Mike Evans ruled out, Trent Williams questionable as NFC-leading 49ers' injury concerns persist

The NFC-leading 49ers will be without wide receiver Mike Evans for a third straight game Sunday against the Dallas Cowboys as he continues to deal with Achilles tendinitis. Meanwhile, standout left tackle Trent Williams remains questionable after injuring his shoulder in practice this week.

Injuries have become a weekly storyline for San Francisco, with several other players also on the injury report. Cornerbacks Deommodore Lenoir and Renardo Green, who missed practice Wednesday and Thursday, were limited participants Friday. Linebacker Dre Greenlaw was also listed as questionable after hurting his knee at practice Thursday.

At 38, Williams remains a 12-time Pro Bowler playing at a high level, making his availability significant for San Francisco. He left practice early Thursday and did not participate Friday, but Shanahan remained hopeful the veteran tackle would feel well enough to play Sunday.

Williams' impact significant

Vederian Lowe would likely start if Williams is unable to go, but replacing the longtime standout would be a major challenge for the 49ers. Shanahan emphasized Williams' importance to the team.

Reinforcements at receiver

The 49ers will have more help at receiver this week with Deebo Samuel set to return after missing the past three games with a hamstring injury and Keenan Allen set to make his debut for the 49ers after being acquired earlier this week in a trade from Indianapolis.

Evans left a Week 6 game against Washington early with the injury and has been unable to practice since then but is making progress. Shanahan said there's a chance Evans could play next week in Mexico against Minnesota.

The 49ers enter Sunday's game with an NFC-best 7-1 record, continuing their strong season despite persistent injury concerns.