George Kittle injury update: 49ers Star tight end set for Week 7 return; Surgeon flags re-injury risk | NFL News
The San Francisco 49ers sit at 4-2, but they’ve been without star tight end George Kittle since Week 1. The Pro Bowler tore his right hamstring against the Seattle Seahawks and has missed five games. Recent updates, including medical clearance for practice, signal that Kittle could return soon, bringing hope for a much-needed boost to the 49ers’ offense.
San Francisco 49ers’ George Kittle set for Week 7 comeback after Hamstring injury
Harvard-trained sports surgeon Dr. Deepak Chona recently provided an encouraging update on George Kittle’s recovery, stating that both Kittle and Tampa Bay Buccaneers receiver Mike Evans are likely to return to pre-injury form within one to two weeks. However, Chona also warned that Kittle faces a “high re-injury risk given age and history,” which is a concern considering his previous injuries.Kittle’s injury occurred after 22 snaps in Week 1, with just over ten minutes left in the second quarter. He was immediately placed on injured reserve, forcing him to miss five straight games — his longest absence since 2020, when he missed eight games due to knee and foot injuries. According to NFL rules, players placed on injured reserve must miss a minimum of four games, which made Kittle eligible to return in Week 6. However, the 49ers opted to give him extra recovery time.This week, Kittle was cleared for a 21-day practice window, signaling his possible return against the Atlanta Falcons in Week 7. He participated in limited practice sessions on Wednesday and Thursday, showing promising progress. Speaking to reporters, Kittle sounded eager to rejoin the team: “I fully plan on playing on Sunday. As long as Kyle lets me. It’s up to him. But hopefully I’m out there.” Head coach Kyle Shanahan echoed that optimism, confirming that Kittle’s return is “the hope.”
What George Kittle’s comeback means for 49ers
Kittle’s comeback brings both excitement and tough decisions for the 49ers. His return energizes the locker room, with quarterback Mac Jones praising his leadership and infectious energy. However, it also forces San Francisco to reevaluate its offensive lineup, especially with ongoing injuries to key players like Fred Warner, Marquez Valdes-Scantling, and Ricky Pearsall.
Kittle’s impending return presents a crucial decision for the 49ers — whether to accelerate his comeback to reignite their offense or adopt a cautious approach to prevent another setback. Either way, his presence could be the key to restoring balance and momentum as San Francisco enters the heart of the season.Also Read: CeeDee Lamb injury update: Cowboys’ Star WR on track for Week 7 against Washington Commanders
