The 2025 NFL season kicks off this week, with an exciting matchup on Sunday as the San Francisco 49ers take on the Seattle Seahawks in an NFC West rivalry at 4:05 PM on Fox.
After falling short of a Super Bowl appearance due to injuries last season, the 49ers ended up with a disappointing 7-10 record. This year, the offense welcomes back several familiar faces, including second-year wide receiver Ricky Pearsall, who is projected to be a significant contributor. His average draft position (ADP) ranges from 34-38 among receivers across multiple scoring formats, which has left fantasy managers optimistic about him being a valuable flex option.
Let’s delve into Pearsall’s fantasy outlook for the first week.
Fantasy Football Analysis: 49ers WR Ricky Pearsall
Pearsall was the top pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, garnering a lot of attention leading into his rookie season. He faced an unexpected hurdle, being shot during an attempted robbery just days before the season started. Remarkably, he was able to make his debut in week seven, managing to secure 31 targets for 400 yards and three touchdowns.
With Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk both recovering from injuries, Pearsall is in line to play a crucial role this season. Signs point to his growing importance in the offense, as noted by Jeremy Wohlfart from Niner Noise, indicating that three of five preseason targets were directed at second-year wide receivers, suggesting a developing trust going into 2025. San Francisco has established an effective passing attack with Purdy as the starter in recent seasons, making this a pivotal year for Pearsall’s managers.
Should you start or sit him in the first week of standard/PPR league?
Start. The urgency is palpable as the 49ers seek to make an early impact in the first game of the season. I expect Purdy to look for Pearsall frequently, so it makes sense for fantasy managers to pencil him into their lineups right away.
