George Kittle has continually battled through injuries during his stellar NFL career, and he is starting his seventh season trying to shake off another.

The tight end has not played a full season since his record-breaking 2018. As he begins 2023, there appears to be a chance of Kittle immediately continuing that streak.

Kittle has been held out of practice this week as he deals with the lingering effects of an adductor injury, placing hopes of him being ready for the season opener with the Steelers in doubt.

Kyle Shanahan said the 49ers are hopeful of getting Kittle back in practice on Monday, though general manager John Lynch, speaking on KNBR, conceded to some worry about the four-time Pro Bowler's status.

"I think there's always concern when something persists, and this has kind of lingered. George usually has about one of these things a year, and then once he gets through it, he's good. And so, knock on wood that's the case. The great thing about George, he attacks it. We miss him when he's not on the field, not only because of his ability but just the energy he brings. And so there has been a little void here the last few days, but we're trying to get him right." 

Kittle would be a significant loss against the Steelers for several reasons, chief among them his substantial rapport with starting quarterback Brock Purdy. He caught seven touchdowns from Purdy after Jimmy Garoppolo's injury propelled him to the starting lineup in Week 13. In that time Kittle averaged 0.53 EPA per target, seventh among all players with at least 25 targets across that span, per Sports Info Solutions.

Beyond that, the 49ers will need Kittle for his play in the blocking game against an extremely talented Steelers defensive line that will sternly test San Francisco's pass protection and run blocking.

His presence is made all the more important by the lack of compelling alternatives behind him on the depth chart. Charlie Woerner can fill some of the void in the blocking game but, after Cameron Latu was placed on injured reserve with a knee injury, the Niners don't have a backup on whom they can depend to replace some of Kittle's upside as a receiver and hold up as a blocker.

The 49ers have consistently had to cope with Kittle missing a game or two throughout his career. He was unavailable for the first two games last season but, against an AFC playoff contender on the road, Kittle carries an added significance that makes his recovery a critical storyline ahead of Week 1.

49ers will face a familiar problem during 2023 season

There’s not much room for maneuver.

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