49ers WR Ricky Pearsall Questionable for Divisional Round Clash with Seahawks
SANTA CLARA, Calif., January 17, 2026 – San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall is officially listed as questionable for Saturday night’s NFC Divisional Round playoff game against the Seattle Seahawks as he continues to manage a PCL injury in his right knee. The second-year pro has practiced in a limited capacity this week and expressed optimism about his availability for the 8:00 PM ET kickoff at Lumen Field.
Injury Status and Practice Participation
Pearsall, who aggravated the knee injury in Week 17 against the Chicago Bears, has not played since. He was inactive for the 49ers’ Wild Card victory over the Philadelphia Eagles last Sunday. This week, however, has brought positive signs. After being estimated as a limited participant in Tuesday’s walkthrough, Pearsall practiced in a limited capacity again on Wednesday and Thursday.
“I’m pretty confident,” Pearsall told reporters on Thursday regarding his chances of playing. “I’ve been in every practice this week… This week gave me a little bit more optimism.” He acknowledged the injury limits “any explosive movements,” but said his mindset is to “just say ‘F–k it,’ and go” once on the field.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed the team would not place Pearsall on a strict snap count if he is active, stating, “We would never put a guy on an exact snap count, especially in a playoff game.”
2025 Season Context and Team Need
A return from Pearsall would provide a significant boost to a 49ers passing attack that will be without star tight end George Kittle, who suffered a season-ending Achilles tear in the win over Philadelphia. Pearsall appeared in nine games during the regular season, establishing himself as a reliable target for quarterback Brock Purdy.
His potential presence is even more critical considering the Seahawks’ pass defense, which ranked among the league’s best during the regular season, allowing an average QB rating against of just 61.8.
Key 2025 Regular Season Stats & Advanced Metrics
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 9 |
| Receptions | 36 |
| Receiving Yards | 528 |
| Average Yards per Reception | 14.7 |
| Longest Reception | 45 yards |
| Targets | 53 |
| Catch Rate | 67.9% |
| Average Depth of Target | 13.6 yards |
Player Profile & Measurables
The 31st overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, Pearsall is in his second season out of Florida. At 6 foot 1 inch and 189 pounds, he is an elite athlete, evidenced by his standout performance at the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine where he ran a 4.41-second 40-yard dash and posted a 42-inch vertical jump.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ricky Pearsall’s injury?
Pearsall is dealing with a PCL (Posterior Cruciate Ligament) sprain in his right knee, which he aggravated in Week 17. He is also managing a minor ankle issue.
Did Ricky Pearsall play last week?
No. Pearsall was inactive for the 49ers’ Wild Card playoff game against the Philadelphia Eagles on January 11, 2026.
What happens if Ricky Pearsall can’t play?
In Pearsall’s continued absence, veterans Demarcus Robinson and Kendrick Bourne would see increased snaps alongside primary wide receiver Jauan Jennings. Skyy Moore and Malik Turner would also be available in the receiver rotation.
When will a final decision on his status be made?
The 49ers will release their inactive list approximately 90 minutes before kickoff (around 6:30 PM ET on Saturday, January 17). That is when his official status for the game will be confirmed.