George Kittle has ‘legitimate chance’ to play Week 1 in 49ers season opener vs Rams

The San Francisco 49ers may very well have tight end George Kittle for the NFL season opener in Australia.

Kittle, who is recovering from a torn Achilles, visited Dr. Neal ElAttrache in Los Angeles Wednesday. The 49ers star receiving on encouraging update, giving him a legitimate chance to play Week 1 against the Los Angeles Rams.

NFL insider Adam Schefter was the first to report the news.

Kittle underwent surgery in January after sustaining the injury in the NFC Wild Card game against the Philadelphia Eagles. It typically takes nine months for players to return from an Achilles injury, but Kittle is ahead of schedule as he is only seven months removed from the procedure.

Kittle’s 2025 season was marred by injuries as he dealt with a significant hamstring injury early in the year before his season ended in the playoffs. In 11 games, Kittle posted 57 receptions on 628 yards with seven touchdowns.

The 32-year-old has vowed not to miss a regular season game in 2026 and it appears he may be able too achieve that by playing in NFL’s regular season opener overseas.

“I still believe that. My team still believes that. My surgeon still believes that I have a chance,” Kittle said over the weekend.

The coming weeks before the NFC West showdown on Sept. 10 will be key for Kittle, who has already hit top speeds while running. For now, he remains on the Physically Unable to Perform List and hasn’t put on pads at training camp.

That will have to change soon if Kittle hopes to be on the field in Australia.

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