The San Francisco 49ers' receiving corps will look different next season than it has in the past few years.
After spending the first six seasons of his career with the 49ers, wide receiver Deebo Samuel was traded this offseason to the Washington Commanders. With Brandon Aiyuk also slowly making progress toward a return after suffering a torn ACL and MCL last season, San Francisco has a lot of openings at receiver.
The 49ers drafted wide receiver Ricky Pearsall in the first round last year, and now the young receiver is set to have a major role in the team's offense, according to NBC Sports' Matt Maiocco.
"Wide receiver Deebo Samuel was traded to the Washington Commanders, and Brandon Aiyuk’s status remains in question for the early stages of the season," Maiocco wrote. "Aiyuk is working out as he returns from surgery to repair a torn ACL in his right knee. The 49ers invested a first-round draft pick a year ago in wide receiver Ricky Pearsall."
"Purdy will look to build chemistry and a connection with Pearsall, whom the 49ers envision as a player who can generate consistent separation against man coverage. Pearsall finished the season strong with 14 catches for 210 yards and two touchdowns in Week 17 and 18 games against Detroit and Arizona. The 49ers’ offense needs Pearsall to carry that momentum over to his second season as a pro."
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Pearsall appeared in 11 games for the 49ers last season after being shot in an armed robbery attempt and missing the first six games of the season. The 24-year-old receiver excelled with San Francisco, catching 31 passes for 400 yards and three touchdowns, and finished the season strong. If Pearsall can pick up where he left off, he could make a huge impact for the 49ers next season.
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