49ers tight end George Kittle is “very confident” he won’t start the season on the reserve/PUP list, a statement that brings a sliver of hope to fans as the clock ticks towards the crucial August 30 roster deadline.
The PUP List Battle
Kittle, who’s currently on the active/physically unable to perform (PUP) list, knows exactly what’s at stake here. If he isn’t activated back to the main roster by that crucial August 30 date, he’d automatically shift to the reserve/PUP list. That move would mean missing at least the first four games of the season, a massive blow for any team and a true test of depth right out of the gate. His comment, “Very confident. Sooner than later,” suggests he expects to be back on the field practicing well before that deadline, but confidence doesn’t magically heal an Achilles.
The Long Road Back from Achilles
Let’s not forget the severity of this injury. Kittle tore his right Achilles in a playoff game against the Eagles back on January 11. Just three days later, on January 14, he underwent surgery, performed by Rams team physician Dr. Neal ElAttrache. That’s a brutal timeline for recovery, and anyone who knows Achilles injuries understands it’s a long, grinding process. Despite all that, Kittle’s still got his eyes set on the season opener, calling it his “goal.” He said, “I’m just going to keep that as my goal, and then we’ll adjust from there if we need to. But I still believe that. My team still believes that. My surgeon still believes I have a chance. So, just keep attacking it.”
Checking the Boxes and Avoiding Being a “Dumbass”
He’s clearly focused on the process, even if he’s holding details close to the vest. Kittle confirmed he has a timeline for returning to practice but wasn’t sharing any specifics. It’s all about progression and listening to his body, or as he so eloquently put it, “Just trying to check the boxes and not be a dumbass, is what I would say.” He added, “Like I’ve said, I have a chance [to play Week 1]. We’re running around a lot, hitting top speeds. Hopefully, we’re back in pads, practicing sooner than later.” This isn’t just about being cleared to return, it’s about being ready to contribute at an elite level, and that takes more than just being off a list.
The next few weeks are absolutely critical. With the season opener getting closer by the day, all eyes will be on whether Kittle can beat the clock and get back on the active roster before that August 30 deadline. If he can’t, the 49ers will be without a key playmaker for the first month, and that’s a tough pill to swallow for any squad looking to start strong.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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