The San Francisco 49ers have announced eight roster transactions ahead of the veterans reporting for training camp next week. Notably, six players have been placed on the Active/Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, including wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, offensive lineman Andre Dillard, edge rusher Yetur Gross-Matos, safety Malik Mustapha, wide receiver Ricky Pearsall, and linebacker Curtis Robinson. The PUP list is designated for players unable to participate in training camp due to football-related injuries, but they may return to practice once medically cleared.
The upcoming training camp will feature an adjusted schedule with more breaks than in previous years. Practices are set for Wednesday through Friday next week, followed by a day off on Saturday, and will then resume from July 27 to July 29. A notable shift in this year’s schedule comes in the third block of practice, which will not commence until August 4, suggesting a strategic decision as physicality ramps up.
Ricky Pearsall’s return on August 4 may align with the team’s plans, especially since he was sidelined after tweaking his hamstring. Last year, Pearsall also missed practice time due to a shoulder injury. With the team’s need for his development as a reliable target for quarterback Brock Purdy, the coaching staff might prioritize caution in managing his recovery.
Brandon Aiyuk’s situation isn’t unexpected, as discussions have suggested a possible return from his injury by Week 5, placing additional pressure on Pearsall to quickly adapt to the pro level. Similarly, Yetur Gross-Matos is recovering from “old knee wear and tear,” and head coach Kyle Shanahan indicated confidence in his return for training camp.
Highlighting recovery progress, Malik Mustapha recently shared his training efforts post-surgery, which has created a sense of optimism about his availability for Week 1 of the season. The flexible practice schedule allows the 49ers to ease Pearsall, Gross-Matos, and Mustapha into full football readiness at a suitable pace, reflecting a more adaptable approach to training under Shanahan’s leadership.
Andre Dillard, who recently underwent ankle surgery, is also on the recovery path, with competition brewing for the swing tackle position. Additionally, left guard Ben Bartch and safety George Odum have been placed on the Active/Non-Football Injury list. Bartch, who has shown promise in previous campaigns, faces lingering questions about his health after suffering significant injuries in past seasons.
As the 49ers anticipate training camp, the organization is balancing the need for player development with cautious management of injuries, aiming for a strong roster ready for the upcoming season.