Overview
- The team announced Saturday, August 1, 2026 that general manager John Lynch confirmed Pearsall will undergo surgery to repair a posterior cruciate ligament and be placed on season-ending injured reserve.
- The decision followed months of non-operative care and swelling that returned after two training-camp practices, prompting further evaluation by team and independent doctors.
- Medical timelines published by the team and reporters put recovery at roughly six to 12 months, which is why the 49ers expect Pearsall to be cleared to play in 2027.
- San Francisco has moved quickly to replace his role by re-signing Deebo Samuel and leaning on veteran additions Mike Evans and Christian Kirk plus rookie De'Zhaun Stribling for depth in the 2026 offense.
- Pearsall’s early career has been repeatedly disrupted by injuries and missed games, a pattern that raises long-term questions about his availability and the team’s contract decisions while he completes surgery and rehab.