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San Francisco 49ers rookie wide receiver De’Zhaun Stribling has stood out during preseason work ahead of the team’s Week 1 Thursday Night matchup against the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia on September 10. Injuries in the receiving corps have created openings, and Stribling has taken full advantage in practice and preseason action. Quarterback Brock Purdy praised the Ole Miss product directly, saying Stribling will be a big part of the offense this season. Purdy cited the rookie’s playbook retention, consistency in practice, and ability to correct mistakes quickly as reasons for his confidence. De’Zhaun Stribling earns Brock Purdy’s trust ahead of Week 1 The San Francisco 49ers carry high expectations into the new season, and confidence surrounds their offense. Wide receiver De’Zhaun Stribling turned heads during preseason workouts after joining the team as a draft pick out of Ole Miss, following his early college career at Washington State. Stribling also led all receivers in the 49ers’ preseason opener against the Tennessee Titans, catching seven passes for 63 yards in the first half alone against first-team defenders. That performance made him the second receiver in the past decade to record seven catches in the first 20 minutes of a preseason game. The young receiver quickly adapted to a complex offense catching the eye of starting quarterback Brock Purdy. Purdy spoke openly on NBC Sports’ “49ers Talk” showering praise on the rookie WR. He said, “He’s done an amazing job with coming in and obviously learning the playbook and just keeping his head down and working. He’s a guy that doesn’t come in and just talk, talk, talk, but he’s gonna show you when he gets out to practice by the way that he works, the way that he’s supposed to be where he’s supposed to be every time.” Purdy also teased that Stribling could be a major part of the Niners offense in the new season. “If he does mess up, you could tell he’s gonna get it corrected the next time. Guys get there eventually, but he’s done it from the jump, which is really rare and really cool to see, and he’s gonna be a big part of our offense this year, so I’m excited to see him play,” he added. Stribling has made a strong impression so far. He has picked up the playbook, stayed consistent in practice and shown that he can learn from his mistakes. That has helped him earn the trust of Purdy and the 49ers. Now, the next step is doing the same things when the games count. If he can keep improving and make the most of his chances, Stribling could have a bigger role than many expected in his first NFL season. De’Zhaun Stribling has also been backed by 49ers coaching staff The praise has not come from Purdy alone. Stribling was drafted 33rd overall out of Ole Miss, and the 49ers’ offensive staff made clear from rookie minicamp that they had a specific role in mind for him. He brings a 4.36 40-yard dash and a 6-foot-2 frame that the coaching staff believes fits Kyle Shanahan’s system. Offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak spoke at rookie minicamp about what the team expects from Stribling both now and down the line. “He’s a complete football player and those guys make your team better,” Kubiak said. “He’s going to affect the game in a lot of ways. That’s our vision for him as far as the long term, for sure.” Beyond his receiving ability, Stribling has drawn attention for his willingness to block downfield. The Athletic’s Matt Barrow reported that Shanahan values that trait specifically, comparing him to Jauan Jennings, who left for the Vikings after the 2025 season. More NFL News: - “I Gave up Everything”: Colin Kaepernick Teases Release of His Story in New Book - Las Vegas Raiders: Exciting 3rd-Round Pick’s Brutal Injury Revealed - Mike Tomlin Says Mike McCarthy’s History With Aaron Rodgers Could Pay Off in Pittsburgh - “Do You Regret It” Colin Kaepernick Gives Shocking Answer On Kneeling During The National Anthem 10 Years Ago