Ricky Pearsall explains how Brock Purdy has helped him hit the ground running in 49ers practices

After missing the start of training camp with a hamstring injury , San Francisco 49ers first-round pick Ricky Pearsall picked up where he left off in OTAs and minicamp, catching the eye and receiving praise.

Asked on Friday if he liked the trajectory of the 31st overall pick, whose selection raised eyebrows in some corners, head coach Kyle Shanahan said:

"I do. It’s been great to always, it’s tough when you have a hammy and you have to be very smart getting him back. We’ve eased him in, he’s gone through that real well. He’s been real diligent with his rehab and stuff. I know his reps went up a little bit more today, but it was a low day overall and I think tomorrow will be a much bigger challenge. It’s a higher practice. We have one-on-ones tomorrow. But I’ve been real happy with his progress so far."

Previously during OTAs and minicamp, Shanahan had praised Pearsall for his speed in developing a rapport with quarterback Brock Purdy.

Pearsall also spoke to the media on Friday, and revealed how Purdy has played an instrumental role in his seemingly rapid progress.

"It's been a pleasure [working with Purdy]," said Pearsall.

"Obviously he's one of the top quarterbacks in the league right now. Going into a system with a quarterback like that, it's a great blessing for myself, it's made everything easier just chopping it up every day. His locker's actually right next to mine so I get to talk to him each and every day.

"Going up to him and just having a normal conversation like 'what can I get better at?' and just asking him questions about the playbook and getting feedback from the quarterback. Once you start seeing the game through a quarterback's lens it just becomes that much easier for a receiver."

Pearsall's comments fly in the face of those who suggest the 49ers' passing game success is simply a product of Kyle Shanahan's system and nothing to do with Purdy.

In his time as 49ers starter, Purdy has demonstrated an ability to elevate those around him and build a considerable rapport with each of his playmakers.

Putting Pearsall's locker next to that of his quarterback is a smart move that already appears to be paying off. There were some who suggested the 49ers might have reached for Pearsall when they took him with the penultimate pick in the first round. It appears, though, that Purdy is set to play a big role in helping Pearsall produce to a level that will prove such doubters wrong.

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