Mike Evans entered Monday night’s matchup against the Washington Commanders already dealing with multiple injuries. The veteran wide receiver had been managing fractured ribs and Achilles soreness but was active for the San Francisco 49ers despite missing practice throughout the week.
Evans had remained a key target for quarterback Brock Purdy, especially with several other receivers unavailable. However, the 49ers suffered another potential setback during their Week 6 game at Levi’s Stadium.
Mike Evans Exits With an Apparent Achilles Injury
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Evans exited Monday night’s game after catching a 16-yard pass from Purdy and grabbing his Achilles immediately afterward. He subsequently left the field for the locker room for further evaluation.
Evans, who had recorded 94 yards during the game, was listed as questionable by the 49ers at halftime.
UPDATE: 49ers announced Evans will not return to Monday’s game.
The 49ers were leading by 10 points when Evans left the game, and scored on their final drive of the half to extend their lead to 20-3. His exit raises fresh concerns about the injury he had been managing before kickoff, although the team has yet to confirm whether he aggravated the existing Achilles issue or suffered a different injury.
Evans was listed as active before the game despite dealing with rib and Achilles problems. An important piece on San Francisco’s passing attack, he is also playing through his rib injury in recent weeks. Further information on his condition and potential return is awaited.
49ers Face More Problems With Depleted WR Depth
Losing Evans would be a significant blow to a receiving corps already missing several contributors. Deebo Samuel was ruled out before kickoff with a hamstring injury, while Christian Kirk was also unavailable despite returning to practice from a calf injury.
Ricky Pearsall, De’Zhaun Stribling and Demarcus Robinson have also been sidelined by injuries, leaving Brandin Cooks, Jordan Watkins, Jacob Cowing and Malik Turner among San Francisco’s available wide receivers.
If Evans cannot return, Purdy will have fewer experienced options to target. The 49ers will provide further updates as more information becomes available about Evans’ injury.
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