I’m sure coach Kyle Shanahan envisions Stribling as a supercharged version of Jennings. Jennings was a big possession slot receiver, whereas Stribling can play outside and win deep with speed and physicality at the catch point. According to Matt Harmon’s reception perception, Stribling’s best route is the dig (83.3 percent success rate), a prominent route in Shanahan’s offense and one of Brock Purdy’s favorites. Stribling will give the 49ers a physical runner after the catch, one they really don’t have after moving on from Deebo Samuel last season and Jennings this season, and with tight end George Kittle recovering from tearing an Achilles tendon in the playoffs.”
Evaluating 49ers’ 2026 draft class: No A’s, some eyebrow-raisers and one polarizing pick (paywall)
“The 49ers’ still-good-but-getting-geriatric offense desperately needed an infusion of speed. And Stribling ran a 4.36-second 40-yard dash that’s even more impressive given his size (Note: Boston isn’t known for his wheels and passed on running a pre-draft 40). Stribling had strong production at Power 5 schools, was one of 16 draft prospects given the 49ers’ gold-helmet designation for qualities such as work ethic and character and is an elite run blocker.”
Despite the cautious tone, Kittle emphasized that his recovery is trending in the right direction.
“Achilles is doing great,” Kittle said. “We’re 13 weeks out of surgery. I think I’m ahead of schedule. My surgeon’s super happy with it. So, we’re on track to play a lot of football next season. So, I’m in a great place.”
