Overview
- The San Francisco 49ers used the No. 33 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft on Ole Miss wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling.
- The franchise publicly defended the choice with coach Kyle Shanahan and GM John Lynch saying they graded Stribling as a higher-value player on their board.
- Reports from multiple outlets say NFC West rival the Los Angeles Rams and other teams had interest in Stribling before San Francisco selected him.
- Teammates including Kyle Juszczyk and Brock Purdy praised his 6-2 frame, 4.36 40-yard dash and physical willingness to block during OTAs and rookie work.
- By late July his reputation has shifted from a draft-day surprise to a legitimate sleeper candidate for early playing time with a clear path to more snaps if injuries or roster changes create openings.