The San Francisco 49ers have received positive news regarding wide receiver Mike Evans, who is expected to be available for the team's season opener in Melbourne, Australia, against the Los Angeles Rams. ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported that Evans, the team's top free-agent acquisition, has been dealing with injuries during training camp, most recently a minor groin issue that kept him out of practice on Tuesday.
Evans, 33, is slated to lead the 49ers' wide receiver corps, which is currently facing significant personnel challenges. The team will be without Ricky Pearsall for the season due to a knee injury, and Brandon Aiyuk is on the reserve/did not report list. Additionally, veteran tight end George Kittle is returning from a ruptured Achilles injury sustained in January.
Last season with the Buccaneers, Evans battled nagging injuries, including a hamstring strain and a broken collarbone, which ended his streak of 11 consecutive seasons with over 1,000 receiving yards.
Known for his red-zone prowess, Evans signed a three-year, $60 million contract with the 49ers during the offseason. The team anticipates substantial contributions from him to support quarterback Brock Purdy.
In other team news, veteran edge rusher Nick Bosa and cornerback Upton Stout are also expected to return to practice next week.