3 stars for the 49ers: Did Kurtis Rourke make Mac Jones expendable?
Niners Nation • • sports
Key Points:
- The San Francisco 49ers lost their preseason opener to the Tennessee Titans, but the focus was on standout individual performances as many players compete for roster spots.
- Rookie linebacker Jaden Dugger impressed on defense with key tackles and strong pursuit, making a solid first impression in his battle for the SAM linebacker role.
- Quarterback Kurtis Rourke showed promise in his debut, completing 12-of-14 passes for 101 yards and demonstrating mobility and poise before a rib injury cut his night short.
- Wide receiver De’Zhaun Stribling was the top performer for the 49ers, leading with seven catches for 63 yards and making several impressive plays that suggest he is NFL-ready.
- Stribling’s strong preseason showing has shifted perceptions from doubts about his draft selection to excitement about his potential ceiling.
