San Francisco 49ers rookie receiver Ricky Pearsall was placed on the non-football injury list after being shot in the chest during an attempted robbery in central San Francisco. Pearsall was hospitalized overnight and released on Sunday, but he must miss at least four games while on the list. The team has not provided a timeline for his return but can bring him back after the four-game mark by using one of their eight injury designation spots. The 49ers also have two additional return designations if they make the postseason, in a rule change this season.
Pearsall was the victim of an attempted robbery by a 17-year-old suspect armed with a gun while he was walking to his car on Geary Boulevard in the Union Square area. Police responded quickly, provided medical aid, and arrested the suspect. Pearsall, who was drafted in the first round by the 49ers, has been dealing with injuries since joining the team, including hamstring and shoulder issues that caused him to miss some training camp. Despite these setbacks, he was able to return to practice in a non-contact jersey this past week while his shoulder heals.
Brandon Aiyuk’s contract dispute kept him from practicing, leading the 49ers to keep an extra receiver on the initial 53-man roster. With Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel as starters, Jauan Jennings, Chris Conley, Ronnie Bell, and rookie Jacob Cowing will serve as reserves. The team signed tackle Brandon Parker to fill Pearsall’s roster spot and provide depth behind the starting offensive linemen. All-Pro Trent Williams is currently holding out as he seeks a new contract, prompting the need for additional offensive line depth. The 49ers also made moves on their practice squad, signing defensive lineman Sam Okuayinonu and releasing Sebastian Gutierrez.
Pearsall’s college career began at Arizona State before transferring to Florida for his final two seasons. He had a productive senior year with the Gators, recording 65 catches for 965 yards and four touchdowns. Throughout his college career, Pearsall amassed a total of 159 catches for 2,420 yards and 14 touchdowns, showcasing his ability as a receiving threat. Despite his injuries and setbacks, Pearsall has proven himself as a talented receiver with potential in the NFL, and the 49ers will be eager to see him back on the field once he has fully recovered from the shooting incident.
The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers that professional athletes can face both on and off the field. While the immediate focus is on Pearsall’s recovery and return to the team, the situation also highlights the need for increased security and awareness in areas where athletes may be targeted for criminal activity. The 49ers and the NFL will continue to support Pearsall through his recovery process and work to ensure the safety of their players both during games and in their daily lives. This incident will likely prompt discussions on player safety and security measures within the league, emphasizing the importance of protecting athletes from harm.
