49ers WR Stribling to miss at least a month with ankle sprain

San Francisco 49ers rookie wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling has been diagnosed with a deltoid ligament sprain in his left ankle, an injury expected to sideline him for at least a month. The diagnosis was reported by NFL Media's Ian Rapoport. Stribling, the No. 33 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, suffered the injury during the 49ers' regular-season opener against the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia, on Thursday, September 11. The 23-year-old started the game and played 21 snaps before exiting. He initially went down late in the first quarter, was listed as questionable, and returned to the field. However, he aggravated the injury in the second quarter and was unable to put weight on his left ankle. He was assisted off the field, examined in the medical tent, and eventually carted to the locker room. He did not receive a target or touch in his NFL debut before leaving the game. According to reports, Stribling is still consulting with doctors about his treatment options. While one report indicated he could require surgery, which would extend his recovery timeline, another stated he is not currently expected to need surgery.