The San Francisco 49ers have bolstered their offense by selecting wide receiver De’Zhaun Stribling from Ole Miss with the 33rd overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Stribling spent five college seasons across three programs, playing a key role in some of the most productive offenses in collegiate football.
“There’s a lot to love about the kid,” said John Lynch, President of Football Operations and General Manager. “He’s big and strong, plays with great physicality, and has excellent speed for his size. That shows up on tape… we love the complete package.”
Here are five things to know about Stribling:
1. Hailing from Hawaii with a Deep Love for the Ocean
{IMAGE_1}
Stribling grew up in Kapolei, Hawaii, where life revolves around the water. He learned to surf in high school and spent much of his free time at the beach. The receiver has said that the ocean’s energy has always been a part of him. Even looking beyond football, he has spoken about wanting to return home and live a relaxed lifestyle near the water.
“I used to be at the beach every day. I learned to surf around sixth grade,” Stribling told MS Scoreboard. “The energy the water gives you… it’s great.”
2. Creative Hobbies
{IMAGE_2}
Off the field, Stribling has a creative side. He enjoys photography, especially underwater photography. It’s a hobby closely tied to his upbringing in Hawaii and his comfort in the ocean. Whether capturing moments in nature or around the water, it’s something he’s passionate about outside of football.
“I’m a really good photographer, underwater photography too,” Stribling said in an interview with the 49ers’ social media team.
The social media team even joked, “Hire De’Zhaun for all your underwater photography 📸.”
3. His Football Journey Has Taken Him Across the Country
{IMAGE_3}
Stribling’s path to the NFL included stops at Washington State, Oklahoma State, and Ole Miss, giving him experience in multiple systems and conferences. Over five seasons, he appeared in 56 games (55 starts) and amassed 216 receptions for 2,964 yards and 23 touchdowns. He produced consistently at every stop, including an 800-yard season at Ole Miss in 2025. This long journey has helped shape his game and perspective.
4. A Sports Family
{IMAGE_4}
Stribling has an interesting connection to the world of sports and entertainment. His uncle is Don “The Rock” Muraco, a WWE Hall of Fame wrestler. Their careers are very different, but that imposing presence runs in the family. It’s a fun fact that adds to his story—not your typical NFL family connection.
5. Talent with Great Potential
{IMAGE_5}
Stribling’s growth story is part of what makes his journey unique. He stood 5-foot-6 as a freshman in high school before growing to 6-foot-3. He also played basketball and competed in track, showcasing his athleticism early on. From a late bloomer to an NFL Draft pick, his path is a testament to patience and development.
