Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk send heartfelt messages to Ricky Pearsall after shooting

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall was shot in the chest during an attempted robbery in Union Square late Saturday afternoon, multiple reports confirmed.

Pearsall was on his way to a book signing when an assailant tried to steal his Rolex watch. Board of Supervisors Chairman Aaron Peskin said Pearsall fought back after being shot, according to the San Francisco Chronicle. The alleged robber was shot in the hand or arm during the altercation, presumably with his own gun.

Video from KTVU showed Pearsall walking to the ambulance. Pearsall was taken to San Francisco General Hospital where his injuries were treated. Police detained and arrested the suspect. He was also treated at the same hospital.

Following the news that Pearsall was in stable condition, 49ers wide receivers Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk shared their support and well wishes for their teammate on social media.

“Great news,” Aiyuk posted after learning that his teammate was in stable condition.

“He’s fine,” Samuel posted. “Thank God!!!!!”

The 49ers selected Pearsall with the No. 31 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Although the 23-year-old is expected to be the third wide receiver on the roster, Aiyuk’s contract negotiations almost pushed the newcomer into a significant role as a rookie.

Pearsall participated in six of 19 training camps and missed all three preseason games due to hamstring and shoulder injuries. He returned to practice last week and practiced on Monday, but continued to wear a non-contact jersey with one sleeve over his left shoulder during the final practice of the week on Thursday, according to the San Francisco Chronicle.

Pearsall never missed a game during his college career, playing in all 55 games over five seasons at Arizona State and Florida.

The 49ers organization released a statement expressing their thoughts and prayers for Pearsall and his family.

“San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall was the victim of an attempted robbery and shooting this afternoon,” the 49ers said in a statement. “He suffered a gunshot wound to the chest and is in serious but stable condition. We ask that you please respect his privacy at this time. Our thoughts and prayers are with Ricky and the entire Pearsall family.”