Stribling Reach: Niners' 2026 Draft Debacle

0:00It's April 27. You're listening to NFL News today, AI-powered NFL coverage. The San Francisco 49ers caught major flak for their 2026 draft class, especially picking wide receiver Dejon Stribling, 33rd overall, the first grab in the second round. Teams like the 9ers under John Lynch and Kyle Shanahan often go after their guy early, even if consensus boards say, wait. Stribbling was pegged as a day 2 or day 3 talent, not a top 35 lock. As an analyst lit up, calling it one of the biggest reaches since 2016. NFL data whiz, Jack Lichtenstein, ranks at 8th and draft capital, wasted over expectations, trailing only first rounders like Terrell Edmonds and Clell and Farrell, who slid in value. Those comms had decent pro runs, some still balling, but most could have dropped later if teams chilled. Teams no slouch though, he balled out in college with 107 catches, 1,693 yards, and 12 scores.

1:01Over 27 games. He slots right into the 9ers offense, but we'll see if that early bet pays off or joins the reach hall of fame time. We'll spit the verdict.