Here's Deebo Samuel's Return Timeline For Knee/Ankle Sprain

San Francisco’s do-it-all wideout Deebo Samuel suffered a left high ankle sprain in the Week 14 win over the Buccaneers. 

Based on multiple video angles of the injury, he may miss the rest of the regular season but has a chance to return in Week 18 against the Cardinals, according to the Pro Football Docs.

Depending on the 49ers record and the NFC West standings down the stretch, San Francisco may choose to give him an extra week of rest before a potential Wildcard Round matchup in mid-January.

High ankle sprains typically carry a recovery timeline of 3-to-6 weeks, depending on the severity and the position of the affected player. For an agile and versatile player like Samuel, his ability to cut is vital to his effectiveness.

Although Samuel will miss time, this injury represents the best case scenario by video. The 26-year-old was injured on a 3-yard rush up the middle in the second quarter.

His left ankle was landed on by Rakeem Nunez-Roches and Anthony Nelson tackled Samuel at the same time, causing him to get bent over the pile as Samuel fumbled the ball.

Upon initial look, the Pro Football Docs were not concerned about a season-ending knee injury, but did have worry for an MCL sprain.

Samuel immediately reached for his knee in pain, but was eventually ruled out with an ankle injury after he was carted off.

He had 4 catches for 43 yards and 4 carries for 21 yards and a touchdown before exiting. Coming into Week 14, he had 50 catches for 569 yards and 2 touchdowns, plus 37 rushes for 207 yards and 2 rushing touchdowns. 

On a short week, the 49ers will have to find other options to replace Samuel’s production.

49ers vs. Seahawks Week 15 Odds

San Francisco is favored by 3.5 points on the road in Seattle this Thursday and the over/under is 43.5, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.

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Through Week 13, our staff was 52% on player props and 57% on live bets.