George Kittle has been a foundational piece to the San Francisco 49ers for as long as head coach Kyle Shanahan has been around. At 32 years old, there is no guarantee how long he will play. However, he is all-in for at least one more run if his body allows.
Nevertheless, his health has taken a dip down the stretch of the regular season, putting his availability in question for an NFC West and top-seed-deciding confrontation with the Seattle Seahawks. Here’s what you need to know about the tight end and whether the 49ers can count on him in Week 18.
What Happened to George Kittle?
George Kittle is recovering from an ankle injury that kept him out of Week 17 against the Chicago Bears. According to the NBC broadcast, Kittle has been battling swelling in his ankle. The swelling acted up before the Bears’ contest, which kept him out.
Kittle missed every practice in the buildup to the game against the Bears, according to the official 49ers injury report. Regardless of his hopes and intentions, it sets the stage for a big question this week.
Is George Kittle Playing Week 18?
At this point, the tight end is questionable for the contest. The San Francisco 49ers have not yet held a practice in Week 18. For Kittle to play, he will need to log time during the week at practice. Whether it is three limited practices or a DNP/LP/FP regimen, San Francisco will need to see something to get any hope of a fully usable Kittle.
The contest against the Seattle Seahawks takes place on Saturday, which sets up the 49ers for one of the shortest weeks in the NFL in Week 18, making things more difficult on the tight end. Considering the importance of the game with the difference between the top seed in the NFC and a wildcard on the line, Kittle will do everything to get on the field, even if he’s less than 100% healthy.
As such, the odds seem well above 50% that he gets on the field. Whether he finishes the game or is fully available to do everything is anyone’s guess.
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