49ers Add De'Zhaun Stribling and Romello Height in NFL Draft

The San Francisco 49ers made significant moves on Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft, selecting wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling with the No. 33 overall pick and edge rusher Romello Height later in the round. The additions aim to strengthen both the offensive and defensive units as the team looks to build on recent seasons.

De'Zhaun Stribling: A Dynamic Addition to the Receiving Corps

Stribling, who played his senior season at Ole Miss, brings proven playmaking abilities to the 49ers' wide receiver group. According to his official NFL prospect profile, Stribling is noted for his reliable hands, route-running precision, and ability to win contested catches. During his college career, he accumulated over 2,400 receiving yards and 19 touchdowns across three programs, including stints at Washington State and Oklahoma State before transferring to Ole Miss for his final year.

• Stribling posted a collegiate career-high of 902 receiving yards in a single season.
• He averaged 14.7 yards per catch at Ole Miss.
• He brings versatility, having lined up both outside and in the slot during his college tenure.

The pick was first reported by both the San Francisco Chronicle and NFL.com, with the team's official announcement confirming Stribling as the 49ers' selection at the top of the second round. The 49ers emphasized Stribling's combination of size, speed, and production as factors in their decision.

Romello Height Joins Defensive Front

Later on Day 2, the 49ers selected Romello Height, an edge rusher known for his athleticism and motor. Height, a transfer from Auburn to USC, recorded multiple sacks and tackles for loss during his college career. Standing at 6'3" and weighing 235 pounds, Height projects as a situational pass rusher who can contribute to special teams as well.

• Height tallied 6.5 career sacks and 61 total tackles in college.
• He is known for his quick first step and ability to disrupt plays in the backfield.
• Height's addition provides depth to a 49ers defensive line that has prioritized rotational talent in recent drafts.

Context: 49ers Draft Strategy and Outlook

The 49ers' recent draft history shows a balanced approach, with an emphasis on athleticism and versatility. The choice of Stribling at No. 33 aligns with the team's efforts to give quarterback Brock Purdy more weapons, while Height's selection reinforces a commitment to defensive pressure. Fans can review the franchise's draft history for comparison with previous first and second-round selections.

While the team's needs at wide receiver and edge rusher were well-documented by analysts leading into the draft, the 49ers' picks on Day 2 signal a focus on immediate contributors with upside. Both Stribling and Height are expected to compete for roles early in their rookie seasons, especially as the 49ers look to stay competitive in a challenging NFC West.

Looking Ahead

As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on how Stribling and Height adapt to the NFL system and where they fit into the 49ers' evolving roster. Their college production and athletic testing numbers suggest both could make an impact sooner rather than later, as the 49ers continue to blend veteran leadership with emerging talent.