Ricky Pearsall Set to Make NFL Debut for 49ers vs. Chiefs 7 Weeks After Being Shot
October 18, 2024
The San Francisco 49ers are activating rookie wide receiver Ricky Pearsall for their home game against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday, per head coach Kyle Shanahan to reporters.
Pearsall was shot in the chest during an attempted robbery in San Francisco on Aug. 31. Per ABC7 Bay Area, the bullet exited his back and missed all vital organs. He spent one day in the hospital and didn't need surgery, according to Matt Barrows and Mark Puleo of The Athletic.
The former University of Florida star, who was the No. 31 overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft, began the season on the reserve/non-football injury list. He returned to practice for the first time on Monday.
The 49ers will be without No. 3 wide receiver Jauan Jennings, who is recovering from a hip injury. So there's a possible avenue for Pearsall to see the field with the 49ers shorthanded at the position.
Regardless of whether Pearsall sees the field, it's clear his coaches and teammates are thrilled that he's back in the mix.
"The guys are pumped," Shanahan said regarding Pearsall, per Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area. "He's been around the guys for a while now so it's not like he hasn't been around. But [him] practicing all week, it's been great to see him out there. I think the guys were more happy for him that he could get back and be a part of it.
"He's had a hell of a week and we're just pumped to get him out there with us."
Wide receiver Deebo Samuel had this to say earlier in the week.
Quarterback Brock Purdy noted how Pearsall's skillset should help the team and how he's contributing to the 49ers already in practice.
Ultimately, Pearsall's tremendous comeback will take the next big step on Sunday, but it's clear that he could very well contribute here as the defending NFC champs look for a return trip to the Super Bowl.