Deebo Samuel is not one to mince words and hold back. The 49ers’ star WR let social media know how he felt after his role in the offense came under scrutiny. But things got messy fast. Something that started as a call for better opportunities quickly turned into a full-blown debate.

Samuel had a quiet outing in the 49ers’ win over the Bears on Monday. What followed was a tweet from Samuel. “Not struggling at all just not getting the ball!!!!!!! 🤷🏾‍♂️” Samuel wrote candidly. But the post quickly sparked criticism, as some accused him of throwing teammates under the bus.

An hour later, Samuel shot back with a follow-up, writing, “Just cause I voice my opinions don’t mean I’m hating on any of my teammates!! Be Fr.” Making clear that he wasn’t finger-pointing; he just wanted his voice heard. And the frustration is not rootless.

64 targets across 12 games! Deebo clearly hasn’t had the usual involvement this season. And this paints a stark contrast to his run last year. Samuel recorded 5 games with 9 or more targets in 2023. This season? Only 2. Meanwhile, other 49ers like George Kittle and Jauan Jennings have taken center stage, combining for 14 catches and 241 yards in Week 14. While Samuel’s stats have taken a significant dip.

Through 12 games, he has only 533 receiving yards. Underwhelming much? To top that off, he had just 1 touchdown. Now, compare that to his dynamic 2023 season. He totaled 1,117 yards and topped that off with 12 TDs. Now you know why he is brimming with frustration. Is it now on Samuel to adapt, or should the 49ers prioritize him more?

Struggling or overlooked? Deebo’s role in focus

The 49ers’ offensive strategy might be evolving, but Samuel’s frustrations are highlighting a deeper question. Has his role shifted too far into the shadows? Injury to key players like Brandon Aiyuk and Christian McCaffrey has left gaps. Gaps that Samuel hasn’t consistently filled. Instead, players like Jennings have emerged, leaving Deebo’s production stagnant. And San Francisco’s 6-7 record only adds to the tension.

The 49ers are still battling for playoff contention. But they need all hands on deck. Yet, Samuel’s reduced role raises eyebrows, like his 35-yard, 7-touch outing against the Bears. But Thursday night’s matchup against the Rams could be it. A chance for Samuel to reclaim the spotlight.

Historically, Deebo’s been a nightmare for the Rams. He averages 13.6 yards per reception. That too, with 7 TDs across 9 games. If ever there was a time for Deebo to back up his words with action, this might just be it.

Samuel’s critics might argue that his performance doesn’t justify his pay. But amid all the controversies, NBC Sports’ Matt Maiocco noted, the team isn’t likely to move on from him in 2025. “I would almost go so far to say that he’s guaranteed to be on the team next year, unless I’m missing something completely.” Matt confidently claimed in his YouTube video on 9th December. Matt’s report and the team’s offensive needs suggest his future in San Francisco remains secure, at least, for now. That’s because the 49ers face mounting pressure to stay in playoff contention.

Whether they lean on Deebo Samuel or continue spreading the ball remains to be seen. For now, all eyes are on Thursday night, where Deebo shall have the chance to silence the noise and remind everyone why he’s one of the league’s best.