Pearsall praises Deebo’s mentorship in rookie 49ers season

SANTA CLARA — After Ricky Pearsall's breakout performance in the 49ers' 40-34 loss to the Detroit Lions, the rookie wide receiver credited veteran Deebo Samuel as an influential mentor on his path. After overcoming incredible obstacles during his rookie season, Pearsall was a bright spot in San Francisco's final home game of the 2024 NFL season. The Florida product finished the game with eight receptions on 10 targets for 141 yards and a touchdown and. Throughout all the ups and downs, Samuel has been Pearsall's support. "Specifically in the receivers room, Deebo has been a tremendous support to me and a great leader for me to come into to room like that," Pearsall said after the game. "I just want to make sure that he feels appreciated because he should. I appreciate him greatly. He's been tremendous for me." It has been a challenging journey for Pearsall, who missed much of the offseason program due to shoulder and hamstring injuries before he even could get started. Then, before kick off of Week 1, Pearsall suffered a gunshot wound during a failed robbery attempt, which sidelined the receiver for the first six games of the season. "I think the biggest thing that I've noticed...