Kyle Shanahan Impressed by Chemistry Between Purdy and this player During 49ers training

The San Francisco 49ers’ offseason workout program is in full swing, and head coach Kyle Shanahan is taking note of the budding connection between quarterback Brock Purdy and rookie wide receiver Ricky Pearsall.

Purdy, who has been participating in organized team activities (OTAs), has developed a noticeable chemistry with Pearsall, the team’s first-round draft pick. Shanahan highlighted the synergy between the two during a recent mandatory minicamp session.

“It’s been exciting to watch both of them,” Shanahan remarked about Purdy and Pearsall. “Brock doesn’t always see how the route develops, but he knows when receivers end up in the right spot and make the catch. That’s crucial for quarterbacks, and it seems like he already trusts Ricky to be in the right place.”

Pearsall has made the most of his opportunities, particularly with key wide receivers Jauan Jennings and Brandon Aiyuk missing portions of OTAs. Jennings was absent due to contract negotiations, which have since been resolved, extending his tenure with the 49ers through the 2025 NFL season. Aiyuk was absent altogether, giving Pearsall significant practice reps with Purdy.

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With Jennings now back, Pearsall will be vying for the No. 3 wide receiver role alongside “Third-and-Jauan,” a nickname highlighting Jennings’ clutch performance on third downs. Shanahan praised Pearsall’s performance, noting his reliable hands and ability to correct mistakes quickly.

“Yeah, he’s doing a great job,” Shanahan said of Pearsall. “His hands are exceptional, so drops are rare. We’re giving him a lot of reps across different routes and positions, and he’s been impressive from the start.

Pearsall’s connection with Purdy isn’t surprising given their history. The two faced off in high school, where Pearsall recognized Purdy’s potential early on.

“[Purdy] was definitely under-recruited for the talent he had,” Pearsall told 95.7 The Game. “He should have been a high recruit based on his performances … Seeing him play firsthand, I knew he had something special.”

As the 49ers’ Faithful eagerly await to witness the Purdy-to-Pearsall connection in live games, they’ll have to rely on Shanahan’s observations for now. This burgeoning partnership could become a significant asset for the 49ers as they prepare for the upcoming season.