The San Francisco 49ers have been dealt a tough blow, as wide receiver Deebo Samuel has been ruled out for the next two games due to a shoulder injury.
The injury occurred during the 49ers’ Week 8 loss to the Seattle Seahawks. After the game, it was revealed that Samuel had suffered a shoulder sprain and would be out for at least two weeks.
Samuel has been one of the 49ers’ most important offensive weapons this season, leading the team in receptions (36) and receiving yards (502). He is also second on the team in touchdown receptions (3).
The 49ers will now have to rely on other players to step up in Samuel’s absence. Wide receivers Kendrick Bourne and Brandon Aiyuk are expected to see an increase in targets, while tight end George Kittle will likely be asked to take on a bigger role in the passing game.
The 49ers will also be without running back Raheem Mostert, who is out with an ankle injury. This means that the team will have to rely even more heavily on their passing attack.
The 49ers will certainly miss Samuel’s production over the next two games, but they will have to find a way to make up for his absence if they want to remain in contention for the playoffs.