Last week, the San Francisco 49ers didn't play starters. That allowed rookie receiver De'Zhaun Stribling to be the focal point of the offense, and he had a surprising seven catches in less than 20 minutes of game action.
The 49ers did use starters in their second preseason game. And Brock Purdy had eyes for Stribling too.
Stribling caught three passes on the 49ers' first nine offensive plays against the Los Angeles Chargers. He had a couple of receptions in which he caught the ball away from his body, showing off his strong hands. He did the same thing in San Francisco's first preseason game, and showed an ability to win on contested catches. The 49ers' starters departed after one series but Stribling stayed in, and he had a 21-yard reception on Mac Jones' first throw. It wasn't all perfect as Stribling failed to haul in a deep pass later in the drive, but he had plenty of separation on the play.
Things change when the regular season starts, but based on early returns it appears the 49ers might have hit big on their second-round pick.
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling (15) catches a pass against the Los Angeles Chargers. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

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