49ers rookie Ricky Pearsall recovers from gunshot wound

On Sunday, San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall was discharged from the hospital after surviving an apparent gunshot wound to the chest during an attempted robbery. Although his vital organs were unharmed, Pearsall is still recovering from the traumatic incident, which involved a 17-year-old holding him at gunpoint, as reported by San Francisco police.

Medical experts have expressed surprise at Pearsall's swift release from the hospital. According to doctors from Stanford and UCSF, gunshot wounds to the torso or chest are often life-threatening or instantly fatal. The fact that Pearsall was released so quickly suggests that his recovery may last weeks instead of many months. Sports medicine doctor Jesse Morse has estimated that Pearsall could be sidelined for four to eight weeks as he recovers from the gunshot wound, not accounting for any psychological recovery that may be necessary.

Impact on the 49ers' Roster and Offense

If Pearsall is unable to play for several weeks, the 49ers are likely to move him to the Non-Football Injury (NFI) list. This designation is applicable to injuries or illnesses that occurred outside of football and/or away from team facilities. Players placed on the NFI list are required to miss four games and do not count toward the active 53-man roster. Therefore, if he is placed on the NFI list, Pearsall would not be able to make his NFL debut until at least Oct. 6, when the 49ers host the Arizona Cardinals in Week 5.

Ricky Pearsall's absence would have an immediate impact on the 49ers offensive lineup. The team would continue to rely on standout veteran receivers Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk, along with accomplished tight end George Kittle, as primary targets for quarterback Brock Purdy. Other players likely to see increased offensive opportunities include veteran reserve Jauan Jennings, journeyman backup Chris Conley, and fourth-round rookie Jacob Cowing.