Deebo Samuel Expresses Concern Over Pearsall's Season-ending Injury

WHO:

Heavy NFL - Deebo Samuel expressed strong support for Ricky Pearsall, stating, "I’m gutted for him."

San Francisco Chronicle - General manager John Lynch described Pearsall as "a really good football player, really an important member of our team, an impactful player."

Heavy NFL - Deebo Samuel expressed familiarity with the 49ers organization upon his return, stating, "It kind of felt like I didn't even go anywhere... I know the people here. The staff's still the same."

49ers.com - Defensive coordinator Raheem Morris referred to Deebo Samuel as "the ultimate piece that can move around," highlighting his versatility.

49ers.com - Deebo Samuel Sr. was back on the practice field for the first time since the 2024 season.

49ers.com - Defensive coordinator Raheem Morris referred to Deebo Samuel as "the ultimate piece that can move around."

Heavy NFL - Ricky Pearsall, Deebo Samuel, San Francisco 49ers

49ers.com - Deebo Samuel Sr., LB Dre Greenlaw, QB Mac Jones, TE Luke Farrell, TE Jake Tonges, TE Brayden Willis, RB Christian McCaffrey, FB Kyle Juszczyk, CB Upton Stout, CB Renardo Green, CB Jack Jones, DL Osa Odighizuwa, DL Alfred Collins

San Francisco Chronicle - Ricky Pearsall

San Francisco Standard - Chris Foerster, Christian Kirk, De’Zhaun Stribling

WHAT:

San Francisco Standard - Pearsall's surgery on his posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) is scheduled for later this month.

San Francisco Standard - Lynch indicated that Pearsall's recovery could last from six to 12 months, with a best-case scenario of being available for some 2027 offseason activities.

San Francisco Standard - General manager John Lynch stated that the 49ers anticipate a nine-month recovery for Ricky Pearsall after his surgery on the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL).

San Francisco Standard - Lynch mentioned that Pearsall's surgery is considered more technically demanding than ACL operations, with recovery timetables ranging between six and 12 months.

San Francisco Standard - Deebo Samuel Sr. caught his first pass during 11-on-11 drills from QB Mac Jones.

San Francisco Chronicle - Ricky Pearsall will undergo surgery on his posterior cruciate ligament (PCL).

49ers.com - General manager John Lynch stated that the 49ers anticipate a nine-month recovery for Pearsall.

Heavy NFL - The San Francisco 49ers announced that Ricky Pearsall's 2026 NFL season is over due to a posterior cruciate ligament injury in his right knee.

49ers.com - The 49ers placed Ricky Pearsall on season-ending injured reserve.

49ers.com - Deebo Samuel Sr. signed a one-year contract with the 49ers.

San Francisco Standard - Deebo Samuel is expected to fill the flanker position previously held by Pearsall.

WHERE:

49ers.com - SAP Performance Facility, Levi’s Stadium, San Francisco

WHEN:

Heavy NFL - The announcement regarding Pearsall's injury was made on August 1, 2026.

49ers.com - The 49ers held their second padded practice of Training Camp on a Saturday.

San Francisco Standard - The first padded practice occurred on a Friday.

WHY:

San Francisco Standard - General manager John Lynch explained that the decision to go with a non-operative route for Pearsall's injury was made after seeking multiple opinions.

Heavy NFL - Pearsall's injury has been described as season-ending, which has prompted the 49ers to make roster adjustments.

San Francisco Standard - The 49ers needed to sign Deebo Samuel to replace the injured Pearsall due to ongoing injury issues within the wide receiver group.

HOW:

The New York Times - Lynch noted that Deebo Samuel appeared to be in "really good shape" during his first practice back with the 49ers.

San Francisco Standard - Lynch indicated that Deebo Samuel's role will include being utilized in the return game, at receiver, and at running back, stating, "What we envision is you are going to see him in the return game, at receiver, and at running back."

49ers.com - Lynch indicated that Deebo Samuel's role will include being utilized in the return game, at receiver, and at running back.

49ers.com - Deebo Samuel Sr. participated in practice and caught a pass from QB Mac Jones during drills.

San Francisco Standard - The 49ers rushed to sign Deebo Samuel after observing Pearsall's inability to complete practices.

In a show of solidarity, Deebo Samuel expressed his strong support for Ricky Pearsall, saying, "I’m gutted for him," as the team prepares for Pearsall's upcoming surgery on his posterior cruciate ligament, scheduled for later this month. General manager John Lynch described Pearsall as "a really good football player" and emphasized his importance to the team, while also noting that recovery could take between six to 12 months, with a hopeful return for some offseason activities in 2027. Meanwhile, Lynch mentioned that Deebo Samuel looked to be in "really good shape" during his first practice back with the 49ers.