The San Francisco 49ers announced that wide receiver Ricky Pearsall has been placed on injured reserve and will miss the entire 2026 season due to a knee injury. The team did not disclose the exact nature of the injury or when it occurred, but confirmed that Pearsall will undergo surgery and rehabilitation.
Pearsall, who was selected in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, has yet to play a full season in his career. He appeared in 12 games as a rookie, recording 28 receptions for 400 yards and two touchdowns. In 2025, he played in 10 games before being sidelined with a shoulder injury.
The 49ers' receiving corps will now rely on other playmakers, including Deebo Samuel, Brandon Aiyuk, and Jauan Jennings. Head coach Kyle Shanahan expressed confidence in the team's depth but acknowledged the loss of Pearsall's potential impact.
Pearsall's absence is a significant blow to the 49ers' offense, as he was expected to take on a larger role in the upcoming season. The team will look to address the position through free agency or the draft.
