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NFL·INJURY·August 20, 2026 09:52 PM ET

Kittle's Week 1 bid gains ground after surgeon visit

The 49ers opener will be played in Australia

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Aug 211 min read
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What happened: George Kittle met Wednesday in Los Angeles with Dr. Neal ElAttrache, who performed his Achilles surgery in January. Adam Schefter reports Kittle's recovery is ahead of schedule.

Why it matters: A Week 1 return would restore a key receiving target and blocker for San Francisco's season opener. The overseas trip adds a logistical hurdle to the final stage of his rehabilitation.

By the numbers: Kittle tore his Achilles on Jan. 11, leaving roughly eight months between the injury and his targeted Week 1 return.

What to watch: The next marker is whether Kittle receives clearance to resume team practice before the 49ers travel to Australia.

Sources

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NFLInjurySan Francisco 49ersGeorge Kittle
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