San Francisco 49ers rookie wide receiver Ricky Pearsall is in serious but stable condition after being shot in an attempted robbery at Union Square on Saturday.
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Latest updates on Ricky Pearsall
The 23-year-old, who was the team’s first-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, was targeted by a 17-year-old assailant who attempted to steal his Rolex watch.
A struggle ensued, leading to both Pearsall and the suspect being shot.
Pearsall’s mother, Erin, took to social media to share a hopeful update on her son’s condition.
“He was shot in the chest and it exited out his back,” Erin posted, according to David Lombardi of TheAthletic.com.
“Thanks be to GOD it missed his vital organs. He is in good spirits right now.”
The San Francisco 49ers released a statement shortly after the incident, confirming that Pearsall is receiving medical care and remains in a serious but stable condition.
According to a report from San Francisco Supervisor Aaron Peskin’s office, the suspect, who was also shot during the altercation, was wounded by his own firearm.
With the NFL season just days away, the timing of the incident is especially unfortunate for Pearsall, who has already faced a string of injuries during the preseason.
Pearsall missed all three preseason games due to a hamstring injury and a shoulder subluxation, which kept him sidelined for nearly three weeks.
Despite his injuries, Pearsall had been eager to make his mark on the 49ers’ offense before this tragic event unfolded.
Chad Ochocinco: You can buy another Rolex
The incident has sparked discussions within the NFL community about the importance of valuing life over material possessions.
Shannon Sharpe and Chad ‘Ochocinco’ Johnson addressed the situation on their recent episode of the Nightcap Show.
Johnson remarked, “There’s another lesson in this. Nothing is worth your life. You can buy another Rolex. If someone trying to take your car, you can buy another car.”
Sharpe echoed this sentiment, noting that while it’s understandable to want to protect one’s belongings, life should always take precedence.
Johnson also emphasized that the risk of escalating a situation isn’t worth the potential consequences, stating, “Yes, If somebody come up to you and say let me get whatever is off of you. You already know they holding.”
Sharpe, who has also experienced dangerous situations in the past, added a touch of humor, saying, “If you ever saw Shannon Sharpe with less than ten bands on him, call the cops. Somebody just robbed him right around the corner.”
The 49ers faithful remain optimistic, waiting for more updates on Pearsall’s condition and his potential return to the gridiron.
For now, the rookie wide receiver is focused on recovery, with his family and the entire NFL community rallying behind him.
