Deebo Samuel, the San Francisco 49ers receiver, has been released from the hospital after being treated for pneumonia. A team source confirmed that Samuel left the local hospital on Tuesday afternoon. His hospitalization began on Sunday night when it was discovered that he had fluid in his lungs. Coach Kyle Shanahan noted that Samuel’s symptoms began to escalate late Saturday night or early Sunday morning, leading to the decision to send him for medical evaluation after the game against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Samuel’s attempt to play against the Chiefs was hampered by his illness. Despite being listed as ill just half an hour before kickoff, he managed to participate in only four plays before exiting the game. Shanahan reported that Samuel experienced significant breathing difficulties, in addition to throat and stomach issues, which necessitated his early departure. This quick decline in health underscores the severity of his condition.
The 49ers’ receiving corps is already stretched thin, as Samuel is not the only player facing health challenges. Brandon Aiyuk is out for the season due to a torn ACL and MCL in his right knee, while Jauan Jennings is dealing with a hip injury, and Chris Conley has a sprained ankle. These injuries have left the team with a dwindling roster, adding pressure as they prepare for their upcoming matches.
Looking ahead, Coach Shanahan expressed uncertainty about Samuel’s availability for the 49ers’ next game against the Dallas Cowboys. Clarity on his situation is expected after Wednesday’s practice session, which follows a day off on Tuesday. The team will closely monitor Samuel’s recovery progress and hope for positive news regarding his readiness to play.
The situation with Samuel highlights the broader challenges NFL teams face with player health throughout the season. As the 49ers navigate these ongoing issues, the team’s ability to adapt will be crucial in maintaining their competitiveness. With significant games approaching, the management of Samuel’s recovery and the overall health of the receiving unit will be critical to their success.