49ers rookie receiver De’Zhaun Stribling makes a strong first impression
De’Zhaun Stribling Establishes Himself as 49ers Rookie Sensation
Early Success Silences Draft Skeptics
Bharatmorningnews.com – When the San Francisco 49ers selected De’Zhaun Stribling with the opening choice of their second-round selection in April, several observers questioned the move. More proven collegiate wideouts remained available when the Niners made their call. However, Stribling’s showing during training sessions and his exhibition game performance has largely addressed those concerns.
Against Tennessee on Thursday evening, the rookie accumulated seven receptions for 63 yards in under half of playing time. His performance notably surpassed that of Carnell Tate, who entered the league as the fourth overall selection and top receiver chosen this year.
Focused on Personal Growth
Stribling recognizes the five receivers selected before him in the draft, yet maintains his attention on his own development throughout the summer. He envisions playing a significant part for San Francisco as a first-year player.
“I know who was taken ahead of me, but I just see it as this is my journey,” Stribling explained following the contest. “My journey is my journey. I’m not going to look at someone else’s journey, Because once I do that, I’m not going to be grateful or happy of where I’m at. So I’m just making the most out of my opportunities and what’s given to me.”
Exhibition Game Highlights
Stribling’s exhibition debut began with immediate impact, securing a six-yard reception from Kurtis Rourke on his opening snap. He later dropped a slightly misplaced third-down pass and suffered five yards on a pop pass attempt. However, he subsequently dominated the final two drives, converting all five targets.
Among his most notable receptions was a difficult contested grab on a 32-yard deep throw along the sideline. He also produced an 11-yard catch-and-run on third-and-six, breaking a tackle while maintaining inbounds position to set up a scoring opportunity.
“I was just a little excited, a little nervous,” Stribling noted. “But kind of getting the first hit out the way, the first catch out the way, you start getting into a groove and everything starts rolling.”
College Journey and Physical Tools
Stribling’s collegiate path took him through four programs. He began at Washington State for two seasons before transferring to Oklahoma State for another two years. He concluded his college career at Ole Miss last season, where he recorded 55 receptions for 811 yards and six touchdowns while helping lead the Rebels to the College Football Playoff semifinals.
San Francisco valued Stribling enough to select him 33rd overall. Training camp has showcased his combination of speed and hands, particularly his ability to create separation. Backup quarterback Mac Jones has been impressed with his athletic profile.
“I call him the ‘Flyin’ Hawaiian’ because he’s so fast,” Jones observed. “But he definitely is fast, but some guys, they can be really quick, but they’re not as strong, so he has both. I don’t have a comp for him yet, but I think he’ll be a really good player. … Just the way he got to the ball when it’s in the air was impressive. He has like a second gear when the ball’s in the air. Some guys are really fast, but when the ball goes up and your eyes go up, you slow down, but he doesn’t do that, so it’s pretty impressive.”
Building Chemistry and Looking Ahead
Stribling has emerged as one of training camp’s positive developments for San Francisco, generating big plays nearly daily while developing rapport with his quarterbacks, including starter Brock Purdy. He began working with the team immediately after being drafted and traveled to Tennessee with Purdy and Jones during the pre-camp break to accelerate his integration.
The Niners anticipate immediate contributions from Stribling, particularly following the loss of projected starter Ricky Pearsall to season-ending knee surgery early in camp. While San Francisco added Mike Evans through free agency in March and re-signed Deebo Samuel at the start of camp, Stribling appears positioned to join the rotation quickly.
Despite missing several practices due to a tight hamstring, he has demonstrated readiness for increased responsibility. Head coach Kyle Shanahan expressed confidence in his progress.
“He’s handling it well,” Shanahan commented after the game. “It was tough when he got hurt. He missed that week. Now he’s been back for a week. Hopefully he can string together two more of these weeks, because he’s going about it the right way and as long as he gets those reps and continues to do what he’s been doing, he should be ready for the season.”
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