San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan's wording following the team's preseason finale has been overanalyzed by the media. Some wondered whether his use of the phrase "taken a step back" regarding George Kittle meant the All-Pro tight end had suffered a setback in his recovery from an Achilles injury.
Shanahan used the phrase while discussing the 49ers' evaluation process for injured players ahead of the roster cut-down deadline.
"We've got to evaluate sooner than later. I mean, there's just guys that are going to be close. Guys like [DL] Mykel [Williams], guys like Kittle, who's taken a step back."
Of course, most believed Shanahan was simply referring to Kittle taking a step back toward returning to the football field after the 49ers activated him from the physically unable to perform (PUP) list.
Still, the comment generated plenty of discussion. Kittle even responded to the speculation Sunday morning, writing, "The things I wake up to" on social media, followed by a laughing emoji.
The things I wake up to 😂 https://t.co/dqugwzGMCk
— George Kittle (@gkittle46) August 30, 2026
It's fairly clear that Kittle remains on track in his recovery and is still hopeful about suiting up for the 49ers' Week 1 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia.
ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter also stated that Kittle has a legitimate chance to achieve that goal and that there have been no setbacks in his recovery.
"49ers TE George Kittle is expected to practice this week as he continues his efforts to play in the opener in Australia against the Rams," Schefter wrote on social media. "Kittle hasn't had any setbacks in his return from a torn Achilles, and still has a legitimate chance to play the opener, per sources."
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