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The San Francisco 49ers have a surprise addition to their injury report. Tight end George Kittle was a limited participant in Friday's practice. In turn, he is questionable to play on Sunday against the Los Angeles Rams.
During Friday's media availability, coach Kyle Shanahan said Kittle sustained the groin injury during Friday's practice. He expects him to play on Sunday, but notes “it's still a little bit early,” which is why he will be questionable.
Usually, a Friday addition to the injury report and subsequent questionable tag means that the player is more likely not to play on Sunday. However, the 49ers could be playing Kittle's injury with caution, rather than intend to sit him in a big game.
Kittle racked up a season-high 70 receiving yards and caught his first touchdown of the season in a 31-3 win over the Cleveland Browns on “Monday Night Football.” For the year, the 2018 Pro Bowler has 23 receptions for 235 yards and a score. If out, the 49ers would not just miss his receiving presence; Kittle is one of the best all-around blocking tight ends in the NFL.
San Francisco has Ross Dwelley and Levine Toilolo behind Kittle on the depth chart. Dwelley has reeled in two receptions for minus-3 yards. Toilolo has not received a target in 2019.
In addition to Kittle's injury, the 49ers will be without fullback Kyle Juszczyk (knee), right tackle Mike McGlinchey (knee), left tackle Joe Staley (leg) and cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon (foot) for Sunday's tilt. On the other side of the ball, Rams running back Todd Gurley (quad) is doubtful, cornerback Aqib Talib (ribs) is out.
