49ers Get a Boost as Veteran WR Evans Returns from Quad Strain

The 49ers are relieved to see veteran receiver Evans back on the field after a quad strain. He only did solo drills, which shows the injury isn’t severe. He could sit out a couple of days, but he isn’t slated to miss much playing time. That’s a positive sign for the team’s depth.

Camp has been hit by a wave of injuries early on. Besides Evans, rookie Stribling is dealing with a hamstring issue and Black with an adductor problem. Earlier, Kirk suffered a calf problem and Pearsall a knee sprain. Four receivers have now been sidelined, adding pressure to the roster.

Kittle called Evans the first true veteran wideout since Sanders arrived in 2019. He praised Evans for his size and precise routes. Evans has already shone in red zone drills. Moving from Tampa Bay to San Francisco seems to have refreshed him. If he stays healthy, he could become a fantasy WR2 with touchdown potential.

Draft analysts see Boston as a likely first‑round pick for the 49ers at No. 27. In his final college season he posted 62 catches for 881 yards and 11 touchdowns. He ranks 42nd in yards per route among 2026 wideouts. Pairing him with Evans, Kittle and Purdy gives the quarterback plenty of red zone options. Coach Shanahan said he will design plays that involve McCaffrey, Kittle and Evans. The contract looks like a one‑year deal with about $16.3 million guaranteed. With a healthy Evans, double‑digit touchdowns are within reach.