Jerry Rice Backs Mike Evans With Confidence: "If Anyone Can Do It, It’s Mike Evans"

Mike Evans was ruled out of the San Francisco 49ers’ Week 7 game© X/@NFL

Mike Evans had given the San Francisco 49ers another dangerous option in the passing game before an Achilles problem forced him out of action. With the veteran wide receiver missing two games and his return date still uncertain, questions have started to surface about his availability for the second half of the season. However, former 49ers great Jerry Rice had little doubt about Evans' determination. Speaking on KNBR on Wednesday, the Hall of Famer backed the 33-year-old to fight his way back, pointing to the one quality that could make the difference.

Jerry Rice shares take on Mike Evans and the San Francisco 49ers

Rice knew that injuries could make life difficult for any player, particularly during a long NFL season. But he believed Evans had the mindset to push through the difficult period and return when his body allowed him to play.

“I certainly hope so,” Rice said when asked whether Evans would be healthy for the playoffs. He then explained why he remained confident in the receiver.

“I know one thing, this guy, he wants to play no matter what. Whatever injury is bothering him or is a factor... John Lynch and all of those guys... Kyle Shanahan it's gotta be difficult because I'm sure he's in there hear telling them that ‘hey I want to play,' so if anyone can do it. it's Mike Evans.”

Rice's comments reflected the competitive nature of a player who had made an immediate impact after joining San Francisco. Evans had become one of Brock Purdy's most productive targets before the injury interrupted his first season with the franchise.

The former 49ers receiver was equally confident about the team's championship chances. Following the addition of Keenan Allen at the trade deadline, Rice felt San Francisco had enough talent to go all the way.

“We should win the whole thing,” he said. “What we have at the receiving core... and if we can get these guys healthy all at the same time, it's a no brainer.”

Mike Evans' injury leaves 49ers waiting for his return

San Francisco's biggest problem was getting its wide receivers back on the field together. Evans had missed the last two games after his Achilles tendinitis flared up during the Week 6 contest against Washington.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan offered little clarity on Wednesday, describing the receiver's status as week-to-week. Evans had not practiced since the injury worsened, making his availability for the Week 10 meeting with the Dallas Cowboys uncertain.

His absence had forced the 49ers to look for additional options. The team acquired Allen from the Indianapolis Colts ahead of the trade deadline, bringing in a six-time Pro Bowler with 40 catches for 351 yards and one touchdown.

Interestingly, Allen had already addressed his old social media exchange with Evans from 2020. He said they had settled their differences a long time ago and even called Evans the better player at this stage of their careers.