Just three hours after the San Francisco 49ers selected wide receiver De’Zhaun Stribling in the second round of the NFL Draft 2026, former Super Bowl MVP wide receiver Deebo Samuel, now with the Kansas City Chiefs, posted a heartfelt statement expressing his deep disappointment in the team’s decision.

Samuel, who had been with the 49ers since 2021 and helped them secure a Super Bowl victory, had openly expressed his willingness to take a pay cut in order to stay with the team.

However, despite his loyalty and offer to reduce his salary, the 49ers decided to part ways with him, allowing him to leave as a free agent rather than working out a new deal.

In an emotional post on social media, Samuel wrote: “Even if they offer me everything, even if they beg for my forgiveness, I won’t come back.

I’ve given everything to this team, but now I realize I’m no longer a part of it. I won’t return, no matter what happens.”

Samuel’s announcement has stunned 49ers fans, many of whom viewed him as an integral part of the team’s Super Bowl-winning offense.

Samuel was one of the most dynamic and powerful wide receivers in the league, earning the Super Bowl MVP for his pivotal role in the team’s victory.

His decision to take a pay cut reflected his loyalty and dedication to the team, making the 49ers’ decision even more painful for him.

While De’Zhaun Stribling is an exciting young talent, the loss of Samuel — a player who had already proven his worth at the highest level — is hard for fans to digest. Compared to Stribling, Samuel has exceptional achievements, with over 1,200 receiving yards in the 2025 season, ranking in the top 5 in the NFL for receptions and being one of the most valuable offensive players for the 49ers.

Samuel not only contributed in regular games but also showcased his impressive performance in the playoffs, playing a crucial role in the Super Bowl victory.

Samuel’s leadership, both on and off the field, was unmatched, and his ability to perform under pressure made him one of the most valuable players for the team.

While Stribling is considered a promising talent, he hasn’t yet proven himself at the same level that Samuel has over the years.

Despite De’Zhaun Stribling being a promising young talent, losing a veteran like Samuel, who has already shown his value at the highest level, is a major challenge for the team.

Fans and analysts are left wondering whether the team can continue to thrive without the leadership of a legend like Samuel.

Though Samuel may be hurt by this decision, his departure marks a new chapter in his career, and his legacy in San Francisco remains strong.

While a return to the 49ers seems unlikely, his place in the hearts of fans is secure.

As Samuel moves on to new challenges with the Chiefs, the 49ers will look to the future with Stribling, hoping he can fill the void left by a player who defined an era for San Francisco.

As the team moves forward, they will always carry the memory of Samuel’s leadership, sacrifice, and loyalty to the team.