Florida Gators react to Ricky Pearsall's return to the field after shooting incident
GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Ricky Pearsall bet on himself and returned for his senior season with the Florida Gators in 2023. His 65 receptions for 965 yards, along with his performances at the Senior Bowl and NFL Scouting Combine propelled him to a first-round pick. The San Francisco 49ers selected Pearsall with the 31st overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft — the fifth consecutive year the Gators have had a first-round pick.
Pearsall joined a loaded 49ers receiving room but one that he would get the opportunity to compete in. That was until August 31, 2024, when Pearsall found himself fighting for his life. Pearsall was shopping in downtown San Francisco on Geary Street. A 17-year-old suspect allegedly attempted to rob Pearsall of his Rolex watch, a struggle ensued and Pearsall was shot in the chest.
It was thanks to the quick action from first responders and a little bit of luck that Pearsall was not gravely wounded. ESPN reporter Lindsey Thiry did a wonderful report on those first responders here.
“Obviously wanted to say that our thoughts and prayers are with Ricky Pearsall and his family,” Florida Gators head coach Billy Napier said on September 2, just days after the shooting. “Obviously a difficult thing to go through there. But we are glad that he’s feeling better, that he’s stable and on his way back to a full recovery.”
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Pearsall spent just one night in the hospital, being released on September 1. He started the season on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. Pearsall was officially activated on October 15 in order to play week seven.
Pearsall played 76% of the team’s snaps in his season debut. He hauled in seven passes on nine targets in those two games for 59 yards, an average of 8.43 yards per catch. On Sunday Night Football, against the Dallas Cowboys, Pearsall had his breakout game. he hauled in four passes for 38 yards on four targets while rushing for 39 yards on an end-around, that helped seal the game.
“We’re proud of Ricky. Obviously been through some challenges and adversity there. First of all, we’re glad he’s healthy. I think that paints a picture of perspective that we all got to evaluate practice. But Ricky did it right when he was here,” Billy Napier said on Monday. “I think he was a great teammate. He did things with class. Prepared the right way. Was a very productive player and leader for us. And got better every day. His work ethic was second to none. He’ll be a great pro. Obviously now that he’s back in the lineup he’ll get better each week. There is no question about it.”
