In recent seasons, the San Francisco 49ers have not typically needed extensive contributions from all their rookies due to their deep and talented roster. However, this year, with injuries impacting the team, the rookies have been required to take on substantial roles, and they have consistently risen to the occasion.
Every player from the 49ers’ 2024 draft class has made an impact at some point this season, except for sixth-round choice Jarrett Kingston, who did not make the final roster. In their 30-24 victory against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday night, first-round pick Ricky Pearsall and fourth-round pick Isaac Guerendo delivered crucial performances. Pearsall recorded four catches for 38 yards and added a 39-yard run, while Guerendo had 85 rushing yards and a touchdown from 14 carries.
Pearsall made his NFL debut just a week before after recovering from a gunshot wound, while Guerendo’s role was initially limited due to the strong performance of Jordan Mason, who has stepped up while Christian McCaffrey deals with Achilles tendonitis. With Brandon Aiyuk sidelined for the season and Mason sustaining a shoulder injury during the game, Pearsall and Guerendo were called upon to help secure the win against the Cowboys.
“That’s an impressive rookie class,” linebacker Fred Warner commented after the game. “It’s a topic that deserves attention.”
Guerendo’s contributions were especially significant on Sunday. He had only received 12 carries in the first five weeks but proved himself in recent games, including a standout performance against the Seahawks. After the game, quarterback Brock Purdy praised Guerendo, highlighting his work ethic and eagerness to learn, noting that he doesn’t let the presence of established players overwhelm him.
Initially, there were uncertainties about what to expect from Guerendo, given the depth in the backfield and his missed preseason time due to a hamstring injury. However, with key injuries to McCaffrey, Elijah Mitchell, and Mason, he has stepped into a more vital role and appears prepared for future challenges. Head coach Kyle Shanahan remarked on Guerendo’s improvement and ability to learn from his experiences, acknowledging his composure as a rookie.
Guerendo is not concerned about a potential reduction in carries when McCaffrey returns, expressing enthusiasm for learning from the veteran. Pearsall, conversely, is only at the start of a more significant role due to Aiyuk’s injury. He noted his increased comfort on the field after more practice time with Purdy.
The 49ers have a rookie guard, Dominick Puni, as a full-time starter, and Malik Mustapha has stepped in for an injured starter at safety. Additionally, second-round pick Renardo Green has made an impact, while Jacob Cowing has contributed as a return specialist, and Tatum Bethune has played a role on special teams. With Pearsall and Guerendo, this rookie class has proven to be an essential asset.
Shanahan mentioned that while they anticipated challenges for rookies in earning starting positions, they also expected them to bolster team depth. The rookies have showcased their capabilities in preseason and have answered the call when needed.
With the 49ers at 4-4 and tied for the lead in the NFC West as the season progresses, there’s hope that their rookie class will continue to develop, especially given the ongoing injury concerns.
“It’s challenging to perform as a rookie in the NFL,” Warner said. “To see them stepping up at such a high level is incredible. They’ve all come in with a great attitude, learning from veterans, and they’ll be crucial in the latter part of the season.”
