Deebo Samuel’s replacement is not on the roster

When the San Francisco 49ers dealt Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders for a fifth-round pick, it marked the end of an era for a special player with a unique skill set. As the team turns the page into 2025, the 49ers are tasked with replacing Samuel either in the draft or free agency. One thing is sure - Deebo’s replacement is not on the roster.

Ricky Pearsall flashed down the stretch but won’t fill Samuel’s spot as a one-for-one replacement. Pearsall will be asked to move all over the field as a natural separator and win one-on-one matchups. Jauan Jennings occupied the “X” receiver spot once Brandon Aiyuk went down but lacks the speed to separate despite being an excellent contested…