Niners Nation
Day one of training camp for the San Francisco 49ers got underway on Sunday afternoon. Aside from the four members beginning camp on PUP, the 49ers were relatively healthy heading into camp, with only Nate Hobbs missing the session in a bit of a surprise. Let’s get the in-session injuries out of the way, as OT Vederian Lowe and WR Christian Kirk left the first practice with what are being described as “not major” injuries.
Let’s review some of the news from day one from the people in attendance:
Brock Purdy and Mike Evans’ rapport is displayed on day one
When Evans signed with San Francisco for less money than what the open market offered, the main sticking point was playing in a Kyle Shanahan offense with Brock Purdy. One of the highlights of the practice was Purdy connecting with Evans on a long gain with CB Deommodore Lenoir in coverage. Evans and Purdy’s skill sets blend very well, and you can expect more long gains during the season.
As the anchor of the receiving group, Evans needs to hit the ground running in Week 1 in Australia. The first-day performance, coupled with the praise from teammates and being “unguardable, only pushes the hype for the 49ers offense in 2026 into overdrive.
LG Connor Colby is up first with the left guard spot open
This isn’t exactly a surprise. The 49ers likely are giving the player they brought in last season, and who was pushed into duty in 2025, the first look at the spot, and OL coach and acting head coach Chris Foerster confirmed the thought process in his press conference after the session. Foerster also added that veteran Robert Jones will get his reps, but on Sunday it was all Colby.
The placement of the second-year lineman is of note, but there can’t be an evaluation of the trenches without pads. Still, the 49ers want Colby to get the first crack during the install period of camp. Something to monitor during camp as the spot does need to be filled.
ESPN’s Nick Wagoner explained in his notes and observations: “In terms of some positional battles, a few things stood out: Connor Colby is getting the first crack at left guard. He and Robert Jones are the top contenders, but it was all Colby on Sunday. Foerster said that is earned by his incumbent status, but nothing will be solidified until pads come on and evaluations can take place.”
The safety position sees three players fighting for two positions
Ji’Ayir Brown, Marques Sigle, and Malik Mustapha were the three safeties seen the most during team periods. Sigle and Mustapha rotated at the same spot, while Brown stayed in his spot. It’s safe to say all three will be in rotation, and two of the 49ers’ draft picks are preferred as the permanent starters by the staff.
Sigle notched an interception tossed by Mac Jones, and Mustapha had a PBU on an intended pass to Ricky Pearsall. One has to...
