Two members of the San Francisco 49ers’ 2026 draft class have earned invitations to one of the NFL’s premier rookie events this offseason.
Wide receiver De’Zhaun Stribling and running back Kaelon Black were selected to participate in the 32nd annual NFLPA Rookie Premiere, scheduled for May 14-16 in Los Angeles.
Hosted by the NFL Players Association and NFL Players Inc., the three-day program introduces the league’s newest players to the business side of professional football. A total of 42 rookies from the 2026 NFL Draft class received invitations.
During the event, Stribling and Black will engage in trading card photoshoots, autograph sessions, jersey reveals, and content creation opportunities with major brands and media partners. The experience also includes business-focused sessions led by union leadership, covering group licensing, personal brand development, and long-term financial planning. The Rookie Premiere further offers players a chance to build connections with key partners across the sports and entertainment industry.
The event will again feature live recordings of the St. Brown Podcast, where rookies join Detroit Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown and his brother, NFL veteran Equanimeous St. Brown, to discuss their transition into the league.
Stribling and Black are among the NFL’s top incoming talents chosen for this annual showcase, marking an early step in building their professional identities both on and off the field. Before the event, the 49ers will host rookie minicamp at the SAP Performance Facility from May 7-9, giving the team’s newest additions their first chance to begin work in The Bay.
