Asked Wednesday if he expects to play, Kittle didn't hesitate: "Absolutely."
Kittle missed last weekend's win over the Chicago Bears after suffering the injury in the previous game against the Indianapolis Colts.
This weekend, the stakes are high, with the winner of the 49ers-Seahawks matchup securing the NFC West title and home-field advantage in the NFC playoffs.
When asked how he's feeling, Kittle said, "Fabulous. We're in a great position for Saturday night to clinch a one seed, so just with that, I'm doing fantastic."
General manager John Lynch said Kittle came close to playing, noting the tight end felt good the day before kickoff but woke up sore on game day. The 49ers ultimately chose not to risk further injury.
This week's practices will be lighter due to the short turnaround, but Kittle's participation is an encouraging sign for San Francisco as it pushes for playoff positioning.
"We obviously got to get through the week, but I'd be very surprised if George wasn't out there," Lynch said.
Kittle's return would be a significant boost for the 49ers' offense as it prepares for a high-stakes divisional showdown against Seattle.
Related News
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers' George Kittle shares update on Week 1 availability amid Achilles recovery
San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle suffered a torn Achilles during the Wild Card playoff victory over the Philadelphia Eagles, forcing him to miss the following week's Divisional Round matchup against the Seattle Seahawks. Initially, the injury was viewed as one that... -
49ers injury notes: Isaac Guerendo setback; Nick Bosa, George Kittle updates; Mac Jones doesn't throw
San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan spoke with reporters on Thursday and provided several key injury updates as the team continued organized team activities (OTAs), which began on Wednesday. Isaac Guerendo suffers offseason setback It was already expected to be a... -
49ers' George Kittle sounds off on potential 18-game NFL season
There is little doubt that the NFL would like to expand the regular season to 18 games per team. The league already increased the schedule from 16 to 17 games in 2021, and many around the NFL believe another expansion is only a matter of time. Like many players, however, San... -
49ers mailbag: How much will Kaelon Black play as a rookie? Will SF sign any more free agents? Will the defense be any better in 2026?
The San Francisco 49ers have started OTAs (organized team activities), and there's finally actual football to discuss. It may not be like training camp, but it's close enough. And training camp isn't too far away. We opened the 49ers Webzone Mailbag to see what was on your...