The San Francisco 49ers wrapped up their third open practice of training camp on Wednesday. Some good things happened, but there was also some bad news to start off the day. Here are some of the top storylines from day three of 49ers training camp.
Ricky Pearsall is injured…again
Pearsall was sidelined Wednesday with swelling in the same knee that suffered a PCL injury last season. Vic Tafur reported, "Ricky Pearsall out with knee swelling. There is some concern." Matt Maiocco later reported the swelling is related to Pearsall's 2025 PCL injury and that he is being evaluated. Matt Barrows added that the 49ers are exploring options, including the possibility of surgery.
That possibility would be significant news. Physical therapist Jeff Mueller explained on X why recurring swelling is concerning after a PCL injury. "PCL injury leads to joint laxity (unstable joint), leading to shear forces across the joint during impact/high load activity (cutting, running, etc.) that cause swelling & irritation," he wrote.
Mueller added that the injury has continued to flare up since late last season and suggested that if rehabilitation and PRP treatments have failed, surgery could ultimately be the only solution. If that happens, Pearsall could miss the entire 2026 season. The 49ers will certainly hope it doesn't come to that, but the situation bears watching closely.
Demarcus Robinson takes advantage of the opportunity
With Pearsall unavailable, veteran Demarcus Robinson wasted little time making his presence felt. Brad Graham wrote on X, "Demarcus Robinson has had a very strong day so far. He is the WR who has stepped up the most in Ricky Pearsall's absence through the first team period."
OurSF49ers echoed those observations. "Demarcus Robinson had a great day at camp and saw his most usage with all the injuries at WR during camp. Robinson was active showcasing ability to make catches at all levels."
Robinson proved to be a reliable contributor late last season, and if Pearsall misses significant time, the veteran could once again play an important role in Kyle Shanahan's offense.
Injury list continues to grow
The 49ers also announced that rookie running back Jordan James suffered a rib fracture during Monday's practice, while safety Malik Mustapha is dealing with a hamstring strain. Both injuries come at unfortunate times. James has been competing with Kaelon Black for the number two running back job behind Christian McCaffrey, while Mustapha is battling Ji'Ayir Brown and Marques Sigle for a starting safety spot.
Those names join an already lengthy injury list that includes Christian Kirk (calf), Gracen Halton (knee), Andrew Farmer (back), and Vederian Lowe (ankle).
Oh, and then there's the head coach who is still on the injury list.
Romello Height returns
There was at least one positive injury update on Wednesday. Rookie defensive end Romello Height returned to practice after leaving Monday's session with what was later determined to be severe leg cramps. Height also debuted a new jersey number, switching from number 94 to number 58.
Renardo Green keeps winning
Few players have generated more buzz during camp than cornerback Renardo Green, and Wednesday was no exception. Brad Graham highlighted another standout rep: "Brock Purdy launched a beautiful deep ball to Mike Evans with Renardo Green in coverage, but it was Green who stopped the catch. Great play by the 3rd year corner vs future hall of famer."
Green has consistently challenged receivers throughout camp and continues building momentum heading into the preseason.
Brock Purdy delivers his best practice yet
Despite the growing list of injuries around him, Purdy enjoyed one of his strongest performances of training camp. Barrows charted Purdy at 14-of-18 during team drills, writing, "A solid practice by Brock Purdy, who I had as 14-of-18 in team situations. DeMarcus Robinson, De'Zhaun Stribling and Jordan Watkins stood out at different points."
Purdy looked decisive, accurate, and comfortable pushing the ball downfield despite two of his top receiving options being unavailable.
De'Zhaun Stribling keeps building momentum
No rookie has helped himself more than rookie De'Zhaun Stribling. ESPN's Nick Wagoner believes Wednesday was another step forward. "Rookie De'Zhaun Stribling was already making a positive first impression, and that continued on Wednesday," Wagoner wrote on X. "He's fast but has a smooth speed that seems to allow him to accelerate and decelerate with little issue. He's also big enough and unafraid to go over the middle."
Wagoner credited Stribling with five catches, including an impressive high-point reception over the middle from Adrian Martinez. He also suggested that if Pearsall misses time, the 49ers could use Christian Kirk or Demarcus Robinson at the "Z" receiver position while allowing Stribling to handle the "Y" role.
Stribling has already been one of training camp's biggest surprises, and Pearsall's absence could create even more opportunities for the rookie to establish himself.
Jordan Watkins is quietly impressing
Jordan Watkins may not be receiving as much attention, but his consistent production shouldn't be overlooked. OurSF49ers noted: "Jordan Watkins has quietly put together a solid training camp through 3 days. Had several catches on the day and continued to work his tail off."
If Pearsall misses extended time, Watkins could benefit in the competition for a roster spot.
Jacob Cowing shows signs of progress
Third-year receiver Jacob Cowing also enjoyed his best practice of camp. OurSF49ers wrote: "Jacob Cowing put together his best day of camp today, coming up with multiple catches. Cowing definitely was making the most of his opportunities and taking advantage of the injuries at WR."
Even Wagoner, who has been more critical of Cowing's camp performance, acknowledged Wednesday's improvement. "After a strong spring, it's been tougher sledding for Jacob Cowing in the first few days," Wagoner stated. "He's had multiple passes thrown his way broken up or intercepted… Today was better for Cowing, but getting him the ball without having to scheme it up has been a challenge so far in this camp."
With the receiver room suddenly thin, every productive practice matters.
Defense continues setting the tone
The 49ers' defense once again generated splash plays. According to Wagoner, Dre Greenlaw was around the football early, recovering and possibly forcing a McCaffrey fumble during team drills. Cornerback Jack Jones also continued his strong camp by intercepting Mac Jones on a pass intended for Jacob Cowing. The defense has consistently made plays through three open practices, and Wednesday was no different.
The 49ers are off on Thursday. They'll be back at practice on Friday and will be in full pads for the first time this training camp.
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