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49ers' George Kittle Targets Week 1 Return From Achilles Tear, Per Team Insider

An Athletic mailbag reports Kittle is eyeing a Week 1 comeback based on encouraging early rehab.

Overview

  • - The Athletic's Matt Barrows wrote that Kittle is aiming to be back for Week 1, noting the plan could be tougher if the season opens with a 16-hour trip to Australia.
  • - Kittle detailed current rehab steps, including a boot with a heel lift, a transition to a shoe next week, and two to four weeks on crutches before ramping up.
  • - He said surgeons did not drill into his heel and described the tear as higher on the calf, factors he believes can speed healing due to better blood flow.
  • - The tight end has been seen using a motorized scooter during Pro Bowl week and media appearances, consistent with early-stage recovery.
  • - Kittle tore his Achilles on January 11 in the Wild Card win over the Eagles and is a key offensive piece coming off an 11-game, 57-catch, 628-yard, seven-touchdown 2025 season.