What happened: San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Mike Evans returned to practice late this week and intends to suit up despite a rib injury. Teammate George Kittle bluntly acknowledged the painful reality of fractured ribs, even as the team expressed optimism.

Why it matters: With San Francisco boasting a 5-1 record, risking further injury to the star wideout seems unnecessary. The offense is already performing at a high level, meaning the 49ers can afford to rest Evans rather than expose him to further contact.