PCL swelling in training camp signals likely 2026 season loss if surgery required.

San Francisco 49ers WR Ricky Pearsall suffered a PCL injury in 2025 that re-aggravated after initial recovery, and knee swelling emerged during the first two days of 2026 training camp despite expectations the injury would heal on its own during the offseason. Matt Maiocco reports the latest developments "don't look good"; if surgery is required, Pearsall will miss the entire 2026 season. The 49ers made a calculated decision to avoid early offseason surgery in hopes of natural healing, but the swelling setback has forced reconsideration. Maiocco states it is "reasonable, rational, logical, for the 49ers to not expect Ricky Pearsall to make any contribution in 2026."