The team entered the week with several experienced receivers available, but the loss of a promising young player created an immediate need. De’Zhaun Stribling was placed on injured reserve after suffering a left ankle injury against the Rams.
The roster move also brings in another NFL veteran who contributed in the season opener, primarily on special teams, after limited offensive involvement against his former team.
KhaDarel Hodge promoted to active roster after strong showing vs. Rams
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that the 49ers promoted wide receiver KhaDarel Hodge to the active roster. Hodge had been a practice squad elevation against the Rams and recorded two tackles in Australia.
In the opener, Hodge appeared on one offensive snap and 12 on special teams. His two tackles came on kick coverage, signaling how he can contribute even as the receiving corps deals with injuries.
Hodge, 32, originally signed with the Los Angeles Rams as an undrafted free agent in 2018. He has since played for the Cleveland Browns, Detroit Lions and Atlanta Falcons, appearing in 118 regular-season games with 67 receptions for 1,026 yards and two touchdowns.
The promotion follows Stribling’s placement on injured reserve after suffering a deltoid sprain in his left ankle against the Rams. He is expected to miss at least a month, though surgery remains a possibility.
The 49ers already have a receiving group featuring Mike Evans, Deebo Samuel, Demarcus Robinson, Jacob Cowing and Jordan Watkins, with Christian Kirk still on injured reserve. Evans led the group with 48 snaps against the Rams, followed by Robinson with 40 and Samuel with 26.
With Hodge joining the active roster, San Francisco adds another experienced option for depth at wide receiver and for special teams. The 49ers will host the Miami Dolphins in Week 2, with Hodge set to be part of the active roster for the matchup.
