Kittle Slams Critics Who Question Deebo’s Effort

The 49ers’ locker room just got a dose of fiery loyalty, and it came from none other than All-Pro tight end George Kittle. After a viral clip from Washington Commanders’ minicamp showed Deebo Samuel looking less explosive than fans expected, online chatter erupted, calling the star wide receiver “slow” and “washed.”

But before the whispers could snowball into narrative, Kittle jumped into the ring swinging.

“Anyone calling Deebo slow clearly hasn’t watched a snap of real football,” Kittle said during an appearance on a local Bay Area podcast. “That man has carried this offense, blocked like a tight end, ran like a running back, and played hurt more times than you know. Question his speed if you want — but don’t question his effort.”

Kittle’s passionate defense came after fan forums and social media were flooded with overreactions to a drill that showed Samuel casually jogging after a route. But what most armchair critics failed to mention was that the drill took place during a light install period — not a high-intensity rep.

Deebo himself hasn’t commented on the online criticism, but those close to the team say he's locked in and determined to bounce back after a frustrating 2024 campaign, where lingering injuries hampered his consistency.

Kittle, however, had more to say.

“He’s out there grinding every day, putting his body on the line. You don’t know what guys are working through in camp. That clip? It’s nothing. Wait until September. Then talk,” he added.

Samuel, who turned 29 this year, remains a central piece in Kyle Shanahan’s offense, especially with Brandon Aiyuk’s future still uncertain. While some doubt whether Deebo can regain his 2021 form, those inside the building — and especially Kittle — have no such concerns.

The team’s training staff has reportedly been pleased with Samuel’s progress this offseason, noting increased flexibility and stamina during early camp sessions. Coaches remain confident that Deebo, if healthy, can be a nightmare for opposing defenses — particularly in Shanahan’s motion-heavy attack.

“I’d take Deebo over 90 percent of the wideouts in this league,” Kittle said flatly. “And when we lift that Lombardi, I hope all the doubters remember what they said in June.”

So while the internet may be quick to write off a player based on a 10-second clip, in San Francisco, the only opinions that matter come from within — and inside that room, Deebo Samuel is still revered as a warrior.

And George Kittle? He’s more than happy to remind everyone exactly why.