Keep an eye on San Francisco 49ers rookie wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling in 2026. The second-round pick has enjoyed a strong training camp—aside from a brief absence due to hamstring tightness—and is emerging as a candidate to make an immediate impact in his first NFL season.

In fact, Bleacher Report's Zach Buckley named Stribling one of his three fantasy football sleepers, suggesting the 49ers rookie could deliver noteworthy production.


While Ricky Pearsall's season-ending setback related to the PCL injury he sustained last season is disappointing, it could create more opportunities for Stribling to do something 49ers rookie wide receivers have rarely done under head coach Kyle Shanahan: play significant snaps.

"Rookie receivers haven't always had the easiest time finding the field under Kyle Shanahan, but Stribling could be a mold-breaker," Buckley wrote. "His blend of speed and route-running feel like perfect system fits, and the Niners need to improve their yards after catch.

"With Ricky Pearsall out for the season, and Mike Evans already battling the injury bug, opportunity could knock early and often for Stribling."

Evans is dealing with a quad strain that isn't expected to be a long-term issue. However, with Stribling back from his own setback, the rookie could see more practice opportunities as the 49ers continue preparing for the 2026 season.

The 49ers made Stribling their top pick at No. 33 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. He has showcased big-play ability throughout training camp, drawn frequent targets from the team's quarterbacks, and demonstrated reliable hands.


If that progress continues, Stribling could develop into a dependable weapon for quarterback Brock Purdy as the 2026 season progresses.

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