Why is Deebo Samuel called 'Deebo?' San Francisco 49ers wideout's nickname, explained

The name "Deebo Samuel" conjures images of highlight-reel catches and a brash on-field demeanor, but behind the San Francisco 49ers powerhouse player lies a unique moniker with a fascinating origin story.

Although the former South Carolina wide receiver, who will suit up in Super Bowl 58 against the Kansas City Chiefs, is penned as Deebo Samuel across the NFL and all major news organizations, his given name at birth is Tyshun Raequan Samuel.

Deebo Samuel was given the nickname "Deebo" by his father, Galen Samuel, who noticed similarities at an early age between his son and the tough, mischievous character Deebo from the 1995 movie "Friday," written by American rapper and film producer Ice Cube.

"If you got a name like Deebo, I want to see why," Ice Cube told ESPN during Deebo Samuel's rookie season in the NFL. "And I watched him play — he's a bully."

Here's what you need to know about the origin of Deebo Samuel's nickname.

What is Deebo Samuel's real name?

Born in Inman, South Carolina, San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel's real name is Tyshun Raequan Samuel.

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He earned the nickname "Deebo" in his younger years due to his demeanor resembling the character Deebo from the 1995 movie "Friday." He has embraced the nickname and it has stuck with him throughout his football career.

Why is Deebo Samuel called 'Deebo?'

Deebo Samuel's nickname "Deebo" originated from his playful yet daring behavior as a child. His father, Galen Samuel, saw similarities between young Tyshun and the mischievous character Deebo from the 1995 movie "Friday," known for his tough personality and bold actions.

"I really don’t remember when the nickname started," Samuel told ESPN. "But I remember his first time telling me the story about when I was 19 years old. He’s like, ‘You know, you're named after a bully in a movie."

Samuel captured the spirit of the character played by the late Tommy Lister Jr., originally penned by Ice Cube. The moniker stuck, and eventually became widely recognized throughout his football career.

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"When I was 12 years old, Little League football, no one ever called me Tyshun besides my stepmom," Deebo explained. "Now, it translates over to the football field, the mindset I have, one guy is not going to tackle me, and the first guy is always going to feel the pain."

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: Why is Deebo Samuel called 'Deebo?' 49ers WR's nickname, explained