When 49ers tight end George Kittle recently emerged from the active/physically unable to perform list, many assumed it meant he'd be available to play in the Week 1 game against the Rams in Australia.
After the recent preseason finale, however, coach Kyle Shanahan made a comment that could be interpreted as meaning Kittle has had a setback in his recovery from a torn Achilles tendon.
While discussing whether various injured players will be available for the season-opening game, Shanahan mentioned Kittle's name, adding this: "who's taken a step back."
It happened quickly. The comment was made almost in passing. There was no further explanation.
Did Shanahan mean Kittle has had a setback? Did it mean he has taken a step back toward playing?
Whatever Shanahan meant, it will surely be one of the main topics the next time Shanahan meets with reporters.
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