49ers Rookie Wide Receiver Ricky Pearsall Injured in Attempted Robbery

San Francisco 49ers rookie wide receiver Ricky Pearsall will miss at least four games after being shot in a robbery attempt on Saturday. The incident occurred in the Union Square area of San Francisco, shortly after 3:30 p.m. local time.

San Francisco 49ers rookie wide receiver Ricky Pearsall is facing a significant setback after being shot in a robbery attempt on Saturday. The team has placed Pearsall on the non-football injury list, ruling him out for at least four games.

According to San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott, the incident unfolded as Pearsall was walking alone in the Union Square area when a 17-year-old suspect approached him with a gun and attempted to steal his Rolex watch. A struggle ensued, during which multiple shots were fired, striking both Pearsall and the suspect.

49ers Rookie Wide Receiver Ricky Pearsall Injured in Attempted Robbery

Pearsall sustained several injuries to his chest and was transported to a local hospital, where he underwent surgery. He was released on Sunday and is currently recovering from his wounds. The suspect was also taken into custody and is facing charges related to the robbery and shooting.

Pearsall, a highly touted prospect, was drafted by the 49ers in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft with the 31st overall pick. He was expected to play a significant role in the team's offense this season.

49ers Rookie Wide Receiver Ricky Pearsall Injured in Attempted Robbery

The shooting has sent shockwaves through the 49ers organization and the NFL community. Team officials have expressed their support for Pearsall and condemned the violence.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Ricky and his family," said 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan. "We are all thankful that he is recovering and we will do everything we can to support him during this difficult time."

49ers Rookie Wide Receiver Ricky Pearsall Injured in Attempted Robbery

Pearsall's mother, Erin Pearsall, shared an update on her son's condition on Sunday, expressing gratitude for his survival.

"He is extremely lucky, GOD shielded him. He was shot in the chest and it exited out his back. Thanks be to GOD it missed his vital organs," she wrote on social media.

49ers Rookie Wide Receiver Ricky Pearsall Injured in Attempted Robbery

The shooting has also raised concerns about the safety of professional athletes in major cities. Similar incidents involving NFL rookies have occurred in recent years, including the shooting of Washington Commanders running back Brian Robinson Jr. in 2022.

The 49ers are optimistic that Pearsall will make a full recovery and return to the field this season. However, the extent of his injuries and the potential for long-term effects remain to be seen.

In the meantime, the team will look to fill the void left by Pearsall's absence. Veteran wide receivers Brandon Aiyuk, Deebo Samuel, and Jauan Jennings are expected to play key roles in the offense, while younger players like Danny Gray and Malik Turner will have opportunities to prove themselves.

The 49ers open their season on Sunday, September 10, against the Chicago Bears.