It was big news when San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle was activated from the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. It was even bigger news when it was revealed that Kittle would travel with the team to Melbourne, Australia.
Everything has pointed toward Kittle playing in Week 1 against the NFC West rival Los Angeles Rams, which has been the tight end's goal throughout the offseason. Initially, there was some skepticism about whether he could accomplish that goal. After all, Kittle suffered his Achilles injury in the playoffs.
However, Kittle appears to be on track to play, and the 49ers have liked what they've seen from their All-Pro playmaker this week as they prepare for the matchup at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground.
"He's looked good," offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak told reporters on Tuesday morning (Monday night in the United States). "Super impressed with how he's looked considering the injury he had and how quickly he got back out on the field and just committed to his rehab. And it's been pretty cool just to see Kittle out there looking like himself to me, looking fresh.
"And how that affects him on game day and what the workload is, that'll be determined. But he looks good to me, he's practicing full speed, he's getting a ton of reps, so I feel like we're in good shape."
Kittle's return would provide a significant boost to a 49ers offense that revamped its pass-catching group this offseason. San Francisco added veteran wide receiver Mike Evans, brought Deebo Samuel back into the fold, and used its top draft pick on wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling.
When asked if he expects Kittle to play against the Rams, Kubiak said, "We've got to see how he gets through the rest of the week. We've got two more practices, but Kittle looks good."
Kittle is entering his 10th NFL season after recording 57 receptions for 628 yards and seven touchdowns in 11 starts last season. His return would give quarterback Brock Purdy another proven weapon as the 49ers open the season against their NFC West rivals.
Mentioned in this article: Mike Evans, George Kittle, Brock Purdy, Deebo Samuel, De'Zhaun Stribling
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