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George Kittle’s Week 1 Return Is Uncertain as Comeback Buzz Builds

Analysts urge a cautious timeline citing Achilles rehab at age 33.

Overview

  • 49ers reporter Grant Cohn said he sees almost no chance Kittle plays Week 1 and expects a PUP start that would cost at least four games.
  • Former receiver Cris Carter praised Kittle’s work ethic but warned him not to rush back from Achilles surgery.
  • Betting platform Kalshi lists Kittle sixth for Comeback Player of the Year with a 13 percent chance.
  • San Francisco added Mike Evans and Christian Kirk and drafted De’Zhaun Stribling, easing pressure to hurry Kittle and pointing to a heavier blocking and red-zone role early.
  • Kittle tore his Achilles in January’s playoff loss to the Eagles and enters rehab as a decorated veteran with 595 catches, 8,008 yards and 52 touchdowns.