49ers rookie Ricky Pearsall shot during attempted robbery in San Francisco
San Francisco 49ers rookie wide receiver Ricky Pearsall was shot on Saturday afternoon in an attempted robbery, confirmed by the office of Mayor London Breed.
The 49ers stated that Pearsall suffered “a gunshot wound to his chest” and is currently in “serious but stable condition.”
According to the San Francisco Police, Pearsall and the alleged shooter – a 17-year-old currently in custody with charges pending – were both injured during a physical confrontation that followed the attempted robbery. Both were promptly taken to San Francisco General Hospital.
Decisions on charges for the suspect, which will be filed in juvenile court, are anticipated by Tuesday or Wednesday, as stated by San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins during a press conference on Saturday night.
Pearsall had previously attended an autograph signing event at the Cow Palace in Daly City earlier that same day.
The 49ers selected Pearsall with the 31st overall pick in the first round of the NFL draft in April. He excelled at the University of Florida last season, recording 65 receptions for 965 yards and four touchdowns. In 2022, he made the transition to Florida from Arizona State, where he played from 2019 to 2021.
Pearsall missed three weeks of practice in August due to a dislocated left shoulder but made his return to action on Monday.
Although Pearsall’s selection by a team already featuring star players such as Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel was unexpected for many, 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan expressed that they recognized in Pearsall a receiver who could enhance the offense both now and in the future.
“He just plays the position exceptionally well,” Shanahan remarked in May. “Whether he’s outside or inside, at any of the three receiver positions, he can create separation downfield and underneath. He possesses great hands, is very intelligent, and has a well-rounded skill set. He can adapt to whatever role is needed alongside the other players.”
Contributing: Casey Moore