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Ricky Pearsall’s PCL Tear Ends 2026 Season

8/14/2026

29 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Ricky Pearsall had knee surgery, ending his 2026 season.
The posterior cruciate ligament tore on Sept. 28 versus Jacksonville and worsened after training-camp swelling.
He plans a nine-month rehab to return for 2027.
He posted 67 catches, 928 yards and three touchdowns in 20 games.
The 49ers must decide on his fifth-year option as their receiver group now includes Mike Evans, Christian Kirk and rookie De’Zhaun Stribling.

History

Historical Context

In 1999 the 49ers saw veteran Jerry Rice miss four games with a knee injury, finishing 4-12 and forgoing a $12 million extension—a pattern the franchise repeats today as rookie Ricky Pearsall’s 2026 posterior cruciate ligament tear limits him after 928 yards and three touchdowns. The team now balances veterans Mike Evans and Christian Kirk while navigating contract decisions shaped by those past injury-driven overhauls.

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Story summary

Ricky Pearsall had knee surgery, ending his 2026 season.
The posterior cruciate ligament tore on Sept. 28 versus Jacksonville and worsened after training-camp swelling.
He plans a nine-month rehab to return for 2027.
He posted 67 catches, 928 yards and three touchdowns in 20 games.
The 49ers must decide on his fifth-year option as their receiver group now includes Mike Evans, Christian Kirk and rookie De’Zhaun Stribling.

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