The 49ers seem to be getting healthier … we think.
Two of San Francisco’s star players, who have eased back into practices throughout training camp as they work their way back from serious season-ending injuries, could begin to ramp up next week.
Speaking with reporters after practice on Tuesday, 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan provided an update on tight end George Kittle, who was activated off the physically unable to perform list on Sunday, but has not participated in 11-on-11 drills since his return.
“No, we’ve just been having him go with non-competitive periods, so that’s the first four periods,” Shanahan said when asked if Kittle is on a pitch count. “Routes on air, things like that, working with the quarterbacks, working with the O-line. Hoping next week when we get those three practices after the mandatory three days off, hopefully he can get in there a little bit more.”
Kittle is working his way back from a torn Achilles sustained in the 49ers’ NFC wild-card playoff round win over the Philadelphia Eagles on Jan. 11, and appears to have a realistic chance to play in San Francisco’s international game against the Los Angeles Rams on Sept. 10 in Melbourne, Australia.
However, Kittle first needs to increase his practice workload and participate in team drills, which, according to Shanahan, could happen as soon as next week.
Shanahan also provided a brief update on defensive end Nick Bosa, who has not practiced in three weeks and continues to be sidelined with tendinitis in his surgically repaired right knee.
“He’s doing good, we’re hoping he can get into practice next week and we’ll see how those three days go after the mandatory three days off,” Shanahan added.
The 49ers will hold a walk-through in practice on Wednesday before Thursday’s final preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium.
Then, after the NFL-mandated three days off at the conclusion of the preseason, San Francisco will return to practice, where it will have a better idea of its two rehabbing stars’ availability heading into the regular season.