PFF Names Ideal Free Agent for Vikings

“However, Minnesota could use more at receiver after losing Jalen Nailor to the Raiders. Samuel’s effectiveness has taken a step back over the last two campaigns, but he still finished 2025 with a 70.3 PFF receiving grade and 1.66 yards per route run.”

The Vikings did not draft any receivers last month despite a widespread expectation for them to do so.

Locker added, “Further, Samuel’s 6.5 yards after the catch per reception was fourth among wideouts with 95 or more targets. Next to Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison, Samuel could help fill Nailor’s void in the slot while infusing more juice after the catch and overall creativity for Kevin O’Connell.”

The Career Output

Samuel certainly has the career numbers for Minnesota’s WR3 job. Here’s his receiving resume since turning pro in 2019:

2025: (WAS) 72 Rec | 727 Yds | 5 TDs
2024: (SF) 51 Rec | 670 Yds | 3 TDs
2023: (SF) 60 Rec | 892 Yds | 7 TDs
2022: (SF) 56 Rec | 632 Yds | 2 TDs
2021: (SF) 77 Rec | 1,405 Yds | 6 TDs
2020: (SF) 33 Rec | 391 Yds | 1 TD
2019: (SF) 57 Rec | 802 Yds | 3 TDs

Samuel, too, is known for his versatility, able to run the football as a tailback better than most wide receivers. In seven seasons, he’s tabulated over 1,200 rushing yards and 21 rushing touchdowns. His speed isn’t quite the same these days, but the Vikings could still get creative with him.

Would-Be WR Corps

Suppose Minnesota runs with PFF’s idea, adding Samuel from free agency. Before training camp, the WR depth chart would look like this:

WR1: Justin Jefferson
WR2: Jordan Addison
WR3: Deebo Samuel
WR4: Tai Felton
WR5: Myles Price
WR6: Jeshaun Jones
WR7: Dontae Fleming
WR8: Joaquin Davis
WR9: Dillon Bell
WR10: Luke Wysong
WR11: Marcus Sanders
WR12: Shaleak Knotts

Jefferson-Addison-Samuel would form one of the NFL’s top WR3 trios, and few would debate it. In fact, Samuel’s production from last year in Washington — 72 catches, 727 yards, and 5 TDs — would be just what the doctor ordered in O’Connell’s offense, even dwarfing Nailor’s 2025 campaign, when he banked 444 receiving yards.

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. breaks free downfield for a long score, with Oct 10, 2024 placed at Lumen Field in Seattle as he outruns defenders on a 76-yard touchdown against the Seahawks, showcasing explosive speed and run-after-catch ability during first-half action. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images

Our Janik Eckart on the prospect of Samuel to Minnesota: “Samuel has been an outstanding after-the-catch player in the NFL, something the Vikings have lacked in recent years. Sure, Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison can run with the ball in their hands, but they are far too valuable down the field. Samuel, meanwhile, excels in the short passing game.”

“That could be attractive for the Vikings, especially with Kyler Murray under center, whose short passing rate has been off the charts. His asking price could be a challenge for the Vikings, though. While his athleticism has declined, he might still view himself as a WR2 in the league and the Vikings wouldn’t offer a groundbreaking salary for someone who’d be third in their WR hierarchy. The Jennings sweepstakes might present a comparable problem.”

Keep an Eye on the Other Ex-49ers WRs

Minnesota needs a WR3; that’s not a controversial take, unless it loves Felton, who barely played as a rookie in 2025. It’s a safe bet to assume that interim general manager Rob Brzezinski will end up with a wideout who used to play for the 49ers:

• Brandon Aiyuk
• Jauan Jennings
• Deebo Samuel

San Francisco wants to trade Aiyuk, probably after June 1st, when the financial pain will diminish. He’s arguably the best option of the three. Jennings met with the Vikings’ brass last week, though no contract came together.

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel reacts during live game action, with Dec 19, 2021 centered at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara as he shows emotion in the third quarter against the Falcons, capturing intensity and engagement during a home performance late in the regular season. Mandatory Credit: Stan Szeto-USA TODAY Sports.

And then there’s Samuel, whom PFF has nominated as the wisest fit.

Samuel will turn 31 during the 2026 playoffs. His birth name is Tyshun Raequan.