In a remarkable turn of events, San Francisco 49ers rookie wide receiver Ricky Pearsall is poised to make his NFL regular season debut this Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs. The news comes just 50 days after Pearsall was shot in the chest during an alleged armed robbery attempt in San Francisco.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan made the announcement Friday, confirming that Pearsall will be activated from the non-football injury list to the 53-man roster. “Practicing all week, it’s been great to see him out there,” Shanahan said. “He’s had a hell of a week and we’re pumped to get him out there.”
‘Miraculous’ Recovery Paves Way for Debut
Pearsall’s journey back to the field has been nothing short of extraordinary. The 31st overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft was shot on August 31st in what authorities described as a struggle with an armed 17-year-old who attempted to rob him. Miraculously, the bullet exited Pearsall’s back without hitting any vital organs.
It’s really, really miraculous.
49ers GM John Lynch on Pearsall’s recovery
Placed on the non-football injury list to start the season, Pearsall was required to miss at least four games. But the rookie made it clear to Lynch and Shanahan from the outset that he intended to beat that timeline. After sitting out the first six contests, he returned to practice this week, quickly demonstrating he was ready to contribute.
Jennings Out, Samuel & Mason Set to Play
While Pearsall’s return provides a boost, the 49ers will be without leading receiver Jauan Jennings against the Chiefs. Jennings, who has a team-high 404 receiving yards through six games, popped up on the injury report Wednesday with a hip issue and has been ruled out. Shanahan indicated it’s not expected to be a long-term concern.
In more positive injury news, star wideout Deebo Samuel (wrist) and running back Jordan Mason (shoulder) are good to go after being limited in practice earlier in the week. Samuel leads the team with six receiving touchdowns.
Purdy Excited for Pearsall’s Energy
Quarterback Brock Purdy expressed excitement about the dimension Pearsall can add against Kansas City’s press-heavy defense. “When you’ve got a guy like Ricky that can win man-to-man matchups and then also open up some other guys too, that’s always a good thing,” Purdy said. “So, I’m excited to see what he does.”
How big a role Pearsall plays remains to be seen, but his mere presence on the field provides an emotional lift for a 49ers team looking to make a statement against the Chiefs. From the jaws of tragedy, the rookie speedster now has a chance to author one of the season’s most inspiring stories.
