Mike Evans says it will be the difference in the 49ers’ championship. search for a Super Bowl: “I am that piece”

Catcher proved to be a major problem for the team all year, as Ricky Pearsall, Jauan Jennings and George Kittle all missed games due to injuries. Brandon Aiyuk was expected to return from an ACL issue at some point, but his relationship with the team deteriorated to the point where he didn’t play a single down for the 49ers in 2025. Had the team had a more consistent pass catcher last year, it’s possible the 49ers would have been a much bigger threat in the playoffs.

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For most of his career, Evans has been the epitome of consistency. During his first 11 NFL seasons, Evans surpassed 1,000 receiving yards each time, an NFL record. He barely got there in 2024, gaining just 1,004 yards in 14 games.

But that streak came to a screeching halt in 2025. Evans battled a hamstring injury and then broke his collarbone in his first game. While Evans was able to return and play in games toward the end of the regular season, he finished with a career-low 368 receiving yards.

While Evans should have plenty of opportunities to return to his previous numbers, he will need to prove he can still be productive after two years marred by injuries. When he’s at his best, Evans is an elite deep target and a monster in the red zone, where he can use his size and jumping ability to take down smaller defenders.

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Before 2025, Evans was an extremely durable talent. Evans played at least 13 games per season during his first 11 years in the NFL. Even in his injury-marred 2024 season, Evans managed to play in 14 games.

The return to health should lead to better numbers for Evans with his new team. But both his age and workload are a bit of a concern going forward, and the 49ers will have to be smart with their use of Evans early on if they want him to be anywhere near full health when the playoffs (and a possible Super Bowl appearance) are on the line.