Ricky Pearsall Injury Update: Will 49ers WR Play vs Buccaneers in Week 6?

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall is uncertain for Week 6 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after missing last week’s matchup with a knee injury. The talented second-year receiver has been a bright spot in the 49ers offense, but lingering concerns over his recovery could impact both San Francisco’s game plan and fantasy football lineups across the league.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan told reporters that Pearsall is still being evaluated and his participation in practice this week will determine his status for Sunday. With multiple 49ers pass catchers already nursing injuries, Pearsall’s situation has become one of the key storylines heading into Week 6.

Ricky Pearsall Injury Update and Recovery Timeline

Pearsall missed the 49ers’ Thursday Night Football game against the Los Angeles Rams due to what he described as “instability” in his knee. Subsequent reports confirmed that the wideout is dealing with a minor PCL sprain, though the team has not indicated the injury is season-threatening. The short turnaround before Week 5 kept him sidelined, but the extended rest could provide enough time for recovery.

According to Pro Football Network, the rookie wideout has yet to participate in full-speed practice this week. Kyle Shanahan stated that while Pearsall “feels better,” the team will be cautious and won’t rush him back until he regains full stability in his knee. As of Thursday, he remains a game-time decision heading into the weekend.

This season, Pearsall has caught 20 of 29 targets for 327 yards, leading all 49ers wide receivers in receiving yards. Only running back Christian McCaffrey has more receiving yards on the team (387). Pearsall’s impact as a deep threat—averaging nearly 16 yards per catch—has made him a valuable weapon for quarterback Brock Purdy when healthy.

Fantasy Football Outlook for Week 6

Pearsall’s knee injury complicates his fantasy outlook heading into Week 6. While he has proven to be an explosive option with a 15.9-yard average depth of target (aDOT), his reliance on quick cuts and downfield acceleration raises concerns about his effectiveness if he’s not fully healthy. Fantasy analysts, including Kyle Soppe of PFSN, advise managers to stay cautious: “I’d rather be a week late than a week early in starting him again.”

If Pearsall is ruled out, expect Kendrick Bourne and Jauan Jennings to absorb a larger share of the passing targets. Tight end George Kittle may also see increased involvement in intermediate routes, particularly with Brock Purdy managing his own toe injury this week.

For fantasy players, Pearsall should remain on benches unless he practices in full before Sunday. In deeper leagues, stashing him for later weeks could prove wise, as he remains one of San Francisco’s most efficient playmakers when active.

How Pearsall’s Absence Affects the 49ers’ Offense

Without Pearsall, the 49ers’ offense risks losing its vertical threat element, especially with Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel still working through minor ailments. Pearsall’s chemistry with Purdy has helped stretch defenses and open space for McCaffrey underneath. His absence could allow defenses like Tampa Bay’s to crowd the line of scrimmage and force the 49ers into shorter, more predictable passing patterns.

Should he remain sidelined through Week 6, the 49ers will likely continue to rely heavily on McCaffrey’s dual-threat ability and shorter passes to control possession. With the team aiming to keep pace atop the NFC standings, Pearsall’s recovery will be closely monitored leading into Week 7.

In summary: Ricky Pearsall’s injury status remains questionable for Week 6. While optimism exists for a short recovery, fantasy managers and 49ers fans alike should prepare for another absence as the team prioritizes his long-term health.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is Ricky Pearsall’s current injury status?

He is recovering from a minor PCL sprain in his knee. His Week 6 status against the Buccaneers is questionable and will depend on practice participation.

Q2: Did Ricky Pearsall play in Week 5?

No, Pearsall missed Week 5 against the Rams due to knee instability and was held out for precautionary reasons.

Q3: What are Ricky Pearsall’s stats this season?

Pearsall has 20 receptions for 327 yards and leads all 49ers wide receivers in receiving yards through four games.

Q4: Who replaces Pearsall if he’s ruled out?

Kendrick Bourne and Jauan Jennings are expected to see more snaps, while George Kittle could get increased short-yardage targets.

Q5: Should fantasy managers start Ricky Pearsall in Week 6?

Only if he returns to full practice and is cleared before Sunday. Otherwise, it’s safer to bench him until Week 7 or later.