Brock Purdy didn't mince words when talking about Deebo Samuel's departure from the San Francisco 49ers. After six years with the NFC West franchise, the wide receiver was shipped to D.C., where he joined Jayden Daniels and Terry McLaurin on the Washington Commanders.
Samuel was traded for a 2025 fifth-round draft pick and the Commanders took on his $17.55 million salary for the upcoming season. The 29-year-old wideout played 81 games with San Francisco, recording 334 receptions for 4,792 yards and 22 touchdowns.
Following three consecutive deep playoff runs (NFC championship games in 2021 and 2022 and a Super Bowl appearance in 2023), the Niners had a down year in 2024, which led to numerous roster changes this offseason. Samuel's departure might have been the most famous, but it wasn't the only.
Wide receiver Demarcus Robinson signed a two-year deal, tight end Luke Farrell inked a three-year contract and tight end George Kittle extended his tenure with the team for four more years.
With Brandon Aiyuk returning from an injury and Ricky Pearsall playing his sophomore year, the 49ers have enough weapons to hurt opposing defenses.
Deebo Samuel
Deebo SamuWashington Commanders' wide receiver Deebo Samuelel
Darren Yamashita/Imagn Images
As good as the receiving corps looks, however, Purdy can't help but miss Samuel, one of his best partners on and off the field. During his Tuesday appearance on "Bussin' With The Boys," the former "Mr. Irrelevant" shared his thoughts on Samuel's exit from the team.
“I mean, it sucks, dude," Purdy said. "He's my boy, you know, I love Debo. Day one, he's always had my back and believed in me when I got in. I didn't really know, you know, how the guys were going to take it. When I did get thrown in, Jimmy went down, I was like the last quarterback and Deebo, man, was nothing but just great to me, dude. Building me up and um just giving me confidence, man.
"In games, you know, we fed off each other's energy and building each other up. Like, it was awesome. And, over the last couple years, same thing. So, when you, I mean, we created just a great relationship. He's my brother. But, um you again, that's just how this business goes. And um I hope he goes to Washington and kills it and and does great."
Purdy and Samuel have remained close even after the latter's trade. Their relationship transcended the gridiron and Samuel confirmed it right after Purdy extended his time with the 49ers. He shared an Instagram story congratulating Purdy on his new deal back in May.
The 49ers and Commanders aren't scheduled to clash this season, meaning the only way Samuel and Purdy face off against one another would be in a potential NFC Championship matchup.