The San Francisco 49ers’ injury problems don’t stop at wide receiver.

With Brandon Aiyuk sidelined and Deebo Samuel battling pneumonia, tight end George Kittle proved to be an important part of San Francisco’s offensive attack Sunday night against the Dallas Cowboys. With Aiyuk and Samuel out for most of Week 7, Kittle posted team highs in targets (seven), receptions (six) and receiving yards (92). Unfortunately for the 49ers, he also suffered a sprained foot, making his status for Week 8 questionable.

Update on George Kittle’s injury

Kittle’s ankle sprain kept him out of practice on Wednesday. He was limited on Thursday and Friday and will officially be questionable against the Cowboys. The fact that he was able to take part in the last two days of training bodes well for his chances. Head coach Kyle Shanahan said Wednesday that he hoped the injury wouldn’t keep Kittle out of Sunday’s game, but he didn’t improve enough during the week to be listed without playing.

San Francisco not elevating undrafted rookie TE Mason Pline from the practice squad could be a sign that the team is comfortable with Kittle’s status.

How long will George Kittle be out?

Given that Kittle was back on the field for two days of practice prior to Week 8, it doesn’t look like the ankle sprain was anything serious. If he cannot compete on Sunday, he will have to recover from the 49ers in Week 9 before the team travels to Tampa Bay in Week 10. It’s obvious that he’ll be back for this game in Week 10 at the latest if he doesn’t suffer any setbacks.

San Francisco 49ers TE depth chart

The 49ers aren’t particularly strong at tight end, which makes Kittle’s injury situation a little more pressing.

Eric Saubert
Jake Tonges
Brayden Willis

Saubert filled in in Week 3 against the Los Angeles Rams when Kittle was out, but he’s more of a blocker than a pass catcher. Tonges has only played 25 offensive snaps this season, and Willis has only been active for one game and played four offensive snaps.

Pline is the only internal depth option and he has never played in an NFL game.