The San Francisco 49ers just pulled a move that has everyone buzzing about George Kittle’s Week 1 status against their division rival, the Los Angeles Rams. On Saturday, they outright cut tight end Brayden Willis. This isn’t just any cut either; Willis had made $2 million in his career, and the most brutal part? It happened *after* flying 16 hours all the way to Australia for the season opener. Talk about a tough break for Willis!
This $2 Million Move Speaks Volumes About Kittle’s Status
The entire league is talking about this decision because it screams confidence in George Kittle’s health. CBS Sports’ John Breech didn’t mince words, stating the move “could very well mean Kittle will play in Week 1.” Think about it: cutting a tight end after making him fly halfway across the world? That’s a huge signal. Breech highlighted the absolute gut punch of getting cut “after flying 16 hours to Australia,” noting that “from a roster standpoint, the 49ers’ decision to cut Willis is definitely an interesting one.” For Breech, the bottom line is, “Since Willis is a tight end, the move could signal that the team is extremely confident in George Kittle’s chances of playing on Thursday night, Friday morning in Melbourne, against the Rams.” It’s a bold play, but if it means Kittle is good to go, it’s a no-brainer for the Niners.
Kittle’s Long Road Back to the Field
This is monster news for San Francisco, especially considering the battle Kittle has fought to get back. He suffered a torn right Achilles in the second quarter of their 23-19 wild-card win over the Philadelphia Eagles last season, way back on January 11. Head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed the injury to reporters postgame, as NFL.com’s Bobby Kownack reported. But Kittle has been grinding. He was activated from the physically unable to perform list on August 23, a major step forward. ESPN sources confirmed he would be making the trip to Australia following “two positive days of practice” and was “trending in the right direction” to play in the opener. While there are still “important questions surrounding the status of Nick Bosa and George Kittle” as they try to make it back, this Willis cut makes Kittle’s outlook seem a lot clearer.
Week 1 Stakes Are High for the Niners
Kittle is an absolutely vital part of the 49ers’ offense, a game-wrecker when he’s on the field. The big unknown right now is whether he will be placed on any kind of restriction, but the very “possibility of him playing is still a great sign for San Francisco.” They’re hoping to start the season on the right foot with a win over the Rams. Getting Kittle back on the field for that season opener? That would be “huge for their chances,” and frankly, pretty wild to see after such a serious injury.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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