- NFL. How did Porter Ellett overcome losing his arm to coach in the NFL?
- NFL. L'Jarius Sneed ready to return to the Chiefs after Patrick Mahomes' effort to keep him
In a season where expectations remain sky-high for the San Francisco 49ers, one of their most electrifying players, Deebo Samuel, has struggled to recapture his usual spark. The 49ers, sitting at an unsteady 5-5, are in the thick of the NFC West playoff race, but they've yet to show the dominance that once made them a powerhouse. Samuel, known for his dual-threat ability, has found himself underwhelming statistically, with just 33 receptions for 490 yards and a single touchdown through 10 games.
The team's playoff hopes hinge on navigating a tough schedule, starting with a crucial matchup against the Green Bay Packers this Sunday. As the 49ers aim to right the ship, criticism has started to swirl, including from a name that carries significant weight in the franchise's history: Terrell Owens.
The Hall of Famer, who spent eight stellar seasons with the 49ers, didn't hold back this week while assessing Samuel's performance. Speaking candidly during an interview, Owens expressed disappointment, suggesting Samuel hasn't been playing up to the level expected of him. "Deebo is not really playing up to Deebo's standards," Owens said, first reported by Sports Illustrated. "It seems like he's more focused on his pregame attire than the game."
Owens tempered his critique with humor, clarifying, "I'm just being tongue-in-cheek with that," but his message was clear. He believes Samuel needs to refocus and elevate his game if the 49ers hope to contend in the highly competitive NFC.
Deebo Samuel's slump: Can he bounce back when the 49ers need him most?
Samuel's drop in production has been noticeable, especially after a standout game on October 10 against the Seattle Seahawks, where he recorded three receptions for 102 yards and a touchdown. Since then, his numbers have dipped significantly, including a four-catch, 22-yard performance in last Sunday's rematch against Seattle-a game the 49ers lost in heartbreaking fashion.
For a team vying for postseason glory, every misstep counts, and Owens' comments reflect growing frustration with the 49ers' inconsistency. The team currently trails the Arizona Cardinals by just one game in the NFC West standings, meaning a strong finish could still secure their playoff berth.
Samuel's ability to bounce back could prove critical in that pursuit. Known for his explosiveness and versatility, he has the potential to be a game-changer. But as Owens pointed out, potential means little without execution.
The 49ers will get another chance to prove themselves this weekend at Levi's Stadium. Kickoff against the Packers is scheduled for 4:25 p.m. ET, and all eyes will be on Samuel to see if he can respond-not just to the pressure of the playoff race but to the pointed words of one of the franchise's legends.