Former 49ers GM endorses taking De’Zhaun Stribling over Omar Cooper and Denzel Boston
Former 49ers general manager Scot McCloughan endorsed San Francisco's decision to select wide receiver De’Zhaun Stribling in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft, despite passing on Omar Cooper Jr. and Denzel Boston. McCloughan praised Stribling's size, speed, and playmaking ability, saying he would choose him over Cooper due to his superior athleticism. The 49ers' pick was seen by some as a reach, but McCloughan gave Stribling a first-round grade and believes he fits well in their offensive scheme.
- ▪The 49ers selected De’Zhaun Stribling with the 33rd overall pick in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
- ▪Scot McCloughan, former 49ers GM, gave Stribling a first-round grade and strongly endorsed the pick over Omar Cooper Jr. and Denzel Boston.
- ▪Stribling measured over 6 feet 2 inches, 207 pounds, and ran a 4.36-second 40-yard dash at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine.
- ▪McCloughan compared Omar Cooper Jr. to Deebo Samuel, noting Cooper lacks elite speed but excels in physical, short-area play.
- ▪San Francisco had both Cooper and Boston on their top-30 pre-draft visit list but chose to trade down twice before selecting Stribling.
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