started · updated
San Francisco 49ers rookie faces mockery over jersey number change
San Francisco 49ers rookie wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling is facing social media mockery after announcing he will switch his jersey number from No. 15 to No. 7 for the upcoming season.
The number 7 has become a point of contention due to a recent fraud case involving 35-year-old Daejon Love. Love was arrested on August 24 for allegedly impersonating a 49ers player to conduct romance and investment scams. Authorities report that Love allegedly swindled more than $1.3 million from approximately 26 victims. Love faces federal wire fraud charges in Oregon.
Despite the online trolling, Stribling has been noted for his strong preseason performance, earning high offensive grades and praise from teammates such as Brock Purdy and Trent Williams.