In a recent press conference, 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan shared some promising news regarding one of the team’s key rookies. According to David Bonilla of 49erswebzone.com, Shanahan revealed to reporters that receiver Ricky Pearsall is set to make his return to practice on Monday.
Pearsall, who was San Francisco’s first-round pick, has been nursing a shoulder injury that dates back to his college days. However, Shanahan expressed optimism after the preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders, stating that Pearsall’s ability to practice is a positive sign for his availability in Week 1.
Despite Pearsall’s impending return, the 49ers are facing some injury concerns on the defensive front, particularly at the edge rusher position. Both Leonard Floyd and Yetur Gross-Matos sustained knee sprains in the game against the Raiders. Floyd is listed as day-to-day, while Gross-Matos’ status is week-to-week. Shanahan remains hopeful that Gross-Matos won’t require a stint on injured reserve.
“We’ll see how this week goes, and hopefully, he’ll have a chance to get back in practice next week for Week 1,” Shanahan remarked. “But no, we haven’t mentioned anything about IR.”
Furthermore, safety Talanoa Hufanga, who is on the mend from a torn ACL, may potentially begin the season on the physically unable to perform list. Shanahan emphasized that a decision regarding Hufanga’s status needs to be finalized before Wednesday’s practice session.
To add to the injury woes, linebacker Dee Winters sustained an ankle injury in the final preseason matchup, prompting the team to await the results of his MRI examination. The 49ers are keeping a close eye on Winters’ condition as they prepare for the upcoming season.
As the regular season draws near, the 49ers find themselves navigating through a slew of injury concerns across multiple positions. Despite the setbacks, Shanahan and his coaching staff remain focused on getting their players healthy and ready for the challenges that lie ahead on the gridiron.