As the turmoil surrounding the San Francisco 49ers and star wideout Brandon Aiyuk over a new contract continues, there appears to be no end in sight. However, if the two sides agree to a deal, former general manager and NFL insider Michael Lombardi revealed the grim reality facing the team’s other standout pass-catcher, Deebo Samuel.
“Once they do this deal with him, Deebo’s gone next year,” Lombardi said on “The GM Shuffle” podcast. “They’re not carrying two receivers making in the $20 million’s with Brock Purdy’s extension going to be $60 million a year coming due.”
It’s a double-edged sword for the 49ers because, like Aiyuk, 2024 could be Samuel’s final year in San Francisco, with a potential out available in his contract after the season.
But Lombardi believes they’ll use the leverage available. While they aren’t likely to ink both to lucrative deals, they can give Aiyuk an ultimatum — he can accept the deal offered, or they’ll roll with Samuel long-term instead.
That strategy may lead to a parting of ways, but it also presents the 49ers with the best chance at saving money for Purdy, whose worth Lombardi may have undersold. According to a recent article by ESPN’s Bill Barnwell, the 49ers signal-caller could command as much as $65M per season.
Lombardi wasn’t shy about voicing his thoughts on the Aiyuk situation, saying he was “so tired of talking about” the 49ers receiver.
“We treat this guy like he’s f—— Randy Moss,” Lombardi said. “I mean, he had a good year, he’s a good player.”
Likewise, Lombardi believes Aiyuk’s holdout is hurting the 49ers. He didn’t give an opinion on whether or not the franchise should give in but did suggest that they turn their attention to where it’s needed—preparing for the 2024 season.
“More than anything, you’ve got to get everybody’s focus back on football,” Lombardi said. “Like, I’m sure Kyle Shanahan has had it up to his head in getting asked what’s the progress on Brandon Aiyuk.”
