NFL Trade Rumors: One Team Emerges As Deebo Samuel’s Most Likely Destination

Where is Deebo Samuel headed? With the NFL Draft looming on Thursday, it's among the most pressing questions around the league.

According to reports this week, one team appears to have an edge in landing one of the NFL's most dynamic wide receivers.

The New York Jets, owners of five picks in the first 100 including two early first-rounders, appear to be the San Francisco 49ers’ most likely trade partner for Samuel, ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported.

Samuel, 26, reportedly told the 49ers' front office last week that he wanted to be traded. Neither Samuel nor 49ers General Manager John Lynch have disclosed details about their conversations. Lynch had expressed reluctance to deal Samuel, who is coming off a Pro Bowl season.

New York seems willing to make San Francisco a compelling offer to pair a top wide receiver with second-year quarterback Zach Wilson. The Jets own the No. 4 and No. 10 picks in the first round of Thursday’s draft and New York is reportedly willing to part with its second first-rounder in exchange for Samuel.

The Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions reportedly also have interest in Samuel.

The Jets have sought a big-play wide receiver in the offseason after a disappointing 4-13 season. New York tried to trade for Tyreek Hill, who ultimately was sent to the Miami Dolphins. The Jets reportedly were willing to send the Kansas City Chiefs the No. 35, 38 and 69 draft picks in exchange for Hill and the No. 103 pick.

Samuel posted a career-high 77 receptions for 1,405 yards and six touchdowns in the 2021 season. Samuel led the league with 18.2 yards per reception.

New York has lacked a top receiving threat, which was expected to be addressed in the draft. Elijah Moore led the Jets with 538 receiving yards in 2021.

Samuel is considered a versatile threat, with 59 rushing attempts for 365 yards and eight touchdowns. He might not be utilized as a rusher in New York, given that he reportedly wants out of San Francisco in part because of his role in the 49ers’ offense.

The 49ers have not committed to trading Samuel, despite his request. Samuel has one year left on his rookie contract and will have a base salary of nearly $4 million in 2022, according to Spotrac. If he remains in San Francisco, the 49ers would likely make him one of the league's highest-paid receivers.

San Francisco doesn’t have a first-round pick. The 49ers won’t be on the clock until the No. 61 overall selection.