The San Francisco 49ers were hopeful that wide receiver Ricky Pearsall would return to practice this week after missing two games with a knee injury. However, Pearsall did not participate in Wednesday's session. With two more practices scheduled before Sunday's matchup against the Atlanta Falcons, his status remains uncertain.
General manager John Lynch addressed the situation during an interview with Bay Area radio station KNBR on Thursday, clarifying that Pearsall's injury has not worsened.
"I don't think worse than we initially thought," Lynch explained. "I think we all know that wide receiver is a tough spot, with certain injuries, to come back. You've got to be able to run full speed. You've got to be able to get in and out of breaks, and that demands a lot of your body. And Ricky is doing the best he can to get back out there. We'll see if he can get out there later this week."
Jauan Jennings injury update
With Pearsall sidelined, Lynch noted that other receivers have stepped up. Additionally, Jauan Jennings returned to action on Sunday despite battling multiple injuries. Jennings revealed he has dealt with both high- and low-ankle sprains, a shoulder issue, and even five broken ribs.
Jennings was listed as a limited participant in Wednesday's practice.
"Jauan hasn't practiced in a long time," Lynch noted. "He's worked some practices in on Friday because he's been working through some things with his body, and it's hard to play that position and not practice. And so, it was great to see him out there and get a good day of work in."
Lynch also addressed the sideline confrontation between Jennings and head coach Kyle Shanahan before halftime in Sunday's game.
"I think two passionate people trying to win a game, and sometimes those things happen," Lynch said.
He added, "I kind of like it. I like that will, and they figured it out, and we move on."
Brandon Aiyuk injury update
Lynch also provided a positive update on Brandon Aiyuk, who remains on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list as he recovers from the ACL and MCL injuries suffered in October 2024.
"He's getting closer," Lynch said. "He is getting closer, and I can see that each week. He's better today than he was last week at this time. So, that's all positive, and that's the update."