NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport discussed Evans' status during Inside Training Camp Live, suggesting the veteran receiver could be back on the field sooner rather than later.
"It does seem like something that could get resolved relatively quickly, just by the term 'strain,'" Rapoport said. "It generally relates to a minor-type injury, and Mike Evans, he's been through training camps, been through a lot of training camps, certainly is someone who does not need the reps. They're going to give him probably a lighter load anyway, so I wouldn't be surprised if he misses some practice time.
"I wouldn't be surprised if he is able to go sooner rather than later, but make no mistake, this has been one of the big storylines of their training camp."
Rapoport also addressed the growing list of injuries at wide receiver for the 49ers. Ricky Pearsall was placed on season-ending injured reserve after suffering a setback in his recovery from last season's PCL injury. Rookie De'Zhaun Stribling is day-to-day with hamstring tightness, while Christian Kirk has missed several practices because of a calf strain.
"Seemingly every wide receiver has been nicked up in some form or fashion," Rapoport said. "Mike Evans, not too serious, but certainly something we're going to keep an eye on just because somebody needs to be out there catching passes for the San Francisco 49ers from Brock Purdy."
Following Pearsall's setback, the 49ers reunited with veteran wide receiver Deebo Samuel on a one-year contract reportedly worth $7 million. Samuel's return provides much-needed experience and depth to a position group that has been hit by injuries early in training camp.
While Evans' absence is worth monitoring, Rapoport's update suggests the 49ers avoided a significant setback with their biggest offseason addition. The team hopes to have Evans back on the practice field soon as he continues building chemistry with quarterback Brock Purdy ahead of the 2026 season.
Related News
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers' Mike Evans battles through rib injury in gritty win over Broncos
It was unclear whether San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Mike Evans would be available for the Week 4 matchup against the Denver Broncos. In fact, head coach Kyle Shanahan had labeled him a game-time decision. It wasn't certain Evans would suit up until the inactive list was... -
49ers injury news: Upton Stout making progress; Mike Evans works on the side
The San Francisco 49ers got some encouraging injury news Thursday. Cornerback Upton Stout, who is dealing with a shoulder injury suffered against the Denver Broncos, returned to practice as the team prepares for its Week 5 clash with the Seattle Seahawks. Stout wore a... -
49ers' John Lynch praises Mike Evans' toughness amid rib injury
There was concern that San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Mike Evans might not be able to play in Week 4 against the Denver Broncos. The 33-year-old veteran was dealing with a painful rib injury that threatened to keep him off the field. Evans played through the discomfort and... -
49ers injury news: Updates on Kyle Juszczyk, Mike Evans, others from Kyle Shanahan
San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan spoke with reporters on a conference call Monday, one day after the team's 24-14 win over the Denver Broncos. He provided several injury updates from the game. Earlier Monday, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that fullback Kyle...