San Francisco 49ers fans are holding their breath after two key players—tight end George Kittle and quarterback Brock Purdy—left the Week 1 victory over the Seahawks with injuries.
If you’re wondering when Kittle and Purdy will be back on the field, here’s the latest update based on official reports from the 49ers and NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport.
George Kittle’s Injury: When Will He Return?
Injury Details
- Player: George Kittle (TE)
- Injury Type: Hamstring
- When It Happened: Second quarter of Week 1 vs. Seahawks
- Expected Recovery Time: 3 to 5 weeks
- Potential IR Move: Kittle is a candidate for short-term injured reserve, according to Rapoport.
Return Timeline
- Best Case: Back by Week 4 (early October)
- Worst Case: Out until Week 6 (mid-October)
- Official Word: Head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed Kittle will miss “a few weeks” but no final IR decision has been made yet.
Brock Purdy’s Injury: When Will He Play Again?
Injury Details
- Player: Brock Purdy (QB)
- Injuries: Left shoulder and toe
- More Serious Injury: Toe injury is considered worse than the shoulder, per Shanahan
- Status for Week 2: Uncertain—Shanahan said, “Not sure, has to see how it heals and how the week goes on it.”
Return Timeline
- Week 2 (vs. Saints): Not guaranteed—day-to-day evaluation
- If Out: Veteran backup Mac Jones will start
- Long-Term: No official timeline, but toe injuries can vary widely depending on severity
What This Means for the 49ers
Immediate Impact
- Kittle’s Absence: Weakens the passing game and run-blocking schemes
- Purdy’s Uncertainty: Could force the 49ers to rely on Mac Jones, who has recent starting experience
- Depth Concerns: Two of the team’s most important players are questionable for the near future
Next Steps
- Kittle: Will undergo treatment and rehab; could be placed on IR if recovery lags
- Purdy: Daily evaluation of his toe and shoulder; Week 2 status will be decided based on practice participation
FAQ: Quick Answers
Q: How long will George Kittle be out?
A: Kittle is expected to miss 3 to 5 weeks with a hamstring injury suffered in Week 1.
Q: Will Brock Purdy play in Week 2?
A: It’s uncertain. Purdy is dealing with toe and shoulder injuries, and coach Shanahan did not guarantee he’ll play against the Saints.
Q: Who replaces Brock Purdy if he can’t play?
A: Veteran backup Mac Jones would start. Jones started 7 games for the Jaguars last season.
Q: Could George Kittle go on injured reserve?
A: Yes, he’s a candidate for short-term IR, but no decision has been made yet.
Q: Which injury is worse for Purdy?
A: The toe injury is considered more concerning than the shoulder injury, per Shanahan.
Final Thoughts
The 49ers’ Week 1 win came at a cost. George Kittle’s hamstring injury will keep him out for at least a month, while Brock Purdy’s status remains week-to-week. For now, fans should monitor practice reports and official team updates for the latest on their return timelines.
If Purdy can’t go in Week 2, all eyes will be on Mac Jones to keep the 49ers’ offense moving. As for Kittle, the hope is he’ll be back by mid-October to bolster the team’s playoff push.
Stay tuned for more updates as the 49ers navigate these early-season injuries.
Last modified: September 9, 2025
