George Kittle injury update: Kyle Shanahan reveals how long San Francisco 49ers TE will be out

Just one week into the season, injuries are beginning to pile up for the San Francisco 49ers. Tight end George Kittle might wind up being the most long-term of them all. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Kittle is expected to be on the sideline for a few games.

“49ers Pro Bowl TE George Kittle is expected to be sidelined multiple weeks with a hamstring injury,” Schefter said via X.

Kittle left Sunday’s game against the Seattle Seahawks due to his hamstring. He did not get back on the field and will now miss time. Not what head coach Kyle Shanahan wanted early on, especially after coming from behind and getting a massive division win against Seattle.

In his little playing time, Kittle still found a way to be productive. Four catches on four targets resulted in 25 yards and a touchdown. Kittle has been a favorite of quarterback Brock Purdy for years now, a connection the 49ers have relied on at times.

Last season was the third consecutive one where Kittle earned All-Pro honors. This go-round was on the second team thanks to 1,106 yards and eight touchdowns on 78 receptions. Not many tight ends in the NFL can produce at the clip Kittle does, even as the position continues to evolve.

San Francisco has to be hoping the few weeks out fully heals Kittle’s hamstring. Not having this linger would wind up being a win for them.

San Francisco 49ers to potentially be without Brock Purdy

Kittle is not the only health-related problem the 49ers are going to be dealing with moving forward. Quarterback Brock Purdy should find his name on the injury report moving forward and is now in question for their matchup in New Orleans for Week 2.

Per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Purdy is dealing with separate injuries coming out of the opener with issues with his left shoulder and a toe. That has put his status as questionable for this weekend’s game against the Saints, with QB Mac Jones possibly getting the start in that one for San Francisco come Sunday.

“Brock Purdy has a left shoulder and toe injury that make him uncertain for Sunday’s game in New Orleans. Kyle Shanahan said the team will see how the practice week goes,” Schefter tweeted out on Monday evening. “If Purdy cannot play, 49ers backup QB Mac Jones would be in line to start.”

On3’s Sam Gillenwater contributed to this report