General manager John Lynch on Wednesday said the team planned to release veteran defensive tackle Javon Hargrave with that designation. He did not say the same for Samuel, who is a popular trade candidate in pre-offseason speculation.

Deebo Samuel will not have to search for a new team in the offseason after all. Despite rumors of the San Francisco 49ers potentially moving the star receiver, general manager John Lynch confirmed that the 28-year-old would return to the team in 2025.

San Francisco 49ers GM John Lynch dismissed trade rumors involving wide receiver Deebo Samuel, confirming the team aims to retain its key players. Samuel, under contract through 2025, shared the emotional toll of twice losing the Super Bowl to the Kansas City Chiefs.