At a Glance
- George Kittle tore his right Achilles during the 49ers’ Wild Card loss to the Eagles.
- The injury happened on a 6-yard reception late in the second quarter.
- Coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed the tear after trainers relayed the news over the headset.
- Why it matters: The star tight end now faces a lengthy rehab, clouding his 2025 season outlook.
The 49ers’ playoff hopes collided with crushing news Sunday: George Kittle’s season is over after the tight end ruptured his right Achilles against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field.
Kittle, who had already battled hamstring and left-ankle issues this season, exited just before halftime and did not return. Coach Kyle Shanahan told reporters the medical staff knew the severity almost immediately.
“The trainers knew before the cart came out and got word to me in the headset,” Shanahan said. “Yes, a torn Achilles.”
The Play That Changed Everything
Midway through the second quarter, quarterback Brock Purdy found Kittle on a short crossing route. The tight end gained six yards before being dragged down by a swarm of Eagles defenders. He stayed on the turf, clutching at his lower right leg, then signaled for help.
Staff rushed onto the field. Within minutes, Kittle was carted to the locker room and ruled out for the remainder of the game.
Injury Timeline
| Date | Incident | Games Missed |
|---|---|---|
| Week 3 | Hamstring strain | 2 |
| Week 9 | Left ankle sprain | 1 |
| Wild Card | Achilles tear | Season over |
Each ailment forced Kittle to the sideline, but the latest is by far the most severe. Recovery from a torn Achilles typically spans nine to twelve months, placing his availability for the 2025 opener in doubt.
Shanahan’s Post-Game Confirmation
Speaking minutes after the 49ers’ season ended, Shanahan detailed how quickly the diagnosis reached him.
“The trainers knew before the cart came out and got word to me in the headset. Yes, a torn Achilles,” he repeated, underscoring the finality of the injury.
What Comes Next
- Kittle will undergo surgery within days
- Rehabilitation is expected to last most of the offseason
- The 49ers must now weigh tight-end depth heading into 2025
- His absence leaves a leadership void in the locker room
The Pro Bowler had appeared in 11 regular-season games this year, logging 65 receptions for 700 yards and four touchdowns. His production came despite missing action because of the earlier hamstring and ankle setbacks.
Impact on San Francisco’s Offense
Kittle’s blocking and receiving skills anchor Shanahan’s scheme. Without him:
- The run game loses one of its most physical edge sealers
- Play-action concepts lose credibility down the seam
- Third-down efficiency becomes tougher; he converted 43% of his targets for first downs this season
- Red-zone looks shift toward wide receivers and backup tight ends
Key Takeaways
- George Kittle’s torn Achilles ends his 2024 campaign and clouds his 2025 status.
- The injury occurred on a routine 6-yard catch late in the first half.
- Coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed the diagnosis immediately after the game.
- San Francisco must now plan for life without its star tight end for an extended stretch.
