RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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See the full story · 1 sourcesOne of the best available free agent wide receivers is no longer an option for the Indianapolis Colts .
According to Ian Rapoport, Deebo Samuel is returning to San Francisco on a one-year deal worth up to $7 million.
Samuel was a second-round pick by the 49ers in the 2019 NFL draft. In 2021, he was named a first-team All-Pro and a Pro Bowler.
Samuel possesses a versatile skill set, doing a bit of everything for an offense early in his career, and he's been particularly good at picking up YAC. This past year in Washington, however, his role as a ball carrier was reduced.
He finished the 2025 season catching 72 of 99 targets for 727 yards with five touchdowns.
With the WR3 role up for grabs and much of the depth chart pecking order still needing to be established, Samuel's track record of production could have provided the Colts ' receiver room with a boost.
That said, while Samuel has experience playing both inside and out during his career, the majority of his snaps last season came from the slot, where, of course, the Colts already have Josh Downs. So with the Colts needing more of an outside presence, the fit may not have been perfect.
GM Chris Ballard did mention that the Colts would still "consider" making a free agent addition at this position.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: A top free agent wide receiver no longer an option for Colts
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