De’Zhaun Stribling emerged as a standout in the 49ers’ 19-13 preseason loss to the Titans, catching seven passes for 63 yards, including a 32-yard highlight-reel grab, while quarterback Kurtis Rourke left the game with a rib injury.
The San Francisco 49ers’ preseason opener against the Tennessee Titans on August 14, 2026, provided a glimpse of rookie wide receiver De’Zhaun Stribling’s potential, even as the team fell to the Titans. Stribling, the 33rd overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, was a focal point of the 49ers’ offense, showcasing his hands and route-running against a starting Titans defense. His performance, however, was overshadowed by an injury to backup quarterback Kurtis Rourke, who left the game midway through the second quarter.
Stribling’s Highlight-Reel Performance
Stribling’s debut was a testament to his preparation during training camp, as he caught seven of eight targets for 63 yards, including a 32-yard reception down the sideline that drew praise from head coach Kyle Shanahan. It seemed good,
Shanahan said of Stribling’s performance, noting that the rookie executed all the stuff that went to him
after a slow start. Stribling’s most memorable play came on a third-and-6 pass, where he balanced on the sideline for 11 yards, a play that drew a challenge from the Titans but stood upon review.
The rookie’s physicality and reliability were evident throughout the game. On one play, he hauled in a contested catch against starting cornerback Cor’Dale Flott, extending his arms to secure the pass. My first time being out there, I was just a little excited, a little nervous,
Stribling admitted. But getting the first hit out of the way, the first catch out of the way, I started getting into a groove.
His performance earned him a rest with eight minutes remaining in the second quarter, a sign of the coaching staff’s confidence in his ability.
Stribling’s impact extended beyond his stats. He played physical,
Shanahan said, underscoring the rookie’s ability to thrive in high-pressure situations.
Rourke’s Injury and Its Implications
Rourke’s exit from the game raised concerns about the 49ers’ quarterback depth. The seventh-round pick, who had yet to play in a regular-season game, suffered a rib injury after a 3-yard run near the goal line. He remained in the game to finish the drive, drawing criticism from Shanahan for losing track of the play clock, but left after the drive ended. The coach later confirmed Rourke was taken to the hospital for further evaluation, though he downplayed the severity of the injury.
The incident left the 49ers without their backup quarterback for the remainder of the game. Tight end Brayden Willis was prepared to take over if needed, but the situation underscored the challenges of relying on unproven backups. Stribling, who was unaware of Rourke’s injury during the game, expressed hope for his recovery: We couldn’t really see what was happening, but I pray that he’s OK and he heals back up well.
Rourke’s injury also cast a shadow over his prospects as a future starter. The 49ers had high hopes for the quarterback, who underwent ACL surgery before the draft. While he showed promise in his NFL debut, the injury adds uncertainty to his timeline for becoming a viable backup.
Other Standouts and Team Dynamics
While Stribling and Rourke stole the spotlight, other 49ers players also made an impression. Defensive tackle Gracen Halton, a fourth-round pick from Oklahoma, recorded three tackles in the first half, including a stop on running back Tyjae Spears. Once I get hot, it’s over with,
Halton said, reflecting on his performance. His ability to disrupt plays in the backfield could solidify his role in the defensive line.
Linebacker Jaden Dugger, the 49ers’ do-everything rookie, also showed promise. Though he faced challenges against the Titans’ offensive line, his physicality and awareness suggest he could earn significant playing time in the regular season.
The game also highlighted the 49ers’ reliance on young talent. Despite the loss, the performance of players like Stribling and Halton suggests the 49ers may have a competitive roster as they head into the regular season.
The 49ers’ preseason opener set the stage for a pivotal season. Stribling’s emergence as a reliable receiver, combined with the development of young defenders, could shape the team’s success. However, the injury to Rourke and the absence of key veterans underscore the challenges ahead. As the 49ers prepare for their Week 1 matchup in Australia, the focus will remain on how quickly these young players can step up and fill critical roles.
Worth a look
