Ricky has the potential to be a high-end wide receiver for the Niners. He has displayed extraordinary fortitude in his journey through the storm. On August 31, 2024, Pearsall was living a nightmare when an armed robber shot him in the chest while he was shopping in downtown San Francisco. Remarkably, his recovery was profound in the days that followed the surgery. Fifty days after the shooting, he was back on the field to start his NFL debut. He showed unbelievable physical will and amazing mental discipline throughout the game.
Pearsall’s journey as an advocate made a radical shift that fateful evening. After being the victim of a brutal robbery that resulted in Kelly himself developing life-threatening wounds, he required urgent medical care himself. In the immediate 24 hours after the event, Pearsall was understandably worried about his career. He repeatedly questioned medical professionals if he was going to live and if he would be allowed to play football again. Fortunately, they were able to convince him that he would indeed live and was very likely to get back on the field in short order.
“Unfortunately, I revisit that every single night I go to bed,” Pearsall reflected on the lasting impact of the shooting. He’s been able to use those experiences and turn them into strength — personally and professionally. In the year since, he has decidedly reframed that incident. He’d come to view it as a major catalyst for his development not only as a player, but as a person.
The 49ers drafted Pearsall with the 31st overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. As such, he quickly established himself as a key member of the squad’s roster. Beyond just the physical barriers that he had to overcome, he spent countless hours perfecting his craft on the field. Pearsall joined his former Sun Devil teammates in Jacksonville, Florida, to work with quarterback Brock Purdy. As a group, they focused on improving their explosiveness and further understanding of the offensive line’s schemes.
Pearsall and Purdy took the time to build their connection at ASU before heading into OTAs as rookies. Their work resulted in unprecedented improvement, laying the foundation for Pearsall’s breakout to become a cornerstone of the team’s offense. “I’ve just got to be able to step in that role,” he stated as he prepared to take on greater responsibilities.
Even during a midseason drought where targets were limited, Pearsall stayed engaged and energized. And he ended the 2024 season downright gaudy! His production included 247 yards and two touchdowns on 18 catches during his last three games. His run on stage proved that potential. He is fully prepared to take over the de facto No. 1 receiver role for the 49ers.
Head Coach Kyle Shanahan noted Pearsall’s unique qualities: “Ricky is a special kid in terms of just how upbeat he is, how positive he is. He is kind of the same every day to us.” This grounded, humble approach has endeared him to NFL teammates and coaches as well.
As Pearsall continues to grow, he finds himself reflecting on the shooting and its implications for his life. Today, he believes he should get to know the very person who shot him. He feels that for his own healing process, forgiveness is an important key. “I want to first see if he’s open to it because that’s important to me,” Pearsall articulated regarding his thoughts on a possible encounter.
Aside from his personal battles, Pearsall has taken a huge leap in performance on the field. Offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak remarked on his progress: “I think Ricky just gets better and better the more he is out there.” This improvement is important especially as Pearsall tries to lock down his role on the team.
I just sort of carry that with me. Now I think it’s less about avoiding it or going back to it or not going back to it at all. It’s more about how I deal with it and the light that I put on it,” Pearsall shared about coping with his past trauma. His willingness to face and work through these experiences is a testament to his courage and character.
As Pearsall prepares for the upcoming season, he remains focused on maximizing his potential while navigating the complexities of his past. His incredible turnaround from near career ending injury to becoming an integral part of the 49ers defense is a testament to resilience and development.
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