In a surprising move during the 2024 NFL Draft, the San Francisco 49ers selected Florida Gators wide receiver Ricky Pearsall with the No. 31 pick. Considered a mid-round selection by draft pundits, the choice raised eyebrows among many football fans. However, as the post-draft process unfolds, the 49ers' decision to pick Pearsall is gaining praise, with even Baltimore Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta expressing his admiration.

DeCosta, speaking about sleepers in the draft, highlighted Pearsall as one of those players, expressing his hope for the Florida wideout to be available to the Ravens "at some point." Despite not being considered a highly sought-after player, DeCosta lauded the 49ers' selection, calling it a "great pick." He emphasized that Pearsall impressed with his skills on tape and could have been a sleeper pick for the Ravens.

Ultimately, the Baltimore Ravens decided to go with Clemson cornerback Nate Wiggins as their first-round pick at No. 30. However, they didn't draft a wide receiver until the fourth round, selecting North Carolina's Tez Walker with the No. 113 pick.

Pearsall, who was the sixth receiver chosen in the draft, following players like Marvin Harrison from Ohio State, Malik Nabers from LSU, Rome Odunze from Washington, Brian Thomas Jr. from LSU, and Xavier Worthy from Texas, was claimed by the 49ers at No. 31. This selection continued the trend of teams focusing on wide receivers, with the Carolina Panthers, Buffalo Bills, Los Angeles Chargers, and New England Patriots all choosing players at the same position within the next six picks.

As the NFL Draft unravels, it is becoming clear that the 49ers had a strategic plan in mind when they picked Ricky Pearsall. While it may have surprised some at the time, the wide receiver's potential is gaining recognition by both the media and fellow industry professionals. Pearsall's journey will certainly be one to watch as he embarks on his NFL career with the San Francisco 49ers.