Discover the Hawaii native, underwater photographer, and wrestling-adjacent receiver bringing physicality and speed to the 49ers' explosive offense.
The San Francisco 49ers officially kicked off their 2026 draft class after trading out of the first round, John Lynch and Kyle Shanahan made Ole Miss wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling the first pick of the second round at No. 33 overall. Stribling arrives in Santa Clara as a producer who thrived in some of college football's most high octane offenses. "There's a lot to love about the kid," general manager John Lynch said. "He's a big, strong guy, plays with tremendous physicality and has legit speed for his size. We love the total package." As the 49ers welcome their newest weapon, here are five things to know about the man they call "Strib."
1. A Hawaii Native with a Deep Connection to the Ocean
Stribling’s roots are planted firmly in the sand of Kapolei, Hawaii. Growing up, the ocean wasn't just a backdrop, in Hawaii the ocean is a way of life. Stribling learned to surf in the sixth grade and spent nearly every afternoon at the beach, a lifestyle he hopes to return to once his NFL journey eventually concludes.
"I used to be at the beach every day," Stribling told the MS Scoreboard. "The energy you get from the water… it's so great." That calm, island energy provides a unique contrast to the high intensity physicality he brings to the football field.
2. A Talent for Underwater Photography
When he isn't “mossing” defensive backs, Stribling is likely behind a camera lens. His creative outlet is underwater photography, a hobby that allows him to combine his artistic side with his comfort in the ocean.
"I’m really good at photography…underwater photography, too," Stribling shared with 49ers social media. The team has already embraced the rookie’s side hustle, jokingly posting: "Book De'Zhaun for all your underwater photog needs 📸."
3. A Well-Traveled Football Journey
Stribling didn't just play in different systems, he experienced entirely different cultures. His five year collegiate journey took him from the Palouse at Washington State, to the plains of Oklahoma State, and finally to the SEC at Ole Miss. This path made him one of the most experienced receivers in the draft. Across 56 games (55 starts), he racked up 216 receptions, 2,964 yards, and 23 touchdowns. That adaptability to new playbooks and environments was a major selling point for Kyle Shanahan, who demands high level intelligence from his receivers.
4. Professional Wrestling in His Blood
While most NFL rookies boast fathers or cousins who played in the league, Stribling has a "larger-than-life" family connection, his uncle is Don "The Rock" Muraco, a WWE Hall of Fame wrestler and a former two time Intercontinental Champion.
While Stribling chose the gridiron over the squared circle, that family legacy of elite athleticism and physical presence clearly translated. It’s a unique tie that adds a bit of "Showtime" to the 49ers' locker room.
5. The Ultimate "Late Bloomer"
Stribling is a testament to the fact that it’s not about how you start, but how you finish. As a high school freshman, he stood just 5’6”. It wasn't until a massive growth spurt later in high school that he reached his current 6’2’ frame.
His background as a multi-sport athlete, competing in both basketball and track, helped him maintain his coordination and speed as his body transformed. Now a polished NFL prospect, Stribling’s journey from a small freshman to a second round pick is proof of his patience and high ceiling.
How do you see Stribling fitting into the 49ers' receiver rotation alongside Mike Evans, Christian Kirk, and Ricky Pearsall?