Since returning from a PCL injury, San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall has totaled just five receptions for 20 yards on nine targets over three games. Expectations were that he would have a breakout 2025 season.
49ers Shed Light on Ricky Pearsall’s Struggles After Injury Comeback
Pearsall has been unable to find a rhythm since opening the season with two 100-yard outings in his first three games. 49ers offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak cited circumstances rather than performance as the main factor.
Kubiak said, per 49ers Webzone: “It’s circumstantial. I think every game’s different. I think you go back, the Arizona game, I think, was his first game back, and we targeted him a lot, and there was coverages that dictated where the ball went.”
Kubiak also spoke about specific situations from the Week 12 matchup against the Carolina Panthers. He said, “I think Carolina, we did target him a handful of times, and QB Brock Purdy missed a few throws on a couple, and we got into a situation where we were trying to run the ball in the fourth quarter.”
Pearsall has yet to score a touchdown this season and offered his own assessment of the lack of production. He said, “I think it’s just the game itself. Being a receiver, sometimes the ball doesn’t come your way.”
He added, “There’s different coverages that have got to be right. [The quarterback has] got to be able to see you. You’ve got to beat your defender. There’s a bunch of variables that go into being open, and getting the ball thrown to you, and making a play.”
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Despite his struggles since returning from injury, the 49ers remain confident in the second-year wideout’s potential and play. Pearsall flashed during training camp and earned strong trust from Purdy.
According to PFSN’s WR Impact metric, Pearsall has a 78.3 impact score with 25 receptions on 38 targets. He also has 347 receiving yards, and the 49ers rank 10th with an 81.2 impact score in PFSN’s Offense Impact, behind the New England Patriots.
Pearsall and Purdy have both managed injuries this season, and rebuilding their chemistry will require time. For Pearsall, the experience has reinforced the importance of patience and focus in his approach on the field. He maintains confidence that his opportunity will come and intends to be prepared when it does. The 49ers are scheduled to play at home Sunday against the Tennessee Titans.