The San Francisco 49ers are gearing up for their Week 1 matchup against the Cleveland Browns without Nick Bosa in the mix. The reigning Defensive Player of the Year has yet to report to the team amid his contract holdout, but there is optimism that he will be back in time for the season-opener.
Another player who is now in danger of missing time is star tight end George Kittle, who is currently dealing with a lingering groin injury.
Kyle Shanahan Provides Update on George Kittle’s Groin Injury
The good news for 49ers fans is that the injury does not seem to be serious. However, it’s enough to force him out of practice.
On Wednesday, head coach Kyle Shanahan was asked about Kittle’s absence from practice. The Niners shot-caller revealed that it was more than just a simple rest day for the All-Pro TE:
“No, we’re just taking care of him right now,” Shanahan said (h/t 49ers Webzone). “It’s still stuff lingering a little bit from when he has missed him some time. And we’re not going to practice him today either and hopefully we can get him going on Monday.”
Shanahan was referring to the same groin injury that forced Kittle to miss the first two games of the previous season. At this point, San Francisco is hoping that this isn’t the case this time around.
49ers GM Admits ‘Concern’ Over George Kittle’s Injury
49ers general manager John Lynch had an interview on Thursday morning on KNBR and he also provided an update on Kittle’s injury status. The high-ranking exec admitted that there is indeed a bit of concern surrounding the lingering groin issue:
“I think there’s always concern when something persists, and this has kind of lingered,” Lynch said. “George usually has about one of these things a year, and then once he gets through it, he’s good. And so, knock on wood that’s the case.
“The great thing about George, he attacks it. We miss him when he’s not on the field, not only because of his ability but just the energy he brings. And so there has been a little void here the last few days, but we’re trying to get him right.”
At this point, the 49ers have not confirmed if Kittle will be available for their Week 1 contest. However, based on the tone of Shanahan and Lynch’s comments, it doesn’t sound like Kittle is going to miss time because of this injury.
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