The San Francisco 49ers have begun OTAs without their best player as star wideout, Deebo Samuel, will not be attending the team’s latest stage of their offseason program, per reports.
Samuel requested a trade back in April before the NFL Draft and carries a cap hit of just under $5 million.
There have been several reports as to why the First-Team All-Pro wants out — mostly that Samuel has an issue with his usage and not his overall contract.
Samuel had over 130 total touches as both a receiver and rusher this past season.
Given the history of players, and especially running-backs, who have gotten hurt after a heavy workload, Samuel does not want to be used in the “dual-threat” role anymore.
Samuel is the latest piece of what has been a tumultuous offseason in the NFL. Quarterbacks like Russell Wilson, Matt Ryan, and Carson Wentz have been traded to other teams, while other wide receivers have requested trades in search of more lucrative contracts.
Tyreek Hill was traded to the Miami Dolphins, AJ Brown was shipped to the Philadelphia Eagles, and even Devante Adams was sent to the Las Vegas Vegas Raiders.
In Samuel’s case, it doesn’t look like a hefty contract extension will make him happy. With OTAs starting, it appears as though he has given his latest warning to the San Francisco 49ers.
Time will tell if the 49ers will honor his trade request, or if Deebo will be forced to continue to sit out.
