Rookie standouts spark 49ers' preseason triumph over Chargers

The 49ers' 41-17 preseason victory over the Chargers highlighted the promise of their newest draft class. Wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling caught four passes for 46 yards, converting two third-down attempts and drawing constant attention from quarterback Mac Jones. Running back Kaelon Black, the team's third recent draft pick at the position, recorded eight carries for 33 yards, including back-to-back runs of eight and nine yards that moved the offense into Chargers territory.

Jacob Cowing added an 83-yard punt return that resulted in a touchdown, while veterans such as Mike Evans and Christian McCaffrey were absent because of injuries. Coach Kyle Shanahan gave Brock Purdy limited snaps, and general manager John Lynch continued to assess the newcomers' fit on the roster. The strong showings from Stribling and Black suggest the influx of young talent could help address the squad's aging depth.