The San Francisco 49ers' rookies aren't household names yet. However, their collective performance in the preseason blowout win over the Los Angeles Chargers was certainly a massive step in the right direction.
Things couldn't have gone much better for San Francisco's 2026 draft class in the club's exhibition shellacking of the Chargers. 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan has to be pleased with what he's seeing, especially given how many bashed him for some of the picks.
Now two-thirds of the way through the preseason, let's do a Niners freshman review and assess each player's trajectory thus far.
49ers rookie updates following preseason demolition of Chargers
De'Zhaun Stribling, WR
At this rate, we might be running out of superlatives to describe Stribling's efforts. He continues to make anyone who clowned the Niners for "reaching" on him look incredibly foolish. The former Ole Miss standout posted four receptions and 46 receiving yards, tying veteran KhaDarel Hodge for team-high marks.
Renowned football strategy/analytics consultant Ryan Paganetti noted that what Stribling's done in the preseason is unprecedented.
Verdict: Stock through the roof
Romello Height, DE
Yes, Height's leaner frame remains a work in progress, specifically with respect to his limitations as a pass-rusher. Make no mistake, though; he has the tools to be a factor in the run game. This year's No. 70 overall choice swallowed up Chargers running back Keaton Mitchell for a tackle for loss.
Verdict: Stock up
Kaelon Black, RB
Initial reporting heading into the friendly in L.A suggested that Black wouldn't suit up while dealing with an adductor injury. Not only did he ultimately play, but the physical running back seemed no worse for wear. An 8-for-33 rushing line doesn't tell the full story; the polarizing third-round selection was a plus in pass protection, and his vision was apparent.
Verdict: Stock soaring
Gracen Halton, DT
Halton sat out due to an ankle issue, though he was trending up before getting hurt. The Oklahoma product looked the part of a disruptive defensive tackle in the 49ers' first glorified scrimmage versus the Tennessee Titans. His quickness, power and high motor have already been on display.
Verdict: Stock neutral
Carver Willis, OL
Willis exclusively played tackle throughout his five-year collegiate career, logging just eight snaps at other positions (two at left guard, six as an inline tight end). The growing pains of transitioning to the inside in the pros are clear. He started at left guard and had more negative plays than positive moments.
Verdict: Stock neutral
Ephesians Prysock, CB
Prysock followed up his solid debut with another promising outing in Los Angeles. Listed at 6-foot-3, 196 pounds, his size and length were evident. He was targeted twice in 12 coverage snaps, allowing one 10-yard reception and adding one pass breakup, culminating in a 64.6 passer rating against.
Verdict: Stock up
Jaden Dugger, LB
It was easy to tell that Dugger is a converted safety. His range, speed and explosiveness shone again. He kept pace with and disrupted one of the league's fastest tight ends, the Chargers' Oronde Gadsden II, on an incomplete deep ball.
Verdict: Stock up
Enrique Cruz Jr., OT
For lack of a better term, Cruz was the biggest loser of the night. It was a rough outing for him, to say the least. He gave up four quarterback pressures and four hurries.
Verdict: Stock down
Note: Metrics courtesy of Pro Football Focus' premium stats ($).
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