Scouting Future Saints: Ole Miss wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling

Stribling was only able to play in four games during the 2023 season because of a hand injury. He'd bounce back in the Cowboys wide open attack in 2024, leading the team with 882 yards through the air while catching 52 passes for 6 scores. After that season, he landed with the Mississippi Rebels via the transfer portal. Stribling was a major part of the Ole Miss attack and crucial in their CFP run. He had 55 receptions for 811 yards and led the team with 5 touchdowns through the air.

Strengths

• Nice size and speed combination
• Crisp route runner with sharp breaks
• Strong acceleration into routes
• Makes good read adjustments to coverages
• Extends well to make catches outside his frame
• Creates downfield separation with burst and long stride

Weaknesses

• Doesn't consistently make the play in traffic
• Hasn't shown the quickness to get immediate separation
• Must be more physical to combat press
• Needs to be more aggressive when finding the open spot in zones

De'Zhaun Stribling 2026 draft outlook

Projections for De'Zhaun Stribling are erratic; anywhere from a second round selection to being available early into the third day. While not mentioned often enough in national circles, Stribling is an all-around talent that will contribute to an offense in several ways. He might need to add some strength and will need to slip press coverage better, but has shown that he can be a playmaker at all three levels of the field.

New Orleans desperately needs more playmakers for quarterback Tyler Shough. Adding at least one more receiver will also free up more opportunities for Olave. Stribling, no matter what round he's drafted, should be able to be at least a productive third receiver in quick fashion and may round into a quality number two in a timely manner.

This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: 2026 NFL Draft: Ole Miss WR De'Zhaun Stribling scouting report