SANTA CLARA, Calif. – After their hard-fought victory against the Packers, the 49ers have another concern on their hands heading into the NFC Championship Game. The availability of wide receiver Deebo Samuel is in question following a shoulder injury he sustained during the game.
During the first half, Samuel was forced to leave the game and did not return, leaving the 49ers with uncertainty for the upcoming week. Head coach Kyle Shanahan addressed this concern, stating, “I don’t know yet. He tried to come back, couldn’t do it. I know he did something similar versus Cleveland, so we’ll see tomorrow.”
Earlier this season, Samuel missed two games due to a hairline fracture in his shoulder, which occurred during the game against Cleveland. Unfortunately for the 49ers, they lost both games in Samuel’s absence. Therefore, Shanahan and the team are hoping that history doesn’t repeat itself and that the nature of Samuel’s current injury doesn’t lead to further setbacks.
If Samuel is unable to play in the NFC Championship Game, it would be a significant blow for the 49ers’ offense. The wide receiver has been a vital asset to the team throughout the season, showcasing his versatility and playmaking abilities. In fact, Samuel’s contributions have been so impactful that he has become the team’s second-leading receiver behind tight end George Kittle. Losing Samuel would undoubtedly disrupt the offensive balance that the 49ers have worked hard to establish.
Furthermore, Samuel’s absence would require other wide receivers to step up and fill the void. Players like Emmanuel Sanders and Kendrick Bourne would need to elevate their performances to compensate for Samuel’s potential absence. The 49ers’ coaching staff will likely strategize and adjust their game plan accordingly to maximize the effectiveness of their receiving corps, with or without Samuel on the field.
As the week progresses and more information becomes available, the 49ers and their fans will anxiously await updates on Samuel’s injury status. The outcome of his condition will undoubtedly have an impact on the team’s game plan and confidence heading into the NFC Championship Game. For now, all they can do is monitor Samuel’s progress and hope for a positive outcome that allows him to contribute to their quest for a Super Bowl berth.