Deebo Samuel is set to return for the San Francisco 49ers’ Week 10 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys after missing three consecutive games with a hamstring injury. Samuel has not played since San Francisco’s Week 5 game against the Seattle Seahawks, but his progress during practice this week points to a return on Sunday.
His availability could be especially important for the 49ers, who will also be without Mike Evans because of an Achilles injury. Even so, Samuel’s recent absence and the possibility that he is still working his way back into game shape make his expected role—and his fantasy value—worth considering carefully.
## Is Deebo Samuel playing against the Cowboys?
Yes. Samuel is cleared to play against Dallas in Week 10.
He returned to practice on Wednesday and was listed as a limited participant on Thursday. He then completed Friday’s practice as a full participant. The 49ers did not assign him an injury designation for Sunday’s game, confirming that he is available.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan said Samuel had a good week and was healthy. That is an encouraging update after the receiver missed three games with his hamstring injury. Still, Shanahan indicated that Samuel is working his way back into game shape, which could affect how much he plays against the Cowboys.
Samuel’s return gives San Francisco another experienced option in its offense. His presence may help fill some of the gap created by Evans’ absence, although his specific workload for Sunday has not been established.
## Deebo Samuel’s stats this season
Samuel has played in five games this season. Across those appearances, he has recorded:
– **16 receptions**
– **206 receiving yards**
– **Three receiving touchdowns**
– **78 rushing yards**
– **Nine rushing attempts**
Those numbers reflect Samuel’s ability to contribute as both a receiver and a runner. His rushing production can add value in formats that reward total yardage, while his three touchdowns provide evidence of his scoring potential. However, his three-game absence means he has not been available consistently in recent weeks.
## Should fantasy managers start Deebo Samuel in Week 10?
Samuel is worth considering as a flex option, but fantasy managers should weigh his recent injury and uncertain workload before placing him in their starting lineup.
The positive signs are clear: he is cleared to play, finished the week as a full participant, and will return to an offense that is also missing Evans. That could create an opportunity for Samuel to be more involved in the passing game. The Cowboys have allowed an average of 26.2 points and 372.7 total yards per game this season, giving Samuel a potentially favorable matchup on paper.
The main concern is that Samuel may not immediately return to a full workload. Shanahan’s comment that he is still working back into game shape suggests managers should not assume he will receive his usual volume in his first game back. A limited role could make it harder for him to deliver the consistent production fantasy managers want from a starting wide receiver.
Managers with dependable wide receivers who are healthy and playing regularly may prefer to keep Samuel on the bench until he demonstrates that he can handle a full workload. If the available alternatives are less reliable, Samuel’s potential role in the offense and his ability to contribute on the ground make him a reasonable flex choice.
## Week 10 outlook
Samuel’s return is a positive development for the 49ers, but his fantasy outlook comes with some uncertainty. He is available to play against Dallas after progressing from limited participation to a full practice, and Evans’ absence could give him a chance to see more involvement. At the same time, Samuel is coming off three missed games, and his workload may be managed as he regains his game shape.
**Fantasy verdict:** Consider Samuel as a Week 10 flex option. Managers with stronger, more reliable receivers should wait to see how he performs before trusting him with a starting spot.
