Niners first-round pick WR Ricky Pearsall has been getting first-team action during OTAs, thanks at least in part to WR Brandon Aiyuk's absence. Multiple reports have Pearsall performing well, showing good route-running and hands. (We credited him for the same in his prospect profile.) Pearsall might have a shot at the team's No. 3 WR role, although the 49ers recently re-signed WR Jauan Jennings to a two-year contract with $15.4 million in total money and nearly $8.5 million in guarantees.
49ers HC Kyle Shanahan said Tuesday, according to The Athletic: “It’s been fun to watch both of them." (Referring to Pearsall and QB Brock Purdy.) “Brock doesn’t always get to watch how the route gets there. But he knows when guys end up in the right spot. That’s when quarterbacks get comfortable, and I think he can make that throw with Ricky right away. He’s been getting to the right spot. And when he has made a mistake, he understands it and corrects it. I think that so far those guys have had a lot of fun working together.”
David Lombardi of The Athletic: "Ricky Pearsall was again getting consistently open at 49ers practice. He’s looked good every single time we’ve seen him on the field since the draft."
San Francisco sure seems like it re-signed Jauan Jennings to be the No. 3 WR -- after drafting both Pearsall and Jacob Cowing at the position. We'll see whether Pearsall can challenge that, but it's tough to bet on the rookie cracking that trio right away.
Unless the 49ers trade Brandon Aiyuk or Deebo Samuel, Pearsall will likely have trouble finding fantasy relevance in 2024.
Early work with the starting QB can only help Pearsall's long-term outlook. Ultimately, though, some good OTA sessions shouldn't alter the rookie's dynasty valuation.
We should get a better look at his anticipated role (and depth-chart mobility) as the 49ers get into full-team sessions. Aiyuk's strained contract negotiations might delay that. Though his further absences would also give Pearsall more first-team reps.
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