NFL
When will Ricky Pearsall return for 49ers after being shot?
A botched robbery with a gunshot to the chest could have ended the fledgling pro career of the rookie, but he’s already in the gym.
![There appears to be good news in the Bay Area after the franchise confirmed that its rookie wide receiver had been released from hospital after being shot.](https://img.asmedia.epimg.net/resizer/v2/4XSIKVVHGRFUXI2G3PJKQAEV7A.jpg?auth=55df3ce16d01cd7fe79d2e972173e6e293ebc75032e125025d09c874ac16106d&width=360&height=203&smart=true)
San Francisco 49ers rookie wide receiver Ricky Pearsall has made a surprisingly quick recovery after being shot in the chest during an attempted robbery over the weekend. Initially listed in “stable but serious” condition, Pearsall’s health has improved significantly, with the 49ers announcing his release from the hospital just days after the incident.
The team shared a statement: “He and his family, along with the entire San Francisco 49ers organization, would like to thank the San Francisco Police Department, emergency medical services, doctors, and staff at San Francisco General Hospital.”
Thankfully, the bullet missed his vital organs, allowing Pearsall to recover faster than expected.
Ricky Pearsall eligible for October return
Despite the shocking nature of the injury, Pearsall has already been reported back in the 49ers’ weight room, just two days after the shooting. The rookie has been placed on the reserve/non-football injury list, making him eligible to return by the team’s fifth game of the season, scheduled for October 6 against the Arizona Cardinals.
49ers general manager John Lynch described Pearsall’s recovery as “nothing short of miraculous.” While it’s still uncertain whether he’ll be ready by that game, the fact that he’s made such progress is an encouraging sign for both the team and fans alike. Pearsall’s mother shared that he’s in “good spirits,” and given his quick return to light training, an October comeback looks plausible. However, given the severity of the situation, no one is rushing him back to the field.
The 23-year-old rookie, drafted 31st overall, had been looking promising for the 49ers after a strong collegiate career with Arizona State and Florida. While the shooting was a shocking setback, Pearsall’s rapid recovery offers hope that his NFL debut might still happen this season, potentially against the Cardinals.