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49ers Rookie De'Zhaun Stribling Switches to No. 7 as Fans Tie It to Viral Impersonator

A routine jersey change has drawn broad social‑media attention because the number matches one used by a man recently arrested for posing as an NFL player.

Overview

  • The 49ers confirmed several post‑roster jersey shifts on Monday, August 31, including rookie wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling changing from No. 15 to No. 7.
  • Fans and commentators quickly linked Stribling’s new number to Daejon Love, who prosecutors say posed as a 49ers player and was arrested in late August on federal fraud charges.
  • Federal reports cited in coverage say Love allegedly defrauded roughly 26 to 27 victims of about $1.3 million by claiming to be an NFL player for several years.
  • Stribling was the 33rd overall pick in the 2026 draft and showed strong preseason production, leaving him positioned for early snaps after injuries in the 49ers receiver corps.
  • Other team moves announced with the number changes included Jacob Cowing to No. 4, Demarcus Robinson to No. 11, and the trade acquisition Jarrett Patterson, who will wear No. 58.