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George Kittle aims for Week 1 return following Achilles injury
San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle expressed high confidence on Sunday that he will be activated from the physically unable to perform (PUP) list before the start of the 2026 NFL season.
Kittle is recovering from a torn Achilles tendon suffered on January 11 during a playoff game against the Philadelphia Eagles. While the injury typically requires a lengthy recovery, Kittle stated he is making significant progress and is currently hitting top speeds during rehabilitation. He noted that his surgeon, Dr. Neal ElAttrache, indicated a chance for a Week 1 return if rehabilitation protocols are strictly followed.
Kittle is targeting the season opener on September 10 against the Los Angeles Rams, which will be held in Melbourne, Australia. Although he remains hopeful for the international matchup, he emphasized the importance of following his medical timeline to avoid setbacks. If he is not activated by August 30, he would be required to miss at least the first four games of the season.
Entities
Dr. Neal ElAttrache · George Kittle · Los Angeles Rams · Philadelphia Eagles · San Francisco 49ers
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 4 SOURCES] The 49ers are scheduled to play the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia, for the season opener on September 10. heavy.com · www.nytimes.com · bleacherreport.com
- [● 5 SOURCES] Kittle suffered a torn Achilles tendon on January 11 during a playoff game against the Philadelphia Eagles. heavy.com · www.nbcsports.com · www.nytimes.com · bleacherreport.com
- [● 5 SOURCES] George Kittle believes he has a chance to play in the season opener against the Los Angeles Rams on September 10. heavy.com · www.nbcsports.com · www.nytimes.com · bleacherreport.com
- [● 4 SOURCES] George Kittle is very confident he will not start the 2026 season on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. www.nbcsports.com · www.nytimes.com · bleacherreport.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Kittle is currently on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. www.nbcsports.com · bleacherreport.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Surgeon Dr. Neal ElAttrache performed surgery on Kittle's Achilles tendon. www.nbcsports.com · www.nytimes.com