Ricky Pearsall’s life-or-death moment last year fueling a formal comeback, he reframes the shooting with a focus on growth and positivity. He returned to the field in 50 days and finished his rookie season strong, positioning himself for a de facto No. 1 role in San Francisco as injuries bite Aiyuk and Jennings. Offseason work with Purdy sharpened timing and route discipline, while Pearsall contemplates forgiveness and a potential face-to-face with the shooter someday.

As the Niners brace for Seattle, Pearsall’s improved camp and chemistry with Purdy suggest a real ceiling. The offense demands precision and timing, and Pearsall has made himself the embodiment of resilience and progress, a beacon for fantasy managers eyeing a late-career breakout.