San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan is pleased with the progress of first-round draft pick Ricky Pearsall. The rookie wide receiver made his NFL debut in Week 7 against the Kansas City Chiefs, a significant achievement considering it was just seven weeks after being shot in the chest during a robbery attempt.
On Sunday against the Dallas Cowboys, with Brandon Aiyuk out for the rest of the season, he recorded three receptions for 21 yards, bringing his season total to seven catches for 59 yards through two games. While the numbers aren't overwhelmingly impressive, his return to the field is remarkable considering the adversity Pearsall has faced.
After Sunday night's 30-24 victory, Pearsall expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play the sport he loves, previously admitting that he questioned whether his dream of playing in the NFL would survive after the terrifying August 31 incident. Sunday's game was his first under the bright primetime lights.
"It was amazing," Pearsall said of the experience. "Obviously, having the lights on like that and the sun down, that was really awesome for me—good scenery, good environment, a lot of energy from the fans. That was my first one, so I was excited to be out there and enjoying the moment with everybody."
Shanahan is optimistic, noting Pearsall's steady growth since returning to the field.
"You could see it in practice," Shanahan said during a Monday conference call. "You see it really each practice with Ricky, just because he has been so limited in his stuff. But he picks it up fast.
"His stamina gets better and better, and he just, he's got a real natural feel for the game, and now it's about just getting a feel within our offense. And I think it's gotten better each week."
Pearsall echoed Shanahan's sentiments, noting he felt more in sync with the game plan against the Cowboys than he did in his debut against the Chiefs—a sign that he's becoming increasingly comfortable in his role.
"I think I'm going to get even more comfortable [in the] weeks to come," Pearsall shared. "I've only had really like four full-speed practices in total, because you really only get like two full-speed practices throughout the week, so it's only up for me."
The 49ers will enjoy a much-needed bye week before returning to action to prepare for their November 10 road matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.