Deebo Samuel expected to be out for ‘a while’ with hamstring injury

Friday update: The 49ers ruled Deebo Samuel OUT for Week 15.

Wednesday update: The 49ers are returning for practice and project Samuel as a DNP for the day, per Jennifer Lee Chan. Given earlier reports, it’s unlikely he practices at all this week.

San Francisco 49ers wideout Deebo Samuel saw his last outing cut short by a hamstring injury and is in danger of missing significant time. Kyle Shanahan told the media on Monday that Samuel will be our for “a while,” according to Bluewire’s Rob Lowder. It’s safe to say that he’ll miss Sunday’s Week 15 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys. His absence could deal a hefty blow to San Francisco’s oft-injured receiving corps.

Brandon Aiyuk has been the 49ers’ top pass-catcher in recent weeks and has tallied at least five receptions and 75 receiving yards in five straight games. He’ll likely continue to be Nick Mullens’ top target through the air moving forward.

Shanahan also said that George Kittle, who hasn’t played since Week 8 because of a foot injury, could return to practice ahead of Sunday’s game. The star tight end could improve the 49ers’ passing attack significantly in an ideal matchup against the Cowboys’ porous defense.