Should I Start Mike Evans?

Thursday, October 22, 12:35 PM

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Mike Evans (Achilles) was not participating during the open portion of the team's practice on Thursday, per ESPN's Nick Wagoner. Evans is battling a lingering Achilles issue that forced him to exit early from San Francisco's Week 6 win over the Washington Commanders. The veteran wide receiver has also dealt with a rib injury this season that may still be affecting him. Evans has been highly productive when healthy in 2026, recording 27 catches for 420 yards and three touchdowns on 39 targets across six games. However, he's frequently missed practices and has left several games early due to injury. With the 49ers' bye week coming up in Week 8 following their Week 7 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons, the team could opt to give Evans an extended rest. If Evans is indeed inactive against Atlanta, 49ers wideouts Brandin Cooks, Christian Kirk (calf), and Jordan Watkins could all see expanded roles.