This blog post dives into the San Francisco 49ers’ No. 33 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft: wide receiver De’Zhaun Stribling, a multi-program standout from Ole Miss.
We’ll take a look at his winding path through three big college programs and his athletic profile. If you’re reading from Marin County—San Rafael, Mill Valley, Sausalito—maybe you’ll want to keep tabs on how his story unfolds with the 49ers.
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What De’Zhaun Stribling brings to the 49ers
San Francisco’s front office liked a lot about Stribling: size, strength, physicality, and a surprising burst for a guy his size. The 49ers’ scouts pointed out how easily he adapts to different offensive systems, which probably resonates with Bay Area fans from Tiburon to Novato who appreciate versatility.
A multi-program journey across Washington State, Oklahoma State and Ole Miss
Stribling played five college seasons and appeared in 56 games, starting 55 of them. He racked up 216 receptions for 2,964 yards and 23 touchdowns during his college career.
In 2025, he put up over 800 yards at Ole Miss, showing he could produce no matter where he landed. His time at Washington State, Oklahoma State, and Ole Miss let NFL scouts see how he might fit into a bunch of different schemes—something Marin County teams and fans value when watching those cross-town matchups or local high school games in San Anselmo and Fairfax.
Key attributes that stand out:
- Size, strength and physicality — Stribling’s build looks tailor-made for the NFL’s outside receiver role. Marin coaches seem to think that kind of physicality fits right in with the Bay Area’s style of play.
- Speed for his frame — He’s got more speed than you’d expect, which helps him separate on routes and after the catch, even in tough Bay Area defenses.
- Versatility across systems — Five years in three programs shows he’s willing to learn and adapt. Around here, teams see that as a real asset in a league that’s always changing.
- Production and durability — With 216 catches and almost 3,000 yards, he’s shown he can contribute reliably in lots of different offenses.
- Non-football background — Stribling grew up in Kapolei, Hawaii, and loves surfing. That adds a bit of a unique twist to his story, and honestly, it probably strikes a chord with Marin’s outdoor-loving community.
Marin County angles and local interest
Sports fans all over Marin—from San Rafael to Corte Madera—will be curious to see if Stribling’s college success carries over to the NFL. The Niners’ No. 33 pick joins a Bay Area pipeline that already feels familiar to local athletes who’ve come up through community colleges or out-of-town programs into the SF/NFC West spotlight.
In Mill Valley, Sausalito, and Novato, you’ll probably hear Stribling’s name pop up at tailgates or viewing parties. Folks will keep an eye on his progress as a possible contributor in 2026 and, who knows, maybe beyond.
Marin-focused angles to follow
- Local media coverage and fan forums — Marin-based outlets and social feeds will probably break down Stribling’s route versatility. They’ll also talk about how he might fit with the 49ers’ evolving passing game.
- Community ties — His Hawaii roots and island upbringing offer a cross-cultural angle. That kind of story tends to resonate with Marin’s diverse audience, whether you’re in San Anselmo or Ross.
- Cross-town connections — Stribling played basketball and ran track, and he shot up from 5-foot-6 as a freshman to 6-foot-2. His journey feels a lot like the multi-sport development stories people love in Marin County schools and rec leagues.
De’Zhaun Stribling brings a mix of physical tools and production from three major programs. His backstory stands out, too.
For Marin County fans—from Tiburon’s waterfront to the hills of San Anselmo—this draft pick is more than a stat line. It’s a story about adapting, growing as an athlete, and building a new Bay Area connection that just might shine at Levi’s Stadium or in local viewing parties.
Here is the source article for this story: 5 Things to Know: Wide Receiver De’Zhaun Stribling
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