Sep 14, 2025; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan looks at the score board as he leaves the field at the end of game against the New Orleans Saints at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images
San Francisco 49ers: Promising Rookie Out Indefinitely 1
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver De’Zhaun Stribling suffered a non-contact lower-leg injury during the second quarter against the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia. Stribling could not put weight on his left leg, and with help from the medical staff, he limped to the medical tent. After a while in the tent, the promising second-round pick was carted into the locker room for further examination. The initial fear was that he suffered an Achilles injury, but a medical evaluation revealed it was still intact.
The San Francisco 49ers’ promising rookie is out indefinitely
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Feb 28, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Mississippi wideout De’Zhaun Stribling (WO35) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
According to Ian Rapoport, De’Zhaun Stribling suffered a deltoid sprain in his left ankle and is expected to miss at least one month, making him a prime injured reserve candidate. As Rapoport notes, Stribling is seeking a second medical opinion as San Francisco takes a cautious approach. Although surgery is not currently planned, it remains a possibility and would sideline him indefinitely.
#49ers rookie WR De’Zhaun Stribling, who left the opener early with an injury, is out at least a month with a deltoid sprain in his ankle, sources say.
Stribling is still seeking opinions, and while surgery is not currently planned, it is possible. SF will be cautious. pic.twitter.com/adUmcDQS7Q
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 13, 2026
As a result, Demarcus Robinson is expected to take over as the starting receiver alongside Mike Evans and Deebo Samuel Sr. Robinson hauled in two receptions on three targets for a team-high 50 yards, including a 39-yard touchdown reception. In addition, Jacob Cowing and Jordan Watkins could take on expanded roles.
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Jan 5, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of a San Francisco 49ers helmet at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images