49ers OC: Deebo Samuel ‘Still Looks Like Deebo’

The San Francisco 49ers are preparing for their first preseason game of the summer, and offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak has several offensive storylines to monitor heading into Thursday’s matchup against the Tennessee Titans.

One of the biggest is how the 49ers will use Deebo Samuel after the veteran wide receiver spent last season with the Washington Commanders. Samuel inked a one-year deal to return to San Francisco for the 2026 season.

The veteran has been taking on additional work with injuries affecting the running back room, and Kubiak believes the 30-year-old still has plenty to offer.

“Deebo’s in great shape,” Kubiak said on Monday following practice. “He can run all day. So, no issues there. Deebo still looks like Deebo to me. When he has the ball in his hand, there’s nobody more explosive, more dynamic on the field.”

Kubiak said the plan is to use Samuel in a variety of ways, while acknowledging that the receiver still has some catching up to do after spending a season away.

TAMPA, FLORIDA – NOVEMBER 10: Deebo Samuel Sr. #1 of the San Francisco 49ers warms up prior to the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on November 10, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images)

“Deebo’s got to be able to affect the game in a lot of ways,” Kubiak said. “We’re going to keep getting him the reps he needs and getting him ready to play a multitude of spots and being a versatile player.”

The 49ers also remain undecided at left guard. Connor Colby opened camp with the starting unit, but Robert Jones has recently received more first-team reps. Kubiak emphasized that neither player has been handed the job.

“Definitely still an open competition,” Kubiak said. “Those guys are going to compete all camp.”

Both players are expected to receive significant preseason opportunities, giving the coaching staff a chance to evaluate the competition in live-game situations.

Kubiak also praised quarterback Brock Purdy for the edge he brings as a leader. While Purdy is generally viewed as a quieter personality, Kubiak said the quarterback is not afraid to hold teammates–or himself–accountable.

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA – JULY 27: Brock Purdy #13 of the San Francisco 49ers works out during training camp practice at SAP Performance Facility on July 27, 2026 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)

“He quietly goes about his business, and he tries to hold people accountable,” Kubiak said. “He’ll get on people. He’ll get on himself probably more than anyone.”

With the preseason opener approaching, Kubiak will have an opportunity to evaluate several young players, particularly at wide receiver and running back. He says the goal is simple for Thursday’s preseason opener:

“You just want to see those guys go out there and play confident, play fast and do their assignment,” Kubiak said.

For the 49ers, Thursday’s game will provide the first real test of several ongoing offensive competitions and give Kubiak and the coaching staff another opportunity to determine how the pieces fit together before the regular season.

More 49ers content from Sactown Sports

• Kyle Shanahan says he’s ‘getting there’ as return to sideline nears
• Mac Jones says preparation is his strength as 49ers enter preseason
• 49ers DC Raheem Morris has zero worries about Nick Bosa’s return
• Why Brock Purdy is finally getting the respect he deserves in NFL QB rankings
• 49ers’ Special Teams Coach reacts to Deebo Samuel reunion: ‘He’s a Difference Maker’

Upcoming San Francisco 49ers Schedule

Preseason

• Thursday, August 13th – vs. Tennessee Titans – 6:00 pm PT
• Thursday, August 20th – @ Los Angeles Chargers – 7:00 pm PT
• Thursday, August 27th – @ Las Vegas Raiders – 5:00 pm PT

Regular Season

• Thursday, September 10th – vs. Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia (Season Opener) – 5:35 pm PT
• Sunday, September 20th – vs. Miami Dolphins – 1:25 pm PT
• Sunday, September 27th – vs. Arizona Cardinals – 1:05 pm PT
• Sunday, October 4th – vs. Denver Broncos – 1:25 pm PT

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