San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey has expressed admiration for new teammate Mike Evans, highlighting the veteran wide receiver's impact on the team even before the regular season begins. Evans, who joined the 49ers this offseason on a three-year, $60.4 million contract, is in his first year with a new team after a decade with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
McCaffrey noted Evans' influence during a recent practice, stating that it's "hard not to listen to what he's saying and watch what he's doing." He added that Evans' perspective on the game is valuable, describing him as a "special guy, special player."
This positive reception from teammates has been consistent since the team's Organized Team Activities (OTAs) in June. Tight end George Kittle previously told reporters he found it hard to believe Evans was a member of the 49ers, even joking about pinching himself daily.
Evans brings a decorated resume to San Francisco. He was a key contributor to the Buccaneers' Super Bowl LIII victory, leading the team in touchdowns with 14 and finishing second in receiving yards with 1,035 in the 2021 season. Since his NFL debut in 2014, Evans has amassed over 1,000 receiving yards in each of his first 11 seasons, a streak that ties him with former 49ers Hall of Famer Jerry Rice. Last season, however, injuries, including a left hamstring strain and a broken collarbone, limited him to eight games, ending his consecutive 1,000-yard seasons streak. Despite the injuries, he recorded 30 receptions for 368 yards and 3 touchdowns.
With the 49ers, Evans is expected to be the lead receiver and is also positioned to mentor younger players, such as second-round draft pick De'Zhaun Stribling. McCaffrey emphasized the importance of such mentorship, expressing hope that younger players will "take it and run with it" from Evans' example.