Throughout the week, George Kittle has been considered doubtful to play on Monday night for the San Francisco 49ers due to a knee injury. According to Adam Schefter, Kittle has been officially ruled out against the Seattle Seahawks.
George Kittle is officially inactive, but both OTs Joe Staley and Mike McGlinchey return for the 49ers.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 11, 2019
Kittle suffered the knee injury in last week’s contest versus the Arizona Cardinals. Despite sustaining the injury, the talented tight end remained in the game. As a matter of fact, he actually caught a 30-yard touchdown to help San Francisco win the game 28-25.
After having a few days to rest, Kittle was unable to practice with the team on Monday. Then, after being unavailable throughout the week, the 49ers listed him as doubtful on the team’s injury report.
The absence of Kittle in the offense is huge considering that he’s produced a team-high 46 receptions, 541 yards, and two touchdowns. It is also hard to replace his run-blocking ability at the tight end position.
With the news of Kittle being out, San Francisco has activated Garrett Celek off of their PUP list. Along with Celek, Ross Dwelley could see more snaps in the offense at tight end.
Due to the void left by Kittle, the 49ers will look to involve Dante Pettis and Deebo Samuel more alongside Emmanuel Sanders. Kyle Shanahan will also continue to utilize San Francisco’s dynamic rushing attack.
While the 49ers won’t have Kittle, they will be getting Joe Staley and Mike McGlinchey back on their offensive line. Staley has been out since Week 2 with a broken left fibula while McGlinchey has missed the past month with a knee injury.
