When it comes to rookie pass catchers during the 2026 NFL season, ESPN's Dan Graziano believes San Francisco 49ers rookie wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling could outshine them all.
The NFL insider recently shared his bold predictions and potential surprises heading into the 2026 campaign, warning fans and pundits not to be surprised if Stribling leads all rookie receivers in receptions.
Graziano noted that Mike Evans, the 49ers' prized free-agent addition in March, is likely to be the team's leading receiver this season. However, the veteran has dealt with his share of injury setbacks during training camp. Evans most recently worked through an adductor injury but returned to practice Wednesday.
The 49ers have other veterans in their wide receiver room, including Deebo Samuel and Demarcus Robinson. Graziano also acknowledged that head coach Kyle Shanahan has been reluctant to rely heavily on rookie wideouts in the past.
"But all of that said, someone needs to catch the ball in San Francisco, and Stribling has been doing a lot of that in camp and the preseason," Graziano wrote.
In addition to flashing during training camp, Stribling tallied 11 receptions for 109 yards through two preseason appearances, easing concerns that the 49ers may have reached for him with the No. 33 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
"The first pick of the second round of this year's draft, Stribling has a chance to make an impact as a rookie," Graziano wrote. "Left tackle Trent Williams told me he expects big things from Stribling right away -- that he reminds him of former 49ers receiver Jauan Jennings in terms of the variety of routes he can run, but with more speed. Brock Purdy could look Stribling's way early and often, and he could be a high-volume pass catcher."
While many initially expected Stribling to need time to carve out a significant role in Shanahan's offense, the rookie has impressed enough to make fans and teammates believe his contributions could come sooner rather than later.
Mentioned in this article: Mike Evans, Brock Purdy, Demarcus Robinson, Deebo Samuel, De'Zhaun Stribling, Trent Williams
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