49ers rookie wideout De’Zhaun Stribble records seven catches in preseason debut

San Francisco rookie wide receiver De’Zhaun Stribble hauled in seven receptions for 63 yards during the first half of the 49ers’ preseason matchup with the Tennessee Titans, a performance that has occurred only once in the last ten years. The 2026 second-round pick showed strong hands and physicality, though he missed a block and dropped his only target early in the game.

"Thought he struggled a little bit on the first drive," head coach Kyle Shanahan said after the game. "But I think he got three drives after that. It seemed as if he executed on all the stuff that went to him."

Shanahan added that he was pleased with Stribble’s willingness to engage physically and noted that the coaching staff plans to use him in multiple positions rather than limiting him to the slot, increasing his versatility.

The rookie’s debut comes as the 49ers look to solidify a receiving corps that includes veterans Deebo Samuel and Mike Evans, after losing Jauan Jennings in free agency. Maintaining health and consistent practice reps will be critical, as recent early-round picks have faced limited playing time or injuries.

"Hopefully he can string together two more of these weeks, because he’s going about it the right way and as long as he gets those reps and continues to do what he’s been doing, he should be ready for the season," Shanahan said.