49ers rookie receiver gets a ‘pro’ endorsement from Mike Evans

The San Francisco 49ers are getting an early look at how quickly rookie wide receiver De’Zhaun Stribling can contribute to a reshaped offense. Through two NFL preseason games, Stribling has caught 11 of 13 targets for 109 yards while pushing for a meaningful role in a receiver room led by veteran Mike Evans.

Stribling, the No. 33 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, returned to practice Sunday in a noncontact jersey after sustaining a shoulder injury during Thursday’s win over the Los Angeles Chargers. His availability bears watching as San Francisco prepares for Thursday’s preseason finale at Las Vegas.

Coach Yac, a popular 49ers account, posted a clip on X, formerly Twitter, Monday night that paired Evans’ assessment with footage of Stribling’s preseason work.

“Strib gets the job done. He’s a rookie, but he’s a pro. He’s been a pro. The way he practices, the way he prepares, he’s gonna make a lot of plays for us this year.”

“Strib gets the job done. He’s a rookie, but he’s a pro. He’s been a pro. The way he practices, the way he prepares, he’s gonna make a lot of plays for us this year.”

— Mike Evans on De'Zhaun Stribling pic.twitter.com/58eFFzPgVM

— Coach Yac (@Coach_Yac) August 25, 2026

Evans’ praise arrives as the 49ers search for dependable receiving options behind him. Ricky Pearsall is on injured reserve for the season after undergoing surgery on his PCL, while Christian Kirk has missed training camp time with a calf injury.

The endorsement also carries weight because of Evans’ resume. He earned six Pro Bowl selections during 12 seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and tied an NFL record by opening his career with 11 consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons before joining the 49ers in the offseason.

San Francisco selected the 23-year-old receiver after his final college season at Ole Miss. His production during the 2026 NFL preseason has strengthened his case for immediate opportunities in Kyle Shanahan’s offense once the regular season begins.

His return to limited practice is an encouraging sign, but the shoulder issue could still affect his status for Thursday’s third and final preseason game vs. the Las Vegas Raiders. The 49ers open the regular season against the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia, on September 10.

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