49ers rookie Pearsall embraces building a connection with Purdy originally appeared in NBC Sports Bay Area
The chemistry between the quarterback and wide receiver is essential to the success of an NFL offense, a fundamental principle that is not lost on the 49ers 2024 first-round draft pick Ricky Pearsall.
After Friday training camp practicethe rookie detailed how he’s trying to build a connection on and off the field with third-year quarterback Brock Purdy.
“It was a pleasure. Obviously he’s one of the best QBs in the league right now,” Pearsall said. “Coming into a system with a quarterback like that is a huge blessing for me. It made everything easier, just fighting with him every day. every day.
“You know, going up to him and just having a normal conversation like, ‘What can I improve?’ Just asking questions about the playbook and getting feedback from the quarterback, because once you see it through the quarterback’s lens, it makes it a lot easier as a receiver, so continue to develop that trust and connection with him.
“He’s one of the best defenders in the league.”
Ricky Pearsall is embracing his connection with Brock Purdy on and off the field pic.twitter.com/WbIegZ11Mt
– 49ers on NBCS (@ NBCS49ers) August 2, 2024
Pearsall missed the first block of training camp – four practices in total – while recovering from a hamstring injuryleaving the rookie with the difficult task of not falling behind while the rest of the 49ers offense gets into rhythm.
Coach Kyle Shanahan praised Pearsall’s work ethic during his recovery from injury, revealing he is pleased with the progress the No. 31 overall pick has made so far.
“I do. … It’s hard when you have a hammy and you have to be very smart to get it back,” Shanahan told reporters after Friday’s practice. “We eased him in – he got through it really well. He’s been very diligent with his rehab and stuff. I know his reps went up a little bit more today, but it was a down day overall and I think tomorrow will be a challenge.” much bigger. It’s a superior practice. We have individual meetings tomorrow. But I’m very happy with his progress so far.”
Purdy expressed a similar sentiment, acknowledging Pearsall’s continued growth while also detailing the importance of ensuring the young wide receiver continues to get reps moving forward.
“I think he’s getting better, just more comfortable in our offense, but I think we need more reps to throw him the ball, we need more opportunities and looks,” Purdy told reporters after Sunday’s practice. I’m confident in that. But the last few days I’ve been trying to get him the ball and stuff, and if he’s trying to get held or trying to get in and out of cuts, sometimes it’s difficult in training because you don’t always get the cleanest look, so you’re trying to make this happen.
“But he’s doing a good job. He’s getting the playbook. He’s learning really well and learning from what we did in OTAs. Then he had a little hamstring setback, so we just have to get back on track with that, but I’m confident we will.”
Pearsall’s ability to contribute immediately is of even greater importance as Brandon Aiyuk remains absent from practice as contract negotiations between the All-Pro receiver and the 49ers continue standing still.
The rookie could be heavily supported in his first NFL season regardless of how the Aiyuk situation plays out, but for now, Pearsall is focused on strengthening his bond with Purdy, hopefully creating a connection that will fuel San Francisco’s offense for the next few years. years.
