There was a surprise in Week 11 when the San Francisco 49ers ruled out tight end George Kittle for their crucial game against the Seattle Seahawks.
The 49ers lost the NFC West showdown and struggled offensively. They had their least efficient offensive performance this year, and it's hard not to highlight Kittle's absence as a major reason for the collective offensive power on that side of the ball.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan expressed optimism after Week 10 about Kittle's chances of playing in Week 11, despite the “hamstring irritation” that occurred in the 49ers' Week 10 win over the Tamp Bay Buccaneers.
Kittle was listed as questionable and ruled out 90 minutes before kickoff when the team announced his inactivity.
Things are in much better shape for Kittle heading into the crucial showdown with the Packers in Week 12:
Update on George Kittle's injury
The 49ers were cautious with Kittle throughout the week, but he was not officially listed on the injury report. That means that unless something untoward happens, he'll be ready to face the Packers.
How long was George Kittle out?
Kittle only missed the one game against Seattle. He was able to practice on a limited basis at the start of the week, but was a full participant on Friday and was not on the injury report. He has missed two games this season. He was also sidelined in Week 3 against the Los Angeles Rams. The 49ers lost both contests.
49ers TE depth chart
Part of the problem with Kittle missing time is that the 49ers don't have much quality behind him on the depth chart. Eric Saubert is the No. 2 TE, but he is primarily a blocker. Second-year TE Brayden Willis and TE Jake Tonges are also on the 53-man roster, but neither played any role on offense this season. If Kittle is out, the tight end position will become a wasteland for the 49ers.
