The San Francisco 49ers enter training camp with Super Bowl aspirations after a disappointing season that left questions about their offensive identity.
With Robert Saleh back as defense coordinator, and a mix of young talent with seasoned veterans, the organization believes this roster can return to playoff contention.
The offseason brought significant changes, most notably the trade of Deebo Samuel, which created a void at wide receiver.
Now, there is already unwelcome news regarding two key players who were expected to help fill that gap.
“Ricky Pearsall, Brandon Aiyuk land on 49ers’ PUP list,” Pro Football Talk wrote on X.
Ricky Pearsall, Brandon Aiyuk land on 49ers’ PUP list. https://t.co/2a1PNT0an9
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) July 18, 2025
Aiyuk remains sidelined while recovering from the ACL and MCL injury he suffered in Week 7 of last season.
Meanwhile, Pearsall, who missed OTAs with a hamstring injury, has encountered another setback that landed him on the Physically Unable to Perform list.
The timing creates additional complications for an already thin position group.
With Samuel now with the Washington Commanders and Jauan Jennings looking for a new contract, the 49ers are counting on Pearsall making a significant second-year jump.
Aiyuk’s continued absence eliminates a proven explosive playmaker, placing immediate pressure on rookie Jordan Watkins and veteran Demarcus Robinson to step up early in camp.
Andre Dillard, Yetur Gross-Matos, Malik Mustapha and Curtis Robinson also are on the PUP list, creating depth issues across multiple positions.
The positive news centers around quarterback Brock Purdy and running back Christian McCaffrey reportedly feeling great heading into camp.
However, with the receivers severely compromised, head coach Kyle Shanahan may need to adjust his preseason plans and rely heavily on tight ends and running backs to shoulder the load until the wideouts return.
