The oft-injured Christian Kirk will start the 2026 season on the IR with the calf injury he sustained during practice on July 26. This creates even more opportunity for the already-ascending-rookie De’Zhaun Stribling moves up to PlayerProfiler’s WR49 as he continues to develop chemistry with Brock Purdy and to solidify a top spot in the 49ers passing game.

Kirk can be left on the waiver wire in seasonal leagues and would be a streaming option at best this season. On the other hand, Stribling can be drafted with confidence at his current ADP, as even if Kirk returns, he has not been productive since his 57 receptions for 787 yards and 3 touchdowns in 12 games in 2023.