The 49ers had to cope without George Kittle in last year’s season opener. That will not be the case this Sunday.

Kittle, according to multiple reports, is expected to play when the 49ers face the Steelers in their Week 1 game in Pittsburgh.

He had been dealing with a groin injury having suffered a setback during preseason. Kittle was limited in practice all week. It is not yet known whether starting cornerback Charvarius Ward, listed as questionable with a heel injury, will play.

The four-time Pro Bowler will have a critical role to play in a tough road game. Seven of Kittle’s 11 receiving touchdowns last season came after Brock Purdy ascended to the starting quarterback.

Kittle will hope to further his rapport with Purdy in Pittsburgh, but arguably more important will be the assistance he provides in the blocking game.

He is one of the premier blocking tight ends in the NFL, and his acumen in that area of the game will be much needed with 49ers starting right tackle Colton McKivitz facing an extremely tough assignment in pass protection against Steelers edge rusher T.J. Watt.

Kittle will likely be asked to provide consistent help against Watt, and if he can mitigate the impact of the former Defensive Player of the Year and make plays in the receiving game, that will go a long way to the 49ers securing a season-opening win.

49ers keep intriguing reclamation project around after activating Nick Bosa

The edge depth for Week 1 is strong.

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