The 49ers could be getting a much-needed boost just in time for their Week 17 showdown with the Bears.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan told reporters Friday that tight end George Kittle and rookie wide receiver Ricky Pearsall are both officially listed as questionable for Sunday night’s primetime matchup. While neither player is guaranteed to suit up, the door is still open-especially for Kittle, who continues to be evaluated heading into the weekend.
Kittle, who’s been a heartbeat of this 49ers offense for years, sprained his ankle during Monday night’s win over the Colts and hasn’t practiced all week. Still, the team hasn’t ruled him out, and Shanahan made it clear that Kittle’s status will come down to how he feels on Saturday. That’s not unusual for a veteran like Kittle, who knows his body and what it takes to be ready on game day.
Despite missing five games this season, Kittle has been a red-zone weapon and a reliable target over the middle. He’s hauled in 52 catches for 599 yards and seven touchdowns-numbers that speak to his continued importance in both the passing game and as a blocker in the run game. If he’s able to go, it’s a big lift for an offense that thrives on balance and versatility.
As for Pearsall, the rookie wideout missed Monday’s game with a knee issue, but he made it through the practice week without any setbacks. That’s a promising sign for a young player who’s been carving out a role in the offense. Shanahan didn’t commit to his availability either, but the fact that Pearsall got work in during the week puts him in a much better spot than Kittle heading into Sunday.
On the defensive side, cornerback Renardo Green will miss his second straight game due to a neck injury. That’s a tough blow for a secondary that’s already had to shuffle pieces around this season. Green’s physicality and instincts have been valuable, especially against teams that like to stretch the field.
Quarterback Kurtis Rourke remains sidelined as well. He’s still on the non-football injury list with a knee issue and won’t be available this week.
So while the 49ers are still dealing with some injury concerns, there’s cautious optimism that at least a couple of key contributors could be back in the fold for a critical late-season matchup. With playoff positioning on the line, every healthy body counts-and if Kittle and Pearsall can go, it could make all the difference.