Rookie wide receiver De’Zhaun Stribling is expected to remain out until at least late November after having ankle surgery Wednesday, leaving the San Francisco 49ers to share his role among several players, coach Kyle Shanahan said.
Stribling impressed during the team’s preparation in Melbourne, Australia, and earned a starting spot for his first NFL game. Shanahan said losing him was disappointing but added that the team expects him to return.
The 49ers’ season opener provided an example of the team’s approach after Stribling left early. Mike Evans, Deebo Samuel and Demarcus Robinson caught touchdown passes from Brock Purdy during San Francisco’s 27-7 win over the Los Angeles Rams. Jacob Cowing and KhaDarel Hodge were the next two receivers used, with both primarily contributing on special teams.
Jordan Watkins, a second-year receiver selected in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, was inactive in Week 2. Shanahan indicated the 49ers would most likely use the same five-receiver group for their game against the Miami Dolphins at Levi’s Stadium, rather than relying on one player to replace Stribling.
He said the team had six receivers available the previous week and that multiple players had opportunities, including three who scored.
San Francisco also is without Ricky Pearsall for the season following knee surgery in August. Christian Kirk, who is on injured reserve with a calf strain, can be activated beginning in Week 5. If Stribling’s recovery lasts 10 weeks, he could be available for the Nov. 29 game against the Seattle Seahawks.
