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49ers help on the way: NFL insider delivers encouraging updates on George Kittle, others

Originally posted on 49ers Webzone | By David Bonilla | Last updated Oct 3, 2025 2:24 AM ET

The San Francisco 49ers remain uncertain about quarterback Brock Purdy's status for Week 6 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. But there is good news—one of their biggest playmakers could be on the verge of returning.

Ahead of Thursday night's kickoff, NFL insider Ian Rapoport reported that star tight end George Kittle is trending toward being ready for Week 6's matchup at Raymond James Stadium.

"George Kittle, the star tight end, been on IR since Week 1 with a hamstring injury," Rapoport said on NFL Network. "My understanding is he's had no setbacks. He is doing great. There is a real chance that he is back next week."

Rapoport also noted that wide receiver Jauan Jennings (ankle, rib) and rookie wideout Ricky Pearsall (PCL sprain) could both return against the Buccaneers.

However, wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk appears to be further away, as general manager John Lynch suggested last week. Aiyuk has been recovering from the ACL and MCL injuries he suffered in October 2024.

"Brandon Aiyuk, one of their star receivers, has not played yet this season, coming off major surgery," Rapoport said. "I'm told he is still weeks away."

From The @NFLonPrime TNF pregame show: When will all the #49ers injured players return? For some, pretty quickly. pic.twitter.com/3xpv66BaMw— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 2, 2025

The 49ers were already without Jennings, Pearsall, and Purdy during their thrilling 26-23 overtime win over the Los Angeles Rams on Thursday night. While Rapoport reported Purdy may not be ready for Week 6, head coach Kyle Shanahan downplayed that narrative after the game.

"I don't know what reports happen, but everything we told you guys [this] week is true," Shanahan said. "He just re-aggravated it, and it's week-to-week. We don't know how it's going to heal, and hopefully, he'll be better tomorrow, and it'll continue to go throughout the week."

In Purdy's absence, Mac Jones delivered a gritty performance against the Rams. The backup quarterback threw for 342 yards and two touchdowns despite battling multiple injuries during the game.

"Hurt his knee for a little bit there, but he ended up bouncing back from that," Shanahan explained. "And then, his forearm was cramping there in the second half. Then the fourth quarter, that was bothering him, but he worked through it."

Jones later admitted Thursday night was a grind, but emphasized his commitment to staying on the field.

"If I feel like I can protect myself, then I feel like it's my job to be out there," Jones commented.

With Kittle possibly returning, Jennings and Pearsall trending upward, and Jones showing toughness under center, the 49ers could be in a much stronger position heading into Week 6 against Tampa Bay.

This article first appeared on 49ers Webzone and was syndicated with permission.

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