San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle did a good deal of work on the side during Monday's practice, more than he has done at any point during training camp. It appeared Kittle could be getting closer to returning to practice, although nothing is official yet.
Kittle remains on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. Still, there has been growing optimism that he will be able to play in the 49ers' Week 1 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams on September 10 in Melbourne, Australia.
Kittle is recovering from a torn Achilles suffered during the 49ers' playoff win over the Philadelphia Eagles and has made remarkable progress in his recovery.
Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports reports that there is "a high level of confidence at this point" that Kittle will be suited up alongside his teammates for the international season opener.
#49ers star tight end George Kittle continues to make terrific progress working back from the torn Achilles he suffered in January and there's a high level of confidence at this point that he'll end up being able to play Week 1 vs. the #Rams, sources tell @CBSSports pic.twitter.com/UK7cBEzs24
— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) August 10, 2026
It was initially thought that Kittle's injury could sideline the tight end for a significant portion of the 2026 season.
Fortunately for Kittle and the 49ers, doctors later determined that the tear was higher on the Achilles, which was considered a best-case scenario compared with the more severe tears that typically require a longer recovery.
That development has allowed Kittle to remain on track for a potential Week 1 return, which would be a significant boost for the 49ers as they open the season in Australia against a division rival.
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