Mike Evans Describes Painful Rib Injury After Hit From Budda Baker

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Mike Evans described the rib injury he sustained during the second quarter of Sunday's game against the Arizona Cardinals as one of the most painful he has experienced. The veteran receiver was carted off the field after a hit from Cardinals safety Budda Baker and did not return for the remainder of the game.

Evans, a significant free-agent acquisition for the 49ers, has been ruled questionable for the upcoming game against the Denver Broncos after missing practice this week. Speaking to reporters on Friday, Evans recalled the moment of impact, stating, “That s–t hurt bad.” He likened the sensation to being stabbed in the chest, despite the initial feeling being more akin to a head knock.

"It was like non-contact. … When I ran my route, I turned; I just felt like him ‘ah.’ I thought someone stabbed me in my chest," Evans said. "It felt like I got hit in the head. My head was ringing. But I didn’t feel nothing in my chest or rib area."

Despite the immediate pain, Evans appears to have avoided a serious long-term injury, a welcome development for the 49ers, who have been dealing with numerous injuries, particularly at the wide receiver position. Coach Kyle Shanahan, known for his guarded approach to injury updates, commented on Evans' toughness.

"[Evans] is definitely a lot tougher than me,” Shanahan said. “So hopefully we’ve got a shot.” Shanahan also made a lighthearted reference to a rib injury he sustained in a car accident during the summer.

In his first three games with the 49ers this season, Evans has made a notable impact, recording 12 receptions for 137 yards and two touchdowns. He is tied with George Kittle for the team lead in receptions. Evans has also contributed with three catches exceeding 20 yards.