49ers 'super excited' about George Kittle's recovery progress

San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle continues to make encouraging progress in his recovery from the Achilles injury he suffered during last season's Wild Card playoff game against the Philadelphia Eagles. The All-Pro remains optimistic that he can return in time for Week 1 of the 2026 season.

Appearing on The Rich Eisen Show, Kittle revealed that he recently reached another significant milestone in his rehabilitation, putting on cleats for the first time since the injury. He has also resumed more extensive exercise routines, such as box jumps, as he steadily works toward getting back on the field.

"We're getting there," Kittle said.

The positive updates have generated excitement among those overseeing Kittle's recovery and raised hopes that the star tight end could be ready when the 49ers open the season against the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia.

"We're making a ton of progress," Kittle told Eisen. "My head [physical therapist] that works with [Dr. Neal] ElAttrache, who did my surgery out in L.A., they're both super happy. Him and Heather are super stoked.

"And then, my team from the Niners, our trainers over there are super excited with my progress, and I'm definitely a little bit ahead of schedule.

"So, I'm super excited. I have a goal to be out there Week 1 with the boys, and I'm going to do everything in my power to do it. And if I'm cleared and it's smart for me to play, I'll be out there. I have a chance, and I'm very excited. Give me a chance, I'll take it."

Kittle is preparing to enter his 10th NFL season, all with the 49ers, who selected him in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft. Over his nine-year career, the tight end has established himself as one of the best players in franchise history, recording 595 receptions for 8,008 receiving yards and 52 touchdowns.

His 8,008 receiving yards rank third in 49ers franchise history, while his 52 receiving touchdowns rank fifth all-time. If his recovery continues to trend upward, Kittle could be back on the field sooner rather than later, providing a boost to San Francisco's offense in 2026.