The San Francisco 49ers rumor mill is churning once again, and this time it’s George Kittle stoking the flames of fan excitement. In a recent interview with Sports Illustrated Now, the NFL All-Pro tight end dropped some tantalizing hints about potential roster changes that have the entire Bay Area football community buzzing.

Kittle’s cryptic comments about a potential reunion with former wide receiver Deebo Samuel have sparked intense speculation. Despite Samuel’s trade to the Washington Commanders in 2025, Kittle couldn’t help but express his continued affection for his former teammate. “I love Deebo,” he repeated, with a knowing smile that suggests more than just friendly sentiment.

The context of Kittle’s remarks came during a discussion about the 49ers’ impressive performance in what he characterized as a “rebuild year”. With 13 wins and a Wild Card Round victory under their belt, the team seems poised for even greater achievements. Kittle hinted at the possibility of bringing back “past friends,” a statement that resonates strongly with fans who have missed Samuel’s dynamic playing style.

Samuel, who earned First-Team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl selection during his time in San Francisco, left a significant mark on the team’s offensive strategy. His potential return would be more than just a nostalgic move – it could represent a strategic enhancement to the 49ers’ lineup.

While Kittle’s comments don’t confirm any official plans, they’ve certainly ignited the imagination of 49ers faithful. The tight end’s casual mention of hanging out with Samuel “last night” and his repeated declarations of love for the player have fans speculating about a potential homecoming.

As the offseason unfolds, football enthusiasts across the Bay Area will be watching closely. Could this be more than just wishful thinking? Only time will tell if Deebo Samuel will make a dramatic return to the team that helped define his early career.