JUST IN: 49ers’ Kyle Shanahan finally reveals what impresses him about Ricky Pearsall
San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan recently opened up about what stands out to him about wide receiver Ricky Pearsall, shedding light on why the undrafted rookie has caught his attention during the offseason. Pearsall, a former Arizona State standout, entered the NFL as a long shot, but Shanahan’s comments suggest that the young wideout has made a strong impression in both practice and training camp.
Shanahan highlighted Pearsall’s versatility and work ethic as two of his most compelling traits. Pearsall, who possesses a rare combination of speed, agility, and football IQ, has shown the ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game. His knack for getting open, even against tight coverage, has been evident throughout his time with the 49ers. Shanahan noted that Pearsall’s ability to run crisp routes and create separation, coupled with his ability to track the ball, is something that has stood out to the coaching staff.
Moreover, Shanahan praised Pearsall’s football intelligence. Despite being a rookie, Pearsall has demonstrated a strong understanding of the game, which has allowed him to assimilate into the 49ers’ complex offensive system with relative ease. Shanahan emphasized that the young receiver’s attention to detail and commitment to improving every day is a trait that coaches love to see in a player, especially one who may not have had the same draft pedigree as some of his peers.
Ultimately, Shanahan acknowledged that while Pearsall’s journey to the NFL might be unconventional, his combination of natural talent, hard work, and intelligence has made him a player to watch. While Pearsall may not be guaranteed a spot on the roster just yet, his development throughout the offseason has made it clear that he could play a role in the 49ers’ future plans.