Kittle returned to practice last week after being activated from the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. Although he has yet to participate in team drills, the veteran tight end is expected to take that next step this week before the 49ers travel to Melbourne, Australia, for their Week 1 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams.
Here were Shanahan's exact words while discussing the 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."
Most 49ers beat writers, however, didn't interpret Shanahan's comments as an indication of a setback. Instead, they assumed the coach meant that Kittle had taken a step toward returning by resuming practice—which appears to have been the correct interpretation.
On Sunday, ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter shut down any speculation that Kittle had suffered a setback, reporting that the 49ers tight end remains on track in his effort to play against the Rams.
"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. "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."
Based on Schefter's report, Kittle remains on track in his recovery and could travel with the 49ers to Australia and could suit up for the team's international season opener against the Rams.
Kittle suffered his Achilles injury during the 49ers' first playoff game last season, a January victory over the Philadelphia Eagles.
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