49ers training camp practice 16: Quick hits

The San Francisco 49ers got some important players back on the field for a very spirited practice on Sunday as they continue preparing for the regular season. Christian McCaffrey returned after missing roughly three weeks with tightness, while George Kittle was activated from the physically unable to perform list and participated in his first practice of training camp. Deommodore Lenoir also returned to practice after suffering a shoulder injury during Thursday night's preseason victory over the Los Angeles Chargers.

The biggest development, though, was Kittle's return. The star tight end was in uniform and went through individual work, but he was eased back into action and did not participate in team situations. That was expected considering he had yet to practice during training camp.

McCaffrey gets some work

McCaffrey's workload was more substantial. Reports differed slightly on how much team work he received, but Nick Wagoner of ESPN reported that McCaffrey took some reps during team periods and even received a handful of carries. Matt Barrows of The Athletic reported that McCaffrey took roughly a half-dozen snaps during one team period, including a carry that he broke for more than 25 yards to the right side. David Lombardi also reported that McCaffrey participated in team drills, despite an earlier report from Vic Tafur indicating that McCaffrey and Kittle were limited to individual work.

Either way, the important part for San Francisco is that McCaffrey is back. Several reporters noted that the veteran running back looked explosive during Sunday's practice, which is an encouraging sign after he was held out for several weeks.

Running back depth

The 49ers also got another reminder of how much depth they have at running back. Tafur highlighted a play from Jordan James, who turned the corner and took off. James has continued to make a strong impression when healthy, and San Francisco suddenly has plenty of options behind their star running back. McCaffrey, Deebo Samuel, Kaelon Black, and James give the 49ers an interesting group heading toward the regular season.

Wide receiver news

Jacob Cowing also drew some attention during Sunday's practice. "Jacob Cowing looking sharp in 1-on-1 drills. Finishing camp strong," Tafur reported. Cowing is competing for a spot in a crowded wide receiver room, so strong practices at this point in camp can only help his case.

Mike Evans was another player to watch. The veteran wide receiver left practice and took off his pads, appearing frustrated. Jennifer Lee Chan reported that the situation could be injury-related, although there was no immediate indication of the severity. The 49ers will presumably have more information on Evans in the coming days.