Realistic Expectations for 49ers WR Deebo Samuel vs. the Detroit Lions

Remember, he left Saturday's game against the Packers and did not return -- the injury simply was far too painful, even though we don't know exactly what the injury was.

Deebo Samuel will play Sunday in the NFC Championship Game against the Detroit Lions despite injuring his shoulder last week.

Samuel's shoulder isn't fractured or dislocated, and it's the freaking NFC Championship Game -- of course he'll try to play. He's one of the most competitive athletes in the world and it's one of the biggest games of his career. Expect to see him on the field.

But what should we expect Samuel to do once he's out there? That's the real question.

Remember, he left Saturday's game against the Packers and did not return -- the injury simply was far too painful, even though we don't know exactly what the injury was.

Samuel's entire game is based on lowering his shoulder and breaking tackles. How many tackles will he be able to break against the Lions before his shoulder hurts so much he can't play anymore like last week?

The 49ers have to be cautious with Samuel. Have to treat him like he's one hit away from being knocked out of the NFC Championship Game for good and use him accordingly.

And the 49ers don't need to feature Samuel in the game plan for him to make an impact on the game. As long as he's on the field going in motion before the snap and drawing the attention of defenders in coverage, he'll help the 49ers.

Which means the 49ers might use him as a decoy just to get him through the game.

Stay tuned.