After trading down twice and eventually out of the first round of the 2026 NFL draft, the San Francisco 49ers selected Ole Miss wide receiver De’Zhaun Stribling with the first pick on Day 2.
At that point, the 49ers were mocked for taking Stribling, as many viewed the selection as a reach with some projecting the former Rebel to make it to Day 3.
However, it’s clear than San Francisco believes in his ability, which was on display in the teams first organized team activities recently. The 49ers’ content team even put together some highlights from his work on the field at their SAP Performance Facility.
Heading into 2026, San Francisco’s wide receiver room should be an interesting competition. Mike Evans will be at the top of the depth chart, but every other spot should be open. Ricky Pearsall is probably expected to fall right behind Evans, but after suffering multiple injuries last year, there are some questions.
If Stribling shows out through training camp, he could earn real opportunities in Week 1. If he doesn’t he could find himself behind Evans, Pearsall and Christian Kirk.
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This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: Watch 49ers rookie WR De’Zhaun Stribling light it up at first OTAs
Reporting by Mike Masala, Niners Wire / Niners Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Mike Masala, Niners Wire | USA TODAY Network
