SANTA CLARA, Calif. – Rookie wide receiver Ricky Pearsall wasn't originally expected to make his NFL debut this Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs, but after a week of practice, that's exactly what will happen.
On Friday, coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed that the 49ers plan to activate Pearsall from the non-football injury list, adding him to the active 53-man roster. Just 50 days after being shot in the chest, Pearsall is set to play in his first regular-season game against Kansas City.
"It’s been great seeing him out there practicing all week," Shanahan said. "He’s had a fantastic week, and we’re excited to get him on the field."
The 49ers ruled out wide receiver Jauan Jennings (hip) for Sunday's game, but running back Jordan Mason (shoulder) and receiver Deebo Samuel (wrist) have been cleared to play after being limited in practice.
Pearsall was injured during an alleged robbery attempt on Aug. 31 in San Francisco’s Union Square. A 17-year-old suspect from Tracy, California, attempted to rob Pearsall, which led to a struggle. The bullet exited through Pearsall’s back without hitting vital organs, leading to what general manager John Lynch described as a "remarkably quick recovery."
Following the incident, Pearsall told both Lynch and Shanahan that he was determined to return to the field as soon as possible. The 49ers placed him on the non-football injury list before the season opener against the New York Jets, requiring him to miss at least four games.
San Francisco opted to keep Pearsall sidelined for six games, but he returned to practice Monday after the team opened his 21-day practice window. Although Shanahan initially anticipated a longer adjustment period for Pearsall, who also dealt with hamstring and shoulder injuries during training camp, his performance during practice exceeded expectations.
"I just needed to see him out there," Shanahan said. "He looked great on Wednesday, even better on Thursday, and by Friday he was really comfortable. It made the decision easy."
Pearsall's final step before returning to practice was regaining full range of motion in his right shoulder, something he accomplished last week. His energy was evident early in the week, so much so that after running a quick two-minute drill in practice, he was out of breath from excitement.
As the week progressed, it became clear that Pearsall would be ready for the Chiefs matchup.
Drafted 31st overall in April, Pearsall could be especially valuable against a Kansas City defense known for its aggressive man-to-man coverage.
"He’s done a fantastic job, really bringing energy, moving quickly in and out of his routes, and creating great separation," said quarterback Brock Purdy. "Having a guy like Ricky who can win one-on-one matchups opens up opportunities for others. I’m excited to see what he can do."
It’s uncertain how much Pearsall will play, but he has been practicing as a punt returner in addition to his role on offense.
Meanwhile, Jennings’ hip injury was a late development after last week’s win over the Seattle Seahawks. Jennings, the team’s leading receiver with 404 yards, was a surprise addition to the injury report and has been ruled out for Sunday. With Jennings unavailable, Pearsall, Chris Conley, Ronnie Bell, and Jacob Cowing will support starters Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk.
Shanahan assured that Pearsall will be used "wherever needed" and is fully fit for the game. He added that Pearsall's activation would have happened regardless of Jennings' status.
Shanahan is hopeful Jennings' injury won’t keep him out for long. "I don’t think it’s a long-term issue," Shanahan said. "We’re optimistic he’ll be back next week."
Samuel and Mason, who were both limited in practice earlier in the week, have no injury designation for Sunday. Samuel wore a non-contact jersey on Wednesday and Thursday but was able to fully participate on Friday.
In other news, the 49ers will use their third kicker in as many games on Sunday. With Matthew Wright (back, shoulder) and Jake Moody (ankle) ruled out, San Francisco signed Anders Carlson to the practice squad, and he will be promoted to play against Kansas City. Wright is expected to go on injured reserve, creating a roster opening.
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