The 49ers got a dose of good news during Friday’s practice at Santa Clara, as Pro Bowl tight end George Kittle returned to the field for the first time since injuring his groin on Sept. 5.
Kittle missed the season opener and the first two practices this week, so this boosts the chances of him returning Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks.
Following the light session, Shanahan told reporters Kittle is questionable for Week 2.
“He looked awesome,” Shanahan said of Kittle in Friday’s practice.
David Lombardi of The Athletic and Nick Wagoner of ESPN shared video of Kittle warming up Friday.
Obviously, the 49ers would love to have Kittle back in the fold, as he transforms the pass and run game.
Quarterback Trey Lance has little experience with Kittle in game situations, as the two played in just six quarters together during Lance’s rookie season. In 2021, Kittle’s 94 targets were second on the team only to Deebo Samuel (121). Kittle finished with 74 catches for 910 yards and six scores.
Of Lance’s 13 completions Sunday, two came to tight ends, one each for Ross Dwelley and Tyler Kroft. Lance also overthrew Kroft on a potential 32-yard touchdown in the first half. After a torrential downpour affected Week 1, rain is in the forecast for Santa Clara on Sunday.
