The season came to an end for George Kittle on Sunday as he suffered a torn right Achilles tendon against the Philadelphia Eagles. Head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed the injury news following the game. After the victory over the Eagles, San Francisco will prepare for a Divisional Round matchup against the Seattle Seahawks.
According to reports, Kittle faces a recovery timeline of nine to 12 months. This will be an extended rehabilitation period for the All-Pro tight end, as uncertainty looms over his availability for the start of the 2026 season.
NFL insider Ian Rapoport provided further details on the recovery timeline:
“More on tight end George Kittle… based on my understanding of the recovery, has a challenge to be ready for the start of the 2026 season because he tore his Achilles midway through yesterday's San Francisco 49ers win,” Rapoport said in a video.
“You could see his knee, and calf kind of buckle and, a little bit when his foot hit the ground. That was a sign that something was badly wrong.
“MRI coming, but you don't need one,” he added. “He is out for the season with a torn Achilles.”
Ian Rapoport provided the latest details on the recovery timeline for George Kittle:
— MOHAMMAD ASIF ANSARI (@WriterMohammad) January 12, 2026
“Recovery has a challenge to be ready for the start of the 2026 season... You could see his knee, and calf kind of buckle... That was a sign that something was badly wrong." Pic.twitter.com/VenuXrTU28
The seven-time Pro Bowler was forced to leave the game due to a non-contact injury, which he sustained in the second quarter when his leg visibly buckled. Kittle was given a standing ovation by the fans, having been carted off the field following the injury.
The 49ers secured the win despite the loss of their veteran TE. They finished with a strong defensive effort, limiting the Eagles to 19 points, while also adding a touchdown reception by Jauan Jennings.
Although the team has played without stars Nick Bosa and Fred Warner, the good news for San Francisco is that Warner is trending in the right direction in terms of his playing status for the NFC Championship game, according to Rapoport.
MORE: Dianna Russini’s new details on George Kittle's 49ers tequila bottle in locker room
Teammates get emotional about George Kittle's injury
"It's tough, man... If anybody can handle this, it's George Kittle," fullback Kyle Juszczyk said in an emotional voice.
Trent Williams struggled with his own physical issues during the game. The offensive tackle dealt with the mental gymnastics of playing before admitting he returned early from a leg injury.
"George is like a Superman around here… I just wanted to say a quick prayer for him," Williams said.
Kyle Shanahan has been the best coach that Williams has ever seen, preparing the roster to withstand significant personnel losses.
"Kyle is one of the best coaches in the league… He always has a plan. He is always trying to put us in the right position."
More San Francisco 49ers News:
George Kittle's full injury history, including torn Achilles vs. Eagles
San Francisco advances behind Christian McCaffrey's star showing
Jauan Jennings 'can't wait' to play Seahawks next after big game for 49ers
Inside Brock Purdy's playoff record, stats