Is George Kittle playing this week? Latest 49ers Week 1 injury updates vs. Steelers

The 2023 season opener is probably not the best time for the 49ers to be without star tight end George Kittle.

San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle is one of the best in the league at his position, hands down and no questions asked.

Unfortunately, he also has a pretty lengthy injury history, which has usually cost him a few games per season and even cost him half of his 2020 campaign. Luckily, in most of those stretches, the Niners have been talented enough to overcome his absence, although he's always welcomed back as soon as physically possible.

Plus, with Kittle always giving 110 percent on each and every play, it makes sense why he'll be banged up from time to time.

This go-around, with the 2023 regular season just days away, Kittle's injury bug seems to be creeping up at the precisely wrong time with San Francisco poised to travel to take on the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 1.

49ers injuries vs. Steelers: George Kittle may miss Week 1

At the time of this writing, the 49ers haven't had their Wednesday practice yet, which would kick off the injury report that can be found here.

Kittle is dealing with an adductor injury, and general manager John Lynch told KNBR 680 last week to "knock on wood" for the tight end's return.

On Tuesday, Kittle was seen working out on a separate portion of the practice field and not engaging in workout drills with his teammates.

Related story: 49ers vs. Steelers: Week 1 game time, location and how to watch live

Lynch also noted in that interview about how Kittle's injury had been "lingering," and it would be in the Niners' best interests to let him fully heal before returning to the field and prematurely risking further injury.

Even if it means Kittle is out for San Francisco in Week 1 against Pittsburgh.

Hopefully, the tight end will be ready to participate when the two teams square off on Sunday, Sept. 10 at 1 p.m. ET from Acrisure Stadium.

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