Patriot Returns: Marvel Reignites Young Avengers Legacy in Captain America #4

Elijah Bradley Steps Back Into the Spotlight

Elijah Bradley, famously known as Patriot and a founding member of the Young Avengers, is officially back in action. In Sam Wilson: Captain America #4, Patriot returns from superhero retirement to join forces with Sam Wilson’s Captain America in a thrilling mission against the nefarious Eaglestar Industries.

A Long-Awaited Comeback

Patriot’s return was first hinted at in earlier issues of the series, but issue #4 delivers the action fans have been waiting for. Eli is seen working with Wiccan to find his uncle Josiah X, who had gone missing on a mission. As events unfold, Eli reunites with Josiah and jumps back into battle to help free victims of Eaglestar’s dark agenda.

Fighting Alongside Legends

Eli is not alone in his comeback. He teams up with an elite squad that includes Sam Wilson’s Captain America, his cousin Billie, Falcon, and the newly reintroduced Josiah X—now going by the codename Shadow Soldier. Together, they engage in a high-stakes confrontation that brings the Bradley family’s legacy into focus.

Reconnecting Family and Heroes

The issue also revisits Eli’s family ties, particularly his connection to Isaiah Bradley, the legendary former Captain America. Earlier appearances showed Eli celebrating Isaiah’s birthday and slowly re-entering the superhero realm with guidance from War Machine. Now, with Sam Wilson: Captain America #4, that journey comes full circle.

Teasing a Young Avengers Reunion?

With Wiccan appearing in the issue, Marvel is subtly teasing a potential reunion of the Young Avengers. Although there’s no confirmation of a full team revival, Patriot’s solo storyline opens doors for further exploration of his character—either as a leader or in future team-based narratives.

Marvel’s Renewed Focus on the Bradley Family

Marvel’s narrative shift gives long-overdue attention to the Bradley family. Josiah X’s return as Shadow Soldier and Eli’s redefined hero arc mark a strong step toward diversifying the Captain America mythos. These stories not only pay tribute to the past but also carve out fresh paths for the future of Marvel’s superhero lineage.

Sam Wilson: Captain America #4 hits shelves on April 16, 2025, and promises to reshape how fans view the legacy of the Young Avengers—starting with the long-awaited rise of Patriot.