2 Reasons 49ers WR Mike Evans’ Quad Injury Is Still Problematic

He returned to practice after missing the last five, but that is an indication of something problematic.

Aug 17, 2022; Nashville, Tennessee; Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans (13) tosses the ball during a joint training camp practice against the Tennessee Titans at Ascension Saint Thomas Sports Park. Mandatory Credit: George Walker IV-USA TODAY Sports | USA TODAY Sports

A handful of 49ers players have been out of action at training camp due to injuries. 

One of the notable players who has been out of practice is Mike Evans. He’s dealing with a quad strain that he sustained well over a week ago, which the 49ers have assured is nothing serious at all. 

“He’s got a little quad right now,” said Kyle Shanahan. “I know Mike probably believes he could be back right now. We’re being smart with him, but he’s going to be good to go.”

Evans was able to suit back up in pads on Tuesday, but didn't participate in the joint-practice portion with the Tennessee Titans. Regardless, for a "little" quad strain, to miss that many practices is problematic. Here are two reasons explaining why it is. 

Rapport

Being out of five practices is stunting the connection Evans was building with Brock Purdy. These two need training camp for their rapport to come together.

I’m sure it’s at an adequate level now, but for them to be clicking perfectly on all cylinders, they need reps in training camp. The last thing they want is to figure it out during games.

They can’t be wasting precious game snaps trying to get on the same page. They should already be there, if not close to it. Evans being out of practice hurts that, which is why Purdy is connecting with rookie De’Zhaun Stribling a lot.

Don’t be surprised if Evans and Purdy aren’t consistently on the same page for the first half of the season. Should that come to pass, and I think it will, Evans’ absence will be the cause of it. 

Foreshadowing 

Evans’ quad strain isn’t a massive concern, but it could be indicative of his 2026 season. Soft tissue injuries in a soon-to-be 33-year-old player can linger throughout the season, especially for one who had a hamstring issue last year.

His quad strain can be the first sign and a reminder that his body is breaking down. It’s not surprising to see given his age and the mileage. If anything, it’d be surprising if he was mostly healthy.

This is the risk the 49ers took on Evans. He could easily struggle to suit up and miss a handful of games. Without him, the 49ers’ offense will take a hit. It’ll also prove that Evans is entering a “washed” part of his career.

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