'Can't ever imagine wanting to move on from' Deebo Samuel

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San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch was not going to answer questions about receiver Deebo Samuel in his pre-draft media availability Monday.

Lynch thanked his staff for its hard work on the upcoming NFL draft and discussed the draft itself before opening the session. There was a brief mention of Samuel, but only to say that he didn't intend to give any details about the situation.

Lynch made it clear that the Niners have no desire to trade the star receiver/ running back, even though Samuel has requested a trade.

Lynch said that he can't imagine wanting to move on from Deebo. You do that when you go through it. He is too good of a player. We have nothing but love for him and appreciation for what he has brought, but you don't allow guys like that to walk. I can't imagine a scenario where we would trade him.

According to reports, Samuel has refused to engage the Niners on a potential contract extension after he requested a trade. The cap number for Samuel's final year of his contract is just under $5 million, meaning that he will be free to play for the rest of his career.

Lynch acknowledged the reports that Samuel has requested a trade but declined to add much else. Lynch said that the team and Samuel have been in contact over the past few weeks and that the Samuel situation has not changed the team's approach to the NFL draft.

Lynch expects Thursday night to be a little boring because the 49ers don't have a pick in the first round.

Speculation on a potential Samuel trade will continue in the run-up to that first round. Lynch was asked if a significant offer could change the Niners minds on dealing Samuel.

Lynch said that they would listen on just about anyone. I can never imagine moving on from Deebo. He has been a great player for us. He means a lot to this franchise.

Samuel is coming off a season in which he posted 77 receptions for 1,405 yards and six touchdown to go with 361 rushing yards and eight touchdown on the ground, as well as his ability to shift between receiver and running back.

Samuel was not happy with that usage because of the additional toll it takes on his body, according to some reports. After the season, Samuel offered no such concerns and the sides seemed to be headed toward a long-term agreement.

It has been a bit odd to see why Samuel is interested in leaving San Francisco.

Lynch said that they intend to work through things.

The 49ers began their workouts last week without Samuel. Samuel's situation hasn't been a topic of discussion according to players in the building.

The business of Deebo is his, according to offensive tackle Mike McGlinchey. It is not a secret what Deebo means to our football team. He is one of our best players, if not our best player, and he deserves everything that is coming his way, but it is between those guys and for them to figure it out.

Fred Warner became the highest-paid off-ball linebacker in league history just before training camp opened in July, after he was in a similar situation as Samuel last year. Warner said it took a lot of patience, but eventually it worked out.

Warner said that they all care about Deebo. People who have gone through it are here to help him if he has any questions. We have to respect that he has to go through that process. That is the business side of the game.

Nick Bosa is also eligible for a contract extension for the first time. The Niners exercised the fifth-year option on Bosa, who is not attending the early, voluntary portion of the offseason program for contractual reasons.

Lynch said that a deal for Bosa is a priority and will come at the right time.

Jimmy Garoppolo is still working his way back from his shoulder surgery as the Niners await a trade.

Lynch said that they had been in contact with his representation and that he was tracking well. That is where that is at.

Alex Mack, the team's 36-year-old center who just finished his 13th NFL season, has not yet decided if he will return to the team or retire. Mack will reveal that choice when he makes it.

Lynch said they had been in discussions with Alex, but he wouldn't speak for him. Alex will comment at the appropriate time.

The 49ers have nine picks in the draft. Regardless of Mack's decision, an early choice at center is likely and could be an indicator of where the team is headed.