Should I Start Brock Purdy?

Friday, August 21, 7:52 AM

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling keeps giving Brock Purdy reasons to trust him. Purdy told Jeremy Fowler that Stribling has a unique ability to attack the football, play with strong hands and rip it away from defenders, something he has been showing consistently in practice. Purdy also pointed to how rarely the rookie makes mental mistakes, saying Stribling lines up correctly every play and calling that "a vet thing." The production has followed. Stribling caught seven passes for 63 yards against Tennessee in his preseason debut, then added four catches for 46 yards on five targets against the Chargers on Thursday. That's 11 grabs for 109 yards through two games. The 33rd overall pick still has veterans to battle for snaps, but Ricky Pearsall (knee) is out for the season and Stribling keeps making his case. This has gone beyond a few good camp practices. He's earning Purdy's trust and has a legitimate shot to be involved right away.