San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan expressed strong optimism that wide receiver Mike Evans will be available for Sunday’s matchup against the Atlanta Falcons, despite Evans exiting Monday night’s victory with an aggravated Achilles injury. Evans, who has been managing Achilles tendonitis all week, left the game after two quarters, but Shanahan emphasized that the issue is a recurring flare-up rather than a structural concern. “It’s something that he’s had before,” Shanahan stated. “It’s something that bothered him throughout the week… Flared up tonight, I hope he recovers throughout the week, but you don’t think it’s a long-term thing.”
49ers coach optimistic WR will manage Achilles tendonitis to face Falcons
The 49ers’ escape with a 23-17 win over the Washington Commanders highlighted both the team’s resilience and the impact of Evans’ absence. San Francisco led 20-3 in the third quarter, but the Commanders mounted a late surge that threatened to steal the game in the fourth quarter. Shanahan acknowledged that Evans’ departure hurt the offense in the second half, noting that his presence was crucial in keeping the defense fresh and maintaining offensive rhythm. “It almost cost him this game and ended up costing him two quarters,” Shanahan added, underscoring the physical toll the injury took on the veteran receiver.
Looking ahead, the 49ers are positioned to use the upcoming bye week to ensure Evans is fully healed if he does not play Sunday. Shanahan indicated that if Evans is not ready, the remaining receiving corps must step up to maintain offensive production. “Hopefully he’ll be able to play next week. But if not, we’ll have to have the rest of the group step up and hopefully get him healed up by after the bye week,” the coach said. This strategic approach allows San Francisco to balance immediate competitive needs with long-term player health as they navigate the final stretch of the regular season.
Source: Yahoo Sports
