The San Francisco 49ers will be without a key figure of their offense for the next three games at the minimum. The team has placed star tight end George Kittle on the IR after suffering a calf injury. Via The NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero:

This will definitely hurt the 49ers’ passing game this Sunday against the Arizona Cardinals as Trey Lance makes his first career NFL start. Kittle is enjoying another impressive campaign, collecting 19 catches for 227 yards, which is second on San Francisco behind only Deebo Samuel.

However, the 49ers do believe that Kittle will be ready to go after these next three games. The injury isn’t considered to be serious. He was listed as doubtful for Week 5 but for precautionary reasons, they’re letting him heal up. This is probably the best decision by the 49ers because in the long run, especially if the team makes the playoffs, Kittle has to be healthy.

San Fran is 2-2 so far after losing to the Seahawks last weekend. Jimmy Garoppolo also suffered a calf injury in that game, which is why Lance is getting the keys to the offense against Arizona. Hopefully, Jimmy G and Kittle are back sooner rather than later for the 49ers. A bye in Week 6 will help their recovery as well.