It turns out that George Kittle wasn't the only San Francisco 49ers tight end who played through an injury in 2018. He cracked a rib during a Week 9 matchup against the Oakland Raiders but didn't miss a game after that thanks to the help of large padded rib protectors under his jersey.
Tight end Garrett Celek recently underwent surgery to repair a broken thumb in his right hand, according to Chris Biderman of the Sacramento Bee. Celek told Biderman on Monday that the injury occurred during the 49ers' Week 3 matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs.
The 49ers tight end figures to be ready for the start of the offseason program in April.
Just ran into #49ers TE Garrett Celek who recently had surgery to repair a broken thumb on his right hand. He said he suffered the injury Week 3 against the Chiefs. He wound up playing in 15 games. He'll be healed and ready for the start of the offseason program.
— Chris Biderman (@ChrisBiderman) January 8, 2019
Celek is the second-longest tenured player on the 49ers roster. Only tackle Joe Staley has spent more time in San Francisco.
The 49ers signed Celek as an undrafted free agent out of Michigan State in 2012. He registered five receptions for 90 yards with two touchdowns through 15 games and one start in 2018, all of which were his lowest totals since 2014. Both of Celek's trips into the end zone came during 49ers victories. The first was against the Detroit Lions during Week 2 and the second against the Seattle Seahawks during Week 15.
Celek is signed through the 2019 season.
H/t to Kirk Larrabee of 24/7 Sports for the find.