49ers News: Excited to learn more about these rookies

TL;DR

The 49ers are excited about rookie receiver Stribling, who brings speed and blocking skills to the team. His performance in college and fit within the offense has generated optimism among fans and analysts.

Key points

Stribling is a rookie receiver for the 49ers.
He has strong run-after-catch ability and is an elite blocker.
Stribling ran a 4.36-second 40-yard dash.
He is seen as a replacement for Deebo Samuel and Jauan Jennings.
Stribling's best route is the dig with an 83.3% success rate.

San Francisco 49ersStriblingDeebo SamuelJauan Jennings

MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - JANUARY 01: Jacob Rodriguez #10 and Romello Height #9 of the Texas Tech Red Raiders lines up against the Oregon Ducks during the fourth quarter of the 2025 College Football Playoff Quarterfinal at the Capital One Orange Bowl at Hard Rock Stadium on January 01, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) | Getty Images

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“I thought Stribling would be a perfect fit for the 49ers because of his ability to run after the catch, and he’s the best blocking receiver in the draft, both skills that former 49er Jauan Jennings was adept at. Stribling averaged 7.3 yards after the catch, which was slightly higher than Omar Cooper Jr., whom many regarded as the best YAC receiver in the draft.

I’m sure coach Kyle Shanahan envisions Stribling as a supercharged version of Jennings. Jennings was a big possession slot receiver, whereas Stribling can play outside and win deep with speed and physicality at the catch point. According to Matt Harmon’s reception perception, Stribling’s best route is the dig (83.3 percent success rate), a prominent route in Shanahan’s offense and one of Brock Purdy’s favorites. Stribling will give the 49ers a physical runner after the catch, one they really don’t have after moving on from last season and Jennings this season, and with tight end recovering from tearing an Achilles tendon in the playoffs.”

Q&A

What skills make Stribling a good fit for the 49ers?

Stribling is known for his ability to run after the catch and is the best blocking receiver in the draft, making him a valuable addition to the 49ers' offense.

How fast did Stribling run the 40-yard dash?

Stribling ran a 4.36-second 40-yard dash, showcasing his impressive speed for a player of his size.

What impact could Stribling have on the 49ers' offense?

Stribling is expected to provide a physical runner after the catch, filling a gap left by Deebo Samuel and Jauan Jennings, and complementing Brock Purdy's passing style.