Wide receiver Mike Evans joined the San Francisco 49ers in March, bringing with him an impressive résumé that includes 11 consecutive seasons with more than 1,000 receiving yards.
As Evans enters his 13th NFL season, the veteran wideout is already inspiring his new teammates to play their best football in 2026. That includes quarterback Brock Purdy, who will be slinging passes in Evans' direction this season.
"I think it's been so cool just picking his brain, being around him, getting out on the field and competing with him," Purdy told NBC Sports Bay Area's Matt Maiocco this week. "And after reps, him coming back and talking and we make adjustments together, and I understand how he's supposed to be running a certain route, and the look that he's seeing and where I need to be better, and then we go back out and get it done."
Evans was recently sidelined with an adductor injury but returned to practice on Wednesday. He is expected to be the 49ers' leading receiver this season, giving Purdy a boundary and red-zone target unlike any he has had during his NFL career.
There are questions about Evans' ability to stay healthy, which is a natural concern given that he turned 33 in August. Evans was also limited to just eight games last season because of injuries, preventing him from recording an NFL-record 12th consecutive 1,000-yard season.
Still, the 49ers are confident Evans can provide significant production in 2026. The veteran receiver will be looking to prove that Father Time has not yet caught up with him.
For Purdy, playing alongside a receiver of Evans' caliber presents an opportunity to take another step forward in his own development.
"I'm extremely excited to play with him this year," Purdy said. "And obviously, just with what he's done in his career, I want to go out and play my best for him, and win games together, and look back at this thing and be like, 'Man, we did something pretty special together.' So, like I said, I'm extremely excited."
If Evans can stay healthy, the 49ers believe the veteran wideout can give Purdy a weapon capable of elevating the entire passing game. And judging by Purdy's comments, the quarterback is already motivated to make the most of the opportunity.
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