Deebo Samuel still waits for his next team, but the latest NFL trade rumors suggest his market may finally be heating up. The Los Angeles Chargers and Chicago Bears have both emerged as possible landing spots after Samuel quietly rebuilt some value during his 2025 season with the Washington Commanders.
Samuel's declining buzz and lingering value
For a player who once terrified defenses every Sunday, the buzz around Samuel slowed down fast over the last two years. Yet teams around the league still see something useful in his game. He may not look exactly like the explosive star from San Francisco anymore, but he remains one of the few receivers who can line up almost anywhere and change an offense's rhythm.
NFL Trade Rumors: Chargers and Bears reportedly exploring a possible Deebo Samuel fit
Deebo Samuel entered 2025 carrying plenty of doubts after his split from the San Francisco 49ers. Questions around his speed, durability, and long-term value followed him into Washington. Instead of disappearing, though, he responded with a respectable season on a struggling offense.
The veteran wide receiver finished with 72 receptions, 727 receiving yards, and five touchdowns across 16 games. Those numbers become more impressive when considering rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels missed time through injury during the season. Now, analysts believe Samuel could help a contender again.
In an article published by Bleacher Report writer Paul Kasabian, both the Los Angeles Chargers and Chicago Bears were linked to the former All-Pro. Kasabian especially highlighted Samuel's previous success under the current Chargers offensive coordinator, Mike McDaniel, when both worked together in San Francisco.
"Deebo Samuel's best season was with the 2021 San Francisco 49ers, whose offense was led by coordinator Mike McDaniel," Kasabian wrote in his Bleacher Report column. "McDaniel is now the Los Angeles Chargers offensive coordinator and could have an idea or two on how to use him."
Chargers connection and fit
The LA Chargers connection feels natural. Justin Herbert still needs another dependable playmaker outside of Ladd McConkey, especially after Quentin Johnston struggled to develop into a true No. 1 option. Samuel could immediately help Los Angeles with his run-after-catch ability and physical style. Even if his huge 2021 numbers never return, the Chargers do not need him to carry the offense alone.
Bears fit and offensive creativity
The Chicago Bears fit creates more debate. Caleb Williams already has several young weapons, including Rome Odunze, Luther Burden, and tight end Colston Loveland. Still, head coach Ben Johnson values offensive creativity, and Samuel gives coordinators the flexibility few receivers provide.
That versatility matters. Samuel can still line up in the slot, take handoffs, handle screens, and create mismatches against smaller defenders. For playoff teams searching for another offensive spark, that skill set still holds value.
Right now, no move appears imminent. But after weeks of silence, Deebo Samuel once again looks connected to teams with serious postseason expectations.
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