Newest Addition to the Faithful: 49ers Select De’Zhaun Stribling at No. 33
The San Francisco 49ers kicked off Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft with a splash, selecting Ole Miss wide receiver De’Zhaun Stribling with the 33rd overall pick. …
Stribling, a 6-foot-2, 207-pound playmaker, brings a wealth of collegiate experience. Having played at Washington State, Oklahoma State, and finally Ole Miss, he finished his college career with an impressive 261 receptions for 2,964 yards and 23 touchdowns. His 2025 season with the Rebels was particularly standout, helping lead the team to the College Football Playoff semifinals.
At the NFL Scouting Combine, Stribling turned heads by blazing a 4.36-second 40-yard dash and posting a 36-inch vertical jump. This elite speed and "above-the-rim" ball tracking make him a perfect fit for Kyle Shanahan’s system, which prioritizes separation and yards after the catch.
With the team moving on from Brandon Aiyuk, Stribling joins a revamped receiving corps featuring veterans Mike Evans and Christian Kirk, alongside 2024 first-round pick Ricky Pearsall. Stribling’s ability to win downfield and his reputation as a competitive run blocker suggest he won’t just be a depth piece—he’s a Day 1 contributor.
The 49ers have effectively turned their draft capital into a high-upside starter. Welcome to the Bay, De’Zhaun!
