De’Zhaun Stribling absolutely dominated targets for the 49ers in their Preseason Week 2 game, making Kyle Shanahan’s ‘reach’ draft pick look like pure genius. While key starters sat out, Brock Purdy and the first-team offense still put together a 10-play drive to kick things off. But it was Stribling who truly stole the show, playing in 3-WR sets from the jump and proving why the overwhelming evidence points to the 49ers loving this guy.
Stribling Is Already Making Noise Where It Counts
Seriously, this kid was on fire. Stribling showed off a great comeback route, nailed a quick out against off coverage, and then ran a perfect dig route where he snapped things off cleanly and hands-caught the pass in stride, even in traffic. If he’d snagged that stutter-and-go touchdown up the sideline from the slot, his fantasy draft stock would’ve shot into Round 6 territory overnight. He’s already won that crucial inside-outside hybrid Jauan Jennings role, and you can see a path for him to become a 2-WR set starter, which makes him a fantasy-relevant player right off the bat. It’s a stark contrast to Deebo Samuel Sr., who opened in 2-WR sets but hasn’t really stood out, even with his ADP climbing slightly to 123.7. Shanahan got roasted for picking Stribling 33rd overall, but who’s laughing now?
Kaelon Black Just Stole The Backup Spot
But wait, there’s more! Shanahan faced similar heat for drafting running back Kaelon Black in the third round. Well, Black was excellent on Thursday, to the point where it looks like he’s already locked up the valuable Christian McCaffrey backup role. This dude had two key pass protection reps against blitzers, a skill that popped up on his college tape too. Black was flawless in picking the right hole with the right pacing on his rush attempts, showing off play speed that’s better than his timed speed because he makes such confident, quick decisions. He even finished off a couple of runs by flattening defenders. While Jordan James might return from injury eventually, right now, Black is a draftable player in fantasy football. If you think CMC might miss time, you should be drafting Black. It’s that simple.
Raiders’ Wideout Puzzle Still Unfolding
Over in the Raiders camp, starters also rested, giving the second-team offense a serious run for 26 snaps with Fernando Mendoza and Mike Washington Jr. getting five drives. Interestingly, WR Tre Tucker was with the resting starters, while offseason signee Jalen Nailor had to play the first three drives. It looks like Tucker, who was also their starter in 1-WR sets last week, is already the more proven outside receiver over Nailor. Meanwhile, Jack Bech is buried deep on that depth chart, playing only four snaps in the first three drives with Nailor, and a total of 11-of-16 snaps in the slot. Keep your eyes peeled for Monday’s update after the All 22 film drops, because this preseason is just getting started!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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