The wideout adds the ability to run after the catch, with quickness to make defenders miss and absorb grass. The Niners needed a playmaker after the catch like Stribling after moving on from Deebo Samuel last season. Now Shanahan is adding that element back to the offense.
The 49ers bolstered their receiving room by adding Mike Evans and Christian Kirk in free agency, but with both on essentially one-year deals, long-term backup material for Ricky Pearsall was needed heading into the draft. Stribling is a good fit and can add creativity to Shanahan’s offense. The rookie can grow behind the veterans, but brings the ability to play all three receiver spots.
After trading up out of the first round on Thursday, acquiring the top pick in the second round plus a fifth player from the New York Jets, the 49ers added a potentially dynamic element to the offense. The Niners also have the No. 58 overall pick on Friday, which could be used to bolster the defense.