In a season filled with highs and heartbreaking lows, the San Francisco 49ers have left fans buzzing with optimism for the future. After a campaign that saw them secure 13 wins despite being labeled a “rebuild year,” the team’s star tight end, George Kittle, has ignited speculation about a potential blockbuster reunion that could supercharge their offense. During a recent interview, Kittle teased the possibility of bringing back former 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel, sending shockwaves through the NFL community.
A Season of What-Ifs for the 49ers
The 2025 NFL season was a rollercoaster for San Francisco. For much of the year, the 49ers were hailed as the NFC’s top contender, boasting a potent mix of defensive prowess and offensive firepower. However, a stunning Week 17 defeat to the Seattle Seahawks derailed their path to the NFC West title and the coveted No. 1 seed. The Seahawks, who went on to claim the Super Bowl, proved to be the 49ers’ nemesis once more in the playoffs, dismantling them 41-6 in the NFC Divisional Round.
That playoff exit was particularly bitter, as the 49ers were ravaged by injuries. Key players like edge-rusher Nick Bosa, linebacker Fred Warner, wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, and Kittle himself were sidelined, leaving fans to ponder what might have been with a full-strength roster. Despite the setbacks, the team’s 13-4 regular-season record and a Wild Card Round victory highlighted their resilience and depth.
Kittle’s Cryptic Tease: A Deebo Samuel Comeback?
In an exclusive interview with Sports Illustrated, Kittle didn’t hold back when addressing the faithful Niner Nation. “My one message for Niners fans? Hey, if a rebuild year got us 13 wins and a win in the wild card round of the playoffs, that’s pretty good. It’s only going to get a little better from that,” Kittle said. “And all the boys are coming back again, and who knows, we might add some past friends. I don’t know, I hung out with Deebo last night — that was fun. I love Deebo, you kidding me.”
When pressed directly on whether he’d like to see Samuel return to the Bay Area, Kittle kept it simple but telling: “I love Deebo, that’s all I’m going to say.” The comments have fueled rampant speculation, especially given Samuel’s history with the franchise and his impending free agency.
Samuel, now 30, was a cornerstone of the 49ers’ offense during his six-year stint from 2019 to 2024. Known for his versatility as a receiver and rusher, he amassed 334 receptions for 4,792 yards and 22 touchdowns through the air, while adding 1,143 rushing yards and 20 scores on the ground. His unique skill set made him a nightmare for defenses, earning him Pro Bowl nods and a reputation as one of the league’s most dynamic playmakers.
Last offseason, the 49ers traded Samuel to the Washington Commanders for a fifth-round pick, a move that raised eyebrows amid salary cap constraints and roster retooling. In Washington, Samuel remained productive, hauling in 72 catches for 727 yards and five touchdowns in 2025. Now, as he enters free agency, a return to San Francisco could be on the table—especially with Kittle’s endorsement.
Roster Overhaul on the Horizon
The 49ers enter the 2026 offseason with significant decisions looming. With 21 pending free agents, including key contributors like wide receivers Jauan Jennings and Kendrick Bourne, offensive tackle Spencer Burford, guard Ben Bartch, defensive end Yetur Gross-Matos, and kicker Eddy Pineiro, general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan have their work cut out.
The wide receiver room is particularly precarious. Brandon Aiyuk, an All-Pro talent, missed the entire 2025 season recovering from ACL and MCL tears sustained the previous year. The team voided $24.935 million in guaranteed money from his contract, sparking rumors of a potential split. Jennings, meanwhile, is due for a pay raise after stepping up in Aiyuk’s absence.
Financially, the 49ers are in a strong position with $42.9 million in cap space. They can create even more room by restructuring deals for stars like Nick Bosa ($17.1 million in savings) and Trent Williams ($15.75 million). This flexibility could allow them to pursue high-profile free agents like Samuel, whose familiarity with Shanahan’s system would make for a seamless integration.
What a Samuel Reunion Could Mean
Bringing back Deebo Samuel wouldn’t just be a nostalgic move—it could transform the 49ers’ offense. Paired with a healthy Aiyuk (if he stays), Jennings, and emerging talents, Samuel’s dual-threat ability would give quarterback Brock Purdy even more weapons. On defense, the return of Bosa and Warner should restore the unit to elite status.
Kittle’s hints suggest the band might be getting back together, and with the NFC landscape wide open, the 49ers could reclaim their spot as contenders. As free agency kicks off in March, all eyes will be on San Francisco to see if this bombshell tease turns into reality.
For now, Kittle’s words have given fans plenty to dream about. As he put it, “It’s only going to get a little better.” If Samuel returns, it might get a whole lot better.
