Deebo Samuel joins 49ers practice in good condition as team battles injuries
Wide receiver Deebo Samuel participated in his first San Francisco 49ers practice, appearing fit, while the squad copes with multiple injuries, especially on the defensive line.
San Francisco 49ers rookie wideout Deebo Samuel arrived on Friday and completed a full practice on Saturday, showing what team officials described as "really good shape." Quarterback Brock Purdy targeted Samuel three times, including a deep crossing route that drew applause from fans, and Samuel also took a handoff early in the session. General manager John Lynch said the team plans to use Samuel in multiple roles, adding, "Deebo — you’re going to see him in the return game, you’re going to see him some at receiver, you’re gonna see him some at running back. We’re really excited to have Deebo back."
Lynch also addressed the season-ending injury to rookie receiver Ricky Pearsall, noting that Pearsall’s knee surgery will keep him out for six to twelve months. The 49ers’ defensive line has been hit hard by injuries, leaving only three fully healthy defensive ends after a practice that saw rookie Mikail Kamara carted off with a knee issue and other ends dealing with knee, adductor and elbow problems. With star edge rusher Nick Bosa limited to individual drills, the team has had to shift players such as defensive tackle Kevin Givens to the edge.
Defensive coordinator Raheem Morris, who previously coached against Samuel when he was with the Los Angeles Rams, expressed optimism about the former opponent joining the 49ers, saying, "It’s nice to be on the same side. He’s the ultimate piece that you can move around the board."
The offense showed signs of rust, with Purdy completing eight of 16 passes in drills and a few drops recorded by receivers. The team also noted that rookie receiver De’Zhaun Stribling missed practice due to hamstring tightness, though it was not classified as a strain. Head coach Kyle Shanahan spent nearly the entire practice on the field, his longest stint since recovering from a July car crash and concussion, and addressed the squad for the first time this summer.
Samuel’s jersey number also changed after a transaction that moved Jacob Cowing to the No. 19 shirt, allowing Samuel to retain his preferred number.