For those freaking out that San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle shockingly appeared on Wednesday's injury report with an ankle injury, relax. A 49ers spokesman clarified after the practice participation report was released that the All-Pro tight end was held out on Wednesday because of some "ankle soreness" from Saturday's playoff win over the Minnesota Vikings.
The tight end was seen walking around before and after Wednesday's practice without a noticeable limp, so any strong concerns may be unwarranted.
Kyle Juszczyk wants to further assure fans that Kittle will be ready for Sunday's NFC Championship Game against the Green Bay Packers. The 49ers' fullback joined Good Morning Football on Thursday and explained that it would take a lot more than some "soreness" to keep Kittle out of this one with a trip to the Super Bowl on the line.
"You mentioned the whole WWE superstar, so, he likes his theatrics, he likes to get the media going. Keep people on edge," Juszczyk said via Kevin Patra of NFL Media. "I don't think we have to worry about George not being out there. I really don't think there is anything that could keep him from playing."
Kittle, who is Jimmy Garoppolo's most reliable target, hauled in 85 passes from his quarterback for 1,053 yards with five touchdowns during the regular season. The Vikings, however, managed to hold the tight end to three receptions for 16 yards on Saturday. He will likely see more opportunities in the passing game this weekend.
"George has been phenomenal, the guy's just an absolute superstar," Juszczyk said. "Arguably, the best player in the NFL when the ball is in his hands. But a guy that also embraces doing the little things. Love being physical. Loves blocking. And just his energy, man, his energy gets all of us going...He's the best, he gets all of us fired up, and he makes us a better team."
Former 49ers tight end, Brent Jones, also expects Kittle to have a big game against the Packers defense and explained why this week during a KNBR interview.
"I thought the Vikings had a couple of athletes that could maybe take away Kittle," Jones said on Monday. "I don't think the Packers do. I think we're going to see a big George Kittle (game) this week, for sure.
"They're not going to be able to do what the Vikings did to Kittle, and there's too many other things, now, that they have to account for, run-game-wise, and I just think the Packers are out-manned."