The San Francisco 49ers are heading into their Week 3 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams with several key offensive players missing.

Star players Christian McCaffrey and Deebo Samuel have both been ruled out for the game. McCaffrey is on injured reserve due to calf issues and Achilles tendonitis, while Samuel is sidelined with a calf strain that is expected to keep him out for one to two weeks.

In addition, another vital player in the 49ers’ offense is uncertain for Week 3: tight end George Kittle.

Below is an update on Kittle’s condition as the 49ers aim to rebound from their recent loss to the Minnesota Vikings.

George Kittle Injury Update

Kittle did not practice on Thursday due to a hamstring issue, according to the 49ers’ injury report. He is believed to be experiencing “tightness in his hamstring,” which prompted him to skip practice, as reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter. His availability for Week 3 is now listed as “in question” because of this injury.

In the previous game against the Vikings in Week 2, Kittle was involved in 51 of the team’s 70 offensive plays, making a team-leading seven receptions for 76 yards and scoring a touchdown.

It’s also important to mention that Kittle was carted off the field earlier in that game due to cramps. He received an IV but managed to return to play.

Currently, he is facing another challenge as he tries to be ready for the upcoming match between the 49ers and Rams.

Will George Kittle Play in Week 3?

Kittle’s participation in the Week 3 game against the Rams remains uncertain. His chances of playing may hinge on whether he is able to practice on Friday or if his hamstring improves with some rest leading up to the Sunday afternoon game.

No statements have been made by Kittle or the 49ers regarding his current status. An update is expected by Friday afternoon at the latest.

Who is George Kittle’s Backup on the 49ers Depth Chart?

Eric Saubert is designated as Kittle’s main backup. This marks the eighth team for the eight-year veteran, who was drafted in the fifth round from Drake in 2017. In his career, he has recorded only 38 receptions for 318 yards and two touchdowns, making him less of a receiving threat if Kittle doesn’t suit up.

Jake Tonges is the only other tight end on the 49ers’ active roster, but he has yet to catch a pass in the NFL. Additionally, the 49ers have two tight ends on their practice squad, Brayden Willis and Mason Pline, who also lack experience in catching passes.

If Kittle is unable to play, Saubert will likely handle most of the snaps at tight end. However, fullback Kyle Juszczyk might also be utilized in that role. The absence of Kittle, along with Samuel and McCaffrey already out, could severely impact the team’s offensive performance.

George Kittle Season Stats

This season, Kittle has made 11 receptions for 116 yards, placing him second on the team behind Samuel.

He is the only player on the 49ers to have caught a touchdown pass from Brock Purdy this season. Meanwhile, Samuel and Jordan Mason have combined for the three other touchdowns scored by San Francisco so far in 2024, all of which have been rushing touchdowns.