San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel could actually make his return sooner rather than later.

After it was revealed that Samuel likely suffered from a high-ankle sprain, reports emerged that fans could not see him again until the playoffs. Of course while some are happy that it's not season-ending, it's still quite brutal to lose him in their remaining regular season games. After all, the team is already without Trey Lance and Jimmy Garoppolo for the rest of the year due to injuries.

According to the latest updates, however, Samuel could make his return at some point in the regular season. Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports didn't provide a clear timeline in his report, but it does hint an earlier return for the star wideout.

Deebo Samuel suffered the ankle injury during the 49ers' Week 14 clash with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Late in the second quarter, he was carted off the field after the Bucs' linemen crashed on him while he was running with the ball. He bent his leg awkwardly and wasn't able to return after his exit.

Article Continues Below
More San Francisco 49ers News
Sep 29, 2024; Tampa, Florida, USA; =Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Bryce Huff (0) looks on after a game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
49ers’ Bryce Huff trade with Eagles officially completeJaren Kawada ·
Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Mac Jones (10) throws a pass to warm up before the game against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium.
Insider makes Sam Darnold comparison for 49ers’ Mac JonesZachary Weinberger ·
San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey (23) makes a catch against the Philadelphia Eagles during the third quarter at Lincoln Financial Field.
Christian McCaffrey welcomes Saquon Barkley to the running back Madden familyMatty Breisch ·
Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Bryce Huff (0) tackles Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson (7) after a catch during the second quarter.
Eagles’ Bryce Huff trade to 49ers finalized with full pick conditions revealedJosh Davis ·
San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey (23) warms up before a game against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium.
49ers’ Christian McCaffrey lacking ‘5th gear’ at OTAs draws concernAlex House ·
Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill (10) signals from the line of scrimmage against the San Francisco 49ers during the second quarter at Hard Rock Stadium.
NFL rumors: Bills, 49ers among contenders that should seek Tyreek Hill tradeJaren Kawada ·

The way he sustained his injury sparked fears that it's a serious issue. Fortunately, he dodged a major bullet as there's nothing found to be broken in his leg and ankle.

While it's still unclear when Samuel will really be able to suit up for the 49ers once again, at least one thing is certain: we haven't seen the last of him this year.