After a joint practice and an NFL preseason matchup against one another, Tennessee Titans coach Robert Saleh has seen plenty of 49ers rookie De’Zhaun Stribling.
“That Stribling kid is going to be pretty good,” Saleh proclaimed to reporters after Tennessee’s 19-13 win over San Francisco at Levi’s Stadium. “He’s a big, strong receiver.”
Stribling recieved a lot of attention on social media after showing out in his first preseason game Thursday night.
Stribling recorded seven receptions for 63 yards in his debut, including some impressive contested catches. The buzz surrounding Stribling has been imminent since he was selected in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft, and this is only the beginning of his coming-out party.
“The quarterback did a good job giving [Stribling] a chance, and he won some 1-on-1s,” Saleh continued. “I’d love to tell you no concern, but there’s a sense of urgency that we get it fixed and we continue to put our guys in those situations and practice so that we can continue to get that work. We’ll never panic, but urgency will always be high.”
Five wide receivers were selected before the Ole Miss alum, including Carnell Tate, Jordyn Tyson, Makai Lemon, KC Concepcion and Omar Cooper Jr. — bulletin board material for Stribling as he navigates through his rookie season.
Coach Kyle Shanahan has a history of making rookie receivers earn their playing time. Jordan Watkins had trouble staying on the field last year, only playing in four games and recording two receptions all season.
Stribling hopes to change the narrative and be an impact player for the 49ers this season, and Saleh is lucky that Thursday night was the last time he’ll have to worry about the 23-year-old for the rest of the year.
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