Rookie wide receiver De’Zhaun Stribling and linebacker Jaden Dugger made significant impressions in the San Francisco 49ers' preseason opener against the Tennessee Titans, demonstrating their potential to contribute to the team in meaningful roles.
Stribling, the 49ers' second-round draft pick, carried momentum from training camp into the game. He started as a target for quarterback Kurtis Rourke, catching seven passes for 62 yards in the early stages of the second quarter. A 32-yard reception down the sideline was his most impactful play, though an 11-yard catch near the goal line, which was upheld after a challenge from Tennessee, also highlighted his ability to make contested plays while staying in bounds. Stribling's consistent connection with quarterback Brock Purdy, including deep throws, has been noted, suggesting he may see increased work with the first-team offense.
This development is particularly important for the 49ers' receiving corps, which is currently facing uncertainty due to injuries. Ricky Pearsall is out for the season with a knee injury, while Mike Evans has dealt with a quad issue and Christian Kirk has missed time with a calf problem. The team used the No. 33 overall pick on Stribling, anticipating his speed and big-play ability would translate quickly to the NFL.
Dugger's emergence has been less expected. The fifth-round linebacker earned a start after demonstrating his capabilities during training camp, lining up at middle linebacker, weakside linebacker, and the team's hybrid "fever" position. His substantial wingspan was evident on his first NFL tackle, enabling him to make a play from a distance unusual for an off-ball linebacker. While players with his dimensions often play on the edge, the 49ers appear interested in utilizing his tools within defensive coordinator Raheem Morris's versatile defensive scheme. Dugger was selected 154th overall after recording 125 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, and four sacks in his final season at Louisiana.
While one preseason game is too early to definitively assess the rookie class, the early performances of Stribling and Dugger suggest their draft rankings may prove justified.