San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle. Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

George Kittle's expected return comes at perfect time for 49ers

By Andrew Wright | Last updated Oct 16, 2025 9:19 PM ET

An injury-riddled season for the San Francisco 49ers is reportedly set to get a bit better on Sunday night.

Pro Bowler returning

According to 49ers insider David Lombardi, tight end George Kittle is expected to return to action Sunday against the Atlanta Falcons.

Kittle completely tore his hamstring in Week 1 against the Seattle Seahawks, but he is now reportedly fully healthy and planning to return to action in Week 7.

"I fully plan on playing on Sunday," Kittle said via ESPN's Nick Wagoner. "As long as [coach] Kyle [Shanahan] lets me. It's up to him. But hopefully I'm out there. Which I think I will be."

George Kittle says that he fully tore his hamstring in Seattle, so he was extra careful to not return too early. He’s fully healthy again now and plans to play Sunday against Atlanta
— David Lombardi (@LombardiHimself) October 16, 2025

Week 1 success

Prior to his injury in Week 1, Kittle was putting together a solid performance against the Seahawks. He had four catches for 25 yards and a touchdown, the first opening week touchdown of his career.

What to expect

Despite all the injuries for San Francisco, it has still found a way to get to 4-2 and tied for first in the NFC West. Sunday night against Atlanta, though, may be the biggest test yet this season.

The Falcons defense ranks at the top of the league in nearly every defensive category, meaning Kittle's return is coming at nearly the perfect time.

If he can remain healthy, Kittle's return to the 49ers offense should further cement it as one of the best in all of the NFL.

Andrew Wright

Andrew "Dew" Wright graduated from Charleston Southern University with a degree in Communication Studies. He is a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Washington Commanders fan.

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