Youth Movement at Receiver
The San Francisco 49ers' wide receiver room has a new look heading into the 2026 season, headlined by six-time Pro Bowler Mike Evans, who was signed to a three-year, $42 contract in free agency. But during training camp and preseason play, it's a rookie who has captured attention: De'Zhaun Stribling.
The 49ers beat the Los Angeles Chargers 41-17 in their second preseason game, and Stribling turned in a standout performance with four receptions for 46 yards. Jordan Watkins added three catches for 41 yards, and Jacob Cowing provided the game's highlight with an 83-yard punt return. As reported by Sports Illustrated, the team's young receivers have made a case for more playing time as the regular season approaches.
Stribling's Rise
Stribling spent time at three different schools in college, but his final season at Ole Miss put him on the NFL radar. In 15 games, he caught 55 passes for 811 yards and six touchdowns, leading the 49ers to select him with the first pick of the second round in the 2026 NFL Draft, as noted by Heavy.
Initially, expectations weren't high for Stribling. Evans is the clear leader of the room, and players like Ricky Pearsall, Christian Kirk, and Demarcus Robinson were in line for snaps ahead of him. But Pearsall is out for the season, and the front office reunited with Deebo Samuel in free agency to fill the void. Evans and Kirk are also dealing with their own ailments, opening the door for Stribling, who is dealing with a shoulder injury but isn't expected to miss much time.
Quarterback Brock Purdy has taken note of Stribling's play. "Obviously really excited about him," Purdy said on "The Pat McAfee Show." "He's a smart kid. He's come in and learned our offense. He's got strong hands. Great route runner ... We're going to have his back this year. It's a long year as a rookie. We get it. But he's shown flashes, and we're all really excited about him."
Veterans and Injuries
Mike Evans has spent the majority of training camp aiding a groin injury, though he has had a few standout days. At 33, the goal is to have Evans at his best toward the end of the season, according to Sports Illustrated. Deebo Samuel has had a few good moments during camp, but the 49ers' youth at the position has stolen the show.
Sports Illustrated's analysis suggests the team needs to give fewer opportunities to veteran receivers like Demarcus Robinson, Malik Turner, KhaDarel Hodge, and Samuel. Robinson has value as a possession receiver and red-zone threat, and Samuel has a strong understanding of the offense and can provide a different element, but Samuel shouldn't assume a starting position. Stribling has been more consistent over camp and has a more expansive route tree.
Other Young Options
Jordan Watkins was buried in the depth chart during his rookie season after suffering multiple hamstring injuries during training camp, but this preseason he's shown the ability to be part of the rotation at receiver. Jacob Cowing has had bad injury luck during his first couple of years in the league but showed his worth as the team has a need at punt returner.
The decision for head coach Kyle Shanahan will be balancing the experience of veterans with the promise of youth. As Sports Illustrated notes, the young receivers may be this season's X factor, and when roster cuts come around, the team might prioritize its youth and developed players.