Deebo Samuel: As the San Francisco 49ers prepare to host a showdown against their long-time rivals, the Dallas Cowboys, all eyes are focused on determining the status of star wide receiver Deebo Samuel for Sunday Night Football. Plagued by wrist and respiratory issues in recent weeks, Samuel has been in and out of the lineup while the 49ers have struggled through two lackluster home performances. Meanwhile, the Cowboys seek to reestablish momentum after a Week 7 bye following a uneven start to their campaign.

Samuel Battles Lingering Maladies

Deebo Samuel has fought through pain and illness all season, with a wrist ailment and bout of pneumonia hindering his availability and effectiveness when on the field. His early exit from their Week 7 loss due to injury sent him to the hospital and raised serious doubts about his potential participation against Dallas. While Samuel returned to practice last week, his practice reps remained limited by the persistent injuries as kickoff approaches.

Dallas’ Depleted Defensive Backfield

Injuries have ravaged the Cowboys secondary this year, eliminating star cornerback DaRon Bland for the year with foot surgery while Trevon Diggs works back from a serious knee issue. Rookie Caelen Carson has also nursed a nagging shoulder problem, further depleting a defensive back group facing a banged-up 49ers receiving corps minus Brandon Aiyuk on injured reserve and Jauan Jennings ruled out.

Positive Updates on Samuel’s Status

However, ESPN reporter Adam Schefter stated that Deebo Samuel is on track to play in the primetime matchup on Sunday evening, a welcome development for the 49ers offense looking to reassert themselves among the NFC contenders. With key targets missing, first-round selection Ricky Pearsal is also slated to make his 2022 debut, adding an element of the unknown to San Francisco’s plans against Dallas.