George Kittle is eying up a Week 7 return after an early-season stint on injured reserve due to a torn hamstring.
The San Francisco 49ers tight end told reporters Thursday he “fully plans” to play against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday night, though the decision will ultimately rest with head coach Kyle Shanahan.
Kittle was a limited participant in Thursday’s practice, as was quarterback Brock Purdy and wideout Juaun Jennings. Receiver Ricky Pearsall was a non-participant as San Francisco’s injury issues continued in earnest.
At points this year, the Niners have dealt with injuries to all of the players listed above, alongside top wideout Brandon Aiyuk (still recovering from last season’s torn ACL) and superstar edge-rusher Nick Bosa (out for the season with a torn ACL).
The loss of Kittle has been a major one. The 32-year-old Kittle is a six-time Pro Bowler and two-time first-team All-Pro and is coming off one of the best seasons of his career (78 catches for 1,106 yards and eight touchdowns). He’s impactful as a blocker as well, making his absence a major detriment for the Niners.
Despite being arguably the most injury-prone team in football this season, however, San Francisco has still managed to go 4-2. If Kittle is able to return in Week 7, it will provide a major boost, especially with the Falcons, Houston Texans and Los Angeles Rams on tap in three of the next four weeks.
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