George Kittle enters the 2026 regular season coming off a torn Achilles sustained in the prior playoffs, but he returned for Week 1 against the Rams and posted two catches for 12 yards while contributing as a blocker in a run-heavy attack. The 32-year-old tight end has averaged roughly seven receiving touchdowns per season when active, including seven in 11 games during 2025 despite prior lower-body issues. San Francisco’s offense, led by Brock Purdy and Christian McCaffrey, features Kittle as a primary red-zone target and inline blocker, though his early snap count and workload will likely increase gradually after the international opener. Backup Jake Tonges provides depth if usage is managed, and the 49ers’ schedule offers several favorable early matchups that could influence target volume and scoring opportunities for the veteran tight end.