49ers likely to play without Mike Evans as they prepare for Atlanta game

The San Jose-based 49ers, currently undefeated at 6-0, are preparing to face Atlanta with a significantly altered receiving corps. Key wide receivers including Ricky Pearsall, De’Zhaun Stribling, Demarcus Robinson, Deebo Samuel, KhaDarel Hodge, and Dante Pettis will not be suiting up for the game.

Christian Kirk, who was injured on the first day of training camp, may make his season debut Sunday, joining receivers Brandin Cooks, Jordan Watkins, Jacob Cowing, Malik Turner, and potentially a practice-squad callup, according to mercurynews.com. Kirk has been practicing for two weeks and has developed a strong rapport with quarterback Brock Purdy.

Mike Evans, a critical target for Purdy during the 49ers’ successful start, has been sidelined due to Achilles tendinitis that worsened during the recent game against Washington. Evans has not practiced all week and has been seen wearing hyper-recovery sneakers, leading to uncertainty about his availability for the upcoming game.

General manager John Lynch told KNBR 680-AM that Evans’ status remains to be determined, with the team taking extra time to assess his condition. The 49ers are expected to rely on their patchwork receiving group as they approach their next game before the bye week.