Lynch optimistic, 'trying really hard' to find Deebo resolution originally appeared on NBC Sports Bayarea
The 49ers have remained coy, yet confident that Deebo Samuel will be on the team for the upcoming 2022 season.
After the superstar wide receiver reportedly requested a trade out of San Francisco, plenty of speculation swirled regarding the exact reason for his rumored displeasure. 49ers general manager John Lynch, though, is confident the team will eventually be able to resolve the issue.
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Lynch joined KNBR 680's "Tolbert & Copes" on Monday and discussed where the team stands in talks with Samuel.
"We're trying really hard with Deebo to work through whatever the issues might be," Lynch said. "I always have really believed that there is a sacredness to those conversations and that they remain private, especially with things like this. I think it's in everyone's best interest we don't get into that. I don't think [the obstacles] are insurmountable. I think we can find a way to resolution, and we're hopeful for that because we know what he's been to this organization. Thirty-sixth pick in 2019, and he's been so good on and off the field. Obviously, a tremendous player. ... He makes us better. I think we make him better. And we're hopeful that we get everything right and that we're rolling forward."
Currently without a resolution and a new contract, can the 49ers expect to have Samuel on the field for the upcoming season?
"It's a yes for me, and that's our job," Lynch added. "He's too good of a player. We've got too good of a thing going, and we want to keep that going. That's where I'll leave that."
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With Samuel under contract for the 2022 season and without a lucrative extension that affords him the opportunity to lose money by sitting out games, the 49ers hold quite a bit of leverage in this situation.
The longer he remains on the roster the less likely a trade becomes. Lynch and Co. will do everything in their power to resolve any issues that are straining a relationship with one of the most important players on the team.
