Adam Schefter of ESPN reported before the 49ers' preseason game against the Los Angeles Chargers on Thursday night that Kittle visited with his surgeon the previous day and came away thinking he could play when the 49ers face the Rams in Australia on September 10.
"49ers tight end George Kittle visited Wednesday in Los Angeles with renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. Neal ElAttrache, who performed the surgery on his torn Achilles in January," Schefter wrote on X. "It was said to be an encouraging visit. Kittle's recovery is ahead of schedule, and it gives him a legitimate chance to play in the regular season opener in Australia against the Los Angeles Rams."
Kittle, who was in street clothes and was seen interacting with fans before Thursday's game, sustained the injury in January in a 23-19 playoff win over the Philadelphia Eagles. Kittle expressed optimism about his status late last week, while head coach Kyle Shanahan told reporters Tuesday that an exact timetable for a return hadn't been decided.
"I kind of listen to George the same way you guys do," Shanahan said. "George isn't a big put-a-date on it, and I'm not going to be that dude either, but I think you guys can tell how he's talking, how he looks. I agree, I think it's sooner than later."
Kittle sustained the injury on January 11. Even if he's not available for the opener, Kittle at least appears set to be ready for the majority of the season, an outcome both he and the 49ers would have likely welcomed seven months ago.
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