The San Francisco 49ers, who were Super Bowl hopefuls last year, are off to a rocky start this season with a 1-2 record.
Injuries to key players have been the main culprit, hampering their plans.
Christian McCaffrey, their star running back, has been sidelined with calf and Achilles issues, while Deebo Samuel is dealing with a calf injury.
To add to their troubles, star tight end George Kittle is dealing with a hamstring issue, further hampering the offense.
But it’s not all doom and gloom for the Niners. Thursday’s practice brought a glimmer of hope as Kittle, Samuel, left tackle Trent Williams and quarterback Brock Purdy all appeared on the field.
ESPN’s Nick Wagner recently shared some good news. It looks like Kittle is doing his best to get back into action this Sunday against the Patriots.
In Kittle’s own words, he is “very excited to play football” and “feels great.”
#49Vasi TE George Kittle (hamstring) looks like he hopes to return on Sunday against the Patriots. Says he is “very excited to play football” and “feels fantastic.”
– Nick Wagner (@nwagoner) 26 September 2024
Kittle’s sudden appearance on the injury report last Thursday raised eyebrows.
He did not practice due to pain and has since shed light on what happened.
The tight end revealed he struggled with lower body cramps during the third quarter in Week 2, even requiring an IV. Those pesky cramps returned with a vengeance in the fourth trimester.
Kittle was “really sore” during last Wednesday’s practice and was still feeling discomfort. An MRI revealed a Grade 1 hamstring strain, causing him to be absent from Friday’s practice and his status for the game was questionable.
Ultimately, he was ejected from the Rams game.
But now, with Kittle looking ready to return, the 49ers may have a chance to turn their fortunes around this Sunday against the Patriots.
His presence on the field could give them the boost they need to get their season back on track.
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