
Neville backs Howe as Merson says Chelsea would take him 'all day long'
Neville and Merson support Howe as Newcastle faces challenges.
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.
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.”
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.
Stribling ran a 4.36-second 40-yard dash, showcasing his impressive speed for a player of his size.
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.

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“The 49ers’ still-good-but-getting-geriatric offense desperately needed an infusion of speed. And Stribling ran a 4.36-second 40-yard dash that’s even more impressive given his size (Note: Boston isn’t known for his wheels and passed on running a pre-draft 40). Stribling had strong production at Power 5 schools, was one of 16 draft prospects given the 49ers’ gold-helmet designation for qualities such as work ethic and character and is an elite run blocker.”
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49ers’ George Kittle offers cautious update on potential training camp return after Achilles injury
“Let’s not get too far ahead of ourselves,” Kittle said. “Let’s just—we’ll dip our toes back in a little bit slower than that. But, hey, who knows? Miracles have happened.”
Despite the cautious tone, Kittle emphasized that his recovery is trending in the right direction.
“Achilles is doing great,” Kittle said. “We’re 13 weeks out of surgery. I think I’m ahead of schedule. My surgeon’s super happy with it. So, we’re on track to play a lot of football next season. So, I’m in a great place.”