49ers grades, analysis from refreshing Week 8 win vs. Bears
By Peter Panacy
49ers Week 8 Grades: Tight Ends
The Niners are still sorely missing All-Pro tight end George Kittle (calf), who is expected to make his return off injured reserve next week. And when the offense was struggling a bit in the first half, one could easily point out how much of a difference Kittle would have made if he was on the field.
In the blocking department, though, San Francisco is getting some excellent production from second-year pro Charlie Woerner, who is clearly taking over the No. 2 role from the presumed backup, Ross Dwelley, who was mostly a non-factor in Week 8.
True, Woerner’s stat sheet doesn’t exactly suggest he was impactful, having only one catch on two targets for 7 yards.
Despite not being a major contributor in the receiving department, Woerner is beginning to find his groove as a lead blocker, and that particular element of the 49ers offense was working at top capacity during the game.
Still, it’ll be nice to get Kittle back soon.