San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle provided an encouraging update on his Achilles recovery during a recent appearance on the Pardon My Take podcast.
Kittle suffered the injury during San Francisco's first playoff game last season, a victory over the Philadelphia Eagles. Fortunately, the setback was not as severe as initially feared, and the All-Pro tight end seemingly remains on track to return for Week 1 of the 2026 season.
Over the weekend, Kittle reached another significant milestone in his rehabilitation and couldn't hide his excitement.
"I got a run today, hit over 16 miles an hour," Kittle shared. "That was pretty sick."
The veteran tight end noted that the workout took place on a field in cleats—a positive sign as he progresses in his recovery.
"I'm 21 weeks out, and I'm running over 16 miles an hour, so I'm having a great time," Kittle added. "Single-leg box jumps, we're cutting again, we're having some fun."
The 49ers are scheduled to open the regular season against the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia, which will make for a lengthy trip to kick off the 2026 campaign. Kittle continues to target that Week 1 matchup for his return.
Despite the positive progress, Kittle admitted he has had to resist the urge to push too hard.
"I'm a little bit ahead of schedule, so I'm trying new things," Kittle said. "My trainers are like, 'Yeah, just simmer just a little bit." Basically, what my surgeon told me is don't be a dumbass, and I'm trying my best to just not be a dumbass."
Kittle is entering his 10th NFL season, all with the 49ers. Although he battled a hamstring injury early last season, he still recorded 57 receptions for 628 yards and seven touchdowns in 11 games.
While Kittle is eager to accelerate his recovery, the 49ers will undoubtedly take a cautious approach with one of their most important offensive playmakers.
"I am on a tight leash, but I'm pulling as hard as I can," Kittle said.
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