When Is Ricky Pearsall Coming Back? Fantasy Football Injury Return Update

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall was shaping up to be one of the more intriguing rookies at his position this year. Selected late in the first round, Pearsall was pushing to be the No. 3 receiver in one of the NFL's best offenses.

However, a scary situation unfolded on Saturday evening, leaving Pearsall seriously injured and possibly costing him the first few weeks of his NFL career.

When can fantasy football players expect Pearsall to step back onto the field? Let’s dive into Pearsall's health and fantasy outlook for the 2024 season.

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Latest News On Ricky Pearsall

Pearsall was shot during an armed robbery attempt in San Francisco on Saturday evening. The suspect reportedly tried to steal Pearsall's wristwatch, and as an interaction ensued, both Pearsall and the suspect were shot.

A bullet from the gun struck Pearsall and went through his chest, exiting out the other side. Pearsall was reported to be in serious but stable condition. He's fortunate that the bullet missed vital organs, allowing him to avoid a potentially life-threatening emergency.

The receiver was taken to the hospital where he was awake and lucid while medical professionals treated his wound. He was ultimately discharged from the hospital on Sunday, less than 24 hours after the shooting.

Pearsall has since been placed on the non-football injury list, which means he'll be held out of game action for at least four weeks while he recovers and re-acclimates to the NFL.

The 49ers have placed Ricky Pearsall on NFI (non-football injury list).

That move opens up a 53-man roster spot, which the 49ers are using to sign offensive tackle Brandon Parker — who was with the team this preseason and is needed tackle depth with Trent Williams holding out

— David Lombardi (@LombardiHimself) September 2, 2024

Should Fantasy Football Players Draft Ricky Pearsall In 2024?

Even prior to Saturday's horrific incident, Pearsall was headed for the No. 3 receiver role in San Francisco. While his talent and upside are undeniable, it was going to be difficult for him to carve out a fantasy-relevant role as long as Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel Sr. were healthy.

The added element of Pearsall missing at least four weeks decreases his redraft value even further, especially when you consider he probably won't be ready to return as soon as he's eligible in Week 5. San Francisco will certainly take its time before activating Pearsall to ensure that he's ready to return, both physically and mentally.

Fantasy managers should avoid drafting Pearsall in 2024 redraft leagues. Not only will his extended absence and recovery lead to a decline in his value, but so will his role behind Aiyuk and Samuel when he does get back on the field.

An update on Ricky Pearsall. pic.twitter.com/aoF2s9Ztcm

— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) September 1, 2024

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