The San Francisco 49ers find themselves at a crossroads in their season, sitting at 5-5 as they head into a crucial Week 12 matchup.
Amid mounting pressure and criticism, former 49ers great Terrell Owens has issued a pointed challenge to star wide receiver Deebo Samuel, urging him to rise to the occasion and deliver the performances expected of him.
Owens, known for his fiery personality and Hall of Fame career, didn’t mince words when assessing Samuel’s contributions this season. “Deebo is not really playing up to Deebo’s standards,” Owens stated. He went on to imply that Samuel’s focus might be misplaced, adding, “It seems like he’s more focused on his pregame attire than he is actually the game. So again, if we can shift that focus, maybe that can energize and create some more production from an offensive standpoint.”
Samuel’s Subpar Season
By his own lofty standards, Samuel’s 2024 season has been underwhelming. Through 10 games, he has managed just 490 receiving yards, one touchdown, and 33 receptions. For a player who was once the centerpiece of the 49ers’ offense, these numbers represent a sharp decline. Samuel has surpassed 100 receiving yards in only two games this season and was held to a mere 22 yards on four receptions in last week’s loss to the Seahawks.
Samuel’s struggles are reflective of a broader issue within the 49ers’ offense, which has lacked the explosiveness and consistency needed to complement its strong defense. With the team now fighting to stay in playoff contention, the pressure on Samuel to step up has never been greater.
Advertisement
We’re on Social Media
Follow us on X
See more football highlights
A Message from One Star to Another
Owens, who spent eight seasons with the 49ers and established himself as one of the most dynamic wide receivers in NFL history, knows what it takes to perform at an elite level. His critique of Samuel is as much a call to action as it is an observation. Owens believes that refocusing on the game and regaining the mentality that made Samuel a star can unlock the production the 49ers desperately need.
Brock Purdy’s Role in the Offense
Owens also weighed in on the performance of quarterback Brock Purdy, who has faced criticism for running the ball more frequently in recent weeks. Some have questioned whether this shift reflects a lack of confidence in the passing game. Owens, however, defended Purdy’s decisions, attributing them to situational challenges rather than personal choice.
“You’re only going to go and do things that you’re comfortable with,” Owens explained. “If the line, the protection is breaking down, if receivers aren’t getting open… he either has to get out of the pocket and try to make plays with his feet. But if they are open, of course, he’s going to throw the ball. I don’t think he’s just running just to be running.”
Offensive Struggles and the Path Forward
The 49ers’ offense has been inconsistent throughout the season, struggling to find rhythm and production. While the defense has kept the team in games, the offense’s inability to capitalize on opportunities has led to a string of frustrating losses. Owens’ comments underline the need for players like Samuel to lead by example and help turn the tide.
With just seven games remaining in the regular season, the 49ers have little margin for error. Every game from this point forward carries significant playoff implications, and the team will need contributions from all its stars to stay in the hunt.
Deebo Samuel’s Opportunity to Respond
Samuel has shown in the past that he can be a game-changer, capable of making plays as both a receiver and a runner. The challenge now is to rediscover that form and help propel the 49ers forward. Owens’ pointed critique may serve as a motivating factor for Samuel to refocus and deliver the performances his team needs.
A Pivotal Stretch for San Francisco
The 49ers’ Week 12 clash is a must-win game, and Samuel’s role will be critical. With quarterback Purdy under increased scrutiny and the defense shouldering much of the burden, the offense must step up to balance the team’s efforts.
As the 49ers look to break out of their slump, all eyes will be on Samuel and whether he can respond to the challenge laid down by Owens. For a team teetering on the edge of playoff contention, the time for excuses is over—it’s now or never for San Francisco.
Owens’ candid remarks may have stirred some controversy, but they also highlight the urgency of the moment. For Samuel and the 49ers, the coming weeks represent an opportunity to rewrite the narrative of their season and prove they still belong in the playoff conversation.