During their recent clash against the Green Bay Packers, the San Francisco 49ers faced a crucial challenge. The 49ers’ star wide receiver Deebo Samuel suffered a shoulder injury. Though he was cleared from concussion concerns, however, Samuel’s shoulder issue persisted. Eventually, this led to the All-Pro’s early exit from the game. His absence was notable as he couldn’t return after halftime.

Not to mention, this was a concern that Coach Kyle Shanahan talked about in his post-game comments. The impact of losing a player of Samuel’s caliber is definitely significant for the 49ers. Though they celebrate a crucial playoff win, Shanahan and Co. face uncertainty heading into their third consecutive Conference Championship Game this Sunday.

Deebo Samuel’s injury casts uncertainty over 49ers’ playoff campaign

While facing a daunting challenge in their playoff game against the Green Bay Packers, San Francisco’s game plan was heavily disrupted by the early exit of Deebo Samuel. The exit was due to a left shoulder injury. Initially, it was thought to be a head injury which was later cleared. Even though he was about to enter the game again, he experienced discomfort which prevented his return.

Reflecting on the injury, Coach Kyle Shanahan remarked, “I don’t know yet [about the severity]. I mean, he tried to come back, couldn’t do it.” Samuel’s absence was keenly felt even though his team won. However, given how the team struggled following his injury in October, they will certainly be hoping for a swift comeback from the 28-year-old.

His previous injury against the Browns forced the 49ers to adapt on the fly, with Jauan Jennings stepping into an unexpected role in the backfield. The 49ers’ offense also saw a dip in week 6, averaging only 17 points without Samuel. His potential unavailability for the upcoming NFC Championship Game adds to the 49ers’ challenges. However, Adam Schefter did give a positive update on Samuel’s injury.

Deebo Samuel has reportedly said that he is “OK”

ESPN’s Adam Schefter recently provided an optimistic update on 49ers star receiver Deebo Samuel’s condition following his shoulder injury. Furthermore, Schefter went ahead to share it on his Twitter/X account. His X post revealed, “49ers WR Deebo Samuel, who left Saturday night’s game with a shoulder injury, told some members of the organization that he was ‘OK’, per sources.”

This positive news from Samuel offers a glimmer of hope to fans. At the same time, coach Kyle Shanahan has a more cautious stance. Moreover, Shanahan had earlier likened Samuel’s injury to one he suffered in Cleveland earlier this season. That injury had resulted in him missing two games.

Read more: Minnesota Vikings Trade Rumors: Broncos in Hot Water After Russell Wilson’s $37 Million Cap Issue

However, the WR must also have his eyes set on the upcoming NFC game. Now, what do you think, will Deebo Samuel play in the next game or will history repeat itself? Let us know below.

Watch This Story: Coach Prime Deion Sanders’s coaching conundrum deepens with Colorado football quality control analysts’ promotion