49ers Stribling Injured
San Francisco 49ers Rookie De'Zhaun Stribling Expected to Miss Four Games
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Key Points
1
If placed on injured reserve, Stribling’s earliest possible return would be Oct. 19 against the Washington Commanders, after missing the required four games.
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Stribling had been rated the top offensive rookie at any position during the preseason by Pro Football Focus, catching 11 of 13 targets in two exhibition games.
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Before entering the NFL, Stribling’s final season at Ole Miss included 811 receiving yards and six touchdowns.
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San Francisco received the return of tight end George Kittle and wide receiver Mike Evans for the season opener after both had missed time during training camp.
San Francisco 49ers rookie wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling will miss at least four games after suffering a left ankle deltoid ligament sprain in the team's 27-7 season-opening win over the Los Angeles Rams in Australia. The 2026 second-round pick was injured twice during the game, initially returning before suffering a more serious non-contact injury that forced him to be carted off. NBC Sports reports Stribling's earliest possible return would be October 19 against the Washington Commanders.
The injury compounds problems for San Francisco's receiving corps. Wide receiver Ricky Pearsall already faces a season-ending knee injury, while Christian Kirk is dealing with a calf injury. Stribling had impressed during training camp and preseason, earning top offensive rookie honors from Pro Football Focus after catching 11 of 13 targets in exhibition games.
Twin Injuries End Stribling's Strong Preseason Run
Stribling suffered his ankle injury twice during San Francisco's dominant opener in Australia. He initially returned after evaluation but then suffered a second, more serious non-contact setback that sidelined him for good. The medical staff considered surgery but did not deem it immediately necessary and sought additional opinions.
Before the injuries, Stribling had showcased elite promise. Pro Football Focus rated him the top offensive rookie at any position during preseason. In two exhibition games, he caught 11 of his 13 targets. Against the Rams, he logged a team-high 21 offensive snaps among 49ers receivers, though he did not record a reception.
49ers Receive Kittle and Evans Return
While Stribling's injury marks a setback, San Francisco got positive news elsewhere. Tight end George Kittle and wide receiver Mike Evans both returned for the season opener after missing time during training camp. Their availability provides depth as the team manages injuries across the receiving corps.
Depleted WR Room Turns to Younger Options
Stribling's four-game absence forces the 49ers to lean heavily on remaining weapons. Star receiver Deebo Samuel will see expanded opportunities, while veteran additions and younger wideouts take on larger roles. The injuries to Pearsall, Kirk, and now Stribling create a sudden void in San Francisco's passing attack that must be filled immediately.
College Resume Shows High Ceiling
Before his NFL injury, Stribling had built a strong foundation at Ole Miss. In his final season with the Rebels, he recorded 811 receiving yards and six touchdowns. The 2026 second-round selection was viewed as a promising prospect entering San Francisco's training camp.
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