All signs continue to point toward San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle achieving his goal of returning for Week 1 of the 2026 season, when the 49ers face the Los Angeles Rams in Australia.
Kittle is just six months removed from suffering a torn Achilles during San Francisco's playoff victory over the Philadelphia Eagles. Despite the typically lengthy recovery associated with the injury, the veteran tight end has made remarkable progress and believes he's ahead of schedule.
Fortunately for Kittle, the tear occurred higher on the Achilles tendon—a best-case scenario that generally allows for a smoother recovery than lower tears.
While Kittle's return would provide a significant boost to the 49ers offense, the team could opt for a cautious approach with one of its most valuable players. Given the extensive travel involved for the season opener in Australia, the 49ers may decide to ease Kittle back rather than rush him onto the field.
ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter is optimistic about Kittle's recovery but cautioned that nothing is certain.
"George Kittle's coming back from his injury and he feels like he's going to be ready for that regular season opener in Australia against the Rams," Schefter said on his podcast, via Kole Noble of A to Z Sports. "But the 49ers may be very careful, and let's see if he makes it back. I don't think it's a given, just yet."
An encouraging video recently surfaced showing Kittle powering through a 665-pound lift as he continues his recovery and prepares for 49ers training camp, with veterans scheduled to report this weekend.
[tweet
#49ers TE George Kittle ripping smelling salts and repping 665lbs ahead of training camp 😤
Kittle tore his Achilles 6 months ago and his recovery has been remarkable
🎥 @coachcuthbert51 pic.twitter.com/BUdSW6YIk4
— ???????????????????????????????????????????? (@TheSFNiners) July 17, 2026
Kittle has consistently hit every recovery milestone and remains determined to be on the field when the 49ers open the 2026 season.
"I'm a little bit ahead of schedule, so I'm trying new things," Kittle said in June. "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 added, "I am on a tight leash, but I'm pulling as hard as I can."
Mentioned in this article: George Kittle
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