The San Francisco 49ers will start training camp with two of their top wide receivers listed on the active/physically unable to perform (PUP) list. On Friday, the team confirmed that WRs Ricky Pearsall and Brandon Aiyuk wouldn’t participate in training activities due to ongoing recovery.
Pearsall, 24, suffered a minor hamstring injury in May during the offseason, with initial expectations that he would be ready for camp. Meanwhile, Aiyuk remains on the PUP list as he continues to heal from torn ACL and MCL injuries in his right knee sustained during a 28-18 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.
Last season, Pearsall recorded 31 receptions for 400 yards and three touchdowns across 11 games (including four starts). He was anticipated to have a bigger role in the offense, especially as Deebo Samuel dealt with injuries and Aiyuk worked his way back. Pearsall made his NFL debut last season despite a gunshot wound injury in Week 7 and missed time during training camp due to hamstring and shoulder issues.
Jauan Jennings, a fifth-year wide receiver seeking a new contract, stands to benefit most from Pearsall’s absence. Jennings has expressed a willingness to be traded if a new deal isn’t reached, and with Pearsall and Aiyuk sidelined, Jennings gains significant leverage. Last season, Jennings was the 49ers’ second-leading receiver, tallying 77 catches for 975 yards and six touchdowns. He is entering the final year of his contract, set to earn $7.5 million.
Additionally, offensive lineman Andre Dillard, defensive lineman Yetur Gross-Matos, safety Malik Mustapha, and linebacker Curtis Robinson join Pearsall and Aiyuk on the active/PUP list. Offensive lineman Ben Burtz and safety George Odham are on the active/non-football injury list.
Players on the active/PUP list can be activated during training camp but are initially deemed not ready for practice. Those who remain on the reserve/PUP list when rosters cut to 53 players must miss at least four regular-season games.
Veterans will begin training camp on Tuesday, and the 49ers will face the Denver Broncos in a preseason game on August 9th.
Fan Take: This news is significant for NFL fans because it highlights the challenges teams face with player injuries right before the season, emphasizing the importance of depth in team rosters. For the sport, it shows how crucial timing and player health are in shaping team dynamics and potential success throughout the season.
