Zach Ertz (shoulder/calf)…read more

    Published: Fri, Oct 17 at 1:10pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Unsure if he'll play

    Samuel (heel) said Friday that he isn't sure if he'll play Sunday at Dallas, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was spotted at practice Friday morning after sitting out the previous two days. That's a good sign, but his comments suggest the heel injury is still bothering him to the point that he may not be able to play through it the way he did in Weeks 5 and 6.

    Published: Fri, Oct 17 at 10:15am by Rotowire.com
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  • Spotted at practice Friday

    Samuel (heel) was on the field for the initial portion of Friday's practice, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was deemed a non-participant Wednesday and Thursday, so his presence at Friday's practice is a positive sign ahead of Sunday's game against the Cowboys, especially after he played through the injury last week to the tune of 72 percent of the offensive snaps, though it remains to be seen how much work he'll get in. In any case, the Commanders' upcoming injury report will reveal the wideout's official participation level as well as his Week 7 game status.

    Published: Fri, Oct 17 at 8:18am by Rotowire.com
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  • Sits out practice again

    Samuel (heel) did not practice Thursday.

    Analysis: Samuel managed to play through his heel injury in Washington's last two games, but his status now looks legitimately up in the air for Week 7 after back-to-back missed practices. It's possible the Commanders are simply taking a cautious approach to Samuel's activity level, but he may have to return as at least a limited participant Friday in order to have a realistic shot at suiting up for Sunday's road matchup against the Cowboys. Meanwhile, Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) was listed as limited in…read more

    Published: Thu, Oct 16 at 1:23pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Listed as non-participant

    Samuel (heel) is listed as a non-participant on Wednesday's practice report.

    Analysis: He played through the same injury the past two games, putting up an 8-96-1 receiving line in Week 5 before slumping to 4-15-0 in Week 6. Samuel topped a 70 percent snap share in both games, but the Commanders might ease up on his workload some if the heel continues to give him trouble and WR Terry McLaurin (quad) is available to pick up slack. McLaurin is returning to practice this week, but it isn't yet clear if he'll be ready for Sunday's game at Dallas. Samuel also needs to be monitored, and…read more

    Published: Wed, Oct 15 at 1:13pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Toughs out heel injury in loss

    Samuel (heel) secured four of five targets for 15 yards and rushed once for minus-1 yard in the Commanders' 25-24 loss to the Bears on Monday night.

    Analysis: Samuel wasn't at 100 percent, and although Jayden Daniels kept him involved, the veteran receiver couldn't do much with his opportunities. Samuel posted his second-lowest receiving yardage total of the season, but his injury seemed to play a role. The seven-year pro will look to get healthier ahead of a key Week 7 road matchup against the Cowboys on Sunday.

    Published: Mon, Oct 13 at 9:00pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Active in Week 6

    Samuel (heel) is listed as active Monday against the Bears.

    Analysis: Samuel has been dealing with a bruised heel for two weeks running, and the issue capped him to just one limited practice (Friday) during Week 6 prep. Coach Dan Quinn told Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post on Saturday that the Commanders were going to "take it into Monday" regarding Samuel, and his status now has been confirmed as the team posts its list of inactives. Despite playing through the pain in a Week 5 win at the Chargers, Samuel paced Washington wide receivers in offensive snap…read more

    Published: Mon, Oct 13 at 3:48pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Expected to play Monday

    Samuel (heel) is expected to be active for Monday's game against the Bears, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: The Commanders haven't yet made an official decision about Samuel's status since listing him as questionable on Saturday's injury report, per Commanders writer Ben Standig, but he appears to be trending in the right direction for Monday Night Football. As such, the final word on his availability may not arrive until roughly 90 minutes prior to an 8:15 p.m. ET kickoff. With wide receivers Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) and Noah Brown (groin/knee) already ruled out for Week 6, Samuel looks…read more

    Published: Mon, Oct 13 at 12:47pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Questionable for MNF

    Samuel (heel) is listed as questionable for Monday's game against the Bears, Zach Selby of the Commanders' official site reports.

    Analysis: Samuel managed just one limited practice Friday during Week 6 prep as he tends to a bruised heel, but he has a chance to play Monday, unlike fellow WRs Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) and Noah Brown (groin/knee), both of whom have been ruled out. Coach Dan Quinn told Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post on Saturday that the Commanders will "take it into Monday" regarding Samuel's availability, but ultimately his status may not be confirmed until about 90 minutes before an 8:15 p.m. ET kickoff.

    Published: Sat, Oct 11 at 1:13pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Looking like game-time decision

    Commanders coach Dan Quinn said Saturday that the team will "take it into Monday" regarding the availability of Samuel (heel) versus the Bears, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Samuel played through his bruised heel last week and has been practicing in a limited capacity, and it appears as though he'll be officially listed as questionable with the release of Saturday's injury report, but that his status won't be made official until Monday. At the latest, fantasy managers will gain clarity at least 90 minutes prior to Monday's 8:15 p.m. ET kickoff against Chicago. With Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) and Noah Brown (groin/knee) both already ruled out for Monday Night…read more

    Published: Sat, Oct 11 at 9:58am by Rotowire.com
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  • Listed as limited

    Samuel (heel) is listed as a limited participant on Friday's practice report.

    Analysis: The Commanders didn't actually practice Friday but estimate that Samuel would've participated if they had. He played through the same injury last week, catching eight of 11 targets for 96 yards and a touchdown in a game where no other Commander got more than two targets. Samuel likely will play again Monday against the Bears.

    Published: Fri, Oct 10 at 1:24pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Leading receiver with TD

    Samuel finished with eight receptions on 11 targets for 96 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 27-10 win over the Chargers.

    Analysis: Samuel overcame a heel injury during the practice week to lead a shorthanded Washington receiver room Sunday. The star acquisition led his new club in targets, receptions and receiving yards while catching QB Jayden Daniels' only passing touchdown of the contest. The 29-year-old has turned back the clock in 2025, generating 346 yards of offense and four total touchdowns through five games. Even if No. 1 wideout Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) returns against the Bears next Monday, Samuel's…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 5 at 6:23pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Cleared after full practice

    Samuel (heel) practiced fully Friday and doesn't have a designation for Sunday's game at the Chargers.

    Analysis: The Commanders' top three wide receivers didn't practice Wednesday or Thursday due to various injuries, but only Samuel made the trip from Washington to Los Angeles, as Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) and Noah Brown (groin/knee) were ruled out for Week 5 action. Samuel proceeded to manage all on-field work Friday, paving the way for him to serve as Jayden Daniels' top WR on Sunday in the quarterback's return from a two-game absence. Samuel thus figures to be a significant part of the game plan, not…read more

    Published: Fri, Oct 3 at 2:34pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Slated to suit up Sunday

    Coach Dan Quinn said Friday that Samuel (heel) will play Sunday at the Chargers, Tashan Reed of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Whether or not Samuel enters the weekend with a designation remains to be seen, but after logging work in just one practice during Week 5 prep, the wide receiver is slated to be available Sunday. With Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) and Noah Brown (groin/knee) not making the trip to Los Angeles, Samuel is the sole name option at the position available for Jayden Daniels (knee) in the second-year signal-caller's return to action.

    Published: Fri, Oct 3 at 2:18pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Back at practice

    Samuel (heel) returned to practice Friday, Tashan Reed of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was one of three Commanders wide receivers -- also, Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) and Noah Brown (groin/knee) -- to miss practice Wednesday and Thursday, but the former was the only one to make the trip with the team to Los Angeles ahead of Sunday's game against the Chargers. First, Samuel was seen doing some extra stretching Friday before catching passes from WRs coach Bobby Ingram. After that, Samuel took part in individual drills, indicating that he'll be at least a limited participant…read more

    Published: Fri, Oct 3 at 1:35pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Still not practicing

    Samuel (heel) officially didn't practice Thursday.

    Analysis: Per Tashan Reed of The Washington Post, Samuel was present at Thursday's session, but he didn't end up mixing into drills for a second straight day. On a positive note, Samuel is traveling with the Commanders to Los Angeles, while fellow WRs Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) and Noah Brown (groin/knee) aren't, ruling them out for Week 5 action. Samuel thus appears to have a chance to play through his current heel issue Sunday against the Chargers, but Washington ultimately could make a decision on…read more

    Published: Thu, Oct 2 at 2:15pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Back practicing Thursday

    Samuel (heel) was spotted on the field during the media-access portion of Thursday's practice, Tashan Reed of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: The Commanders listed Samuel as a non-participant in Wednesday's practice due to a heel injury, but he appears poised to upgrade to at least limited activity Thursday. Samuel accounted for 81 total yards and a touchdown on nine touches (six catches, three carries) in the Commanders' Week 4 loss to the Falcons, but he could see a slight downturn in his usage in Sunday's game against the Chargers if Washington gets Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) back in action.

    Published: Thu, Oct 2 at 9:30am by Rotowire.com
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  • DNP due to heel injury

    Samuel didn't practice Wednesday due to a heel injury.

    Analysis: With Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) and Noah Brown (groin/knee) inactive this past Sunday in Atlanta, Samuel hauled in all six targets for 72 yards and one touchdown and added three carries for nine yards on an 86 percent snap share. As the Commanders kick off Week 5 prep, though, Samuel has joined McLaurin and Brown as non-participants, leaving the top of the team's receiving corps in flux ahead of Sunday's contest at the Chargers.

    Published: Wed, Oct 1 at 3:15pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Finds end zone in Atlanta

    Samuel caught all six of his targets for 72 yards and a touchdown and added nine rushing yards on three carries in Sunday's 34-27 loss to the Falcons.

    Analysis: With Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) inactive, Samuel was the top option for Marcus Mariota and hauled in a 24-yard TD in the fourth quarter as the Commanders tried to mount a late rally. McLaurin seems unlikely to make a quick return, but the Washington passing game could get a significant boost in Week 5 if Jayden Daniels (knee) is cleared to play. Samuel will take a 22-204-2 line on 27 targets into next week's clash with the Chargers.

    Published: Sun, Sep 28 at 1:47pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Minimal role in big win

    Samuel caught two of three targets for 11 yards and carried the ball three times for 18 yards in Sunday's 41-24 win over the Raiders.

    Analysis: In the wake of Austin Ekeler (Achilles) being lost for the season, Samuel mixed in as part of a backfield committee, but he saw little volume either on the ground or through the air. The lack of usage may have been due largely to the fact that the Commanders were never seriously threatened in the second half, but having Marcus Mariota under center in place of Jayden Daniels (knee) likely had an impact as well. Daniels could return for a Week 4 clash with the Falcons, but even if Mariota is at…read more

    Published: Sun, Sep 21 at 3:11pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Scores late TD in loss

    Samuel secured seven of eight targets for 44 yards and a touchdown and returned two kickoffs for 78 yards in the Commanders' 27-18 loss to the Packers on Thursday night.

    Analysis: The Commanders' air attack was mostly stuck in neutral for a significant portion of the night, but Samuel was able to offer some solace to fantasy managers by recording 12- and 10-yard grabs on Washington's final scoring drive. The latter play also resulted in Samuel's second touchdown in as many games in a Commanders uniform, and he's now encouragingly logged 18 targets through his first two games with Jayden Daniels. Samuel next takes aim at the Raiders defense in a Week 3 home matchup on…read more

    Published: Thu, Sep 11 at 9:24pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Leading receiver in team debut

    Samuel caught seven of 10 targets for 77 yards while scoring a 19-yard touchdown on his only rushing attempt in Sunday's 21-6 win over the Giants.

    Analysis: Samuel gave the Commanders some breathing room with a 19-yard rushing touchdown in the fourth quarter to extend Washington's lead to 21-6. He also led the team in targets, catches and receiving yards, while no teammate had more than five targets, three catches or 34 receiving yards. Samuel's set to be a key playmaker for the Commanders after coming over from San Francisco in an offseason trade. Up next for Samuel is a Week 2 trip to Green Bay on Thursday.

    Published: Sun, Sep 7 at 3:10pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not playing Saturday

    Samuel and most other starters won't play in Saturday's preseason game against Baltimore, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Samuel made one appearance this preseason, taking a carry for 19 yards. By all accounts, he's been a favorite target of Jayden Daniels this summer, displaying strong chemistry with the young QB throughout training camp. Samuel's volume projection for Week 1 against the Giants is nonetheless partially dependent on the availability of fellow wideout Terry McLaurin, who missed all of camp due to some combination of an ankle injury and contract negotiations.

    Published: Sat, Aug 23 at 7:43am by Rotowire.com
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  • Gains 19 yards on first drive

    Samuel took one carry for 19 yards in Monday's preseason game against the Bengals.

    Analysis: Samuel got the ball on the first snap of Washington's four-play, 74-yard TD drive -- after which Samuel, Jayden Daniels and some other starters didn't play. With Terry McLaurin (contract) still unavailable, Samuel has been Daniels' top target throughout training camp, portending a featured role in Washington's Week 1 game plan against the Giants.

    Published: Mon, Aug 18 at 6:20pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Suiting up Monday

    Samuel will suit up for the Commanders in Monday's preseason game against the Bengals, Zach Selby of the team's official site reports.

    Analysis: He'll see his first action in a Washington uniform following his trade from San Francisco back on March 1. With wide receivers Terry McLaurin and Noah Brown not playing Monday, Samuel will act as Jayden Daniels' top target for as long as the quarterback is on the field. Samuel has developed a nice rapport with Daniels during training camp, and this will mark their first opportunity to show it off in an actual game setting.

    Published: Mon, Aug 18 at 3:50pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Building chemistry with Daniels

    Samuel and Jayden Daniels have shown a strong connection throughout training camp, according to Nicki Jhabvala of The Athletic.

    Analysis: Samuel has been the de facto No. 1 wideout at training camp due to the absence of Terry McLaurin, who requested a trade at the beginning of August as part of a contract dispute. It sounds like Samuel and Daniels have built chemistry quickly, setting the table for the former 49er to have a big role in Washington's offense right out of the gate. The report also notes that Samuel currently weighs around 220 pounds, with nine percent body fat, after playing much of last season at 225 pounds.…read more

    Published: Tue, Aug 12 at 7:20am by Rotowire.com
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  • Back at practice

    Samuel (hand) returned to practice Monday, JP Finlay of NBC Sports Washington reports.

    Analysis: He hurt his hand/finger Saturday while diving for a catch at practice. The quick return to training camp confirms it's nothing serious, giving Samuel plenty of chances to continue building chemistry with QB Jayden Daniels while No. 1 receiver Terry McLaurin remains away from the team. McLaurin has requested a trade, but the Commanders reportedly aren't considering it and prefer to continue extension negotiations instead.

    Published: Mon, Aug 4 at 6:56am by Rotowire.com
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  • Injures left hand Saturday

    Samuel injured his left hand while diving for a catch during Saturday's training camp practice, Commanders writer Ben Standig reports.

    Analysis: Samuel left practice shortly after the injury, and the severity of the injury will be determined once he undergoes further testing. He is expected to be Jayden Daniels' top weapon for as long as Terry McLaurin (ankle/contract) is sidelined. The severity of Samuel's injury isn't clear, but if he's held out of practice, that would leave Jaylin Lane, Michael Gallup and K.J. Osborn to work in three-wideout sets with the first-team offense alongside Noah Brown and Luke McCaffrey. Samuel signed a…read more

    Published: Sat, Aug 2 at 8:14am by Rotowire.com
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  • Moving all around the formation

    Samuel's alignments on offense have been varied during training camp, and he's also been getting work on kickoff returns, ESPN.com's John Keim reports.

    Analysis: With Terry McLaurin (ankle / contract) still not practicing, Samuel seems to be the top weapon for QB Jayden Daniels. Washington beat reporters have repeatedly mentioned Samuel being on the receiving end of Daniels' passes, although Keim notes that the Commanders' cornerbacks have more than held their own, often preventing the wideout from creating separation. That's an area where Samuel struggled with the 49ers last year, but he's reportedly rejuvenated with his new team ahead of his age-29…read more

    Published: Tue, Jul 29 at 11:38am by Rotowire.com
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  • Gets salary guaranteed

    Samuel and the Commanders agreed to terms Wednesday on a reworked one-year contract that provides him with a $17 million guaranteed salary and the ability to earn up to $3 million in incentives, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: Samuel's reworked contract seems mutually beneficial, as it provides him with new incentives and a stronger baseline for 2025, while likely lessening Washington's commitment beyond the coming season. He previously had a $16.6 million non-guaranteed salary for 2025. Coming off a lackluster 2024 campaign in San Francisco, the 29-year-old playmaker will work to reignite his career while lining up alongside reigning second-team All-Pro selection Terry McLaurin. Samuel's versatility will make him a…read more

    Published: Wed, Mar 19 at 12:56pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Heading to D.C.

    The 49ers are trading Samuel to Washington for a fifth-round draft pick, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: An offseason trade for Samuel had been anticipated since San Francisco granted the wideout and his agent permission to find a trade partner in early February. The domino finally fell Saturday with the report that Samuel is headed to Washington to join an upstart Commanders club that advanced to the NFC Championship Game last season. The 2021 first-team All-Pro will now catch passes from 2024 AP Offensive Rookie of the Year Jayden Daniels while forming a dynamic wideout duo alongside Terry…read more

    Published: Sat, Mar 1 at 3:57pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Washington and Houston intrigued

    The Commanders and Texans are among the top teams that have expressed interest in acquiring Samuel, whose trade request San Francisco general manager John Lynch said the team plans to honor, Jordan Schultz of Fox Sports reports.

    Analysis: Schultz reports the Steelers and Broncos are among other teams that have inquired about trading for Samuel, but he notes Washington and Houston have been the strongest suitors to this point. The Commanders seem committed to adding another playmaker for Jayden Daniels, who earned 2024 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year honors despite Terry McLaurin being his only pass catcher to even approach the 1,000-yard mark. Houston, meanwhile, faces a similar conundrum, needing to surround C.J. Stroud with…read more

    Published: Fri, Feb 28 at 10:22am by Rotowire.com
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  • Expected to be traded

    San Francisco general manager John Lynch said Wednesday that the team plans to honor Samuel's request for a trade, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports. "He's asked for a fresh start, and I think we're going to honor that," Lynch said. "He is a great player; I think often one of my favorite draft picks of my time. He makes plays and he makes game-changing plays. Everything is good...But it probably makes sense [to trade him]. We're having conversations so we'll see where that goes."

    Analysis: Samuel is entering the final year of his contract and carries a $15.9 million cap number. He looked sluggish at times in 2024, finishing the season with just 51 catches for 670 yards and three touchdowns. His 9.1 rushing yards per game were also Samuel's fewest since an injury-shortened 2020 season. Given his pricey contract along with the fact that he turned 29 years old in January and is coming off an underwhelming season, Samuel is unlikely to fetch much more than a mid-round draft pick in…read more

    Published: Wed, Feb 26 at 2:38pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Gets permission to seek trade

    The 49ers have granted Samuel (ribs) and his agent permission to find a trade partner, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: Samuel requested a trade during his exit meeting with the team following the conclusion of the regular season, and San Francisco appears willing to comply with the request. After recording a career-best 77 catches for 1,405 yards with 365 rushing yards over 16 regular-season games in 2021, Samuel has struggled to replicate that production, with his best campaign in the three years since being 2023, when he posted a modest 892 yards on 60 receptions along with 225 rushing yards in 15…read more

    Published: Sun, Feb 9 at 9:28am by Rotowire.com
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  • Ruled out for Week 18

    Samuel (ribs/wrist) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Cardinals, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel might've tried to play through his rib and wrist injuries if the 49ers were in playoff contention. As is, he didn't practice this week and won't play in Sunday's game, which could free up more playing time for Ricky Pearsall, Jacob Cowing and Chris Conley behind de facto No. 1 receiver Jauan Jennings. There's no doubt Samuel will be mentioned in trade rumors yet again this offseason, as he has just one year remaining on his contract and is coming off a disappointing campaign for a team…read more

    Published: Fri, Jan 3 at 1:59pm by Rotowire.com
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  • DNP on Thursday

    Samuel (ribs/wrist) won't take part in Thursday's practice, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: Samuel has yet to mix into drills this week due to two health concerns and thus may need to practice in some capacity Friday to avoid a designation ahead of Sunday's game at Arizona. With Brock Purdy (elbow) unlikely to play this weekend, Samuel will be on the receiving end of passes from Joshua Dobbs, assuming the wide receiver is active.

    Published: Thu, Jan 2 at 2:44pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Dealing with pair of injuries

    Samuel won't participate in Wednesday's practice due to rib and knee injuries, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Since the 49ers' Week 9 bye, Samuel has managed more than 40 yards from scrimmage just two times in eight games, turning 46 touches into 334 total yards and two receiving touchdowns during that span. With a pair of new health concerns in tow, it's unclear whether he may be in danger of missing Sunday's season finale in Arizona, but the next two days of work likely will determine if he has a chance to suit up this weekend.

    Published: Wed, Jan 1 at 1:02pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Scores short TD on MNF

    Samuel brought in his only target for a five-yard touchdown while adding 16 rushing yards on three attempts in Monday's 40-34 loss to the Lions.

    Analysis: Samuel saw his usage drop back down to levels seen during his horrid second-half slump, but a short touchdown grab helped salvage what would have been a rough fantasy outing. The underperforming superstar carries a 51-670-3 receiving line into the final week of the regular season to go along with 134 rushing yards and a fourth score in 15 starts this year. Samuel will have one more chance to up his offseason free agency bid in Sunday's road tilt against the Cardinals.

    Published: Mon, Dec 30 at 9:55pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Wakes up in Week 16

    Samuel caught seven of nine targets for 96 yards and a touchdown while adding 25 rushing yards on five attempts in Sunday's 29-17 loss to Miami.

    Analysis: Samuel finally broke out of the worst slump of his professional career by recording his best fantasy score to date in 2024. The dual-threat receiver also finished with his most rushing yards in a game this year with San Francisco being forced to start a running back (Patrick Taylor) who began the year on the practice squad. It is worth noting that Samuel needed to have his right wrist examined briefly by the medical staff in the second half of Sunday's loss, but he promptly returned to action…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 22 at 6:17pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Another disappointing showing

    Samuel brought in three of seven targets for 16 yards, rushed twice for three yards and returned two kickoffs for 72 yards in the 49ers' 12-6 loss to the Rams on Thursday night.

    Analysis: The biggest play of Samuel's night came on the 41-yard kickoff return he rattled off to start the 49ers' final possession, and the horse collar tackle he was brought down with tacked on an additional 15 yards. His work on offense once again was highly underwhelming, however, and he's now finished with 22 receiving yards or fewer in five straight contests. Samuel's next opportunity to reverse his fortunes comes in a Week 16 road battle against the Dolphins on Sunday, Dec. 22.

    Published: Thu, Dec 12 at 9:29pm by Rotowire.com
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  • May be time to worry

    Samuel secured two of three targets for 22 yards while adding 13 rushing yards on five attempts in Sunday's 38-13 rout of the Bears.

    Analysis: Samuel was seemingly the only key member of the 49ers not to wake up in Sunday's landslide victory over the lowly Bears. The dual-threat star couldn't get anything going on the ground while George Kittle (6-151-0) and Jauan Jennings (7-90-2) did all the work in the passing game. Samuel is currently mired in a four-game slump that has resulted in 22 or fewer receiving yards in each contest during that span. This Thursday's crucial matchup against the Rams -- who just gave up 42 points in a win…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 8 at 6:34pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Gains 20 yards on four catches

    Samuel pulled in four of his five targets for 20 yards with a lost fumble in Sunday's 35-10 defeat at the hands of the Bills. He did not record a rushing attempt in the blowout loss. Samuel also tallied 208 yards on six kick returns.

    Analysis: Samuel essentially put up a bagel in non-PPR formats after coughing up his first fumble of the season while netting just 20 yards for fantasy managers. A snowstorm played a role in the marginal numbers from the West Coast based franchise, but Samuel was already mired in a midseason slump prior to Sunday's dud. Samuel's most impressive work Sunday came in the return game, as he logged kickoff returns of 60 and 43 yards in the third quarter. With Christian McCaffrey (knee) going down to injury…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 1 at 8:47pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Struggles continue with backup QB

    Samuel had just one reception for 21 yards off four targets in Sunday's 38-10 loss to the Packers.

    Analysis: Samuel was already in a midseason slump entering Sunday's loss, but a backup quarterback under center made a bounce-back effort less likely. The dual-threat superstar also failed to record a rushing attempt for the first time in a full game this season. Samuel has underperformed this season with just 590 combined yards and two total touchdowns through 10 games. Brock Purdy's (shoulder) potential return in Week 13 would boost Samuel's projections heading into a tough road matchup in Buffalo next…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 24 at 6:29pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Shut down by Seahawks

    Samuel had four receptions (on seven targets) for 22 yards while losing one yard on his only rushing attempt in Sunday's 20-17 loss to Seattle.

    Analysis: Samuel was blanketed by the Seahawks' athletic secondary due to George Kittle (hamstring) being inactive and Brandon Aiyuk (knee) done for the season. For reference, Samuel feasted on the Seahawks for 117 yards and a touchdown back in Week 6 when the receiving corps was at full strength. If Kittle is good to go for Week 12 after almost being able to suit up Sunday, then San Francisco's offense will look more like we have become accustomed to.

    Published: Sun, Nov 17 at 6:54pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Takes eight touches for 76 yards

    Samuel (hip/oblique) corralled five of six targets for 62 yards and added 14 rushing yards on three attempts in Sunday's 23-20 win over the Buccaneers.

    Analysis: Samuel used the 49ers' recent bye week to heal up from a pair of injuries sustained in a Week 8 win over Dallas on Oct. 27. The dual-threat superstar took eight touches for a combined 76 yards for fantasy managers Sunday. Assuming he escaped this contest unscathed, Samuel should continue to be a focal point on offense for San Francisco in a crucial NFC West battle against the Seahawks next Sunday.

    Published: Sun, Nov 10 at 2:07pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Suiting up in Week 10

    Samuel (rib/oblique) is active for Sunday's game at Tampa Bay, Lindsey Pallares of the 49ers' official site reports.

    Analysis: Samuel sustained oblique and rib strains in the 49ers' last game Sunday, Oct. 27 against the Cowboys, and following a Week 9 bye, he was able to string together three consecutive limited practices, receiving a questionable tag for Week 10 in the process. Overnight Saturday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reported that Samuel was expected to play Sunday, which has come to pass. Samuel will be welcoming back premier running back Christian McCaffrey (Achilles) for the first time this season, a scenario…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 10 at 8:36am by Rotowire.com
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  • In line to suit up Sunday

    Samuel (oblique/rib), who is officially questionable for Sunday's game against the Buccaneers due to an oblique injury, is expected to play, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: Samuel suffered oblique and rib and strains Oct. 27 against Dallas prior to San Francisco's Week 9 bye and logged a trio of limited practices this week. Despite the injuries, the wideout looks like he'll be able to suit up against Tampa Bay on Sunday. Samuel has notched multiple carries out of the backfield in all but one of his seven contests this season, but he could be asked to do less in that regard given his injuries along with the expected return of star running back Christian McCaffrey,…read more

    Published: Sat, Nov 9 at 9:34pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Gets questionable designation

    Samuel (oblique/rib) is questionable for Sunday's game at Tampa Bay, Lindsey Pallares of the 49ers' official site reports.

    Analysis: Coming out of a Week 9 bye, Samuel was a limited practice participant the past few days but partook without a non-contact jersey Friday, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports. Samuel seems more likely than not to play, but fantasy managers would still be wise to stay tuned and make sure Samuel's name isn't on the inactive list ahead of a 1:00 p.m. ET kickoff Sunday. Fellow 49ers wideout Chris Conley (ankle) has been ruled out, while Jauan Jennings (hip) is set to return.

    Published: Fri, Nov 8 at 1:51pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Another limited practice

    Samuel (rib/oblique) practiced in a limited fashion Thursday, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: For a second straight session to begin Week 10 prep, Samuel was donning a blue non-contact jersey, per Wagoner. The rib and oblique injuries stem from a Week 8 win against the Cowboys, so the 49ers' ensuing Week 9 bye hasn't allowed Samuel to get back to 100 percent just yet. In the end, though, Friday's practice report may clear up his status ahead of Sunday's game at Tampa Bay.

    Published: Thu, Nov 7 at 3:43pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Will be limited Wednesday

    Head coach Kyle Shanahan said Samuel (oblique/ribs) will be a limited participant at Wednesday's practice, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: In the 49ers' last game Oct. 27 versus the Cowboys, Samuel exited early with a rib injury, with Shanahan relaying a day later that the wideout was tending to both rib and oblique strains. With a Week 9 bye to rest up, Samuel will ease into Week 10 prep and have two more chances to log a full practice before potentially entering the weekend with a designation for Sunday's game at Tampa Bay.

    Published: Wed, Nov 6 at 1:16pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Day-to-day with oblique, rib injuries

    San Francisco head coach Kyle Shanahan said Monday that Samuel has been diagnosed with rib and oblique strains and is day-to-day, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: A Week 9 bye is coming at the right time for the 49ers, who have a laundry list of injuries and keep adding to it. Samuel was recovering from pneumonia before he was cleared to suit up Sunday against the Cowboys, and he recorded four catches for 71 yards on seven targets to go with four carries for 15 yards before sustaining the injuries. Samuel appears to have avoided anything serious, but his status will be murky until the 49ers return to practice next week.

    Published: Mon, Oct 28 at 1:38pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Hurts ribs on SNF

    Samuel (ribs) is questionable to return to Sunday's game against the Cowboys, 49ers team reporter Lindsey Pallares reports.

    Analysis: Samuel had been playing effectively despite battling pneumonia over the week leading up to the game, but he injured his ribs in the second half. He caught four of seven targets for 71 yards while adding four rushing attempts for 15 yards prior to the injury. That production didn't include a 66-yard touchdown catch that was nullified by a holding penalty in the second quarter.

    Published: Sun, Oct 27 at 8:28pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Suiting up in Week 8

    Samuel (illness) is listed as active Sunday against the Cowboys, Lindsey Pallares of the 49ers' official site reports.

    Analysis: One week removed from logging just four offensive snaps due to an illness that eventually was determined to be pneumonia and prompted a stay in the hospital, Samuel will be available to San Francisco's offense Week 8. With Brandon Aiyuk (knee) out for the season and Jauan Jennings (hip) sidelined for a second contest in a row, Samuel and TE George Kittle (foot) likely will serve as the top pass catchers for QB Brock Purdy on Sunday.

    Published: Sun, Oct 27 at 4:01pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Expected to play Sunday

    Samuel (illness) remains listed as questionable but is likely to suit up in Sunday's game against the Cowboys, Jordan Schultz of Fox Sports reports.

    Analysis: Samuel played only four snaps last Sunday against Kansas City and was hospitalized after the loss due to a bout of pneumonia. He didn't practice Wednesday but finished the week with a pair of limited sessions to set himself up to play Sunday. His ability to take the field against Dallas could be huge for a passing game that will be without Brandon Aiyuk (knee) and Jauan Jennings (hip).

    Published: Sat, Oct 26 at 8:21pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Receives Week 8 questionable tag

    Samuel (illness) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Cowboys, Jennifer Lee Chan of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: Samuel took the field for just four plays in this past Sunday's loss to the Chiefs before he was sent to the hospital due to a case of pneumonia. He was discharged Tuesday, returned to practice Thursday as a limited participant and was back on the practice field again Friday, which increases the hope that Samuel might be ready to play Sunday. Per Matt Barrows of The Athletic, head coach Kyle Shanahan said that the 49ers have been taking things slowly with Samuel since he returned to practice,…read more

    Published: Fri, Oct 25 at 2:09pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Limited in return to practice

    Samuel (wrist/illness) was limited at Thursday's practice, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

    Analysis: After logging only four snaps on offense this past Sunday against the Chiefs due to an illness, coach Kyle Shanahan revealed Monday that the wide receiver was diagnosed with pneumonia and in the hospital. Samuel was discharged Tuesday, and just two days later he was back on the practice field with a cap on his reps. The 49ers are giving him a chance to play Sunday versus the Cowboys, but Friday's injury report ultimately will reveal whether or not he goes into the weekend with a designation for…read more

    Published: Thu, Oct 24 at 3:24pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Spotted at Thursday's practice

    Samuel (illness) was present at the open portion of Thursday's practice, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel managed just four offensive snaps during this past Sunday's loss to the Chiefs with what eventually was deemed to be pneumonia, which forced a stay in the hospital. He was discharged Tuesday and was spotted running and doing some conditioning work on the side at Wednesday's session, per Wagoner. While Samuel went down as a non-participant, his return to the practice field Thursday generally is a good sign that he's trending in the right direction ahead of Sunday's game versus the Cowboys.

    Published: Thu, Oct 24 at 1:40pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Sits out practice, may play Sunday

    Head coach Kyle Shanahan said Samuel (illness) won't practice Wednesday but still has a chance to play Sunday against the Cowboys, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel played just four snaps during this past Sunday's loss to the Chiefs due to an illness, which was clarified as pneumonia by Shanahan on Monday. A stay in the hospital was ordered up for Samuel, but he was discharged Tuesday. Considering Shanahan's comments Wednesday, Samuel's status now will be one to watch this season, as the 49ers are particularly banged up at the skill positions at the moment.

    Published: Wed, Oct 23 at 1:08pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Released from hospital

    Samuel (illness) was discharged from a San Francisco-area hospital Tuesday, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: The wideout had been admitted to the hospital Sunday, after he had played just four snaps against Kansas City before exiting the game when he experienced a buildup of fluid in his lungs. While Samuel's discharge is a positive sign, head coach Kyle Shanahan said the receiver is without a clear timeline to resume practicing or playing while he recovers from his bout of pneumonia. The 49ers' pass-catching corps could be down multiple key members Sunday against the Cowboys, as Brandon Aiyuk (knee)…read more

    Published: Tue, Oct 22 at 2:37pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Has pneumonia, lacks return timeline

    Head coach Kyle Shanahan said Monday that Samuel has been diagnosed with pneumonia and doesn't have a timeline for when he'll be available again, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel attempted to play through an illness Sunday against the Chiefs but ultimately was limited to four offensive snaps before he was ruled out after halftime. Shanahan also relayed that Samuel is in the hospital, and with Brandon Aiyuk suffering season-ending ACL and MCL tears in his right knee Sunday, Jauan Jennings tending to a hip issue and Chris Conley sustaining a sprained ankle Week 7, Ricky Pearsall, Jacob Cowing and Ronnie Bell are the healthy options at wide receiver for the 49ers at…read more

    Published: Mon, Oct 21 at 4:00pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Out with illness

    Samuel has been ruled out of Sunday's contest versus the Chiefs due to an illness, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Prior to Sunday's kickoff, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reported that Samuel was dealing with an illness but was expected to attempt to play through it. However, after only a sprinkling of snaps early in the contest, Samuel remained on the sideline and eventually walked to the locker room slowly in the second quarter. After halftime, Samuel, along with Brandon Aiyuk (knee), was ruled out, leaving Chris Conley, Ricky Pearsall, Jacob Cowing and Ronnie Bell as the 49ers' available healthy…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 20 at 3:22pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Has illness, expected to play

    Samuel is tending to an illness but is expected to play Sunday against the Chiefs, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: Samuel operated with a cap on his reps this past week due to a wrist injury but ultimately was cleared to suit up for Week 7 action. With an ailment now in tow, there's a chance his snap share is below its norm of 70-plus percent, which could open up reps for Brandon Aiyuk, Ricky Pearsall and Chris Conley, with Jauan Jennings (hip) sidelined.

    Published: Sun, Oct 20 at 1:15pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Cleared for Super Bowl rematch

    Samuel (wrist) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Chiefs, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: One of the toughest wide receivers in the league, Samuel never figured to miss a Super Bowl rematch (2x) with a wrist injury. He even shed his non-contact jersey at Friday's practice, and there could be a bit more weight placed on him and Brandon Aiyuk in the absence of No. 3 receiver Jauan Jennings, who was ruled out Friday with a hip injury.

    Published: Fri, Oct 18 at 2:12pm by Rotowire.com
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  • No longer using non-contact jersey

    Samuel (wrist) isn't wearing a non-contact jersey during Friday's practice, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: It's a strong hint he'll play Sunday against the Chiefs, although there's still some chance the 49ers give Samuel a game designation on their final injury report Friday afternoon. It's hard to imagine Samuel missing a Super Bowl rematch with any wrist injury short of a broken bone.

    Published: Fri, Oct 18 at 1:25pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Limited again Thursday

    Samuel (wrist) was a limited practice participant Thursday, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: A wrist injury has contained Samuel to a blue non-contact jersey during the first two sessions of Week 7 prep, according to Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com. There hasn't been any word that Samuel is in danger of missing Sunday's huge matchup with the Chiefs, but he may enter the weekend with a designation for that contest, which would be revealed on Friday's practice report.

    Published: Thu, Oct 17 at 3:28pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Dealing with wrist injury

    Head coach Kyle Shanahan said Samuel will be limited at Wednesday's practice due to a wrist injury, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel has been a hit-or-miss performer in his five appearances this season, surpassing the century mark in receiving yards two times while combining for a 9-123-0 line on 17 targets in his other three contests. The offense has been without premier running back Christian McCaffrey all season due to Achilles tendinitis, so Samuel has supplemented his work as a pass catcher with 19 carries for 51 yards and one touchdown. With a health concern in tow, Samuel may enter the weekend with a…read more

    Published: Wed, Oct 16 at 1:41pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Eclipses century mark in win

    Samuel brought in three of five targets for 102 yards and a touchdown, rushed four times for 15 yards and returned two kickoffs for 52 yards in the 49ers' 36-24 win over the Seahawks on Thursday night.

    Analysis: Samuel was coming off a disappointing one-catch, 11-yard performance against the Cardinals four days earlier, but his 76-yard touchdown reception early in the second quarter ensured he'd have a much better fantasy night Thursday. Samuel would end up adding another two grabs for 26 yards, allowing him to narrowly post his second 100-yard effort of the campaign. Samuel's rush-attempt total was also his highest since Week 1, and he could be even busier in a Week 7 home showdown against the Chiefs…read more

    Published: Thu, Oct 10 at 8:47pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Turns in dud Sunday

    Samuel caught one of three targets for 11 yards and rushed three times for nine yards in Sunday's 24-23 loss to Arizona.

    Analysis: Samuel was held to a season-low 20 combined yards as Arizona's defense keyed its focus in on the dual-position star. Brandon Aiyuk (8-147-0) and George Kittle (8-64-1) did the heavy lifting for San Francisco in the passing game while the team fell short in a favored matchup. The 28-year-old Samuel had been a steady producer prior to Sunday's dud, so fantasy managers shouldn't fret as the team looks to hit the reset button quickly ahead of a Week 6 matchup against Seattle on Thursday Night…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 6 at 6:53pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Gains 72 yards on five touches

    Samuel (calf) finished with three receptions (five targets) for 58 yards and 14 rushing yards on two attempts in Sunday's 30-13 win over the Patriots.

    Analysis: Samuel made a triumphant return from a one-game absence due to a calf injury. The dual-position superstar didn't post gaudy fantasy totals while finishing second in receiving behind the red-hot Jauan Jennings (3-88-0) and with Jordan Mason, George Kittle and Fred Warner (ankle) cashing in on the 49ers' three scoring opportunities Sunday. With Samuel being eased back into a comfortable win, fantasy managers can feel positive heading into a potential high-scoring NFC West matchup against Arizona…read more

    Published: Sun, Sep 29 at 4:43pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Active in Week 4

    Samuel (calf) is listed as active Sunday versus the Patriots, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: After straining his right calf during a Week 2 loss at Minnesota, Samuel was slated to be out a few games, but he's bucked those expectations and made a speedy recovery. He did manage just a pair of capped practices during Week 4 prep, so the 49ers may keep a close eye on his workload Sunday. Still, Samuel will be available for passes from QB Brock Purdy and potentially even a few carries behind starting RB Jordan Mason.

    Published: Sun, Sep 29 at 11:42am by Rotowire.com
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  • Expects to play Sunday

    Samuel (calf), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game versus the Patriots, is planning on playing, per NFL Insider Jordan Schultz.

    Analysis: Samuel missed the 49ers' loss to the Rams in Week 3 while nursing a calf injury that he suffered the week prior against the Vikings. The wide receiver said Saturday that he plans on making his return to the field in Week 4, and if he does so, he will beat his initial timeline of two-to-three weeks sidelined. An official decision on his availability will likely be made after the team's pregame workouts Sunday ahead of the matchup with New England at 4:05 p.m. ET.

    Published: Sat, Sep 28 at 8:27pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Listed as questionable

    Samuel (calf) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against New England, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

    Analysis: Samuel is ahead of initial recovery expectations, having returned to practice Thursday as a limited participant just 11 days after straining his right calf. Reports last week suggested he would miss two or three games, but it now seems he has a shot to come back after just one absence, or at the very worst he should be ready Week 5 against Arizona. The 49ers have a 4:05 p.m. ET kickoff Sunday, with Week 3 standout Jauan Jennings set to be the main fantasy beneficiary if Samuel is inactive again.

    Published: Fri, Sep 27 at 1:58pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Real chance to play this week?

    San Francisco GM John Lynch said Friday that Samuel (calf) has a chance to play Sunday against the Patriots, David Lombardi of the San Francisco Standard reports.

    Analysis: Initially expected to be out for two or three weeks, Samuel missed only one game before returning to practice Thursday as a limited participant. Lynch said Samuel has "hit all the markers" in his recovery, noting that "the best athletes seem to heal at a little better rate." Another absence still is the most likely outcome -- especially with the 49ers favored by more than a touchdown this week -- but there's at least a chance Samuel plays if things go well at practice Friday.

    Published: Fri, Sep 27 at 8:50am by Rotowire.com
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  • Officially limited Thursday

    Samuel (calf) was a limited practice participant Thursday, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was slated to miss a few games due to the strained right calf he suffered Week 2 at Minnesota, but his return to the field in the middle of Week 4 prep somewhat throws a wrench into that expectation. The 49ers may be merely ramping up his activity level as he progresses through his recovery, but his listing on Friday's practice report now will be of interest to see if he heads into the weekend with a designation for Sunday's contest against the Patriots.

    Published: Thu, Sep 26 at 3:22pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Returning to practice Thursday

    Samuel (calf) was spotted on the field in full uniform during the media-access portion of Thursday's practice, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: San Francisco will release its second Week 4 injury report later Thursday, when the extent of Samuel's participation will be known. Samuel is back on the field for the first time since suffering a right calf strain in the 49ers' Week 2 loss to the Vikings, and while the expectation remains that he'll miss a second straight contest this Sunday versus the Patriots, his presence at practice suggests he can't be ruled out at this stage.

    Published: Thu, Sep 26 at 1:17pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not practicing Wednesday

    San Francisco head coach Kyle Shanahan said Samuel (calf) won't practice Wednesday, Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle reports.

    Analysis: Samuel will be listed as a non-participant on a fourth consecutive practice report due to the right hamstring strain that he sustained late in the fourth quarter of a Week 2 loss at Minnesota. There's an expectation that he'll miss a few games as a result of the injury, and with one missed game under his belt already, he seems destined to be ruled out for Sunday's matchup with the Patriots at some point. Having said that, if Samuel returns to drills in some capacity Thursday or Friday, there's…read more

    Published: Wed, Sep 25 at 1:13pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Confirmed out for Week 3

    Samuel (calf) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Rams, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel didn't practice at all this week and is expected to miss multiple games after injuring his calf in the fourth quarter of a Week 2 loss to Minnesota. With RB Christian McCaffrey (Achilles) on injured reserve and George Kittle (hamstring) listed as doubtful, the 49ers are suddenly thin on skill-position talent, leaving RB Jordan Mason and WRs Brandon Aiyuk and Jauan Jennings as the favorites to pile up yards this Sunday in Los Angeles. Reports this week didn't sound promising for Samuel's…read more

    Published: Fri, Sep 20 at 2:04pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not practicing Thursday

    Samuel (calf) won't practice Thursday, Jennifer Lee Chan of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: With Christian McCaffrey (calf/Achilles) out Weeks 1 and 2, Samuel was getting some run out of the 49ers backfield in addition to his work as a receiver. Overall, Samuel had 23 touches for 177 yards from scrimmage and one rushing touchdown before he strained his right calf in the waning moments of this past Sunday's loss in Minnesota. Coach Kyle Shanahan relayed Monday that Samuel is in line for a multi-game absence, and George Kittle (hamstring) joined him on the injury report Thursday as a…read more

    Published: Thu, Sep 19 at 1:31pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not practicing Wednesday

    Head coach Kyle Shanahan said Samuel (calf) won't practice Wednesday, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel's absence to begin Week 3 prep comes as no surprise after Shanahan relayed Monday that the wideout was slated to miss "a couple" games due to the strained right calf that he suffered late in this past Sunday's loss at Minnesota, per Matt Barrows of The Athletic. Samuel thus is destined to be ruled out by week's end ahead of Sunday's road matchup with the Rams. Jauan Jennings is poised to jump into the starting lineup alongside Brandon Aiyuk during Samuel's absence, while Chris Conley,…read more

    Published: Wed, Sep 18 at 1:08pm by Rotowire.com
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  • In line for multi-game absence

    San Francisco head coach Kyle Shanahan said Monday that Samuel strained his calf with just over two minutes remaining in the fourth quarter of Sunday's loss at Minnesota, and the injury will cause the wide receiver to sit out "a couple" games, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: At first glance, Samuel's snap share (86 percent) and output (10 touches for 100 yards from scrimmage) from Week 2 weren't out of the ordinary, so the timing of the health concern makes sense. Assuming Samuel is sidelined for at least Sunday's road game against the Rams, Jauan Jennings will be the top option to step up alongside starting wideout Brandon Aiyuk, with Chris Conley, Ronnie Bell and Jacob Cowing the other healthy members at the position on the 49ers' active roster.

    Published: Mon, Sep 16 at 4:11pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Set to miss time

    Coach Kyle Shanahan said Monday that Samuel suffered a calf strain and is slated to miss "a couple weeks," David Lombardi of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel presumably picked up the health concern during Sunday's loss to the Vikings, a contest in which he logged a typical snap share (86 percent) while recording eight catches (on 10 targets) for 110 yards and two carries for minus-2 yards. With Samuel in line to miss game action, Jauan Jennings likely will be the primary beneficiary next to starting WR Brandon Aiyuk, but Chris Conley, Ronnie Bell and Jacob Cowing are the other options at the position on the active roster.

    Published: Mon, Sep 16 at 3:35pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Nets 100 yards Sunday

    Samuel had eight receptions on 10 targets for 110 yards while rushing twice for a loss of 10 yards in Sunday's 23-17 loss to the Vikings.

    Analysis: Samuel had a rare negative day as a rusher after a broken play on San Francisco's final offensive drive resulted in a loss of nine yards for the multifaceted receiver. He still finished with his first 100-yard receiving game of the 2024 campaign after scoring his first touchdown on the ground against the Jets in Week 1. Fellow star wideout Brandon Aiyuk (4/43/0) has been coming along slowly after sitting out the entire preseason dealing with a contract dispute, allowing Samuel to shine as the…read more

    Published: Sun, Sep 15 at 2:26pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Scores in MNF win

    Samuel brought in five of nine targets for 54 yards and a carried the ball eight times for 23 yards and a touchdown in Monday's 32-19 win over the Jets.

    Analysis: Samuel produced a typical dual-threat performance with eight rushes and five receptions en route to 13.7 points in standard fantasy formats. With the absence of star running back Christian McCaffrey (calf/Achilles) on Monday, both Samuel and backup running back Jordan Mason (28-147-1) picked up the slack in the backfield to propel San Francisco to its first victory of the 2024 season. Samuel remains a top fantasy option whether he lines up out wide or in the backfield as the 49ers prepare to…read more

    Published: Mon, Sep 9 at 9:29pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Makes preseason debut Friday

    Samuel corralled two of three targets for 32 yards in Friday's preseason tie with the Raiders.

    Analysis: Samuel did not have a rushing attempt in Friday's exhibition, seeing action over the team's first three drives before exiting with the rest of the starters. Fellow wideout Brandon Aiyuk remained out of uniform due to continued contract negotiations that have dominated the offseason headlines in San Francisco. Samuel's role is unlikely to change even if Aiyuk gets moved, giving fantasy managers confidence in the former's productivity come Week 1.

    Published: Fri, Aug 23 at 11:02pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Slims down in offseason

    Samuel appears to have lost weight during the offseason, Nick Wagoner of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel presumably can drop some pounds and still be by far the most powerful ballcarrier among NFL wide receivers. Assuming the weight loss was intentional, he's likely trying to improve his agility and route running, which could allow him to have more impact catching passes downfield. Samuel drew just 26 targets 10-plus yards downfield last season, compared to 46 during his 2021 breakout campaign (per PFF). He'll perhaps always be most dangerous as a runner and short-pass YAC threat, but…read more

    Published: Thu, Jul 25 at 9:11am by Rotowire.com
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  • Likely staying in San Francisco

    Samuel wasn't traded during the 2024 NFL Draft and now seems likely to stay with the 49ers for at least one more season, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: The 49ers selected receivers in the first round (Ricky Pearsall) and fourth round (Jacob Cowing), and while they reportedly fielded trade offers for both Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk, nothing ever came to fruition. The receiver group now appears likely to undergo significant changes next offseason, at which point Aiyuk and Jauan Jennings are scheduled for unrestricted free agency and Samuel will have just one year remaining on his contract (with no guaranteed money). A contract extension for Aiyuk…read more

    Published: Wed, May 1 at 9:06am by Rotowire.com
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  • Drawing interest from Pats, Bills

    The Patriots and Bills have interest in trading for Samuel, Michael Giardi of Boston Sports Journal reports.

    Analysis: There's been a lot of trade chatter around Samuel's teammate, Brandon Aiyuk, but Giardi reports Samuel is "more likely to be traded" and has a couple interested suitors in Buffalo and New England. Both offenses are in dire need of wideout help, and the Bills (33rd overall) and Patriots (34th) hold picks atop the second round of the NFL Draft on Friday night. Samuel has two years left on his contract but has been more prone to injuries throughout his career, missing six regular-season games and…read more

    Published: Fri, Apr 26 at 11:20am by Rotowire.com
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  • Powers through injury in OT loss

    Samuel (hamstring) finished with three receptions (on 11 targets) for 33 yards while rushing three times for eight yards in Sunday's 25-22 overtime loss to the Chiefs.

    Analysis: Samuel went down clutching his hamstring early in the second half and had to miss roughly five minutes of game time while being examined on the sideline. The physical wideout eventually returned and got involved on a couple of short gains in the fourth quarter to help San Francisco keep its Lombardi hopes alive. Samuel's heroic effort was still not enough to topple the reigning champs after the 49ers fell to the Chiefs in the Super Bowl for the second time in five seasons. The 27-year-old…read more

    Published: Sun, Feb 11 at 9:29pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Returns to Super Bowl

    Samuel (hamstring) returned to Sunday's game against the Chiefs, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: Samuel went down with a non-contact injury midway through the third quarter but wasn't forced to miss any time. He'll return to his typical role in the 49ers offense.

    Published: Sun, Feb 11 at 6:21pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Suffers hamstring injury

    Samuel is questionable to return to Sunday's game against the Chiefs due to a hamstring injury, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Samuel pulled up in the middle of a route in the third quarter and received attention from the trainers on the field. He was able to walk to the sideline without assistance and has since been examined in the blue tent. His absence would be a big blow to the San Francisco offense, with Jauan Jennings likely to be asked to step up in Samuel's absence.

    Published: Sun, Feb 11 at 6:13pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Nets 96 yards in NFCCG

    Samuel (shoulder) corralled eight of nine targets for 89 yards and rushed three times for seven yards in Sunday's 34-31 win over the Lions in the NFC Championship Game.

    Analysis: Samuel looked like his usual self on the field after being knocked out of last week's divisional-round win early with a shoulder injury. The versatile playmaker didn't experience much success out of the backfield, but he led the 49ers in receiving en route to victory. Now healthy, Samuel figures to be one of several featured weapons San Francisco throws at Kansas City's tough defense in Super Bowl LVIII on Sunday, Feb. 11.

    Published: Sun, Jan 28 at 7:24pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Good to go Sunday

    Samuel (shoulder) doesn't carry an injury designation for Sunday's NFC Championship Game against the Lions after practicing fully Friday.

    Analysis: After being deemed a non-participant in Wednesday's practice, Samuel was a limited participant Thursday and closed out the week with an uncapped session, setting the stage for the receiver to play without restrictions Sunday. Samuel sustained a left shoulder injury during last Saturday's 24-21 divisional-round win over the Packers, but he was fortunate to avoid any structural damage after fracturing the same shoulder earlier in the season. Assuming Samuel experiences no in-game setbacks, he'll…read more

    Published: Fri, Jan 26 at 2:38pm by Rotowire.com
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  • To be limited Thursday

    Coach Kyle Shanahan said Samuel (shoulder) will be limited at Thursday's practice, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: In the wake of Samuel missing the second half of the 49ers' divisional-round win against the Packers due to a left shoulder injury, it was revealed that he didn't suffer a fracture but was in a lot of discomfort, leaving him a 50-50 proposition for the NFC Championship Game. While he was listed as a non-participant for Wednesday's walkthrough, he was able to work on the side and even managed at least one full-speed sprint during the part of the session open to the media, per Matt Barrows of The…read more

    Published: Thu, Jan 25 at 11:41am by Rotowire.com
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  • Gets in some work at practice

    Samuel (shoulder), who was officially listed as a non-participant at Wednesday's walkthrough practice, was seen working on a side field and took part in full-speed sprints during the portion of the session open to the media, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Prior to the 49ers taking the practice field, head coach Kyle Shanahan told David Lombardi of The Athletic that Samuel wouldn't take part in Wednesday's session, but the wide receiver was "feeling better" after making an early exit from the 49ers' divisional-round win over the Packers due to a left shoulder injury. Though Samuel avoided any structural damage after previously suffering a microfracture of the same shoulder in Week 6 and missing the 49ers' ensuing two games, the 49ers are…read more

    Published: Wed, Jan 24 at 3:28pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not practicing Wednesday

    Samuel (shoulder) won't participate in Wednesday's walkthrough practice, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel hurt his left shoulder on the opening drive of Saturday's 24-21 win over Green Bay in the divisional round and ended up playing three snaps in the first quarter, six in the second quarter and none after halftime. His absence Wednesday isn't the best sign for his chances of playing Sunday in the NFC Championship Game against the Lions, but the more important factor will be his participation -- or lack thereof -- Thursday, when the Niners hold a more intense practice rather than a…read more

    Published: Wed, Jan 24 at 11:51am by Rotowire.com
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  • No fracture, status still TBD

    San Francisco head coach Kyle Shanahan said Monday that there's no fracture in Samuel's left shoulder, but the wideout is still in pain, and his status for Sunday's NFC Championship Game versus the Lions is to be determined, David Lombardi of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Adam Schefter of ESPN reported Monday morning that the 49ers consider Samuel "50-50" to play Sunday, and it looks like the wideout's official availability likely won't be known until inactives are released an hour and a half before kickoff. If Samuel can't suit up, Jauan Jennings, who stepped up with five receptions for 61 yards in Saturday's win over Green Bay, would likely see increased reps again.

    Published: Mon, Jan 22 at 1:51pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Looking 50-50 to face Lions

    The 49ers consider Samuel (shoulder) "50-50" to suit up for Sunday's NFC Championship Game against the Lions, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: Samuel is set to undergo additional testing on the shoulder injury he suffered during Saturday's 24-21 win over the Packers in the divisional round, but San Francisco at least appears to believe he has a chance to avoid missing any time. The versatile playmaker wasn't able to finish Saturday's contest, however, so it will be hard to retain too much optimism about his status until further details are revealed. Jauan Jennings had five catches for 61 yards versus Green Bay, so he could get another…read more

    Published: Mon, Jan 22 at 6:15am by Rotowire.com
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  • Will undergo further testing

    Samuel will undergo additional testing on his shoulder after exiting Saturday's 24-21 win over the Packers in the divisional round, Nick Wagoner of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: The 49ers are hoping to rule out a hairline fracture in his shoulder, which is the injury he suffered in Week 6 against the Browns that forced him to miss two games. Samuel reportedly told members of the 49ers that he was "OK," but head coach Kyle Shanahan suggested that Samuel not finishing the playoff game is a sign of a potentially serious injury. We won't know for sure until Samuel undergoes the additional tests. Jauan Jennings was the main beneficiary of Samuel's absence, recording five…read more

    Published: Sun, Jan 21 at 6:22am by Rotowire.com
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  • Won't return to Saturday's game

    Samuel (shoulder) has been ruled out from returning to Saturday's divisional-round game against the Packers, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was originally diagnosed with a head injury after exiting the game in the first quarter, and he was briefly able to return to the contest. However, he left the field soon thereafter and headed to San Francisco's locker room, where he was diagnosed with a left shoulder injury. Samuel had imaging on the shoulder and wasn't in uniform upon the start of the second half, and he's since been ruled out for the remainder of the game. Brandon Aiyuk is likely to take on an even more prominent…read more

    Published: Sat, Jan 20 at 6:58pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Questionable with shoulder issue

    Samuel is dealing with a shoulder injury and is questionable to return to Saturday's divisional-round contest against Green Bay, Bridget Condon of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Samuel exited after a catch in the first quarter and went to the medical tent. He was initially deemed questionable to return with a head injury and was subsequently cleared to re-enter the game. However, after re-entering the game, Samuel then ran to the locker room during the 49ers' next offensive drive and is now being called questionable to return again, this time with a shoulder issue. Jauan Jennings would likely be in line for more work in the passing game if Samuel is unable to re-enter…read more

    Published: Sat, Jan 20 at 6:13pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Cleared to return

    Samuel (head) has been cleared to return to Saturday's playoff game against the Packers, Bridget Condon of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Samuel headed to the medical tent after taking a hit in the first quarter, and he was initially deemed questionable to return. However, he's since been given the go-ahead to re-enter the contest. In addition to starting at wide receiver, Samuel also took the 49ers' first kick return in the divisional-round matchup.

    Published: Sat, Jan 20 at 5:54pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Questionable to return Saturday

    Samuel suffered a head injury during Saturday's divisional-round matchup against Green Bay and is questionable to return, Bridget Condon of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Samuel suffered the injury after making a catch in the first quarter and took some time to leave the field. He subsequently headed to the medical tent and has been deemed questionable to return. If Samuel is unable to get back into the contest, Jauan Jennings will likely see more snaps on offense for the 49ers.

    Published: Sat, Jan 20 at 5:50pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Low usage in meaningless game

    Samuel caught both of his targets for 21 yards while adding 11 rushing yards on one attempt in Sunday's 21-20 loss to the Rams.

    Analysis: Brandon Aiyuk joined Samuel as the only key offensive players to suit up for Sunday's inconsequential regular-season finale. Both starting wideouts saw limited run with three touches apiece as San Francisco tried to preserve its core of superstars ahead of the team's upcoming first playoff contest. Samuel will finish the regular season with 1,085 combined yards from scrimmage and 12 total touchdowns while appearing in 15 games. The hybrid superstar's efforts produced the only campaign to rival…read more

    Published: Sun, Jan 7 at 4:59pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Records 12th touchdown

    Samuel recorded five receptions on six targets for 37 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 27-10 win over the Commanders. He also had three carries for 35 yards.

    Analysis: Samuel was overshadowed by Brandon Aiyuk as a receiver, though he tallied the 49ers' first touchdown of the game with a two-yard reception. He was otherwise limited to low-impact gains, resulting in a relatively muted stat line and his third-straight game with fewer than 50 receiving yards. Samuel and the other 49ers' starters may not see much of the field in Week 18 against the Rams as the team has locked in the top seed in the NFC.

    Published: Sun, Dec 31 at 2:39pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Records 12th touchdown

    Samuel recorded five receptions on six targets for 37 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 27-10 win over the Commanders. He also had three carries for 35 yards.

    Analysis: Samuel was overshadowed by Brandon Aiyuk as a receiver, though he tallied the 49ers' first touchdown of the game with a two-yard reception. He was otherwise limited to low-impact gains, resulting in a relatively muted stat line and his third straight game with fewer than 50 receiving yards. Samuel and the other 49ers starters may not see much of the field in Week 18 against the Rams, as the team has locked in the top seed in the NFC.

    Published: Sun, Dec 31 at 2:39pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Cleared for Week 17

    Samuel (neck) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game at Washington.

    Analysis: The dual-threat WR upgraded to full practice participation Friday after being listed as questionable the previous two days. Samuel should be fine to handle his usual role and will be in a good spot for efficient production against a subpar defense that has three starters missing from the secondary this week.

    Published: Fri, Dec 29 at 1:41pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Logs official limited practice

    Samuel (neck) officially was limited at Thursday's practice, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel opened Week 17 prep with a limited walkthrough Wednesday and maintained that activity level one day later as he deals with a sprained neck. He'll thus have one more chance this week to log a full session, which could be enough for him to avoid an injury designation for Sunday's game at Washington. Ultimately, Friday's injury report will reveal as much for Samuel.

    Published: Thu, Dec 28 at 2:59pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Set to practice Thursday

    Samuel (neck) is taking part in Thursday's practice, Jennifer Lee Chan of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: The 49ers will post their second Week 17 injury report later Thursday, when it will be known whether Samuel was a limited or full participant in practice after he was estimated as a limited participant for Wednesday's walkthrough. Either way, Samuel's ability to get on the field in some capacity is a reassuring sign that his sprained neck won't be anything that puts his status for Sunday's game in Washington in jeopardy.

    Published: Thu, Dec 28 at 2:19pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Tending to sprained neck

    Head coach Kyle Shanahan said Samuel will be limited at Wednesday's walkthrough due to a sprained neck, Lindsey Pallares of the 49ers' official site reports.

    Analysis: The 49ers emerged from Monday's 33-19 loss to the Ravens with a number of high-profile injuries, but Samuel's concern wasn't revealed until Wednesday. He'll thus have two more chances to get back to full activity in practice before the team potentially tags him with a designation for Sunday's game at Washington.

    Published: Wed, Dec 27 at 1:50pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Off game results in 54 yards

    Samuel finished with four receptions (on 12 targets) for 47 yards while rushing twice for seven yards in Monday's 33-19 loss to Baltimore.

    Analysis: Samuel was out of sync with Brock Purdy (stinger) on Monday after the quarterback threw two first-half interceptions while targeting his top wideout. Things didn't improve much for the duo in the second half after Purdy missed hitting a wide-open Samuel on a slant to begin the drive following his fourth interception. Samuel returned the mistake a couple of plays later when he flat-out dropped a third-down pass that hit him in the hands, resulting in another stalled drive for San Francisco.…read more

    Published: Mon, Dec 25 at 11:01pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Nabs two TD receptions

    Samuel had four receptions on seven targets for 48 yards and two touchdowns while adding 11 rushing yards on one attempt in Sunday's 45-29 win over the Cardinals.

    Analysis: Samuel continued his recent tear by notching his third straight multi-touchdown game, giving him a whopping total of eight combined scores over the last four weeks. Five of those -- including Sunday's trips to the end zone -- were of the receiving variety, giving the dynamic wideout six reciving touchdowns on the season and tying his previous high set over 16 games in 2021. Samuel did not officially log a kick return, as Arizona opted to kick away from the playmaker with five touchbacks and a…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 17 at 5:51pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Two more scores in win

    Samuel caught seven of nine targets for 149 yards and a touchdown while scoring another touchdown on his lone carry of one yard in Sunday's 28-16 win over Seattle.

    Analysis: Samuel exploded for two more touchdowns a week after posting one of the best fantasy scores of his career by scoring thrice against the Eagles in Week 13. The 27-year-old did most of his damage lined up on the perimeter as a receiver, resulting in his third 100-yard game of the season and second in as many weeks. Samuel continued returning kickoffs in lieu of Ray-Ray McCloud (ribs) -- who was placed on IR this week -- returning two kicks for 42 yards in addition to his strong contributions on…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 10 at 5:29pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Rips off three TDs in big win

    Samuel caught all four of his targets for 116 yards and two touchdowns while adding 22 rushing yards and another score off of three carries in Sunday's 42-19 win over the Eagles.

    Analysis: Samuel elevated his game for this benchmark matchup between NFC contenders by scoring rushing and receiving touchdowns in the same game for the first time this season. He even handled kickoff returns in place of Ray-Ray McCloud (ribs), gaining 60 yards on two returns. The dual-threat superstar has scored in four consecutive games since returning from San Francisco's Week 9 bye. Samuel's massive performance brings him up to 750 combined yards and seven touchdowns through 10 active games as San…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 3 at 5:26pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Scores third rushing TD of 2023

    Samuel caught seven of nine targets for 79 yards while adding 15 yards and a touchdown on four carries in Thursday's 31-13 win over Seattle.

    Analysis: Samuel literally hit the ground running on his first carry when he took a designed run untouched from two yards out to give San Francisco a lead it would never lose. The dual-threat star then proceeded to lead his team in receiving en route to a healthy fantasy score for managers to close out Thursday's action. Samuel is now averaging 71.7 combined yards with two rushing scores in three games since returning from both his injury layoff and San Francisco's Week 9 bye. Samuel should remain busy…read more

    Published: Thu, Nov 23 at 9:59pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Three catches in Sunday's win

    Samuel caught three of four targets for 63 yards in Sunday's 27-14 win over the Buccaneers.

    Analysis: The 49ers' target tree was incredibly narrow in this one, as only four players caught a pass, with Samuel coming in fourth in that group. He still managed to post his second-highest yardage total of the season thanks to a 40-yard grab in the third quarter that helped set up the team's final points of the day. Samuel's had a disappointing season so far, but if he can stay healthy he could put together a productive run given San Francisco's favorable closing schedule, which includes a trip to…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 19 at 9:07pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Scores rushing TD in return

    Samuel (shoulder) caught all four of his targets for 30 yards while rushing three times for 29 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 34-3 win over Jacksonville.

    Analysis: Samuel's four catches in his first action since Week 6 ranked second on the team behind Christian McCaffrey's six. The versatile receiver's biggest play came on the ground, though, as Samuel produced a 23-yard touchdown run to give the 49ers a 27-3 lead in the third quarter. Samuel has one receiving touchdown and two rushing scores through seven appearances, and he appears healthy heading into a Week 11 home game against the Buccaneers.

    Published: Sun, Nov 12 at 1:33pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Will be 'full go' Wednesday

    Head coach Kyle Shanahan said Samuel (shoulder) will be "full go" at Wednesday's practice, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel sustained a hairline fracture in his left shoulder during the 49ers' Week 6 loss in Cleveland, which kept him sidelined for the team's next two games. He was expected to miss at least that much time, and with the benefit of a Week 9 bye, he seemed back to his normal self at Monday's informal session, according to Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area. With an uncapped session on tap Wednesday, Samuel is set to resume his status as one of San Francisco's top playmakers on offense. In five…read more

    Published: Wed, Nov 8 at 1:07pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Practicing Monday

    Samuel (shoulder) was on the field for the 49ers' informal practice session Monday and appeared to have no limitations while going through individual and group drills, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: The 49ers won't have to reveal their first Week 10 practice report until Wednesday, but because of its Week 9 bye, the team was able to get an early start on prepping for Sunday's game against the Jaguars. Based on video provided by Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com during the portion of Monday's session that was open to the media, Samuel was in uniform and appeared to be moving at full speed while running routes, a sign that he could be ready to return to action this weekend following a two-game…read more

    Published: Mon, Nov 6 at 12:06pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Works out on side Thursday

    Samuel (shoulder) was spotted running off to the side during Thursday's practice, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Though head coach Kyle Shanahan has already ruled Samuel out from playing in Sunday's game against the Bengals, the wideout's ability to complete a workout Thursday at least represents a tangible step forward in his recovery from a hairline fracture in his shoulder. The 27-year-old would seem to have a good chance to be available to play Nov. 12 against the Jaguars following the 49ers' Week 9 bye.

    Published: Thu, Oct 26 at 1:39pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Likely missing multiple games

    San Francisco head coach Kyle Shanahan said that Samuel (shoulder), who was already ruled out for Monday's contest against the Vikings, will also miss the 49ers' Week 8 contest against the Bengals, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: Head coach Kyle Shanahan said Samuel is dealing with a hairline fracture of his shoulder, which will keep the star receiver out at minimum three weeks, including the team's Week 9 bye. Given that timeline, Samuel could be a candidate for injured reserve, which would entail a minimum four-game absence. In Samuel's absence, expect Brandon Aiyuk to be a heavily featured option as the 49ers' clear No. 1 receiver, with the likes of Jauan Jennings, Ronnie Bell, Ray-Ray McCloud all factoring in.

    Published: Sat, Oct 21 at 2:11pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Misses practice again

    Samuel (shoulder) didn't practice Friday, Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle reports.

    Analysis: Samuel has missed back-to-back practices ahead of a Monday game in Minnesota, with Saturday representing his final chance to participate this week. Matt Barrows of The Athletic notes that Samuel was spotted in the team's weight room, while RB Christian McCaffrey made it out to a side field to work with the training staff. Both are considered day-to-day and could end up as game-time decisions for Monday Night Football.

    Published: Fri, Oct 20 at 3:31pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not seen at practice

    Samuel (shoulder) doesn't appear to be practicing Friday, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: He could technically still make an appearance after the media-access portion concludes, but it's much more likely Samuel simply will be held out for a second straight day. Coach Kyle Shanahan deemed the wide receiver day-to-day at the beginning of the week ahead of preparations for a Monday night matchup with Minnesota.

    Published: Fri, Oct 20 at 1:40pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not practicing

    Samuel (shoulder) isn't practicing Thursday, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: It comes as no surprise given that Samuel was unable to return to Sunday's loss to the Browns after exiting in the first half. He does have an extra day to prepare with the 49ers facing the Vikings on Monday Night Football this week, and a return to practice Friday would mark a big step in the right direction. Jauan Jennings and Ray-Ray McCloud are the primary candidates to get more snaps than usual if Samuel ends up inactive Monday.

    Published: Thu, Oct 19 at 12:53pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Considered day-to-day

    Coach Kyle Shanahan said Monday that Samuel (shoulder) is day-to-day, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

    Analysis: Samuel played just nine snaps before exiting Sunday's loss to the Browns. He returned to the sideline in street clothes for the second half. All of the tests on Samuel's shoulder have come back clean, so it sounds like he avoided anything serious. Samuel gets an extra day to rest this week with the 49ers traveling to Minnesota next Monday night. Jauan Jennings and Ray-Ray McCloud saw increased offensive roles behind Brandon Aiyuk following Samuel's injury.

    Published: Mon, Oct 16 at 2:21pm by Rotowire.com
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  • X-rays negative, more tests to come

    X-rays came back negative for the shoulder injury that forced Samuel out of Sunday's 19-17 loss in Cleveland, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Samuel suffered the injury in the first half, and after a lengthy spell in the sideline tent, he went to the locker room before the 49ers ruled him out. Avoiding any fractures is an initial positive sign for Samuel's outlook, but more tests, likely including an MRI, are on tap to determine the extent of the issue. The team also lost Christian McCaffrey due to oblique and rib injuries Sunday, so the skill positions in San Francisco will be something to keep an eye on as it prepares for a Week 7…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 15 at 3:24pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Won't return Sunday

    Samuel (shoulder) has been ruled out for a return to Sunday's game against the Browns, Lindsey Pallares of the 49ers' official site reports.

    Analysis: Samuel failed to haul in his lone target and carried twice for 11 yards before exiting in the first half with the shoulder injury. The 49ers haven't revealed the extent of the issue, but Samuel could be headed for an MRI as the team aims to get a full picture of the injury. Samuel will have slightly more time than usual to heal up from the injury with the 49ers traveling to Minnesota for a Monday night game in Week 7.

    Published: Sun, Oct 15 at 12:06pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Injures shoulder Sunday

    Samuel was forced out of Sunday's game against the Browns with a shoulder injury.

    Analysis: Samuel headed to the locker room, according to Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com, after carrying twice for 11 yards and failing to secure his only target prior to exiting. In his absence, running back Christian McCaffrey, fellow wideout Brandon Aiyuk and tight end George Kittle profile as the 49ers' top options on offense versus Cleveland.

    Published: Sun, Oct 15 at 10:51am by Rotowire.com
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  • Generates 85 combined yards

    Samuel (knee/ribs) caught all three of his targets for 55 yards while adding 30 rushing yards on five attempts in Sunday's 42-10 win over the Cowboys.

    Analysis: Samuel was able overcome a pair of lingering injuries and suit up for Sunday's matchup between NFC powerhouses. Unlike during last week's dud against the Cardinals, Samuel was given his full allotment of touches as a runner and receiver against the Cowboys, converting eight touches into 85 combined yards. The 27-year-old did not appear limited by his lingering knee or rib injuries, showing his usual burst without shying away from contact in the lopsided victory. Now healthy, Samuel can be…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 8 at 10:54pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Cleared for SNF

    Samuel (knee/ribs) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday night's game against Dallas, Matt Barrows of The Sacramento Bee reports.

    Analysis: Designation or no, the discussion all week has been about how much the injuries will impact Samuel's performance, not whether he'd be active for the game. He played through the same injuries last week in a less important game against the Cardinals and finished with no targets and six total yards (three carries). Samuel's removal from the final injury report suggests he's at least somewhat healthier this week, and there's always some chance the reports about him still being hampered by injuries…read more

    Published: Fri, Oct 6 at 2:17pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Another limited practice

    Samuel (knee/ribs) practiced on a limited basis Thursday, Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle reports.

    Analysis: Samuel maintained his activity level for a second day in a row, giving him just one more chance to log a full practice during Week 5 prep. Ian Rapoport of NFL Network noted earlier Thursday that Samuel, if he's active, won't be 100 percent for Sunday's game against the Cowboys. In his first time playing through knee and rib injuries Week 4 versus the Cardinals, Samuel wasn't targeted and turned his three carries into six yards, despite logging 87 percent of the offensive snaps.

    Published: Thu, Oct 5 at 4:10pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Slated to be limited Wednesday

    Head coach Kyle Shanahan said Wednesday that Samuel (knee/rib) will be limited at practice, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was able to play through knee and rib injuries this past Sunday against the Cardinals, logging a typical share (87 percent) of the offensive snaps. However, he wasn't targeted by quarterback Brock Purdy and was contained to just three carries for six yards in the 35-16 win. According to Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com, Shanahan called Samuel "day-to-day" Monday, so the wide receiver appears to be in a similar spot as he was during Week 4 prep.

    Published: Wed, Oct 4 at 1:17pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Deemed day-to-day by coach

    Coach Kyle Shanahan noted Monday that Samuel (knee/ribs) is viewed as day-to-day as Sunday night's game against the Cowboys approaches, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: In the 49ers' 35-16 win over the Cardinals in Week 4, Samuel (who had been listed as questionable for the contest) logged 48 of a possible 55 snaps on offense en route to recording three carries for six yards while not being targeted as a receiver. While there's been no reported setbacks for Samuel, Shanahan's comments suggest that the WR's practice reps could be managed ahead of Week 5 action.

    Published: Mon, Oct 2 at 3:26pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not targeted as receiver Sunday

    Samuel (knee/ribs) had three carries for six yards and was not targeted as a receiver in Sunday's 35-16 win over the Cardinals.

    Analysis: Samuel was able to suit up after carrying a questionable tag due to sore ribs suffered in last Sunday's win over the Rams. Fantasy managers may not have noticed that the star player was active when looking at Sunday's box score alone, but he was on the field for the majority of San Francisco's offensive snaps. ESPN's Nick Wagoner confirmed that Deebo's name was not on the 49ers' list of post-game injuries, which would make his lack of involvement a strategic move from head coach Kyle Shanahan.…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 1 at 8:09pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Suiting up in Week 4

    Samuel (knee/ribs) is active for Sunday's contest against the Cardinals, Lindsey Pallares of the 49ers' official site reports.

    Analysis: Samuel emerged from the 49ers' Week 3 win against the Giants with sore ribs, but a knee injury seemingly was the reason his status was in question for Week 4. The health concerns capped him to one limited session this week, but his fortunes turned for the better after Adam Schefter of ESPN reported early Sunday that the wide receiver was in line to play. With Samuel available to San Francisco's offense, he and Brandon Aiyuk will be among the top pass catchers for quarterback Brock Purdy along…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 1 at 12:00pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Expected to suit up Sunday

    Samuel (knee/rib) remains listed as questionable but is expected to play Sunday versus the Cardinals, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: Samuel's status won't be made official until the 49ers release their inactive list approximately 90 minutes before Sunday's 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff, but the versatile wideout is trending in the right direction for the Week 4 matchup. Meanwhile, Brandon Aiyuk has dodged the injury report entirely and is ready to roll, despite having missed the 49ers' Week 3 win over the Giants.

    Published: Sun, Oct 1 at 1:21am by Rotowire.com
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  • Deemed questionable for Week 4

    Samuel (knee/ribs) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Cardinals, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: A game-time decision leading up to Sunday's 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff seems like a best-case scenario for Samuel, who went down as a non-participant in the 49ers' first two practices this week before upgrading to limited participation Friday after he was spotted working out off to the side. Brandon Aiyuk, meanwhile, doesn't have an injury designation heading the Week 4 contest, despite missing last Thursday's game against the Giants with a shoulder injury. According to Barrows, Samuel's knee injury…read more

    Published: Fri, Sep 29 at 1:59pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Limited to side work

    Samuel (ribs/knee) is running on the side during Friday's practice, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: It's better than nothing but doesn't necessarily mean he'll be listed as a participant in practice. Samuel missed Wednesday and Thursday, while Brandon Aiyuk (shoulder) has been practicing all week after missing the 49ers' Week 3 win over New York. The team figures to have at least one of them available -- which should be enough -- this Sunday against Arizona.

    Published: Fri, Sep 29 at 12:56pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Another DNP on Thursday

    Samuel (ribs/knee) officially didn't practice Thursday, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: There was a brief sighting of Samuel during the portion of the session open to the media, when Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News noted the wide receiver left the early walkthrough and went to the 49ers' weight room. Both Samuel and Jauan Jennings (shin) were non-participants Thursday, while Brandon Aiyuk (shoulder) was limited, so Friday's injury report likely will be key to determining who among the trio may be available Sunday against the Cardinals.

    Published: Thu, Sep 28 at 4:11pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not practicing Thursday

    Samuel (ribs) wasn't participating at the beginning of Thursday's practice, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel wasn't entirely absent Thursday, as Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News noted the wide receiver made his way to the 49ers' weight room following a walkthrough session. Ultimately, the team's second practice report of Week 4 will unveil whether or not Samuel was able to log some reps as he deals with rib and knee injuries.

    Published: Thu, Sep 28 at 1:48pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Held out of practice

    Samuel (ribs) isn't practicing Wednesday, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel fought through the injury during Thursday's 30-12 win over the Giants, even icing the game with a 27-yard touchdown to bring his receiving line to 6-129-1 for the night. He hasn't practiced since, but a return to the field could be coming Thursday or Friday, given that postgame testing on his ribs didn't reveal any fractures. Fellow 49ers receiver Brandon Aiyuk (shoulder) returned to practice Wednesday as a limited participant after missing the win over New York last week.

    Published: Wed, Sep 27 at 12:57pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not practicing Monday

    Samuel (ribs) wasn't spotted at Monday's practice, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

    Analysis: Samuel emerged from this past Thursday's win over the Giants with sore ribs, so his status will need to be monitored ahead of Sunday's game against the Cardinals. Added context with regard to the wideout's Week 4 status will arrive no later than Wednesday, when the 49ers' first official practice/injury report of the week is posted.

    Published: Mon, Sep 25 at 2:56pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Emerges from win with sore ribs

    Samuel's ribs are sore after a win over the Giants on Thursday, but testing didn't reveal any breaks or serious damage, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Despite appearing to be in pain and coming out for a couple plays at one point in the second half, Samuel handled over 90 percent of snaps in Thursday's games until things got out of hands in the fourth quarter. His 27-yard TD with six minutes remaining was the knockout blow in a 30-12 victory, putting Samuel at a 6-129-1 receiving line on 12 targets in a game the Niners played without fellow wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk (shoulder). Both of the team's top WRs are banged up now, though that may…read more

    Published: Fri, Sep 22 at 12:31pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Thrives without Aiyuk in win

    Samuel brought in six of 12 targets for 129 yards and a touchdown and rushed once for two yards in the 49ers' 30-12 win over the Giants on Thursday night.

    Analysis: With fellow wideout Brandon Aiyuk (shoulder) sidelined, Samuel took full advantage and paced the 49ers in receiving yards and targets on the night. The versatile fifth-year pro has upped his receiving yardage total over that of the prior game in each of the last two contests, and he recorded his first receiving touchdown of the campaign via a 27-yard scoring grab with 5:58 remaining that sealed the win for San Francisco. Samuel struggled with injury last season, but his 17-247-1 line through…read more

    Published: Thu, Sep 21 at 8:50pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Finds end zone Sunday

    Samuel caught six of nine targets for 63 yards while rushing five times for 38 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 30-23 win over the Rams.

    Analysis: Samuel got things going for his fantasy managers with his first touchdown of the season following a modest Week 1. The dual-threat wideout got into the end zone on the ground, finishing with six carries after rushing just twice last week. He still contributed as a receiver, leading San Francisco in targets, receptions and receiving yards. Samuel and the 49ers will now enter a short practice week ahead of Thursday's matchup with the Giants.

    Published: Sun, Sep 17 at 5:38pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Five catches in Week 1

    Samuel caught five of seven targets for 55 yards and rushed twice for eight yards in Sunday's 30-7 win over the Steelers.

    Analysis: Samuel finished one target shy of Brandon Aiyuk's team lead, but Aiyuk caught all eight of those targets for 129 yards and two touchdowns to pace San Francisco's passing game. Aiyuk, Samuel, George Kittle and Christian McCaffrey combined for 26 targets while the rest of San Francisco's offense accounted for only two. Those four major contributors should all have certain weeks in which they shine, and it was Aiyuk's and McCaffrey's (169 scrimmage yards, one TD) turn in Week 1. Samuel could have…read more

    Published: Sun, Sep 10 at 2:26pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Catches two more passes

    Samuel caught two of three targets for 18 yards in Friday's preseason game against the Chargers.

    Analysis: Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk each saw three of the nine targets from starting QB Brock Purdy, who engineered two long drives on two series against the Chargers' second-string defense. Samuel caught four passes for 57 yards on six targets in his two preseason appearances alongside Purdy, setting the tone for what should be a relatively busy regular season starting with a Week 1 road game against Pittsburgh.

    Published: Fri, Aug 25 at 7:47pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Sets tone in preseason win

    Samuel started Saturday's exhibition game against Denver, converting three targets into two receptions for 39 yards before exiting with the rest of the starters.

    Analysis: Samuel made his preseason debut alongside starting quarterback Brock Purdy (elbow) on Saturday, and the duo connected for a 25-yard gain on the game's first offensive play. The fantasy star did not receive a carry in Saturday's exhibition, and he could lose a few rushing attempts to Christian McCaffrey over the course of the season. That said, perhaps Samuel runs more routes as a true wideout to challenge his high-water mark of 77 receptions through his four years in the league.

    Published: Sat, Aug 19 at 10:06pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Slated to play Saturday

    Samuel is in uniform for Saturday's preseason contest against the Broncos, Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle reports.

    Analysis: With Brock Purdy slated to see his first game action since he injured his right throwing elbow in last season's NFC Championship Game loss at Philadelphia, he's expected to have his top two wide receivers available in Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk. In the coming campaign, Samuel will be looking to bounce back after managing just 864 yards from scrimmage and five touchdowns in 13 appearances in 2022.

    Published: Sat, Aug 19 at 5:17pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Struggles in championship game loss

    Samuel caught three of six targets for 33 yards and rushed six times for a loss of nine yards (one fumble lost) in Sunday's 31-7 playoff loss to the Eagles.

    Analysis: Samuel's production fell off quickly in this contest after starter Brock Purdy injured his throwing elbow in the first quarter. With no threat of a passing game for much of the contest, Philadelphia's defense was able to sell out and blow up the dual-threat superstar in the backfield routinely, resulting in his worst rushing performance to date. Samuel finished the year with 864 yards from scrimmage and five total touchdowns across 13 regular-season games. The 27-year-old's overall numbers came…read more

    Published: Sun, Jan 29 at 5:23pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Clear to play Sunday

    Samuel (ankle) doesn't have a designation for Sunday's NFC Championship Game at Philadelphia, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: The 49ers capped Samuel's reps both Wednesday and Thursday due to an ankle issue, but after a full session Friday, he'll available to the offense this weekend. The team's top running back, Christian McCaffrey (calf), also was cleared ahead of Sunday's contest, while backfield mate Elijah Mitchell (groin) is questionable after getting in some minimal work Friday. If Mitchell is limited or out Sunday, Samuel could mix in at RB a bit more than usual, but he still should be good for his recent…read more

    Published: Fri, Jan 27 at 1:21pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Another limited practice

    Coach Kyle Shanahan said Samuel (ankle) will be limited at Thursday's practice, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: Shanahan said prior to Wednesday's session that Samuel and running backs Christian McCaffrey (calf) and Elijah Mitchell (groin) wouldn't take part in drills. Samuel eventually did so and was listed as limited, which he'll maintain one day later, while both McCaffrey and Mitchell will remain sidelined. There's an expectation that all three players will be available for Sunday's NFC Championship Game at Philadelphia, but Samuel could be poised for a bit more work out of the 49ers backfield if…read more

    Published: Thu, Jan 26 at 12:10pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Officially limited Wednesday

    Samuel (ankle) practiced in a limited capacity Wednesday, David Lombardi of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Head coach Kyle Shanahan told Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com earlier Wednesday that the 49ers' primary backfield options -- Christian McCaffrey (calf), Elijah Mitchell (groin) and Samuel -- wouldn't mix into drills to kick off prep for Sunday's NFC Championship Game at Philadelphia. While McCaffrey and Mitchell weren't seen during the open portion of Wednesday's session, Samuel was present and took part in some individual work, per Matt Barrows of The Athletic. There's a chance Samuel maintains…read more

    Published: Wed, Jan 25 at 3:12pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Nursing ankle injury

    Samuel won't practice Wednesday due to an ankle injury, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel played 60 of the 49ers' 66 offensive snaps during the divisional-round win over Dallas, but he failed to make any splash plays as the offense was stymied by the Cowboys' athletic defense. The star wideout didn't appear to have gotten injured at any point during the contest, so his absence from practice Wednesday due to the ankle issue may just be maintenance-related after he missed Weeks 15 through 17 with an ankle sprain as well as an MCL sprain. Assuming Samuel is able to get back on…read more

    Published: Wed, Jan 25 at 12:03pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Produces 56 yards on eight touches

    Samuel had four receptions (seven targets) for 45 yards and rushed for 11 yards on four attempts in Sunday's 19-12 playoff win over Dallas.

    Analysis: Samuel was unable to reproduce the gaudy totals from his impressive wild-card performance as San Francisco's offense was finally stymied with Brock Purdy under center. The dual-threat wideout still led all receivers in touches and targets, but he wasn't able to break off one of his signature big-splash plays. Samuel and the 49ers will head to Philadelphia for the NFC Championship Game next Sunday.

    Published: Sun, Jan 22 at 9:15pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Goes off for 165 yards

    Samuel corralled six of nine targets for 133 yards and a touchdown while adding 32 rushing yards on three attempts in Saturday's 41-23 wild-card win over the Seahawks.

    Analysis: Samuel showed no ill effects from the lower-body injuries he suffered late in the regular season, torching the opposition for a season-high 133 receiving yards. The dual-threat superstar did suffer a minor injury scare when Johnathan Abram grabbed and twisted his previously injured ankle after a play was whistled dead, but he missed only one down before returning to the field and closing out the game. Samuel and Christian McCaffrey (136 combined yards) spearheaded head coach Kyle Shanahan's…read more

    Published: Sat, Jan 14 at 6:00pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Eased back in with three touches

    Samuel (ankle/knee) caught two of three targets for 20 yards and rushed once for four yards in Sunday's 38-13 win over the Cardinals.

    Analysis: Samuel returned from a three-game absence due to injury, and he was understandably eased back into action with just three combined touches in a comfortable win. The dual-threat superstar finishes the regular season with 864 combined yards from scrimmage and five total touchdowns across 13 games. Samuel should be in line for his usual workload for the upcoming playoff schedule after shaking off the rust in Week 18.

    Published: Sun, Jan 8 at 7:44pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Returning for Week 18

    Samuel (ankle/knee) has no injury designation for Sunday's game against the Cardinals, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: Samuel will make his first appearance since suffering an MCL sprain and ankle sprain Week 14. His normal workload isn't assured for the Week 18 game, but it's certainly possible given that he's been practicing since last Thursday.

    Published: Fri, Jan 6 at 2:04pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Falls back to limited practice

    Samuel (ankle/knee) was limited in practice Thursday.

    Analysis: One day removed from logging all activity at Wednesday's session, Samuel fell back to a capped practice as he continues the later stages of his recovery from a sprained left MCL and left ankle sprain that he picked up Week 14 versus the Buccaneers. He did relay to David Lombardi of The Athletic on Wednesday that he's "not going to risk myself" ahead of the postseason, and that if he's "not 100 percent ready to go," he won't press his luck. The 49ers' final Week 18 injury report thus may be…read more

    Published: Thu, Jan 5 at 5:22pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Logs full practice Wednesday

    Samuel (ankle/knee) was a full practice participant Wednesday.

    Analysis: Samuel has missed three games in a row due to a sprained MCL in his left knee and a left ankle sprain that stems from getting injured during the second quarter of a Week 14 win against the Buccaneers. Wednesday's uncapped session follows the wide receiver capping Week 17 prep with two straight limited practices, so he's on the precipice of a return to action. Assuming he's out there Sunday against the Cardinals, Samuel could get a bit more work out of the 49ers backfield with Christian…read more

    Published: Wed, Jan 4 at 5:14pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Won't return this week

    Samuel (knee) has been ruled out for Sunday's game at Las Vegas, Jennifer Lee Chan of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: Samuel will miss a third straight game even after returning to a limited practice Thursday. He reportedly didn't do much Friday, suggesting he's no lock to make it back Week 18 against the Cardinals, though the dual-threat wideout at least seems to be on track for the playoffs.

    Published: Fri, Dec 30 at 1:40pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not doing much at practice

    Samuel (knee) didn't appear to do much during the early portion of Friday's practice, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel worked out Wednesday and returned to a limited practice Thursday, sparking some hope he might return for Sunday's game in Las Vegas. Wagoner believes Samuel is more likely to come back Week 18, though at that point it might only be a in a limited role to warm up for the postseason if the 49ers don't have much left to play for in terms of seeding. In any case, Samuel hasn't yet been ruled out for Week 17 and could perhaps still push for a 'questionable' designation on the final injury…read more

    Published: Fri, Dec 30 at 12:40pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Returns as limited participant

    Samuel (knee/ankle) practiced in a limited capacity Thursday, Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was spotted on the practice field during the media-access portion of Thursday's session catching passes during individual drills, per Jennifer Lee Chan of NBC Sports Bay Area. The activity was enough for Samuel to go down as limited and also fulfill coach Kyle Shanahan's sentiment that the wide receiver may be able to take part in the second practice of Week 17 prep. It's unclear if Samuel has a chance to suit up Sunday at Las Vegas, but Friday's injury report could include questionable…read more

    Published: Thu, Dec 29 at 4:01pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Returns to practice

    Samuel (knee) was spotted on the field for the open portion of Thursday's practice, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel hasn't logged any recorded practice activity since spraining his left knee and ankle in a Dec. 11 win over Tampa Bay, but he looks poised to go down as either a limited or full participant on the 49ers' second Week 17 injury report, which will be released later Thursday. Samuel looks like he'll have a chance to put an end to a two-game absence and suit up this Sunday in Las Vegas, but his availability for that contest will be contingent on how he fares in practice Thursday and Friday.

    Published: Thu, Dec 29 at 1:16pm by Rotowire.com
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  • May practice Thursday

    Head coach Kyle Shanahan said Samuel (knee/ankle) has a chance to return to practice Thursday, depending on how his on-field workout goes Wednesday, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: On Monday, Shanahan told Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area that Samuel would make an effort to mix into drills this week, and now it may happen as early as Thursday. It's unclear if Samuel will have enough time to prove the health of his sprained left knee and ankle ahead of Sunday's game at Las Vegas, but his status bears watching in the coming days to get a sense of his potential to do so.

    Published: Wed, Dec 28 at 11:46am by Rotowire.com
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  • Chance to practice this week

    San Francisco head coach Kyle Shanahan said Monday that Samuel (knee/ankle) may return to practice later this week, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: Samuel has missed back-to-back games on account of the sprained left MCL and ankle that he sustained back in Week 14. It's unclear if he has a chance to suit up Sunday at Las Vegas, but the extent of his on-field work once he mixes into drills may provide some insight into his potential to play this weekend. The 49ers will post their first injury report of Week 17 on Wednesday, at which point the team will have a basis for Samuel as he goes through the later stages of his recovery. With Samuel…read more

    Published: Mon, Dec 26 at 3:54pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Spotted jogging Thursday

    Samuel (knee/ankle) didn't participate in Thursday's practice but was seen doing some jogging and running off to the side during the media-access portion of the session, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel will be sidelined for a second straight game this Saturday against the Commanders, but based on where he currently stands in his recovery from a left MCL sprain and a left ankle sprain, he looks as though he'll have a chance to make it back for the 49ers' Week 17 game against the Raiders on Jan. 1. In order to put himself in consideration to play in Las Vegas, Samuel will presumably need to prove his health during the 49ers' trio of practices next Wednesday through Friday. While Samuel…read more

    Published: Thu, Dec 22 at 1:44pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Ditches walking boot

    Samuel (knee) hasn't been cleared to practice and remains in line to sit out Saturday's game against the Commanders, but he was spotted Tuesday without a walking boot to protect his sprained ankle and without any brace on his injured left knee, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was sidelined for the 49ers' Week 15 win over the Seahawks with the two left leg injuries, which head coach Kyle Shanahan said Dec. 13 would likely keep the talented wideout sidelined for around three weeks. As a result, Samuel shouldn't be viewed as a realistic candidate to play until Week 17 in Las Vegas, and his status for that contest will be contingent on how his knee and ankle respond to practice activity. Even though the 49ers have already captured the NFC West title and may not…read more

    Published: Tue, Dec 20 at 2:11pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Facing 'three-ish'-week absence

    San Francisco head coach Kyle Shanahan said Tuesday that he expects Samuel (knee/ankle) to return to game action in "three-ish" weeks, David Lombardi of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Based on Shanahan's comments, the 49ers already seem to be ruling Samuel out for Thursday's game in Seattle as well as the team's Dec. 24 home game against the Commanders, but a Week 17 return at Las Vegas could be in the forecast for the talented wideout if he makes a quick recovery from the MCL sprain to his left knee and the left ankle sprain he sustained in Sunday's 35-7 win over the Buccaneers. San Francisco will likely be left with Brandon Aiyuk, Jauan Jennings and Ray-Ray McCloud as its…read more

    Published: Tue, Dec 13 at 1:50pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Has MCL sprain, ankle sprain

    Head coach Kyle Shanahan said Monday that Samuel has been diagnosed with a left MCL sprain and sprained left ankle, but the 49ers expect him to play again at some point during the regular season, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was knocked out of Sunday's 35-7 win against the Buccaneers after he was bent backward by two Tampa Bay defenders in the second quarter, a play in which he lost a fumble on a three-yard carry. First, he was listed as questionable to return with a knee injury before being ruled out with an ankle issue. It appears both areas are compromised, which wouldn't have allowed him to practice Monday if the 49ers had held a session, per Matt Barrows of The Athletic. Samuel appears poised to miss…read more

    Published: Mon, Dec 12 at 3:14pm by Rotowire.com
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  • High ankle sprain feared

    Samuel likely has a high ankle sprain, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: The 49ers originally believed Samuel avoided a major injury, likely because X-rays revealed no broken bones, but a high ankle sprain would probably sideline the star receiver for the remainder of the regular season, as such injuries usually come with a 4-6 week recovery timetable. Samuel will get an MRI soon to confirm the diagnosis.

    Published: Sun, Dec 11 at 5:05pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Likely avoided major injury

    Samuel (ankle) is believed to have avoided a major injury Sunday against the Buccaneers, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Samuel had his leg rolled up on at the end of a run up the middle prior to being carted to the locker room. Further testing on the injury is still necessary, but it sounds like Samuel will likely avoid a long-term absence. His availability for Thursday's game against Seattle has not been determined, though the short turnaround will make it an uphill battle for the star receiver.

    Published: Sun, Dec 11 at 4:21pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Forced out with ankle injury

    Samuel won't return to Sunday's game versus the Buccaneers due to an ankle injury, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was bent backward by a few Bucs defenders on a three-yard carry in the second quarter, losing a fumble in the process. Afterward, he clutched at his lower left leg and eventually needed a cart to get to the locker room, where he initially was diagnosed with a knee injury. The 49ers have since reclassified the issue as to his ankle, but the severity is not yet known. As long as Samuel is sidelined, the likes of Jauan Jennings, Ray-Ray McCloud and Danny Gray will fill in at wide receiver…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 11 at 3:27pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Hurts left knee Sunday

    Samuel was carted off the field during Sunday's game against the Buccaneers due to a left knee injury, David Lombardi of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Near the end of a three-yard carry in which he coughed up the ball to the Bucs in the second quarter, Samuel was bent backward by multiple Tampa Bay defenders and clutched at his left knee after the play. The nature of the injury isn't known, but if he's unable to return, he'll end Week 14 with four catches (on five targets) for 43 yards, four carries for 21 yards and a rushing touchdown.

    Published: Sun, Dec 11 at 2:49pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Good to go Sunday

    Samuel (quadriceps) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Buccaneers, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel had his practice reps capped Wednesday and Thursday while he continues to manage a quad issue that's likely related to the hamstring injury that caused him to sit out the 49ers' Week 8 win over the Rams, but as expected, he'll get the green light to play this weekend. The 26-year-old should settle back into his usual role as his team's No. 1 wideout, though he'll be on the receiving end of passes from rookie Brock Purdy moving forward after Jimmy Garoppolo sustained a foot injury in the…read more

    Published: Fri, Dec 9 at 2:15pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Remains limited at practice

    Samuel (quadriceps) was limited at Thursday's practice, Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle reports.

    Analysis: As Samuel was Wednesday, allowing him just one more opportunity to log a full session before the 49ers potentially make a ruling on his status ahead of Sunday's contest against the Buccaneers. He was listed as questionable on the final Week 13 injury report but eventually was cleared to play this past Sunday versus the Dolphins on his way to 10 touches for 63 yards from scrimmage on an 82 percent share of snaps. Whether or not Samuel receives the same treatment this week remains to be seen.

    Published: Thu, Dec 8 at 4:19pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Still under practice limitations

    Samuel (quadriceps) was a limited practice participant Wednesday, Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle reports.

    Analysis: Samuel emerged from Week 12 action with what was listed as a quad issue, but head coach Kyle Shanahan revealed last Friday that the wide receiver actually is dealing with a deep thigh bruise. Considering he's been tagged with the same health concern this week, it's safe to assume the issue has lingered and may result in Samuel logging a similar practice regimen this time around. Friday's injury report again may leave him questionable to suit up Week 14, so his status will be one to monitor…read more

    Published: Wed, Dec 7 at 3:25pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Gains 63 yards on 10 touches

    Samuel (quadriceps) had six receptions on 10 targets for 58 yards and rushed four times for five yards in Sunday's 33-17 win over the Dolphins.

    Analysis: Samuel entered the contest managing a quadriceps injury and was seen walking gingerly off the field at the end of a quiet first half. The physical wideout stayed in the contest and made some incredible plays in the second half to help jumpstart the offense, much to the relief of concerned fantasy managers. It is worth noting that this performance came almost entirely with rookie third-string quarterback Brock Purdy under center after Jimmy Garoppolo (foot) was carted off on the 49ers' first…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 4 at 5:24pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Suiting up in Week 13

    Samuel (quadriceps) is listed as active Sunday against the Dolphins, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: The 49ers managed Samuel's practice reps this week while he tended to what was listed as a quadriceps injury. After he participated in a limited capacity both Wednesday and Friday while sitting out Thursday, he was given a questionable tag for Week 13 action. Samuel was in line to be a game-time call, but he made significant strides in his recovery through a deep thigh bruise, per Adam Schefter of ESPN, and Samuel now has been confirmed as available Sunday. San Francisco is playing its first…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 4 at 11:40am by Rotowire.com
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  • Expected to play

    Samuel (quadriceps) made really good progress both Friday and Saturday and is expected to play against the Dolphins, Fox's Jay Glazer reported on its Sunday morning show.

    Analysis: This confirms earlier reports by other national correspondents. The Niners will put Samuel through the paces in a pregame workup just to confirm that he can play, but the versatile wideout's prospects seem to be trending in the right direction.

    Published: Sun, Dec 4 at 9:54am by Rotowire.com
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  • Tracking toward playing Sunday

    Samuel (quadriceps), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Dolphins, is expected to play, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported four hours earlier that Samuel is being treated as a true game-time decision ahead of the 4:05 p.m. ET kickoff, but Schefter's report suggests the star wideout is likely on the probable side of the questionable tag. Regardless, the 49ers still plan to put Samuel through a pregame workout, and if his deep thigh bruise presents no complications, he'll avoid placement on the inactive list, which will be released 90 minutes before kickoff. Schefter nor Rapoport…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 4 at 5:25am by Rotowire.com
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  • Trending toward game-time call

    Samuel (quadriceps), who is listed as questionable, is trending toward a game-time decision for Sunday's matchup against the Dolphins, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel picked up a deep thigh bruise in last Sunday's win over the Saints, and the team has been relatively cautious with the star receiver's practice time as a result. The 49ers are expected to have Samuel test the quad injury in pregame warmups, but official word on his status may not arrive until San Francisco releases its inactive list 90 minutes prior to the 4:05 p.m ET kickoff.

    Published: Sat, Dec 3 at 2:35pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Questionable after limited practice

    Samuel (quad) didn't do much at Friday's practice and is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Dolphins, David Lombardi of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Coach Kyle Shanahan revealed Friday that Samuel is dealing with a deep thigh bruise from a hard hit he took in last week's 13-0 win over the Saints (i.e., it's unrelated to the hamstring injury that had Samuel on the injury report last week). The star wide receiver could end up a game-time decision ahead of Sunday's 4:05 p.m. ET kickoff after sandwiching limited practices Wednesday and Friday around an absence Thursday. Possibilities for the weekend include being active and handling a…read more

    Published: Fri, Dec 2 at 2:29pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Joins team at practice

    Samuel (quadriceps) returned to practice Friday, though he was late to join his teammates, David Lombardi of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Meanwhile, OT Trent Williams left practice early with an apparent back injury, giving the Niners another shaky situation heading into their matchup with Miami at 4:05 p.m. ET on Sunday. Samuel's return to practice after missing Friday hints at a questionable designation, but we won't know for sure until the Niners finish practice and release their final injury report.

    Published: Fri, Dec 2 at 12:59pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Officially doesn't practice

    Samuel (quadriceps) didn't practice Thursday, David Lombardi of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: After being limited Wednesday due to a quad issue, Samuel wasn't among his teammates during the media-access portion of Thursday's session, but the eventual confirmation of an absence may have stemmed from the 49ers not wanting to press their luck under rainy conditions. As a result, his listing on Friday's injury report may be telling for his ability to suit up Sunday against the Dolphins. If he does enough to be available ahead of the 4:05 p.m. ET kickoff, Samuel could be in line for a bit…read more

    Published: Thu, Dec 1 at 4:40pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not seen on field Thursday

    Samuel (quadriceps) wasn't spotted during the portion of Thursday's practice open to the media, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

    Analysis: After coach Kyle Shanahan said Samuel was slated for a limited session Wednesday, the wide receiver upheld that statement once the 49ers posted their first Week 13 practice report. However, Samuel's quad issue appears to be keeping him off the field one day later, which will be confirmed, one way or another, later Thursday. With the state of the team's backfield in flux with Elijah Mitchell again sidelined with a sprained MCL and Christian McCaffrey tending to a knee injury, an active Samuel…read more

    Published: Thu, Dec 1 at 1:50pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Dealing with quad issue

    Head coach Kyle Shanahan said that Samuel will be a limited practice participant Wednesday due to a quadriceps injury, Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle reports.

    Analysis: Last week, Samuel's practice reps were capped by a hamstring issue, and he appeared to aggravate the injury in the third quarter this past Sunday against the Saints. That said, he was able to return to the field while logging a typical 79 percent of the snaps en route to three catches (on seven targets) for 43 yards and two carries for zero yards. With Shanahan noting that a quad concern is the cause of Samuel's current health woes, the wideout's status will be one to watch as the week goes on,…read more

    Published: Wed, Nov 30 at 1:08pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Avoids injury scare, gains 43 yards

    Samuel (hamstring) caught three of seven targets for 43 yards and rushed twice for no gain in Sunday's 13-0 win over the Saints.

    Analysis: Samuel -- who entered the contest already dealing with a hamstring issue -- appeared to aggravate his injury in the third quarter and needed to be assisted off the field. The dual-threat superstar did not enter the medical tent and was eventually able to re-enter the game, which bodes well for his Week 13 availability. Samuel turned in his worst rushing performance of the season, but he could be busier in that department moving forward if running back Elijah Mitchell (knee) is forced to miss…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 27 at 6:06pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Active as expected Sunday

    Samuel (hamstring) is active for Sunday's Week 12 clash against the Saints, Lindsey Pallares of the team's official site reports.

    Analysis: News had been trending upward on Samuel entering the weekend, with one report indicating he'd looked back to normal Friday after dealing with a hamstring issue Wednesday and Thursday. With his active status now confirmed, he'll assume his usual diverse role in a talent-rich 49ers offense against New Orleans.

    Published: Sun, Nov 27 at 11:57am by Rotowire.com
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  • Expected to face Saints

    Samuel (hamstring), who is listed as questionable, is expected to suit up for Sunday's contest against the Saints, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: Samuel will need to avoid any pregame setbacks, but barring such an event, he's expected to avoid the inactive list ahead of Sunday's 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff. The electric wideout played just 58 percent of snaps during the 49ers' Week 11 win over the Cardinals in Mexico City, though that was likely more the result of San Francisco's big margin of victory rather than any lingering injuries.

    Published: Sun, Nov 27 at 2:38am by Rotowire.com
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  • Listed as questionable

    Samuel (hamstring) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Saints, David Lombardi of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel missed Week 8 with a hamstring injury, then returned after a Week 9 bye and didn't have any limitations in practice ahead of the last two games. The hamstring is apparently bothering him again, but he seems more likely than not to play, as he logged limited practices Wednesday and Thursday and looked good at Friday's practice, per Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area. In the event Samuel is made inactive ahead of the 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff, the Niners would have Jauan Jennings, Ray-Ray…read more

    Published: Fri, Nov 25 at 1:54pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Listed as limited again

    Samuel (hamstring) was listed as limited on Thursday's practice report, Josh Dubow of The Associated Press reports.

    Analysis: Since being inactive Week 8 due to a hamstring issue, Samuel has made back-to-back appearances following the 49ers' Week 9 bye, combining for 145 yards from scrimmage and one rushing TD on 16 touches. His snap share (58 percent) was impacted Week 11 only by the fact that the team was in the midst of blowing out the Cardinals, so his practice limitations Wednesday and Thursday could be maintenance-related with the rest of the campaign in mind. Friday's report may provide some clarity regarding…read more

    Published: Thu, Nov 24 at 1:54pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Limited by hamstring Wednesday

    Samuel was a limited participant at Wednesday's walk-through practice due to a hamstring injury, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Previously, Samuel sat out Week 8 with a balky hamstring, so there's some cause for concern now that he's made another appearance on the practice report. With the benefit of a Week 9 bye, Samuel has been able to play his typical role in the 49ers offense the last two games, recording nine catches (on 15 targets) for 81 yards and taking seven carries for 64 yards and a touchdown. With two sessions to go during Week 12 prep, Samuel's status will be monitored to get a sense of his availability…read more

    Published: Wed, Nov 23 at 5:34pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Totals 94 yards, scores

    Samuel recorded seven receptions on nine targets for 57 yards in Monday's 38-10 win over the Cardinals. He added three rushes for 37 yards and a touchdown.

    Analysis: Samuel led the 49ers in targets and tied with Christian McCaffrey for the lead in receptions. His longest catch of the day went for 19 yards, but he was otherwise limited to short areas of the field. However, he did the majority of his damage on a 39-yard run off the left end to reach the end zone. That marked Samuel's first touchdown since Week 5 and only his fourth total score of the season. He has also surpassed 100 total yards in a game only once for the campaign.

    Published: Mon, Nov 21 at 9:09pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Quiet in return to action

    Samuel (hamstring) had two receptions (six targets) for 24 yards to go along with four rushing attempts for 27 yards in Sunday's 22-16 win over the Chargers.

    Analysis: Samuel returned from a one-game absence due to a hamstring injury after practicing in full this week. The dual threat wasn't visibly limited, exhibiting his signature explosiveness on a couple of hard runs. The four carries and six targets are in line with Samuel's season averages, so concerns over the return of Elijah Mitchell (knee) and the addition of Christian McCaffrey cutting into his usage were put to rest. Samuel will look to follow up this down game with a strong performance against a…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 13 at 10:46pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Full practice confirmed Wednesday

    Samuel (hamstring) was a full participant in practice Wednesday, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Just as head coach Kyle Shanahan forecasted earlier Wednesday when talking to Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News and the rest of the 49ers' beat reporters, Samuel returned to full activity in the first session of Week 10 prep. Samuel was able to take every rep at practice after he sat out the team's last game Week 8 at the Rams before using a Week 9 bye to get back to 100 percent. With Christian McCaffrey pacing San Francisco's backfield and Elijah Mitchell (knee) potentially getting…read more

    Published: Wed, Nov 9 at 4:14pm by Rotowire.com
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  • To be full participant Wednesday

    Head coach Kyle Shanahan said Samuel (hamstring) is expected to be a full participant at Wednesday's practice, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

    Analysis: Samuel's listing on the 49ers' first Week 10 injury report will confirm as much, but after sitting out Week 8 due to a hamstring issue, the team's Week 9 bye appears to have him on the precipice of a return. With the arrival of Christian McCaffrey in San Francisco and Elijah Mitchell (knee) potentially coming off injured reserve this week, Samuel's opportunities out of the backfield may be few and far between moving forward. Still, when healthy, Samuel is the top option in the passing game for…read more

    Published: Wed, Nov 9 at 1:05pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Ruled out

    Samuel (hamstring) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Rams, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel didn't practice at all this week and now has a chance to get more rest with the 49ers heading on bye Week 9. As for Sunday, Samuel's absence increased the target projections for Brandon Aiyuk, George Kittle and Christian McCaffrey, while the vacated wideout snaps should go to some combination of Ray-Ray McCloud, Jauan Jennings (questionable, hamstring) and Danny Gray. For Samuel, the next chance to play is Nov. 13 against the Chargers.

    Published: Fri, Oct 28 at 1:41pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not practicing Friday

    Samuel (hamstring) isn't practicing Friday, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: A third straight absence from practice makes Samuel unlikely to play Sunday against the Rams, though he hasn't yet been ruled out and might be treated as a game-time decision even if he's really a long shot.

    Published: Fri, Oct 28 at 12:25pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Sits out again Thursday

    Samuel (hamstring) didn't practice Thursday, David Lombardi of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel has yet to mix into drills during Week 8 prep, which also can be said for fellow wide receiver Jauan Jennings (hamstring). There's been no word from coach Kyle Shanahan or the 49ers regarding Samuel's potential to play (or not) Sunday at the Rams, but Friday's practice report may give some insight into the breakdown of San Francisco's receiving corps this weekend. Currently, Brandon Aiyuk, Ray-Ray McCloud and Danny Gray are the healthy options at the position on the active roster.

    Published: Thu, Oct 27 at 4:38pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Still not practicing

    Samuel (hamstring) wasn't spotted during the media-access portion of Thursday's practice, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: It appears as if Samuel will go down as a non-participant for a second straight session to begin Week 8 prep, giving him just one more chance to mix into drills Friday. And if he's unable to log a full practice, he seems destined to be tagged with a game-day designation for Sunday's road matchup with the Rams.

    Published: Thu, Oct 27 at 1:30pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not practicing

    Samuel (hamstring) isn't practicing Wednesday, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

    Analysis: Samuel played 86 percent of the 49ers' offensive snaps in Sunday's loss to the Chiefs, but he came out of the game with a hamstring injury and was deemed day-to-day. If Samuel can't play this Sunday against the Rams, it'll mean more snaps for Jauan Jennings and Ray-Ray McCloud, and possibly extra targets for Brandon Aiyuk, George Kittle and Christian McCaffrey.

    Published: Wed, Oct 26 at 1:14pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Dealing with hamstring issue

    Coach Kyle Shanahan said Monday that Samuel is "day-to-day" due to a hamstring injury, David Lombardi of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel logged a normal 86 percent of the offensive plays during Sunday's 44-23 loss to the Chiefs en route to five catches (on seven targets) for 42 yards and one carry for two yards. With Christian McCaffrey on board following a trade with Carolina last Thursday, San Francisco's backfield breakdown likely will be paced by McCaffrey and Jeff Wilson in the short term, and McCaffrey and Elijah Mitchell once the latter recovers from his MCL sprain at some point in November. As a result, Samuel's…read more

    Published: Mon, Oct 24 at 3:46pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Held in check by KC

    Samuel had five receptions (seven targets) for 42 yards and one carry for two yards in Sunday's 44-23 loss to Kansas City.

    Analysis: Samuel finished with his worst fantasy performance of 2022 despite the favorable game script. The dual-threat superstar received six combined touches (8.5 average prior to Sunday), but Kansas City's defense did a good job of closing in anytime he touched the ball. The mid-week addition of star running back Christian McCaffrey should result in fewer rushing attempts for Samuel moving forward (just one Sunday). This shouldn't be viewed as a negative by Deebo's fantasy managers, as it helps open…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 23 at 6:57pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Collects 90 yards on nine touches

    Samuel had seven receptions (10 targets) for 79 yards and rushed twice for 11 yards in Sunday's 28-14 loss to Atlanta.

    Analysis: Samuel churned out another solid all-around performance while setting a new high for receptions (seven) for 2022. Brandon Aiyuk's two scores prevented his fellow starting wideout from extending his touchdown streak to three games. The 26-year-old Samuel has now tallied 481 combined yards to go along with three touchdowns through six contests. Samuel should be busy next Sunday, as the 49ers offense will attempt to keep up with Patrick Mahomes and Kansas City's high-powered attack coming off a…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 16 at 5:58pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Finds end zone again Sunday

    Samuel caught two of nine targets for 20 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 37-15 win over the Panthers. He added 12 rushing yards on two carries.

    Analysis: It was a tough day for Samuel for the most part, but he salvaged it from a fantasy perspective with a four-yard TD grab in the third quarter. The fourth-year wideout has scored three times (two receiving, one rushing) through five games, and he could be poised for much better overall numbers in Week 6 against the Falcons.

    Published: Sun, Oct 9 at 6:11pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Spectacular 57-yard TD in MNF win

    Samuel caught six of seven targets for 115 yards and a touchdown in Monday's 24-9 win over the Rams. He added two yards on two rushing attempts.

    Analysis: Samuel broke multiple tackles and eluded seemingly every member of Los Angeles' defense on his 57-yard touchdown catch in the second quarter, most notably making Jalen Ramsey miss 1-on-1 before sauntering into the end zone. Deebo continued to show off his skills after the catch throughout the night, rumbling for 29 more yards on a screen pass to convert a 3rd-and-9 in the fourth quarter. Samuel's receiving yardage total has climbed with each passing game heading into a Week 5 trip to Carolina.

    Published: Mon, Oct 3 at 8:19pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Gets 10 touches for 79 yards

    Samuel caught five of eight targets for 73 yards and rushed five times for six yards in Sunday's 11-10 loss to Denver.

    Analysis: Samuel suffered an injury scare in the second quarter, staying down on the field for an extended period before being examined in the medical tent and eventually returning to the field, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports. The versatile superstar didn't show any physical limitations for the remainder of the contest, so his fantasy managers can exhale heading into a tough matchup against the Rams next Monday. Samuel may draw shutdown corner Jalen Ramsey in that contest, but his…read more

    Published: Sun, Sep 25 at 9:29pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Productive again in hybrid role

    Samuel caught five of six targets for 44 yards and carried the ball four times for 53 yards in Sunday's 27-7 win over the Seahawks.

    Analysis: Most of his production on the ground came on a 51-yard scamper on the 49ers' second possession that helped set up a field goal, and Samuel likely would have posted even bigger numbers had the game been more competitive in the second half. The team's offense has reverted to its 2021 look with Elijah Mitchell (knee) on IR and Trey Lance (ankle) now out as well, leaving Jimmy Garoppolo under center. However, given his usage last year, that only bodes well for Samuel's touch volume and production…read more

    Published: Sun, Sep 18 at 5:55pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Shows off rushing prowess

    Samuel rushed eight times for 52 yards and a touchdown while catching just two of eight targets for 14 yards in Sunday's 19-10 loss to the Bears. He also lost a fumble.

    Analysis: There were rough weather conditions at Soldier Field for both teams' passing attacks, but Samuel's dual-positionality allowed him to still provide his fantasy managers with a strong line. Trey Lance struggled to get on the same page with his strongest offensive weapon left standing following the early loss of Elijah Mitchell (knee) and the inability of George Kittle (groin) to suit up. Samuel could continue to get heavy run at both of his positions if Mitchell's knee injury is confirmed to be a…read more

    Published: Sun, Sep 11 at 9:02pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not on injury report

    Samuel (knee) wasn't listed on the 49ers' injury report Wednesday, Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle reports.

    Analysis: After the preseason concluded, Samuel was revealed to be dealing with a bruise behind his knee. He proceeded to miss a week of drills, but he returned to the field Monday and didn't have any limitations at the first official session of Week 1 prep Wednesday, fulfilling the lack of worry about the injury. With his health confirmed, Samuel will gear up for Sunday's visit to Chicago, where he'll be working with new starting quarterback Trey Lance.

    Published: Wed, Sep 7 at 4:42pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Back at practice Monday

    Samuel (knee) returned to practice Monday, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel has missed roughly the last week of practice as he tends to a bruise behind his knee. The 49ers don't need to reveal his activity level until Wednesday this week, but he looked crisp running in individual drills Monday.

    Published: Mon, Sep 5 at 11:49am by Rotowire.com
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  • No practice Thursday

    Samuel (knee) didn't practice Thursday, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

    Analysis: Samuel has missed all on-field drills since Sunday, when it was revealed he was tending to a bruise behind his knee. The DNPs were expected, but the fourth-year wide receiver was spotted working on his conditioning Thursday. There's hope Samuel will be ready for a Week 1 matchup with the Bears on Sunday, Sept. 11, but he may need to log at least one limited practice next Wednesday through Friday to put himself in a position to play in the opener. If he's available, he'll be on the receiving end…read more

    Published: Thu, Sep 1 at 11:54am by Rotowire.com
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  • Dealing with knee issue

    Samuel is missing Sunday's practice due to a bruise behind his knee, and while he likely won't practice this week, he should be ready for the 49ers' season opener Sunday, Sept. 11 at Chicago, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: Samuel made one appearance during exhibition season Thursday at Tennessee, but he was unable to hook up with new starting quarterback Trey Lance on his only target while playing 10 offensive snaps. Now, Samuel is tending to a knee issue. On a positive note, his status for Week 1 doesn't seem to be in question, but his practice reps may be limited in the lead-up to that contest.

    Published: Sun, Aug 28 at 12:54pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Starts preseason finale

    Samuel didn't catch his only target in Thursday's 17-0 loss to the Texans.

    Analysis: It was a sluggish night for the San Francisco offense top to bottom, and the three drives with starting quarterback Trey Lance under center were no exception. Samuel started alongside Lance, but they failed to connect on a deep pass on the opening possession. Lance is unproven, but Samuel's unparalleled ability to gain yardage after the catch should allow him to thrive regardless of whether Lance ultimately proves to be an upgrade over Jimmy Garoppolo.

    Published: Thu, Aug 25 at 8:35pm by Rotowire.com
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  • On track to play Thursday

    Samuel is slated to play in Thursday's preseason finale against the Texans, Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle reports.

    Analysis: The same applies to QB Trey Lance, TE George Kittle and WR Brandon Aiyuk, with David Lombardi of The Athletic having previously noted that the 49ers plan to give key healthy starters some playing time Thursday. Look for their reps to be capped, however.

    Published: Thu, Aug 25 at 4:25pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not playing Saturday

    Samuel isn't expected to play in Saturday's preseason game against Minnesota, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

    Analysis: Samuel is part of a rest group that also includes QB Trey Lance, TE George Kittle and WR Brandon Aiyuk. All are locked in for starring roles and large snap counts come Week 1.

    Published: Sat, Aug 20 at 3:12pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not likely to play Friday

    Samuel isn't on pace to play in Friday's preseason game against the Packers, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: The same goes for fellow wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, tight end George Kittle and running back Elijah Mitchell, meaning second-year quarterback Trey Lance will be operating without most of the 49ers' top skill-position talent. Without Samuel and Aiyuk in the lineup, the team's available wide receivers are Jauan Jennings, Danny Gray and Ray-Ray McCloud, among others.

    Published: Fri, Aug 12 at 5:01pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Will ramp up workload

    Coach Kyle Shanahan said Monday that the 49ers will ease Samuel back up to a full workload at practice, Jennifer Lee Chan of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: Samuel, whom Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports already has signed his three-year, $71.55 million contract extension with the 49ers, won't handle 100 percent of practice reps Monday. Of course, all indications are that Samuel will have his activities ramped up due to an abundance of caution rather than due to any injury concerns. The star wideout will be able to spend training camp establishing a rapport with Trey Lance, whom Shanahan recently officially anointed the team's starting…read more

    Published: Mon, Aug 1 at 9:27am by Rotowire.com
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  • Inks massive extension

    Samuel and the 49ers agreed to a three-year, $71.55 million contract extension Sunday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Samuel reportedly requested a trade in April, but the star receiver and the team continued to work on an extension over the last several months. His deal includes $58.1 million guaranteed and keeps him under contract with the 49ers through the 2025 season. The 26-year-old had limited work during practices earlier in the offseason to preserve his health in the event of a trade, but he should ramp up his workload now that he's landed a long-term deal. Samuel saw work as both a receiver and…read more

    Published: Sun, Jul 31 at 4:44pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Limited to conditioning work

    Samuel is doing conditioning work on the side rather than participating in Wednesday's practice, with his agents still working toward a new contract with the 49ers, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: The two sides seem to have reached an agreement that prevents Samuel from being fined without subjecting him to significant injury risk. He reportedly asked for a trade earlier this offseason, but he now seems prepared to sign a long-term deal in San Francisco, where he would serve as newly anointed starting quarterback Trey Lance's No. 1 receiver for the foreseeable future.

    Published: Wed, Jul 27 at 10:19am by Rotowire.com
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  • Reports to camp, could sign soon?

    Samuel reported to training camp Tuesday, with 49ers GM John Lynch saying the team is "focused on getting something done," Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

    Analysis: This doesn't necessarily mean Samuel will be a full participant, as he may avoid more strenuous activities that involve more injury risk if he doesn't have a long-term contract in hand. Both parties seem more optimistic than reports earlier this offseason suggested, after Samuel reportedly asked to be traded in April. His contract is part of the issue, but Samuel may also be hesitant to take a lot of snaps at running back, knowing it can hurt his longevity and future contract value. The Niners…read more

    Published: Tue, Jul 26 at 11:43am by Rotowire.com
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  • Present but not practicing

    Samuel is present for Tuesday's mandatory minicamp, but he isn't in uniform, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel reportedly requested a trade out of San Francisco in April, but the 49ers have remained adamant that the electric wideout will be with the team to start the 2022 campaign. The 2019 second-round pick's presence at minicamp is certainly a step in the right direction, but his lack of participation may be a sign he still isn't completely satisfied with his current situation.

    Published: Tue, Jun 7 at 11:03am by Rotowire.com
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  • Reporting for mandatory minicamp

    Samuel will report for the start of 49ers' mandatory minicamp Tuesday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Samuel's patriation in mandatory minicamp has been the expectation since late May. Nonetheless, it's good to get confirmation that the electric wideout isn't staging a holdout, considering that he reportedly requested a trade out of San Francisco back in April. General manager John Lynch recently said he'd "be a fool" to trade Samuel, and he insisted that the 26-year-old "will be part of the 49ers this season," per Kevin Patra of NFL.com, so it looks like the team still intends to do everything…read more

    Published: Tue, Jun 7 at 6:14am by Rotowire.com
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  • Expected at mandatory minicamp

    49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan said Tuesday that he expects Samuel to be at the team's mandatory minicamp in June, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

    Analysis: The disgruntled wideout has reportedly requested a trade from the 49ers after exploding for 1,770 scrimmage yards and 14 total touchdowns last year. Unsurprisingly, Samuel is currently not participating in voluntary OTAs, but it appears the team still hopes to work out a long-term deal.

    Published: Tue, May 24 at 2:22pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Skipping OTAs

    Samuel isn't present Monday for the start of San Francisco's OTAs, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Samuel reportedly requested a trade from the 49ers back in April, but it appears that the team still hopes to work out a long-term deal that would keep the versatile wideout around for the future. Given that Samuel's contract situation still remains unresolved, it's unsurprising to see him hold out from voluntary team activities. The 26-year-old is entering the final season of his rookie contract, and wherever he ends up signing his next deal, Samuel no doubt is destined for a lucrative payday.

    Published: Mon, May 23 at 9:13am by Rotowire.com
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  • No plans for a trade, per Lynch

    GM John Lynch indicated Monday that the 49ers don't intend to trade Samuel, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports. "I can't ever imagine wanting to move on from Deebo," Lynch noted during his pre-draft press conference Monday, adding that Samuel is "just too good of a player."

    Analysis: Lynch's comments arrive in the wake of reports that Samuel -- who is approaching the final year of his rookie contract -- would like to be traded by San Francisco. Though Lynch didn't go into details, he did relay that he's had discussions with the versatile wideout, who's in line to land a lucrative second NFL contract regardless of how things get resolved between him and the 49ers. In any case, it's clear that the team would prefer to work things out with Samuel, but until or unless the 2019…read more

    Published: Mon, Apr 25 at 12:53pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Wants to be traded

    Samuel has asked the 49ers to trade him, according to Jeff Darlington of ESPN.

    Analysis: Per Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, the 49ers have sought to discuss a long-term deal with the versatile wideout, but Samuel evidently would prefer a change of scenery. In any case, if San Francisco does elect to field trade offers for the 2019 second-rounder, there would no doubt be plenty of interest. Samuel is approaching the final year of his rookie deal and is thus line for a lucrative contract extension after putting together an outstanding season in 2021. ESPN's Adam Schefter previously…read more

    Published: Wed, Apr 20 at 10:00am by Rotowire.com
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  • May skip offseason on-field work

    Samuel isn't expected to participate in any on-field work during the 49ers' offseason program, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.

    Analysis: Per David Lombardi of The Athletic, it remains to be seen if Samuel reports for the team's voluntary offseason program, which opens Tuesday, but in any case, the 2019 second-rounder -- who is in the final year of his rookie deal -- appears destined for a big second NFL contract in the wake of several fellow wideouts receiving hefty payouts this offseason. Samuel is coming off a fantasy-friendly 2021 campaign in which he racked up 77 catches for 1,405 yards and six TDs while adding 59 carries…read more

    Published: Mon, Apr 18 at 9:52am by Rotowire.com
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  • Leaves it all on field

    Samuel rushed seven times for 26 yards and caught four of seven targets for 72 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 20-17 loss to the Rams.

    Analysis: Samuel was the clubhouse leader with 98 total yards and a touchdown, but it was all for naught as the Rams advanced to the Super Bowl in comeback fashion. The multi-position superstar suffered a brief scare when Jimmy Garoppolo overthrew his target and left his receiver exposed for a huge hit to the chest/shoulder area. Samuel was able to finish the game in his bruising style of play, so serious injury appears to have been averted. The 26-year-old is about to enter the final year of an…read more

    Published: Sun, Jan 30 at 7:42pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not on injury report

    Samuel (knee) isn't listed on Wednesday's injury report ahead of Sunday's NFC Championship Game against the Rams, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: Samuel took a helmet to his right leg/knee toward the end of Sunday's 13-10 win over the Packers, but he's apparently healthy enough for a full practice just three days later, locking him in for his usual role this weekend. He certainly got the best of L.A. in the regular season, totaling 192 receiving yards (on 11 targets), 81 rushing yards and three total touchdowns to aid the Niners to a pair of crucial wins in the hotly contested NFC West.

    Published: Wed, Jan 26 at 11:54am by Rotowire.com
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  • Likely to practice Wednesday

    Samuel (knee) is expected to practice Wednesday, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: Coach Kyle Shanahan noted after Saturday's divisional-round win at Green Bay that Samuel suffered an ankle injury late in the contest. However, Shanahan clarified Monday that Samuel took a helmet to his right knee or leg. Samuel was his usual versatile self in tough weather conditions this past weekend, taking 10 carries for 39 yards and reeling in three of four passes for 44 yards. His first chance to mix into drills this week arrives Wednesday, after which the 49ers will relay his activity…read more

    Published: Mon, Jan 24 at 3:42pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Suffers flat tire in playoff win

    Samuel will need to undergo further tests after suffering a right ankle injury in the closing moments of Saturday's 13-10 divisional-round win over the Packers, ESPN's Nick Wagoner reports.

    Analysis: Samuel amassed 44 yards on three receptions (four targets) and 39 rushing yards on 10 attempts in the 13-10 win over Green Bay. Samuel suffered the apparent ankle injury on his last rush attempt to get kicker Robbie Gould a few yards closer to nailing the game-winning field goal. Head coach Kyle Shanahan was optimistic after the game, citing Deebo's ability to celebrate and jump around with his teammates in elation after the upset victory. We will wait for the official medical report leading up…read more

    Published: Sat, Jan 22 at 8:57pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Tops 100 scrimmage yards Sunday

    Samuel carried the ball 10 times for 72 yards and a touchdown and caught all three of his targets for 38 yards in Sunday's 23-17 win over the Cowboys in the wild-card round.

    Analysis: It was another big performance for the hybrid wideout/running back, who picked up where he left off at the end of the regular season. Samuel scored the Niners' final points of the game, gliding into the end zone on a 26-yard run in the third quarter. He didn't see much use as a receiver, but that's due more to the thumb injury Jimmy Garoppolo continues to play through than his own skill set. Samuel should be a focal point of the offense again next weekend in the divisional round against the…read more

    Published: Sun, Jan 16 at 7:19pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Does it all in huge win

    Samuel caught four of six targets for 95 yards, rushed eight times for 45 yards and a touchdown and completed his lone pass attempt for a 24-yard touchdown in Sunday's 27-24 win over the Rams.

    Analysis: Samuel drew tough coverage from Jalen Ramsey whenever he lined up on the outside, but offensive guru Kyle Shanahan got creative with his star wideout, resulting in a unique fantasy line. The 25-year-old finishes the regular season with 79 receptions for 1,405 receiving yards and six touchdowns while adding a rushing line of 59-365-8 to go with Sunday's 24-yard touchdown pass. Samuel not only bounced back from an injury-marred 2020 season, he emerged as a true fantasy superstar as well. Expect…read more

    Published: Sun, Jan 9 at 5:42pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Sees 10 touches in dual role

    Samuel had three receptions on six targets for 63 yards and a touchdown Sunday, adding 19 more yards on seven carries in a 23-7 win over Houston.

    Analysis: Samuel was used almost exclusively as a running back in the first half, but Houston's defense was prepared every time he lined up in the backfield. The dual-threat playmaker was able to finally break free for a 45-yard touchdown on a missile from Trey Lance in the fourth quarter. The rookie quarterback missed on another potential long score when he didn't see that Samuel beat his defender down the field, so we got to see the highs and lows of having a raw talent like Lance under center. Jimmy…read more

    Published: Sun, Jan 2 at 4:51pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Spectacular showing in loss

    Samuel secured nine of 11 targets for 159 yards and rushed five times for 32 yards in the 49ers' 20-17 loss to the Titans on Thursday night. He also committed two fumbles, losing one and recovering the other.

    Analysis: Samuel comfortably paced the 49ers' pass catchers in receptions, receiving yards and targets on the night, and he also made his customary contributions in the ground attack. The third-year wideout contributed the biggest play of the night for San Francisco as well, recording a 56-yard grab with 3:42 remaining that took the ball down to the Titans' six-yard line to set up Brandon Aiyuk's game-tying touchdown grab. Samuel's yardage total was his highest since Week 8, and he extended his streak of…read more

    Published: Thu, Dec 23 at 8:39pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Totals 89 yards plus score

    Samuel caught four of five targets for 60 yards and added 29 yards and a touchdown on six carries in Sunday's 31-13 win over Atlanta.

    Analysis: Samuel re-emerged as a receiving threat after failing to surpass one reception in any game since Week 10. Fortunately for his fantasy mangers, the dual-threat receiver remained an elite fantasy asset during that span with his increased role in the rushing attack (33-247-6 rushing over last five games). The 49ers may opt to use Samuel in more of a receiving role against Tennessee this Thursday, as the Titans allow the 31st-most fantasy points to opposing wideouts while being the most stingy…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 19 at 5:08pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Finds end zone in OT win

    Samuel carried the ball eight times for 37 yards and a touchdown and caught his only target for 22 yards in Sunday's 26-23 overtime win over the Bengals.

    Analysis: Making his return from a one-game absence due to a groin injury, Samuel saw most of his work out of the backfield with Elijah Mitchell (concussion) unavailable. That's been the story for the third-year wideout in recent weeks -- Samuel hasn't seen more than five targets in any of his last four games or caught more than one pass in any of his last three, but he's more than made up for it with 218 rushing yards and five rushing TDs over those four games. Samuel's role in Week 15 against the…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 12 at 7:39pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Back in action Sunday

    Samuel (groin) is listed as active Sunday in Cincinnati.

    Analysis: Since Samuel suffered a strained groin near the end of a Week 12 win against the Vikings, he missed one game and managed to log just one practice. Coach Kyle Shanahan told Matt Barrows of The Athletic that Samuel handled everything thrown at him Friday, but the session was half speed, and he went down as a limited participant. After Adam Schefter of ESPN reported this weekend Samuel was slated to return Sunday, he'll do just that. With top running back Elijah Mitchell (concussion/knee)…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 12 at 11:59am by Rotowire.com
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  • In line to return

    Samuel (groin) is expected to play in Sunday's game against the Bengals, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: Samuel missed the 49ers' Week 13 matchup against Seattle, though he'll have the chance to limit his absence to one game. He logged a limited practice Friday officially, though coach Kyle Shanahan told reporters that Samuel did everything in the session. It's unclear if Samuel will return to his full workload as both a receiver and rusher if he is active, though the absence of Elijah Mitchell (knee/concussion) should help that cause. Finally, be sure to check Samuel's official status prior to…read more

    Published: Sat, Dec 11 at 9:55pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Deemed questionable

    Samuel (groin) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Bengals, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Coach Kyle Shanahan said Samuel did everything at Friday's practice, but given that it was a half-speed session the wideout was listed as a limited participant. A game-time decision is one of the possibilities ahead of Sunday's 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff, though it's also possible additional updates provide clarity before then. With RB Elijah Mitchell (knee/concussion) already ruled out, Samuel should get both carries and targets if he's able to play.

    Published: Fri, Dec 10 at 1:41pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Rejoins practice

    Samuel (groin) is on the field for Friday's practice, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: While the extent of his participation remains to be seen, a return to practice Friday represents progress for Samuel after an absence from last week's loss to Seattle and missed practices this Wednesday and Thursday. Initial reports suggested he'd miss one or two games due to a groin strain, so it won't be too surprising if he makes it back for Sunday's matchup with the Bengals.

    Published: Fri, Dec 10 at 12:26pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Remains out of practice

    Samuel (groin) didn't practice Thursday, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: After relaying Samuel wouldn't practice Wednesday, coach Kyle Shanahan stated his hope that the wide receiver would get back into drills Thursday. Samuel seemed to be poised to do so when he was seen in uniform with his helmet on a side field during the media-access portion of the session, per Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com. Instead, Samuel logged another absence. Friday's practice report will be key to helping his case to miss just one game as a result of a groin strain.

    Published: Thu, Dec 9 at 4:41pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not practicing Wednesday

    Samuel (groin) won't practice Wednesday, David Lombardi of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel didn't practice last week and missed Sunday's loss in Seattle, with head coach Kyle Shanahan having since labeled the 25-year-old wideout as day-to-day. Reports last week suggested Samuel likely would only miss a game or two, and Shanahan said Wednesday that he's hopeful the standout receiver can return to practice Thursday, according to Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com. If Samuel is able to get back on the field in some capacity, he would stand a decent chance at being available for a Week 14…read more

    Published: Wed, Dec 8 at 11:29am by Rotowire.com
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  • Considered 'day-to-day'

    Coach Kyle Shanahan said Monday that Samuel is "day-to-day," and he hopes the wide receiver will be able to suit up for Sunday's game in Cincinnati, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

    Analysis: Samuel has missed one game due to the groin strain he picked up Week 12 against the Vikings. His next appearance on the practice field will be his first since he suffered the injury, and it's unclear if that'll happen Wednesday, as Shanahan told Keiana Martin of the 49ers' official site that it's "still too early to tell" regarding Samuel's status for Week 14. As a result, Samuel's listing on 49ers injury reports will be something to monitor as the week goes on. Without Samuel in the lineup…read more

    Published: Mon, Dec 6 at 4:29pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Officially ruled out

    Samuel (groin) has been ruled out for Sunday's game in Seattle.

    Analysis: While Samuel didn't practice this week, reporters saw him working on a side field with the training staff Thursday and Friday, suggesting he's still on track to miss only a game or two. There's no direct replacement for Samuel's unique, oft-changing role, but in terms of snaps, Jauan Jennings and Trent Sherfield are the most likely beneficiaries, while Brandon Aiyuk and George Kittle also get larger target-share projections. Samuel will try to make it back for either Week 14 against the Bengals…read more

    Published: Fri, Dec 3 at 1:46pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Another DNP on Thursday

    Samuel (groin) was a non-participant at Thursday's practice.

    Analysis: On a semi-positive note, though, Samuel was spotted working on the side with team trainers, according to Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News. While he's in line to miss at least one game as a result of the groin strain he suffered late in the 49ers' Week 12 win against the Vikings, Samuel may be further along in his recovery than expected. In any case, Brandon Aiyuk, Jauan Jennings, Trent Sherfield and Travis Benjamin will be the 49ers' wide receivers for the time being, with River Cracraft…read more

    Published: Thu, Dec 2 at 4:30pm by Rotowire.com
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  • No practice Wednesday

    Samuel (groin) didn't practice Wednesday, Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle reports.

    Analysis: Given that he's expected to miss 1-to-2 games due to a groin strain, Samuel likely won't practice in any fashion this week before the 49ers rule him out for Sunday's contest at Seattle. In his absence, the 49ers will rely on Brandon Aiyuk, Jauan Jennings, Trent Sherfield and Travis Benjamin at wide receiver, while River Cracraft and Connor Wedington are candidates to be elevated from the practice squad for game day.

    Published: Wed, Dec 1 at 3:31pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Likely out 1-to-2 weeks

    Samuel (groin) is expected to be sidelined 1-to-2 weeks, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

    Analysis: Coach Kyle Shanahan relayed the news Monday after Samuel left the tail end of Sunday's win against the Vikings with a groin injury. While it isn't a severe issue, Samuel likely will be out through a Week 14 visit to Cincinnati. While their No. 1 wide receiver is in recovery mode, the 49ers will turn to Brandon Aiyuk, Jauan Jennings, Trent Sherfield and Travis Benjamin at the position in the short term.

    Published: Mon, Nov 29 at 3:56pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Optimism about injury severity

    Samuel (groin) appears to have avoided a serious injury but is still expected to miss time, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was forced out of Sunday's win over the Vikings and is set for an MRI on Monday, after which more concrete details about the severity of his injury should be made available. The star wideout's availability for the upcoming Week 13 divisional matchup in Seattle is looking increasingly murky, but it looks like he may at least have avoided a season-ending injury. San Francisco could rely more on Brandon Aiyuk if the team is indeed forced to proceed without Samuel for one or more games.

    Published: Mon, Nov 29 at 9:10am by Rotowire.com
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  • Will need MRI on groin

    Samuel is slated to undergo an MRI on the groin injury he suffered in the second half of Sunday's win over the Vikings, 49ers Team Reporter Keiana Martin reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was able to make his way to the sideline under his own power after suffering the injury, and he remained there without his helmet after being examined by trainers. Once the results of the MRI are made available, the 49ers should provide an update on Samuel's status.

    Published: Sun, Nov 28 at 4:57pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Departs with injury

    Samuel left Sunday's game against the Vikings in the fourth quarter with a groin injury and is questionable to return, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel racked up 78 yards from scrimmage and two scores before picking up the injury, but it remains to be seen if he will be able to add to those totals.

    Published: Sun, Nov 28 at 4:05pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Big output on ground

    Samuel caught one pass for 15 yards on two targets while running for 79 yards and one touchdown on eight carries against Jacksonville on Sunday.

    Analysis: A substantial part of Samuel's fantasy appeal was always his ability to contribute as a runner in games where his pass-catching production might lag otherwise, and this box score is maybe the most extreme example of that in Samuel's career to this point. He was almost a zero through the air -- a byproduct of the 49ers attempting only 22 passes -- but his big rushing output made him a solid start for his fantasy investors anyway. Samuel won't stay quiet as a pass catcher long, so he should be…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 21 at 1:33pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Good to go

    Samuel (shin) has been removed from the injury report for Sunday's game in Jacksonville, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: He was a limited practice participant Wednesday and Thursday but never seemed in much danger of missing the game. A season-low five targets was no deterrent for Samuel in Monday's 31-10 win over the Rams, as he caught all five for 97 yards and a touchdown and also took a season-high four carries for 36 yards and another score. There may be some concern about his target share slipping a little with both Brandon Aiyuk and George Kittle healthy and handling full workloads, but Samuel has been the…read more

    Published: Fri, Nov 19 at 12:50pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Another limited practice

    Samuel (shin) practiced in a limited capacity Thursday, Jennifer Lee Chan of NBC Sports Bay Area

    Analysis: Through nine games this season, Samuel has six outings with at least 100 yards from scrimmage and seven total touchdowns. He was especially on point Monday versus the Rams on his way to 10 touches for 133 total yards and a pair of scores. Coach Kyle Shanahan told Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area on Tuesday that Samuel is considered day-to-day this week due to a bruised shin, and the wide receiver's subsequent activity level in practice has backed that up. Samuel has one more chance to get…read more

    Published: Thu, Nov 18 at 4:16pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Manages limited practice

    Samuel (shin) was a limited practice participant Wednesday, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: Participation in any capacity to start the week puts Samuel on track to play in Sunday's game at Jacksonville. His dominant target share may be slipping a little with Brandon Aiyuk and now George Kittle more involved in the passing attack, but Samuel continues to put up big numbers and needs just 21 more receiving yards to reach 1,000 in a season for the first time in his career. He also had five carries for 36 yards and a score in Monday's 31-10 win over the Rams, his first rushing…read more

    Published: Wed, Nov 17 at 12:45pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Considered day-to-day

    Coach Kyle Shanahan indicated Tuesday that Samuel is considered day-to-day with a shin bruise, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: There's nothing at this point to suggest Samuel is in danger of missing Sunday's game against the Jaguars, but it will still be worth monitoring his practice status in the coming days. Samuel is looking to build off another big effort Monday, turning in five grabs for 97 yards and a score to go along with his five carries for another 36 yards and a second touchdown. If he can't go, that could leave more looks for Brandon Aiyuk and George Kittle in the passing attack.

    Published: Tue, Nov 16 at 12:58pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Dominant in Monday's win

    Samuel caught all five of his targets for 97 yards and a touchdown in Monday night's 31-10 win over the Rams. He also rushed five times for 36 yards and another score.

    Analysis: Samuel was outstanding, again proving to be one of the league's best wide receivers and hardest players to tackle. His 40-yard touchdown on a fourth-and-six play to begin the fourth quarter capped off a performance in which he punished the Rams consistently. Samuel even did so out of the backfield, where he was San Francisco's most efficient runner and scored an eight-yard touchdown during the first half. Overall, his full complement of skills were on display in another excellent outing and the…read more

    Published: Mon, Nov 15 at 8:09pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Avoids injury report

    Samuel (calf) wasn't listed on the 49ers' injury report Thursday.

    Analysis: Prior to Thursday's practice, coach Kyle Shanahan included Samuel among 49ers that were slated to be limited, according to Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News. But Samuel bucked those expectations and handled every rep presented to him and his fellow wide receivers. With his calf injury behind him, he'll ramp up for Monday's matchup against a Rams defense that has surrendered the third-most catches (130) to wide receivers so far this season.

    Published: Thu, Nov 11 at 4:00pm by Rotowire.com
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  • To be limited Thursday

    Samuel (calf) will be limited at Thursday's practice, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

    Analysis: Samuel put up a modest five catches (on nine targets) for 63 yards this past Sunday versus the Cardinals, at least for his standards this season. His calf issue may have been a hindrance, but more likely it was the presence of George Kittle, who was playing for the first time since Week 4 and had a 6-101-1 line on eight targets. Fellow wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk also busted out for 6-89-1 on eight targets, so Samuel suddenly has some competition for looks from QB Jimmy Garoppolo in the passing…read more

    Published: Thu, Nov 11 at 1:31pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Takes back seat in loss to Cards

    Samuel caught five of nine targets for 63 yards in Sunday's 31-17 loss to the Cardinals.

    Analysis: While the third-year receiver led the 49ers in targets, Samuel saw both Brandon Aiyuk and the returning George Kittle surpass him in receptions and yards on the afternoon, with each of the pair also finding the end zone. Samuel still hasn't seen fewer than eight targets in a game all season, and Sunday was only the second time in eight contests he didn't either score a TD or reach 100 scrimmage yards. He'll look to get back on track in Week 10 against the Rams.

    Published: Sun, Nov 7 at 10:51pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Suiting up in Week 9

    Samuel (calf) is listed as active Sunday versus the Cardinals, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: Samuel didn't log as many practice reps this week as he did during Week 8 prep, following a DNP/LP/LP practice regimen. He thus went into the weekend as questionable, and while Adam Schefter of ESPN reported earlier Sunday that Samuel was on pace to suit up, the wide receiver may not be afforded his typical workload. In seven games this season, Samuel has garnered at least 81 percent of offensive snaps six times, churned out 100-plus receiving yards on four occasions, and scored five total…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 7 at 12:06pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Expected to play Sunday

    Samuel (calf), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Cardinals, is expected to play but the 49ers are uncertain how long he'll be able to go, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was able to practice on a limited basis Friday for the second day in a row after previously sitting out Wednesday's session. Despite this report, fantasy managers will need to confirm he's avoided the inactive list ahead of Sunday's 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff.

    Published: Sun, Nov 7 at 12:13am by Rotowire.com
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  • Questionable for Week 9

    The 49ers list Samuel (calf) as questionable for Sunday's game against the Cardinals, Jennifer Lee Chan of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: Though Samuel was able to practice on a limited basis Friday for the second day in a row after previously sitting out Wednesday's session, he admitted that his calf injury is feeling worse this week than it did heading into the 49ers' Week 8 win over the Bears, per Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com. Samuel proceeded to churn out six receptions for 171 yards on nine targets last week, so even if he's at less than 100 percent heading into the matchup with the Cardinals, fantasy mangers should still feel…read more

    Published: Fri, Nov 5 at 1:47pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Logs limited showing Thursday

    Samuel (calf) practiced in a limited capacity Thursday, Jennifer Lee Chan of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: Samuel is under the same practice routine so far from last week, when he didn't practice Wednesday before returning to the field Thursday with a cap on his reps. If he ends Week 9 prep as a full participant, he again should enter the weekend without a designation. Friday's injury report may reveal as much.

    Published: Thu, Nov 4 at 3:40pm by Rotowire.com
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  • To sit out Wednesday

    Samuel (calf) won't practice Wednesday, Chris Biderman of The Sacramento Bee reports.

    Analysis: Samuel sat out last Wednesday, too, due to a calf injury before returning in a limited capacity Thursday and practicing in full Friday. He was able to suit up this past Sunday in Chicago and churn out 171 yards on six catches, but coach Kyle Shanahan relayed Samuel aggravated the issue in that contest. Shanahan expects him to return to drills Thursday and also play Week 9 against the Cardinals, per David Lombardi of The Athletic, but the wide receiver's status bears watching as this week goes…read more

    Published: Wed, Nov 3 at 12:50pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Still dealing with calf issue

    Samuel is expected to be limited in practice this week due to a calf injury, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

    Analysis: Last week, Samuel kicked it off with no practice Wednesday, but he proceeded to log a limited session Thursday before returning in full Friday. It didn't stop him from ripping off six catches (on nine targets) for 171 yards against the Bears on Sunday, which included a career-best 83-yard catch and run. Samuel may operate under a similar set of practice restrictions this week, but the NFL's second-leading receiver (819 yards) doesn't appear as if his availability for game day is in question.

    Published: Mon, Nov 1 at 4:20pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Goes off for 171 in victory

    Samuel had six receptions (nine targets) for 171 yards in Sunday's 33-22 victory over the Bears.

    Analysis: Samuel ripped off a career high 83-yard catch and run in the third quarter to cement another strong fantasy outing, narrowly missing his fifth receiving touchdown due to an official review. The 25-year-old now has four 100-plus yard games this season despite getting inconsistent play from his quarterbacks. The 49ers are on track to get George Kittle (calf) back from IR in Week 9, which may cut into Samuel's targets slightly, but the budding star wideout has performed well both with and without…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 31 at 1:26pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Fine for Sunday

    Samuel (calf) will play in Sunday's game against the Bears, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was removed from the final injury report after missing practice Wednesday and logging a limited session Thursday. He's been a breakout star for the otherwise disappointing 49ers, averaging 6.3 catches for 108.0 receiving yards per game with five total touchdowns in six contests.

    Published: Fri, Oct 29 at 1:32pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Moves up to limited showing

    Samuel (calf) was limited in practice Thursday, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: The 49ers are taking a cautious approach with Samuel's calf issue, which didn't allow him to get on the practice field to begin Week 8 prep. But, as coach Kyle Shanahan told Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News, he expressed optimism Wednesday about the wide receiver being active Sunday in Chicago. Thursday's development is a step in the right direction, but there's still a chance he heads into the weekend with a designation if he isn't a full participant Friday.

    Published: Thu, Oct 28 at 2:51pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Sits out Wednesday with calf injury

    Head coach Kyle Shanahan said Samuel won't practice Wednesday due to a calf injury, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Per Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News, Shanahan noted Samuel looked "OK" during Wednesday's walk-through, while relaying optimism that the wide receiver will be available for Sunday's game at Chicago. Samuel still has a pair of practices this week to get back on the field and prove the health of his calf, but his status now bears watching as the weekend approaches.

    Published: Wed, Oct 27 at 12:40pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Reaches century mark while scoring

    Samuel had seven receptions (11 targets) for 100 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 30-18 loss to the Colts.

    Analysis: Samuel did not record a rushing attempt for the first time since Week 1, and he also lost a fumble in the heavy rain at Levi's Stadium. That's where the bad news ends, as the dynamic wideout posted his third 100-yard game with a score through six contests this year. The 49ers offense looked lost for extended periods Sunday, but Samuel is proving to be an asset that can produce regardless of the situation surrounding him. The third-year wideout is about as must-start as they come for next week's…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 24 at 8:51pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Scores on ground

    Samuel caught three of nine targets for 58 yards against Arizona on Sunday, adding a 13-yard touchdown carry.

    Analysis: Samuel didn't have the greatest fantasy showing in Week 5, but the nine-target workload reiterates his indisputable WR1 status within the 49ers offense, and the rushing touchdown is a reminder that he's not truly dependent on the pass to produce. Rookie quarterback Trey Lance struggled to get Samuel the ball in the tough matchup, yet Samuel still found a way to give his fantasy investors some help. It's not clear whether Jimmy Garoppolo (calf) will be ready to return after the Week 6 bye, but…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 10 at 5:11pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Huge game in Week 4

    Samuel caught eight of 12 targets for 156 yards and two touchdowns against Seattle on Sunday, adding one yard on one carry.

    Analysis: Samuel's red-hot start to the 2021 season picked up more steam against the Seahawks on Sunday. Jimmy Garoppolo (calf) left the game at halftime, but Samuel importantly showed the ability to post big numbers even with backup quarterback Trey Lance, who threw two second-half touchdowns to Samuel. It's not clear what Garoppolo's calf injury means, nor is it known whether Lance's play in relief might reopen a quarterback competition in San Francisco. The good news for Samuel managers is that it…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 3 at 4:43pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Cools off in narrow loss

    Samuel caught five passes (10 targets) for 52 yards in Sunday's 30-28 loss to Green Bay.

    Analysis: Samuel finally cooled off after racking up 15 receptions, 282 yards and a touchdown over the 49ers' first two contests. The dynamic wideout still led the team with 10 targets, which is promising news for his fantasy value as we progress through the season. Samuel's production as a runner hasn't been as positive early on, with just eight yards on four carries (two carries for no gain Sunday night) through the first three contests, but any rushing production is just icing on the fantasy-value…read more

    Published: Sun, Sep 26 at 10:00pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Combines for over 100 yards in win

    Samuel had six receptions (eight targets) for 93 yards and rushed twice for eight yards in Sunday's 17-11 win over the Eagles.

    Analysis: Samuel suffered a scare late in the contest when he was seen sitting down and favoring his leg on the sidelines, but it was confirmed that he was just dealing with a quadriceps cramp and did not suffer an injury, according to Jennifer Lee Chan of NBC Sports Bay Area. On the field, the 25-year-old picked up where he left off after leading the 49ers in receiving against the Lions in Week 1. Samuel recorded five more targets than the next wideout, and it has become apparent that he has become…read more

    Published: Sun, Sep 19 at 2:30pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Goes off for 189 yards

    Samuel hauled in nine passes (12 targets) for 189 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 41-33 win over Detroit.

    Analysis: Samuel did cough up a fumble in the waning moments of the contest that nearly allowed the Lions to make an improbable comeback. Other than the miscue, it was an impressive debut to the new season for the third-year man after an injury-plagued 2020 campaign. Samuel did not officially record one of his signature end-arounds, but he did attempt one that was called back due to a penalty. If Jimmy Garoppolo (314 yards and a touchdown) can also turn in a clean bill of health this year, the duo could…read more

    Published: Sun, Sep 12 at 1:45pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Goes for big gain

    Samuel caught one of two targets for 24 yards in Sunday's 34-10 preseason win over the Raiders.

    Analysis: Samuel connected with starter Jimmy Garoppolo for a long strike down the middle on San Francisco's second drive. The team's top wideout now will turn his attention toward the Week 1matchup against the Lions, when teammate Brandon Aiyuk's slight hamstring issue could be worthwhile to monitor in relation to Samuel's stock.

    Published: Sun, Aug 29 at 4:38pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Suits up Sunday

    Samuel (glute) started and caught one of two targets for nine yards in Sunday's 15-10 preseason win over the Chargers.

    Analysis: Samuel was dealing with glute tightness following Friday's joint practice with these same Chargers, but his prompt return to the field should alleviate any concern regarding the injury. Health should be the main focus for the 25-year-old after suffering through multiple lower-body injuries that diminished his 2020 campaign. Expect Samuel to get one more appearance this preseason when the 49ers take on their regional rival in the Raiders on Sunday.

    Published: Sun, Aug 22 at 8:38pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Likely to play Sunday

    Samuel (glute) is expected to play in Sunday's preseason game at the Chargers, Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle reports.

    Analysis: There was some question about whether Samuel would be able to suit up just two days removed from exiting Friday's joint practice with the Chargers due to a "tight glute." But he'll buck the odds and likely be available for Jimmy Garoppolo and Trey Lance alongside fellow wide receivers Brandon Aiyuk and Mohamed Sanu.

    Published: Sun, Aug 22 at 3:40pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Picks up 'glute' injury

    Coach Kyle Shanahan said Samuel was removed from Friday's joint practice with the Chargers due to a "tight glute," David Lombardi of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: The 49ers are awaiting the results of an MRI, which will determine the extent of the injury and how much time, if any, Samuel will miss. Considering he picked up the issue two days before the team's second preseason game Sunday at the Chargers, he may be a candidate to sit out with his health as of Week 1 in mind. In any case, Shanahan likely will have an update on Samuel in the near future.

    Published: Fri, Aug 20 at 5:01pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Exits practice early

    Samuel left Friday's practice early, returning to the sideline as an observer after meeting with a member of the training staff, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: It doesn't sound serious and could be nothing more than cramps. Still, there's a chance Samuel is held out of Sunday's preseason game against the Chargers, especially given his injury struggles last year.

    Published: Fri, Aug 20 at 11:02am by Rotowire.com
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  • Practicing Wednesday

    Samuel (undisclosed) returned to practice Wednesday, Chris Biderman of The Sacramento Bee reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was limited to working out on the side during Tuesday's practice while he contended with some unspecified muscle tightness, but his return to the field Wednesday indicates that the issue was minor. Assuming his health and availability remain intact, Samuel is being counted on to be a key target in the 49ers' passing game in 2021 alongside fellow wideout Brandon Aiyuk and star tight end George Kittle.

    Published: Wed, Aug 4 at 10:34am by Rotowire.com
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  • Bothered by muscle tightness

    Samuel is dealing with muscle tightness and was limited to side work during Tuesday's practice, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Durability has been a major concern for Samuel through two pro seasons, with the most recent issue being a hamstring injury that cost him the final three weeks of 2020. He returned healthy for the offseason program and is locked in alongside WR Brandon Aiyuk and TE George Kittle as a crucial component of the San Francisco passing game. Samuel's medical history may not be ideal, but coach Kyle Shanahan suggested the current injury is minor.

    Published: Tue, Aug 3 at 12:28pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Building chemistry with Trey Lance

    Samuel has been working out in Southern California with rookie quarterback Trey Lance since the 49ers' offseason program concluded earlier this month, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: Samuel seems to be enjoying a healthy offseason, unlike last summer when he suffered a Jones fracture in mid-June. He missed the first three weeks of the regular season, then later missed six more games while dealing with hamstring injuries and a stint on the COVID-19 list. In the seven games he played, Samuel averaged 4.7 receptions for 55.9 yards and 1.1 carries for 3.7 yards, with his average of 12.1 yards after catch per reception leading all qualified pass catchers. He largely made his…read more

    Published: Wed, Jun 30 at 12:21pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Won't play final two weeks

    Head coach Kyle Shanahan reaffirmed Tuesday that Samuel (hamstring) won't play in either of the 49ers' final two games of the season, Jennifer Lee Chan of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: Just over a week ago, Shanahan said Samuel would be shut down for the regular season, but the coach left the door open for the wideout to return to action during a potential postseason run. However, after the 49ers were officially eliminated from playoff contention following Sunday's loss to the Cowboys, Samuel will now have to wait until 2021 to see his next competitive action. The second-year player only suited up in seven games for the 49ers this season, but he was productive during his time…read more

    Published: Wed, Dec 23 at 8:58am by Rotowire.com
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  • Done for regular season

    Coach Kyle Shanahan indicated Monday that a hamstring strain will keep Samuel out for the rest of the regular season, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

    Analysis: In Samuel's looming absence, added opportunities in the 49ers offense will be available down the stretch for Brandon Aiyuk, Kendrick Bourne and Richie James.

    Published: Mon, Dec 14 at 2:46pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Needs MRI, could be done for season

    Samuel (hamstring) will get an MRI on Monday on the injury he suffered Sunday against Washington, and there are fears that the injury could be season-ending, Jennifer Lee Chan of NBC Sports reports.

    Analysis: Coach Kyle Shanahan called the injury significant in the post-game press conference, and Samuel has already missed time due to a hamstring injury this season. The 49ers have been decimated by injuries all season, as Samuel could soon join Jimmy Garoppolo (ankle) and George Kittle (foot), among others, on IR.

    Published: Sun, Dec 13 at 8:20pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Ruled out of Sunday's contest

    Samuel (hamstring) won't return to Sunday's game versus Washington, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: Samuel injured his hamstring on the first play from scrimmage, a nine-yard run by the second-year wide receiver. With the decision made to keep Samuel out for the rest of the contest, the 49ers are down to Brandon Aiyuk, Kendrick Bourne, Richie James and River Cracraft as healthy options at wide receiver.

    Published: Sun, Dec 13 at 3:21pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Hurts hamstring Sunday

    Samuel injured his hamstring during Sunday's game against Washington, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: On the first play from scrimmage, Samuel pulled up at the end of a nine-yard carry. He was deemed questionable to return, and if he's unable to do so, the 49ers will have just Brandon Aiyuk, Kendrick Bourne, Richie James and River Cracraft available at wide receiver.

    Published: Sun, Dec 13 at 1:36pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Ready to face Washington

    Samuel (foot) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against Washington, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel sat out Wednesday's practice after suffering a foot contusion in a Monday night loss to the Bills. He played 95 percent of San Francisco's offensive snaps in that contest, and he could see a similarly large workload this week as his team fights to stay in the wild-card race.

    Published: Fri, Dec 11 at 1:01pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Increases activity Thursday

    Samuel (foot) was listed as limited on Thursday's injury report, Chris Biderman of The Sacramento Bee reports.

    Analysis: Samuel has improved upon his absence from Wednesday, with one more session left this week to elevate to full participation. There's no telling if it'll happen, but fortunately for Samuel his current foot contusion isn't related to the Jones fracture he sustained back in June, as coach Kyle Shanahan told Biderman on Wednesday. Samuel's status may receive some clarity upon the release of Friday's practice report.

    Published: Thu, Dec 10 at 3:56pm by Rotowire.com
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  • No activity Wednesday

    Samuel (foot) didn't practice Wednesday, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel's absence is the result of a foot contusion, with coach Kyle Shanahan telling Chris Biderman of The Sacramento Bee that the wide receiver's injury isn't related to the Jones fracture he suffered in his left foot back in June. The 49ers are coming off a loss to the Bills on Monday Night Football, so Shanahan is treating Wednesday as if it's a typical Tuesday. As a result, with maintenance the likely root cause of Samuel sitting out to start Week 14 prep, he'll have chances Thursday and…read more

    Published: Wed, Dec 9 at 2:47pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Won't practice Wednesday

    Samuel will miss Wednesday's practice due to a foot contusion, Chris Biderman of The Sacramento Bee reports.

    Analysis: Samuel played 95 percent of the 49ers' offensive snaps in Monday's loss to the Bills, with most of his production coming in the fourth quarter after Buffalo extended the lead to 17 points. His foot injury doesn't sound serious, as coach Kyle Shanahan suggested Samuel might have been able to practice Wednesday if the 49ers had played their game Sunday rather than Monday, per Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com. The wide receiver will have two more chances to practice before Sunday's matchup with Washington.

    Published: Wed, Dec 9 at 11:15am by Rotowire.com
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  • Comes on late in loss

    Samuel secured six of nine targets for 73 yards and rushed once for three yards in the 49ers' 34-24 loss to the Bills on Monday night.

    Analysis: Samuel led the 49ers in receptions while tying Brandon Aiyuk in targets on the night, but he made the majority of his noise in the second half. The second-year wideout was largely neutralized early yet was able to capitalize on what became a pass-heavy approach by San Francisco after it incurred a multi-possession deficit. Samuel has encouragingly put together a combined 17-206-0 line on 22 targets in the two games he's played since returning from a hamstring injury, and he'll look to continue…read more

    Published: Mon, Dec 7 at 8:59pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Puts forth full practice

    Samuel (hamstring) returned to practice as a full participant Friday, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel's ability to take every rep at Friday's session confirms his absence from practice Thursday was precautionary, just as head coach Kyle Shanahan suggested was the case. The second-year wideout shouldn't face any limitations versus the Bills on Monday, when he'll be looking to build on the season-best performance he submitted in the 49ers' Week 12 win over the Rams (11 catches for 133 yards on 13 targets).

    Published: Fri, Dec 4 at 3:19pm by Rotowire.com
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  • No practice Thursday

    Samuel (hamstring) didn't practice Thursday, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: In his return to action this past Sunday against the Rams, Samuel torched L.A. for 11 catches (on 13 targets) for a season-high 133 yards. Along the way, he played 62 of the 49ers' 72 snaps on offense. Coach Kyle Shanahan told Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area that Samuel didn't suffer a setback during the game, so his DNP to kick off Week 13 prep can be considered maintenance-related. Samuel will have two more chances to get on the practice field ahead of Monday's game against the Bills.

    Published: Thu, Dec 3 at 3:18pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Explodes for 133 yards vs. Rams

    Samuel caught 11 of 13 targets for 133 yards during Sunday's 23-20 win over the Rams.

    Analysis: Making his first appearance since Week 7, Samuel more than doubled his previous season high in yardage as he repeatedly gashed the typically stout Rams secondary while leading the team in targets and catches as well. He dominated throughout the game but was particularly effective on the game-winning drive as he contributed three catches and 35 yards to help set up a last-second field goal. Samuel appears to be fully over the hamstring injury that sidelined him and will look to build on this…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 29 at 7:34pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Cleared for Week 12

    Samuel (hamstring) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Rams, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

    Analysis: The 49ers initially reported Samuel being listed as questionable, but it turns out he's been cleared to play. The team will need a lot from him this week, with fellow wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk on the reserve/COVID-19 list and TE George Kittle (foot) still on injured reserve. Samuel last played in a game Week 7, which was only his fourth appearance of the year. Between summer foot surgery, hamstring issues and the pandemic, his second pro season has been a lesson in bad luck. Samuel will catch…read more

    Published: Fri, Nov 27 at 2:10pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Maintains limited standing

    Samuel (hamstring) was a limited practice participant Thursday, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: With back-to-back capped sessions under his belt, Samuel is progressing toward his first appearance since Week 7, when he sustained a hamstring injury. However, the 49ers likely want the second-year wide receiver to bump up to full, if possible, before clearing him for game action. Friday's practice report may give an indication of his potential to return Sunday against the Rams.

    Published: Thu, Nov 26 at 2:58pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Limited in practice Wednesday

    Samuel (hamstring) will practice in a limited capacity Wednesday, Chris Biderman of The Sacramento Bee reports.

    Analysis: Samuel appears to have made meaningful progress in his recovery from the hamstring injury during San Francisco's bye, and it looks like he has a shot to return from his three-game absence Sunday against the Rams. With Brandon Aiyuk still on the reserve/COVID-19 list, getting Samuel back in the lineup would provide a notable boost for the 49ers' receiving corps.

    Published: Wed, Nov 25 at 1:37pm by Rotowire.com
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  • In line to practice Wednesday

    Samuel (hamstring) is expected to practice Wednesday, David Lombardi of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel has been beset by injuries this season. First, a Jones fracture suffered in the offseason sidelined him for the 49ers' first three games, and most recently, a hamstring issue sidelined him for the last three contests. When he was on the field between Weeks 4 and 7, he compiled 16 catches, 199 yards from scrimmage and one touchdown. Fortunately, Samuel appears to be giving practice a shot to start Week 12 prep, but his activity level won't be known until later Wednesday.

    Published: Wed, Nov 25 at 1:29pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Could be back Week 12

    Coach Kyle Shanahan is hopeful Samuel (hamstring) will be available for the 49ers' next game Sunday, Nov. 29 against the Rams, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: As the 49ers enter their Week 11 bye, Samuel has missed six of the team's first 10 games of the season en route to 16 catches (on 22 targets) for 185 yards and one touchdown. If he is able to prove the health of his hamstring and return Week 12, San Francisco's group of wide receivers will be at its healthiest at any point on the campaign.

    Published: Tue, Nov 17 at 2:34pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Won't play this week

    Samuel (hamstring) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Saints, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: This will be Samuel's sixth absence of the season and third in a row, but he at least has a bye coming up Week 11 to help his chances of avoiding any additional missed games. With TE George Kittle (foot) also sidelined, QB Nick Mullens figures to lean on Brandon Aiyuk, Kendrick Bourne, Jordan Reed and Jerick McKinnon, though Week 9 standout Richie James also could get involved.

    Published: Fri, Nov 13 at 1:33pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Unlikely to face Saints

    Coach Kyle Shanahan said Thursday that Samuel (hamstring) is a "long shot" to suit up against the Saints on Sunday, Chris Biderman of The Sacramento Bee reports.

    Analysis: Samuel hasn't yet practiced this week while nursing a lingering hamstring issue. Shanahan said he expects the versatile wideout to return after San Francisco's bye in Week 11, which would make his next possible return date Nov. 29 against the Rams. With Kendrick Bourne also uncertain for Sunday's game due to his placement on the reserve/COVID-19 list, it looks like Brandon Aiyuk, Richie James and Trent Taylor could comprise the 49ers' wide receiver corps in New Orleans.

    Published: Thu, Nov 12 at 3:30pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Misses Thursday's practice

    Samuel (hamstring) is not practicing Thursday, Chris Biderman of The Sacramento Bee reports.

    Analysis: The 49ers activated Samuel from the reserve/COVID-19 list last Friday, but he still has yet to resume participating in practice due to a lingering hamstring injury. At this point, it looks like the second-year pro is trending in the wrong direction for Sunday's game at New Orleans. San Francisco is scheduled for a bye Week 11, so the team may simply intend to hold Samuel out until then in order to guarantee a smooth recovery.

    Published: Thu, Nov 12 at 2:35pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not practicing Wednesday

    Samuel (hamstring) isn't participating in Wednesday's practice, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was ruled out ahead of the 49ers' Week 9 loss to the Packers beforehand due to a hamstring injury, but he also was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list due to being a "high-risk" close contact of Kendrick Bourne (illness). Removed from the list last Friday, Samuel still is unable to get on the field, a result of the aforementioned injury suffered Week 7. The 49ers have a Week 11 bye upcoming, so they may opt to hold him out Sunday at New Orleans with the hope he's healthy for a Nov. 29…read more

    Published: Wed, Nov 11 at 2:02pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Back from reserve/COVID-19 list

    The 49ers activated Samuel (hamstring) from the reserve/COVID-19 list Friday.

    Analysis: After teammate Kendrick Bourne was placed on the list Wednesday following a positive COVID-19 test, Samuel, Brandon Aiyuk and Trent Williams were added to the list later in the day when the three were identified to be in close contact with Bourne. All four players were then held out of Thursday's 34-17 loss to the Packers, even though Bourne proceeded to test negative Thursday and Friday, seemingly confirming that the initial test result was a false positive. Samuel would have missed the Week 9…read more

    Published: Fri, Nov 6 at 4:24pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Going to COVID-19 list

    The 49ers placed Samuel (hamstring) on the reserve/ COVID-19 list Wednesday, Mike Garafolo of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Samuel already was ruled out for Thursday's game against the Packers with the hamstring injury, but after fellow wide receiver Kendrick Bourne landed on the COVID-19 list Wednesday, contact tracing went into effect, and the former was deemed to be in the "high-risk" category. Brandon Aiyuk is in the same boat, meaning the 49ers may be down to two wide receivers (Trent Taylor and Richie James) in Week 9.

    Published: Wed, Nov 4 at 4:45pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Sidelined again Thursday

    Coach Kyle Shanahan said Samuel (hamstring) won't play Thursday versus the Packers, Chris Biderman of The Sacramento Bee

    Analysis: After injuring his hamstring Week 7, Samuel was expected to miss multiple games, and indeed Shanahan's proclamation means the wide receiver will sit out for a second consecutive contest. With George Kittle (foot) likely out for the rest of the season, viable receivers are far and few between in San Francisco at the moment. In Samuel's stead, Brandon Aiyuk, Kendrick Bourne and Trent Taylor can expect an uptick in usage.

    Published: Tue, Nov 3 at 1:07pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not practicing Monday

    Samuel (hamstring) is listed as a non-participant in Monday's practice estimate.

    Analysis: A multi-week absence was expected after Samuel hurt his hamstring Week 7, so it's not surprising that he's still not practicing ahead of Thursday's Week 9 clash with the Packers. Unless Samuel heals up faster than expected, he's likely to sit for a second consecutive game, paving the way for Brandon Aiyuk to headline a group of pass catchers that will also be missing tight end George Kittle (foot).

    Published: Mon, Nov 2 at 1:33pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not playing Sunday

    The 49ers have ruled Samuel (hamstring) out for Sunday's game at Seattle, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

    Analysis: As expected, Samuel will miss at least one contest due to the strained hamstring that he suffered this past Sunday in New England. His next chance to suit up will be Thursday against the Packers, but a more realistic expectation is the 49ers' Week 10 outing at New Orleans on Sunday, Nov. 15. With Samuel sidelined again, San Francisco will turn to Brandon Aiyuk, Kendrick Bourne, Trent Taylor and Dante Pettis at wide receiver.

    Published: Fri, Oct 30 at 4:28pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Expected to miss multiple games

    Samuel (hamstring) is not expected to play Week 8 and likely will miss the following contest against the Packers as well, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel strained his hamstring during Sunday's victory over the Patriots. Coach Kyle Shanahan indicated following the game that the receiver was expected to miss "some time," which makes this news relatively unsurprising. His expected absence means there will be more opportunities for Brandon Aiyuk, Kendrick Bourne and even Trent Taylor in the passing game.

    Published: Mon, Oct 26 at 3:48pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Expected to miss time

    Coach Kyle Shanahan expects Samuel (hamstring) to miss "some time," Chris Biderman of The Sacramento Bee reports. "You never know. Know it pulled on him on that run, which usually is some time (missed)," Shanahan said.

    Analysis: While "some time" isn't a specific diagnosis, Shanahan's words make it sound like Samuel's more likely than not to sit out against the NFC West rival Seahawks in Week 8. Samuel's participation, or lack thereof, in practice this week should provide a more concrete assessment of his status for Week 8 and beyond.

    Published: Sun, Oct 25 at 8:19pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Suffers hamstring injury

    Samuel (hamstring) has been ruled out of Sunday's game in New England, Dan Graziano of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Prior to his departure in the second half, Samuel had five catches (on five targets) for 65 yards and three carries for seven yards. After undergoing June surgery on a Jones fracture in his left foot and undergoing a recovery that extended into the regular season, he may be poised for another absence from the 49ers offense.

    Published: Sun, Oct 25 at 3:56pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Scores first 2020 touchdown

    Samuel hauled in all six of his targets for 66 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 24-16 win over the Rams.

    Analysis: After starting the year on injured reserve and getting eased back into action, Samuel finally posted a line his fantasy managers were hoping for when they drafted him this season. The 24-year-old put his athleticism on display, starting three of his receptions well behind the line of scrimmage and turning them into big gains (one of which resulted in a score). Jimmy Garoppolo (ankle) -- who also dealt with an injury early in the season -- looked like his former healthy self as well, which bodes…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 18 at 9:51pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Struggles in loss to Dolphins

    Samuel caught two of eight targets for 19 yards and gained three yards on one carry during Sunday's 43-17 loss to the Dolphins.

    Analysis: Samuel tied for the team lead in targets but managed just 9.5 yards on a pair of grabs. He struggled against a talented Miami secondary and wasn't aided by lackluster quarterback play from both Jimmy Garoppolo and C.J. Beathard. The lone positive was the fact that Samuel received so many looks in just his second game back after recovering from a summer foot injury. After totaling just 67 scrimmage yards in his first two contests, he will look to get going next Sunday against the Rams.

    Published: Sun, Oct 11 at 7:36pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Suiting up Week 5

    Samuel (illness) is listed as active Sunday versus the Dolphins.

    Analysis: Absent from practice Thursday and Friday with an illness, Samuel entered the weekend with a cloud hanging over his availability. That said, there was an expectation that he'd suit up Sunday, per Adam Schefter of ESPN, and he'll do just that. In his season debut last Sunday against the Eagles, Samuel logged 34 percent of the 49ers' offensive snaps en route to four touches for 45 yards. He'll look to get closer to the 67-percent snap share from his rookie 2019 campaign as he gets more into…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 11 at 11:47am by Rotowire.com
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  • Should play Week 5

    Samuel (illness), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Dolphins, "should be good [to play]," a source tells Adam Schefter of ESPN.

    Analysis: Samuel was sidelined for the 49ers' final two practices of the week due to a non-COVID-19-related illness, but the wideout has since passed through all protocols and is on track to suit up Sunday, according to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network. Making his season debut in last week's loss to the Eagles after missing the 49ers' first three games while recovering from June surgery to address a Jones fracture in his foot, Samuel played 25 of the 49ers' 73 offensive snaps (34 percent) and finished with…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 11 at 5:16am by Rotowire.com
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  • Expected to play Sunday

    Samuel (illness) passed COVID-19 protocols and can return to the 49ers' facilities, indicating that he'll suit up Sunday versus the Dolphins, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel had an illness, but it has been determined that he doesn't have COVID-19. As long as he's healthy at game time, Samuel should be back in the lineup for Week 5. He'll handle the No. 1 wideout duties in his second game back from a Jones fracture, and he'll look to build on the 45 yards he recorded on four touches against the Eagles last week.

    Published: Sat, Oct 10 at 3:49pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Listed as questionable with illness

    Samuel (illness) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against Miami, as he still needs to pass another test to ensure he doesn't have COVID-19, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was held out of practice Thursday and Friday while recovering from an illness and contending with a fever. Tests apparently came back negative for COVID-19, but he'll need to make it through another round of testing before he's cleared to play in Sunday's game. While it sounds like the wide receiver should be able to suit up, the situation will require some monitoring over the weekend. Samuel is still working his way back into top shape following summer foot surgery, playing only 34…read more

    Published: Fri, Oct 9 at 1:47pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Misses another practice

    Samuel (illness) is absent from practice again Friday, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel returned from foot surgery to handle a limited role in last week's 25-20 loss to the Eagles, gaining 45 yards on four touches while playing 34 percent of offensive snaps in his season debut. He should see his workload expand this weekend -- at least to some extent -- unless the illness prevents him from playing against the Dolphins. Another update will be available when the 49ers release their final injury report later Friday.

    Published: Fri, Oct 9 at 12:36pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Dealing with illness

    Samuel didn't practice Thursday due to an illness, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: After spending more than three months in recovery mode following June surgery to address a Jones fracture in his left foot, Samuel made his season debut this past Sunday in Miami. He played 34 percent of the snaps on offense en route to three catches (on three targets) for 35 yards and one carry for 10 yards. On a positive note, Samuel didn't appear on Wednesday's injury report, indicating the foot issue is behind him. That said, he's come down with an illness of unknown severity, placing a…read more

    Published: Thu, Oct 8 at 3:07pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not seen at practice Thursday

    Samuel (undisclosed) wasn't spotted at the part of Thursday's practice open to the media, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was activated from IR and made his season debut Week 4 against the Eagles, hauling in all three targets for 35 yards and recording a 10-yard carry. He proceeded to avoid the injury report entirely Wednesday, so his listing on Thursday's version will be of keen interest.

    Published: Thu, Oct 8 at 1:36pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Limited role in loss

    Samuel (foot) caught all three of his targets for 35 yards and added 10 yards on one carry in Sunday's 25-20 loss to the Eagles.

    Analysis: Samuel was activated off injured reserve prior to Sunday's contest after undergoing offseason surgery on his injured foot. The 24-year-old was eased back into action in a limited role, but still produced numbers similar to his pre-injury performance, at least on a per-snap basis. Expect Samuel's workload to increase next week against the Dolphins as the wideout inches toward being back to full strength.

    Published: Mon, Oct 5 at 1:37am by Rotowire.com
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  • Taken off injured reserve

    Samuel (foot) was activated off injured reserve Saturday, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: The explosive wideout is now set to play Sunday night, meaning both Samuel and George Kittle (knee) will be together on the field for the first time all season. It's reasonable to assume the 49ers might ease Samuel back into game shape, particularly with the team heavily favored against a dysfunctional Eagles roster, but with Raheem Mostert (knee) and Tevin Coleman (knee) both absent from the equation, it's possible the offense might be forced to utilize the second-year player more than it…read more

    Published: Sat, Oct 3 at 1:50pm by Rotowire.com
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  • In line to play Sunday

    Samuel (foot) is slated to play Sunday night against the Eagles, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

    Analysis: That said, it looks like Samuel will be eased back into the mix in his 2020 season debut. With that in mind, coach Kyle Shanahan noted of the wideout Friday, "We've got to be smart with him. I know he'll be out there (Sunday), but it won't be his normal role, that's for sure." Samuel must still be activated off IR by the team by Saturday at 4 p.m. ET in order to suit up Week 4, but that transaction is looming, with either defensive end Dee Ford or tight end Jordan Reed likely to move to IR in a…read more

    Published: Fri, Oct 2 at 1:44pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Working to get in 'game shape'

    San Francisco head coach Kyle Shanahan said Wednesday he considers Samuel (foot) to be healthy, but the wide receiver's focus now is "getting in game shape," David Lombardi of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: The 49ers opened a 21-day window Wednesday in which to activate Samuel from injured reserve. They'll use the next three days to get a sense of the "shape he's in, and if he can protect himself, he'll be out there," Shanahan told Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News. As a result, Samuel may be able to rejoin a receiving corps that's been banged up throughout the season in Sunday's game against the Eagles. At the moment, Kendrick Bourne, Brandon Aiyuk, Trent Taylor, Mohamed Sanu and Dante…read more

    Published: Wed, Sep 30 at 1:02pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Practice window officially opens

    The 49ers designated Samuel (foot) to return from injured reserve Wednesday.

    Analysis: The transaction opens up a 21-day practice window through which the 49ers will be able to evaluate Samuel for a return to the active roster. San Francisco could technically activate Samuel in time for him to suit up Sunday versus the Eagles, but the team is believed to be targeting its Week 5 game against the Dolphins for the wideout's 2020 debut. Kendrick Bourne and Brandon Aiyuk will continue to serve as the team's top wideouts until Samuel is able to return, with Trent Taylor, Mohamed Sanu…read more

    Published: Wed, Sep 30 at 12:06pm by Rotowire.com
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  • In line to practice Wednesday

    Samuel (foot) is expected to return to practice Wednesday, David Lombardi of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: As Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported Sunday, Samuel should make an appearance at practice this week, but the 49ers intend to ease him into the fold as he works to be activated from injured reserve. Due to the 2020-based IR rules, the team can technically bring Samuel off the list before Sunday's game versus the Eagles. That said, San Francisco likely will wait until its Week 5 contest against the Dolphins on Oct. 11 to do so. In the meantime, the 49ers' receiving corps will continue to be…read more

    Published: Mon, Sep 28 at 4:31pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Likely eyeing Week 5 return

    Samuel (foot) should resume practicing during the upcoming week, but the 49ers aren't expecting to bring him back from injured reserve until their Week 5 game against the Dolphins on Oct. 11, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Since he opened the season on IR, Samuel is eligible to return beginning in Week 4, but given the 49ers' desire to ease him back from his June surgery to repair a Jones fracture in his left foot, the wideout likely won't gain clearance to play next Sunday against the Eagles. The 49ers will likely wait and see how Samuel looks in practice this week before formally deciding on his status for the Philadelphia game. Samuel is one of several key San Francisco skill-position players that has missed…read more

    Published: Sun, Sep 27 at 7:00am by Rotowire.com
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  • On track to practice next week

    Coach Kyle Shanahan said Samuel (foot) has looked good running routes and should return to practice next week, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: A Week 4 return has been the goal ever since Samuel was placed on injured reserve. His availability for next Sunday's game against the Eagles remains uncertain, but it sounds like he'll at least make it back to the practice field, where the 49ers can then evaluate his health and explosiveness. The Niners certainly could use the help, as they're currently preparing to face the Giants in Week 3 without QB Jimmy Garoppolo (ankle), TE George Kittle (knee) and RBs Raheem Mostert (knee) and Tevin…read more

    Published: Fri, Sep 25 at 10:38am by Rotowire.com
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  • Looking at Week 4 return

    Coach Kyle Shanahan said the 49ers are aiming for Samuel (foot) to make his season debut Week 4 against the Eagles, Keiana Martin of the 49ers' official site reports.

    Analysis: Shanahan explained the decision to place Samuel on injured reserve Saturday, telling Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com that the wide receiver had some lingering soreness in his left foot that developed into a "little bit of a setback." Consequently, Samuel has a few weeks to complete his rehab from June surgery on a Jones fracture in his left foot, with the hope he'll be available Oct. 4 versus Philly. In the meantime, the 49ers will rely on Kendrick Bourne, Trent Taylor and Dante Pettis in a receiving…read more

    Published: Mon, Sep 14 at 4:05pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Lands on IR

    Samuel (foot) was placed on injured reserve Saturday, Field Yates of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: The decision means Samuel will not play for at least the first three weeks of the season. It's a bit surprising considering coach Kyle Shanahan was hopeful the second-year wideout would be able to practice this week. Whether Samuel suffered some sort of setback or the 49ers are just being cautious remains to be seen, but the move likely benefits the short-term fantasy values of Kendrick Bourne, Trent Taylor and Brandon Aiyuk (hamstring) in the meantime.

    Published: Sat, Sep 12 at 1:42pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Ruled out

    Samuel (foot) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Cardinals, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

    Analysis: Coach Kyle Shanahan was optimistic about Samuel returning from mid-June foot surgery for Week 1, but the wideout never even made it to the practice field this week, instead remaining focused on his rehab. With no report of a setback, it's possible Samuel could return as soon as Week 2 or 3. In the meantime, the 49ers will rely on some combination of Kendrick Bourne, Trent Taylor, Dante Pettis and Richie James, plus rookie first-round pick Brandon Aiyuk (hamstring, questionable) if he's…read more

    Published: Fri, Sep 11 at 2:01pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Doesn't practice Thursday

    Samuel (foot) was held out of practice Thursday, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: This marks the second day in a row in which Samuel didn't get on the field, hurting his chances of being available Sunday against the Cardinals. Friday's injury report could reveal the 49ers' decision regarding the wide receiver for Week 1, but ultimately they don't need to make the final call until 90 minutes before Sunday's 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff. An absence from Samuel would elevate Kendrick Bourne and Trent Taylor to bigger roles to start the season.

    Published: Thu, Sep 10 at 2:50pm by Rotowire.com
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  • No practice reps Wednesday

    Samuel (foot) didn't practice Wednesday, David Lombardi of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Prior to drills, coach Kyle Shanahan gave Samuel a "small chance" to practice, but ultimately, the second-year wide receiver didn't fit in any reps. Samuel is in the final stages of his recovery from a Jones fracture in his left foot. That said, he likely has to prove he can operate somewhat close to normal to get the all-clear from the 49ers' medical staff. Samuel has two more chances to take the practice field before San Francisco opens its season Sunday against the Cardinals.

    Published: Wed, Sep 9 at 3:30pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not expected to practice Wednesday

    San Francisco head coach Kyle Shanahan said that Samuel (foot) has "a small chance" to practice Wednesday, David Lombardi of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Wednesday's first official injury report of the season will ultimately reveal the extent of Samuel's activity, but Shanahan's comments suggest the wideout is trending toward either limited participation or none at all. Ideally, Samuel would put in a full practice by week's end for fantasy managers to feel good about his chances of suiting up in Sunday's season opener versus the Cardinals.

    Published: Wed, Sep 9 at 12:35pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Week 1 still in play

    Samuel (foot) did not participate in Monday's practice, but a decision regarding his status for Week 1 could be made in the coming days, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: We got some positive news regarding Samuel when the team lifted him from the NFI list this past weekend, and it sounds like Week 1 remains in play. Team officials have flip-flopped on the sophomore's status following offseason foot surgery in June, but they will bring in foot specialist Dr. Robert Anderson to be a part of the decision-making process Tuesday, which should help provide a clearer picture of the wideout's availability.

    Published: Tue, Sep 8 at 1:30am by Rotowire.com
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  • Lifted from NFI list

    The 49ers activated Samuel (foot) from the active/non-football injury list Saturday.

    Analysis: With the move official, Samuel can continue his quest to play Week 1 following more than two months spent in recovery mode due to a Jones fracture in his left foot. Along the way, he was spotted running sprints on the side during an Aug. 26 session and may return to the practice field in the lead-up to the season opener Sept. 13 versus the Cardinals.

    Published: Sat, Sep 5 at 7:03pm by Rotowire.com
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  • May be available Week 1

    Samuel (foot) may be activated from the active/non-football injury list prior to a Week 1 matchup with the Cardinals, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: While taking part in joint workouts with his teammates in Nashville back in June, Samuel suffered what eventually was deemed to be a Jones fracture in his left foot. He underwent surgery and was expected to require 10-to-12 weeks to recover fully, putting his availability for the season opener in jeopardy. Having said that, Samuel was seen sprinting on a side field in late August, and there's potential for the second-year wide receiver to practice during Week 1 prep. As a result, his status…read more

    Published: Sat, Sep 5 at 11:44am by Rotowire.com
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  • Could practice next week

    Coach Kyle Shanahan said Wednesday that he's hopeful Samuel (foot) will be back at practice next week, Mike Garafolo of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Samuel is pushing to get on the field for the 49ers' Sept. 13 season opener against Arizona, and a return to practice next week would represent an important step in the right direction. The versatile wideout suffered a Jones fracture in his left foot back in June and was projected to miss 10-to-12 weeks. Even if Samuel receives medical clearance in time to suit up Week 1, the possibility that he could be on a restricted snap count can't be ignored.

    Published: Wed, Sep 2 at 5:42pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Seen sprinting at practice

    Samuel (foot) was spotted sprinting hard on a side field at Wednesday's practice, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Per Barrows, the wideout had "his most intense workout thus far with change-of-direction exercises." The report also notes that Samuel is pushing to be ready for the 49ers' Sept. 13 season opener against the Cardinals, and the wideout's activity Wednesday offers some concrete evidence that he could meet his goal.

    Published: Wed, Aug 26 at 12:45pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Hope for Week 1 appearance

    Coach Kyle Shanahan hopes Samuel (foot) will be available for a Week 1 matchup with the Cardinals, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Due to the Jones fracture suffered in his left foot during offseason training back in June, Samuel's status for the season opener was precarious following a prognosis of 10-to-12 weeks to recover. Shanahan has wavered in his belief that Samuel will suit up in the aforementioned contest, telling Matt Barrows of The Athletic this past Saturday that he's "not counting on it." Even if Samuel gets the all-clear to play Week 1, there's no guarantee he'll fill his usual role or take on a full…read more

    Published: Thu, Aug 20 at 12:17pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not expected Week 1

    Samuel (foot) is not expected to be available Week 1 according to coach Kyle Shanahan, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: This should surprise only the most optimistic of 49ers fans, as Samuel's surgery and ensuing 10-to-12 week recovery timeline already put him precariously close to the start of the regular season, without factoring in practice time to regain some conditioning and get reps within the offense. Both Shanahan and general manager John Lynch left open just a sliver of hope in their comments with the media about an opening-season debut, but based on other NFL players who have suffered the injury…read more

    Published: Sat, Aug 15 at 1:02pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Moved to NFI list

    The 49ers placed Samuel (foot) on the active/non-football injury list Tuesday, David Lombardi of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: The move comes as no surprise due to the Jones fracture suffered by Samuel, which necessitated surgery June 18. At that time, he was believed to be facing a recovery of 10-to-12 weeks, but GM John Lynch mentioned Tuesday that Samuel may miss regular-season action. "Not going to put an exact timeline on it," Lynch told Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News. "But it's fair to say [Samuel] may miss some games at the start of the year." As a result, Samuel's standing as Week 1 approaches will be…read more

    Published: Tue, Jul 28 at 1:54pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Could miss multiple games

    49ers general manager John Lynch acknowledged Tuesday that Samuel (foot) could miss multiple games, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports. "Not going to put an exact timeline on it," Lynch said. "But it's fair to say [Samuel] may miss some games at the start of the year."

    Analysis: Samuel had surgery June 18 to address a Jones fracture, with early reports putting his recovery/rehab timeline at anywhere from eight to 16 weeks. Matt Barrows of the Athletic has mentioned a narrower window of 10-to-12 weeks, which still would put Samuel's Week 1 availability in serious question. With the second-year pro in danger of missing games, the Niners may need significant September contributions from Brandon Aiyuk and Kendrick Bourne, among others.

    Published: Tue, Jul 28 at 8:26am by Rotowire.com
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  • Looking at 10-12 week timeline

    Samuel (foot) suffered a "classic Jones fracture," which should put his recovery/rehab timeline around 10-to-12 weeks, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Initial reports suggested anything between eight and 16 weeks would be a reasonable expectation. This post-surgery update hints at a narrower window, though it's not something we can project with a high degree of confidence. Given the risk of future complications, the Niners could decide to hold Samuel out of games even if he technically gets medical clearance for Week 1. The 24-year-old wideout had surgery June 18, so he's already two weeks into the timeline estimate.

    Published: Thu, Jul 2 at 7:26am by Rotowire.com
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  • Foot surgery successful

    Samuel underwent a procedure Thursday to address the Jones fracture in his left foot, David Lombardi of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Samuel sustained the injury earlier this week while training with teammates. The 24-year-old has now already undergone the required surgery, which reportedly "went perfect." Reports on the sophomore's recovery timetable have been scattered, with Ian Rapoport of NFL Network suggesting a "return within 12-16 weeks," Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reporting that Samuel could be ready to kick off the regular season, and Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area indicating that the dynamic wideout should retake…read more

    Published: Thu, Jun 18 at 6:17pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Suffers Jones fracture

    The 49ers revealed Thursday that Samuel suffered a Jones fracture in his left foot while training with teammates earlier this week, ESPN's Nick Wagoner reports.

    Analysis: Per the report, Samuel's injury -- which will require surgical repair -- entails "a break between the base and the middle part of the fifth metatarsal of the foot." While Ian Rapoport of NFL Network previously suggested that Samuel "should return within 12-16 weeks," a timetable that would presumably result in missed regular-season action for the wideout, ESPN's Adam Schefter offers the more optimistic take that Samuel is expected to be available for Week 1 action. Supporting that notion is…read more

    Published: Thu, Jun 18 at 1:34pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Suffers broken foot

    Samuel suffered a broken foot Tuesday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Samuel picked up the injury during a throwing session in Nashville. According to Rapoport, Samuel underwent surgery with noted Dr. Robert Anderson and is expected to be healthy in 12-16 weeks. With such a timetable, he won't be available Week 1, but a midseason appearance seems likely.

    Published: Thu, Jun 18 at 12:10pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Breaks records in Super Bowl LIV

    Samuel hauled in five of nine targets for 39 yards and carried the ball three times for 53 yards during Sunday's 31-20 Super Bowl loss to the Chiefs.

    Analysis: Not only did Samuel set a new record for rushing yards by a wide receiver in Super Bowl history, but his 32-yard scamper during the 49ers' opening drive was also the single longest run by a wideout on the big stage. The versatile rookie's strong Super Bowl performance is a small consolation for the 49ers following the loss, but combined with his impressive regular season (961 combined yards and six touchdowns over a full 16-game stretch), there's plenty of reason to be optimistic about the…read more

    Published: Sun, Feb 2 at 8:05pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Totals 89 yards in win

    Samuel caught two passes (three targets) for 46 yards and rushed twice for 43 yards in Sunday's NFC Championship Game victory over Green Bay.

    Analysis: Samuel's two-catch performance led all San Francisco receivers in a game where the team threw the ball just eight times. The dynamic rookie was able to bolster his final stat line with a couple of big end around rushes as he has done at times this season. The 49ers may be forced to actually pass the ball with regularity if the Chiefs' aerial attack is able to put up some early points in the Super Bowl, which could make Samuel a nice value play after modest receiving outputs in the team's first…read more

    Published: Sun, Jan 19 at 9:05pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Huge game to finish regular season

    Samuel corralled all five targets for 102 yards while rushing twice for 33 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 26-21 win over Seattle.

    Analysis: Samuel made some big plays through the air, but he was able to find the end zone when he deployed a nifty spin move on a 30-yard end around in the first quarter. This was a signature game for the second-round rookie, as he flashed his ability as a wideout with his third 100-yard receiving game while also putting his versatility as a rushing threat on display. Samuel finishes his first pro season with 961 combined yards and six touchdowns over a full 16 games, surpassing receivers with more…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 29 at 10:37pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Cleared for SNF in Seattle

    Samuel (shoulder) won't carry an injury designation into Sunday's game at Seattle, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: It's not entirely clear if Samuel is battling the same shoulder injury that bothered him throughout November, but he looks like he'll be good to go for the battle for the NFC West crown, despite being limited to non-contact work in practice throughout the week, per Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News. The rookie caught eight of 11 targets for 112 yards in his previous matchup with the Seahawks in Week 10, benefiting from extra volume after Emmanuel Sanders suffered a rib injury.

    Published: Fri, Dec 27 at 1:41pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Limited again Thursday

    Samuel (shoulder) practiced in a limited fashion Thursday, Jennifer Lee Chan of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: Samuel maintained his listing from Wednesday's estimated injury report as he deals with an undisclosed shoulder issue, which has forced him to wear a blue no-contact jersey on the practice field, per Matt Barrows of The Athletic. Friday's report may give the final word on Samuel's availability for Sunday's contest at Seattle.

    Published: Thu, Dec 26 at 3:14pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Limited in practice

    Samuel was listed as a limited participant on Wednesday's estimated practice report with a shoulder injury, Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle reports.

    Analysis: Samuel was spotted wearing a non-contact jersey during Tuesday's unofficial practice, which effectively represented the team's first session of the week with players having Christmas Day off. The wideout will have two more practices this week to upgrade his activity level, with a final word on his outlook for Sunday's game in Seattle coming at the conclusion of Friday's session.

    Published: Wed, Dec 25 at 1:49pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Dons non-contact jersey

    Samuel (undisclosed) wore a blue no-contact jersey during Tuesday's unofficial practice, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel has dealt with the occasional injury this season, missing one game (Week 7) along the way, so the 49ers may merely be exercising caution with the rookie wide receiver on the doorstep of the playoffs. Wednesday's practice report will provide the first glimpse into his on-field activity for the regular-season finale.

    Published: Tue, Dec 24 at 1:38pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Garners 59 total yards in win

    Samuel secured four of six targets for 31 yards and rushed three times for 28 yards and a touchdown in the 49ers' 34-31 win over the Rams on Saturday.

    Analysis: Samuel's work in the passing game was modest overall, although he checked in second in both receptions and targets for the 49ers on the night. However, the rookie made his biggest impact on the ground, scoring his second rushing touchdown of the season on a 19-yard run early in the second quarter. Samuel's production through the air has been somewhat volatile following a pair of 100-yard efforts in Weeks 10 and 11, but he'll have an opportunity to face off with one of the teams he eclipsed the…read more

    Published: Sat, Dec 21 at 9:22pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Just two touches Sunday

    Samuel had one catch (three targets) for 29 yards and one carry for eight yards in Sunday's 29-22 loss to the Falcons.

    Analysis: George Kittle (13 receptions for 134 yards) ate up nearly all of Jimmy Garoppolo's targets, leaving scraps for the wideout corps. While Samuel recorded just two touches, he was able to break off the biggest gain of any wideout on his 29-yard catch and run. The rookie reached 100 total yards in three of his five previous contests, so look for him to get more involved against a Rams team that can be beat through the air Saturday.

    Published: Mon, Dec 16 at 12:11pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Just two touches Sunday

    Samuel had one catch (three targets) for 29 yards and one carry for eight yards in Sunday's 29-22 loss to the Falcons.

    Analysis: George Kittle (13 receptions for 134 yards) ate up nearly all of Jimmy Garoppolo's targets, leaving scraps for the wideout corps. While Samuel recorded just two touches, he was able to break off the biggest gain of any wideout on his 29-yard catch and run. The rookie reached 100 total yards in three of his five previous contests, so look for him to get more involved against a Rams team that can be beat through the air Saturday.

    Published: Mon, Dec 16 at 12:08pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Uses legs to eclipse century mark

    Samuel had five catches (eight targets) for 76 yards and rushed for 33 yards on two carries in Sunday's 48-46 win over New Orleans.

    Analysis: Samuel's line will understandably be dwarfed by Emmanuel Sanders' monstrous fantasy line -- seven catches, 157 yards, a receiving touchdown and a passing touchdown -- but the former's output is certainly worth paying attention to. The rookie has quietly put up five consecutive double-digit fantasy point performances as he continues to gain Jimmy Garoppolo's trust in a starting role. The Falcons rank in the bottom-third of the league in pass defense, and they have enough firepower on offense to…read more

    Published: Mon, Dec 9 at 11:20am by Rotowire.com
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  • Building TD streak

    Samuel caught two of four targets for 41 yards and a touchdown while adding a 20-yard rush in Sunday's 20-17 loss to Baltimore.

    Analysis: Samuel showed off his ball skills on his touchdown catch, snagging it in between two defenders for a 33-yard score on San Francisco's opening drive. The Ravens were able to contain him after that, but the rookie wide receiver now has touchdowns in consecutive games after finding the end zone only once in his first nine appearances. Maintaining that momentum won't be easy, with a Week 14 trip to New Orleans on tap for the 49ers.

    Published: Sun, Dec 1 at 2:26pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Ready to play

    Samuel (shoulder) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Ravens, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

    Analysis: Samuel had no problem playing through the same injury last week, catching both of his targets for 50 yards and a touchdown in a 37-8 win over the Packers. A matchup with Baltimore's first-rate secondary appears tricky, but the bright side is that it should encourage more passing volume for Jimmy Garoppolo, who attempted just 20 passes in last week's blowout.

    Published: Fri, Nov 29 at 1:52pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Still limited at practice

    Samuel (shoulder) remained limited at practice Thursday, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: As did Emmanuel Sanders (ribs), but Maiocco suggests that both receivers "appear to be on pace" to play Sunday against the Ravens. We'll circle back on their statuses Friday to see if either (or both) head into the weekend listed as questionable, or minus a Week 13 injury designation.

    Published: Thu, Nov 28 at 2:40pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Limited in practice

    Samuel (shoulder) was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Samuel practiced in a limited capacity twice leading up to the Week 12 win over the Packers, playing through his shoulder injury en route to finishing with two catches for 50 yards and a touchdown. The rookie second-round pick has turned in an impressive three-game stretch, notching 18 catches for 296 yards and a touchdown over that span. He has a tough matchup on deck this week, taking on a Ravens squad that boasts a formidable secondary.

    Published: Wed, Nov 27 at 1:04pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Scores with limited touches

    Samuel (shoulder) caught both of his targets for 50 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 37-8 win over Green Bay.

    Analysis: Samuel was able to suit up and start alongside Emmanuel Sanders (ribs), but it was the former banged-up wideout who was able to make the bigger fantasy impact. The true receiving star of the night was tight end George Kittle (ankle), who put up a monstrous stat line while returning from an injury of his own. So long as Kittle is on the field, the rest of the receiving corps will play second fiddle to the tight end in terms of attention from Jimmy Garoppolo. Samuel has certainly put himself into…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 24 at 11:04pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Suiting up Sunday

    Samuel (shoulder) is listed as active Sunday versus the Packers.

    Analysis: Samuel didn't take contact during his two limited practices this week, but his shoulder injury isn't severe enough to keep him sidelined from actual games. With Emmanuel Sanders (ribs) available as well, the 49ers have the usual suspects operating at wide receiver, which could be a fruitful endeavor with George Kittle (knee/ankle) back in action but potentially limited. In the two contests that Kittle missed, Samuel erupted for 100 yards both times en route to a combined line of 16-246-0 on 21…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 24 at 4:01pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Expected to suit up

    Samuel (shoulder) is expected to play Sunday night against the Packers, Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle reports.

    Analysis: Samuel returned to last week's 36-26 win over the Cardinals after he suffered the shoulder injury, finishing with eight catches for 134 yards on 78 percent of the offensive snaps. He was held out of practice Wednesday before returning as a limited participant Thursday and Friday, ultimately listed as questionable on the final injury report. Coach Kyle Shanahan said he views Samuel, Emmanuel Sanders (ribs) and George Kittle (knee/ankle) as game-time decisions, but there seems to be a consensus…read more

    Published: Fri, Nov 22 at 3:35pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Questionable to face Packers

    Samuel (shoulder) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Packers, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: All eyes will be on the 49ers' inactive list Sunday evening, with Samuel, Emmanuel Sanders (ribs) and George Kittle (knee/ankle) considered game-time decisions ahead of the 8:20 p.m. ET kickoff. It's a good sign for the Niners that all three players were able to practice in a limited capacity Thursday and Friday, potentially setting up a situation where Jimmy Garoppolo has all his key pass catchers available. However, coach Kyle Shanahan hasn't been willing to provide much insight, so it's best…read more

    Published: Fri, Nov 22 at 1:53pm by Rotowire.com
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  • LP on Thursday's injury report

    Samuel (shoulder) was a limited practice participant Thursday, Jennifer Lee Chan of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: After picking up a shoulder injury this past Sunday versus the Cardinals, Samuel was a DNP on Wednesday before sporting a blue non-contact jersey Thursday, according to Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News. Samuel has kept the door open for an appearance Sunday against the Packers but will help his cause by increasing his activity level by week's end.

    Published: Thu, Nov 21 at 3:15pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Sidelined Wednesday

    Samuel (shoulder) won't practice Wednesday, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

    Analysis: On the heels of back-to-back 100-yard receiving performances, Samuel has become a go-to option for quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo. It hasn't hurt that George Kittle (knee/ankle) has been sidelined during that stretch, while Emmanuel Sanders played through a rib cartilage injury this past Sunday against the Cardinals. Samuel joined that duo as a non-participant Wednesday, and ensuing practice sessions should help to parse out the pass-catching pecking order.

    Published: Wed, Nov 20 at 1:04pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Tending to shoulder injury

    Samuel emerged from Sunday's 36-26 win versus the Cardinals with a shoulder injury, Jennifer Lee Chan of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: Samuel missed some time in the fourth quarter of Sunday's game but still finished as the 49ers' leading wide receiver in terms of offensive snap share (79 percent), catches (eight), targets (10) and receiving yards (134). With an injury in tow, his status will be one to watch as the week rolls along, but there doesn't seem to be much worry about his availability for a Week 12 showdown with the Packers.

    Published: Mon, Nov 18 at 4:21pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Tops century mark again in win

    Samuel caught eight of 10 targets for 134 yards in Sunday's 36-26 win over the Cardinals.

    Analysis: The Niners fell into a 16-0 hole in the second quarter, forcing Kyle Shanahan to abandon his running game, and with George Kittle (knee) inactive and Emmanuel Sanders ineffective due to his rib injury, it was Samuel who emerged as Jimmy Garoppolo's favorite downfield option. The rookie receiver has now hauled in 16 of 21 targets for 246 yards over the last two games, and while he hasn't caught a TD pass since Week 2, Samuel is putting together an impressive second-half breakout. He may be…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 17 at 6:06pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Back in Sunday's game

    Samuel (shoulder) returned to Sunday's game against the Cardinals, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

    Analysis: Samuel didn't miss much time, and the rookie second-rounder immediately made his return known by hauling in a 23-yard pass.

    Published: Sun, Nov 17 at 4:02pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Picks up shoulder injury

    Samuel sustained a shoulder injury during Sunday's game versus the Cardinals.

    Analysis: Prior to his fourth-quarter departure, Samuel hauled in four of six targets for a team-high (at the time) 82 yards. Deemed questionable to return, his status will be one to watch throughout the week if he's unable to get back on the field.

    Published: Sun, Nov 17 at 3:39pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Tops century mark in loss

    Samuel caught eight of 11 targets for 112 yards in Monday night's 27-24 overtime loss to the Seahawks.

    Analysis: Samuel's career-best outing saw him pick up the slack after fellow wideout Emmanuel Sanders was forced to exit due to a rib injury. With Pro Bowl tight end George Kittle (knee/ankle) sidelined as well, Samuel led San Francisco in all major receiving categories, adding a game-long gain of 30 yards for good measure. The rookie second-rounder would figure to remain a focal point should Sanders and Kittle remain out in Week 11 versus the Cardinals, but their availability will need to be tracked in…read more

    Published: Mon, Nov 11 at 9:23pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Posts 40 yards on TNF

    Samuel had four catches (seven targets) for 40 yards in Thursday's 28-25 win over Arizona.

    Analysis: Marquise Goodwin (coach's decision) was a surprising healthy scratch following the acquisition of Emmanuel Sanders at the NFL trade deadline. It was Samuel who entered the starting lineup in Goodwin's place, leapfrogging Dante Pettis on the depth chart as well. Samuel still finished third in terms of targets and receiving yards, a trend that could repeat itself on a weekly basis with established options like Sanders and George Kittle getting the first looks from Jimmy Garoppolo. The promotion…read more

    Published: Fri, Nov 1 at 12:02pm by Rotowire.com
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Rankings

  • Bye Week12
  • Rank24
  • % Rostered97.3
  • % Change-0.9
  • WK 15 Pts7.30
  • WK 16 Proj. Pts11.43

Samuel Fantasy News