49ers Training Camp Day 4: Deebo Samuel back in town, Mike Evans makes a splash, and more quick hits

The San Francisco 49ers put on the pads for the first time during the 2026 training camp on Friday, giving fans and reporters their first look at the team in a more physical setting. There were plenty of storylines to follow, from the return of Deebo Samuel to the 49ers' roster moves and several players making early impressions.

Here are some quick hits from Day 4 of training camp.

Deebo Samuel is back, but not yet on the practice field

Samuel officially rejoined the 49ers on Friday after arriving in Santa Clara, but he did not participate in practice. He spent his time going through physicals and getting ready to join his new/old team.

Samuel's return also means Jacob Cowing is switching jersey numbers. Cowing had been wearing number 19 but has now moved to number 6, clearing the way for Samuel to reclaim the number he wore during most of his previous stint with the team.

Mike Evans is excited to have the veteran receiver back in San Francisco. "I love the way he plays the game," Evans told reporters. "I think he's going to bring what he brought to the team before, that energy, that versatility. Hell of a pickup for us."

Alfred Collins activated from PUP

The 49ers received some positive injury news ahead of practice. Defensive tackle Alfred Collins was activated from the physically unable to perform list, allowing him to return to the field. Collins is expected to play an important role along a defensive line that has undergone some significant changes this offseason.

De'Zhaun Stribling continues to impress

This is becoming a theme, but rookie wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling is creating a lot of buzz. On X, OurSF49ers noted that Stribling was "cooking" during his first day in pads, making multiple catches at all levels of the field while showcasing his speed.

Brad Graham also highlighted Stribling's ability to create separation against press-man coverage. With injuries affecting the wide receiver room, Stribling is putting himself in position to earn more attention.

Mike Evans makes an early red-zone statement

Evans didn't take long to remind everyone why his size and athleticism could be such a weapon for the 49ers. According to Graham, Evans went up and made an impressive one-handed touchdown catch in the red zone, out-jumping the defensive back.

It's only one padded practice, but Evans' ability to win contested catches could give the 49ers another valuable option when the field gets compressed near the goal line. He's shown for years that he can do it. Afterward, Evans told reporters, "It's a thing that you talk to quarterbacks about. Like when I'm covered, I'm still pretty open if you throw the ball up with some air, and Brock [Purdy] threw a great ball. Brock is super accurate."

Romello Height has a "wow" moment

The first padded one-on-ones of camp produced an impressive play from rookie defensive end Romello Height. David Lombardi reported that Height exploded off the edge and blew past rookie offensive lineman Enrique Cruz Jr., who couldn't get a hand on the pass rusher.

It was described as the "wow" highlight of the session.

Brett Toth looked good in 1-on-1s

On the offensive side of the ball, offensive lineman Brett Toth made his presence felt. Graham reported that Toth recorded multiple wins during the padded one-on-ones and even flipped a defensive tackle to the ground.

The veteran offensive lineman appeared polished in his first opportunity to compete in pads this summer.

Jacob Cowing making the most of his opportunities

With Samuel not yet practicing and injuries impacting the receiver group, Cowing continues to make his case. OurSF49ers called it another solid day for Cowing, who made several catches during team drills.

Cowing has been working hard and appears determined to capitalize on every opportunity that comes his way. His ability to contribute on special teams could also help his chances of sticking around when roster decisions are made.

Jordan Watkins keeps stacking good days

WR Jordan Watkins continued his strong start to training camp with another solid practice. According to OurSF49ers, Watkins made multiple catches and once again showcased his excellent speed. The first day in pads didn't slow him down. Watkins has now put together several consecutive positive practices, making him one of the young receivers worth watching as camp continues.

Dre Greenlaw brings the energy

Dre Greenlaw's return to the practice field has been noticeable. OurSF49ers pointed out that Greenlaw has shown intense energy through the first four days of camp, consistently finding himself around the football and looking to make plays.

The veteran linebacker has been a vocal and emotional presence for the 49ers' defense throughout his career, and his energy appears to be back in full force. Greenlaw's return to the 49ers could provide a significant boost to the personality and physicality of San Francisco's defense.

Osa Odighizuwa making an early impression

One of the newest additions to the 49ers' defensive line is already receiving plenty of praise. Graham called Osa Odighizuwa "hands down the best interior defender for the 49ers" through the first four days of camp, adding that he looks like a "phenomenal addition."

While it's far too early to draw any conclusions from training camp, Odighizuwa's early performance is certainly encouraging for a defense that will need improved interior disruption this season.

Shanahan appears to be making progress

Kyle Shanahan also provided some encouraging news of his own. Lombardi reported that Friday was Shanahan's longest stretch at practice during training camp so far. During a break, the head coach was reportedly joking around with the team's quarterbacks. Shanahan is still recovering from a concussion suffered in a car accident earlier this month, but his increased presence at practice appears to indicate that he's making significant progress in his recovery.

The 49ers will practice again on Saturday before having an off day on Sunday. Then it's back at it on Monday.

More info on: Alfred Collins, Jacob Cowing, Enrique Cruz, Mike Evans, Dre Greenlaw, Romello Height, Osa Odighizuwa, Brock Purdy, Deebo Samuel, De'Zhaun Stribling, Jordan Watkins