George Kittle Shows Early Signs of Recovery-and Leadership-Following Achilles Injury
The San Francisco 49ers may be in offseason mode, but George Kittle isn’t exactly taking it easy. Less than two weeks removed from a torn right Achilles that ended his postseason, the All-Pro tight end is already finding ways to stay active-and stay connected.
Kittle suffered the injury during the second quarter of the 49ers’ 23-19 Wild Card win over the Philadelphia Eagles on January 11. It was a brutal blow not just to San Francisco’s offense, but to the emotional core of the team.
The injury required surgery in Los Angeles and effectively shut the door on Kittle’s playoff run. But in classic Kittle fashion, he’s not letting it keep him sidelined from life-or from being a presence around the team.
A recent video posted by Bay Area analyst Coach Yac offered a glimpse into Kittle’s current mindset. In the clip, the 32-year-old is seen on a golf course, boot on his right foot, seated in a cart, and still managing to get swings in thanks to a power-assisted EzeeGolf club.
The device lets him strike the ball without the usual torque or leg drive-key for someone rehabbing a tendon injury. More importantly, the clip captures what fans and teammates have come to expect from Kittle: energy, creativity, and a relentless refusal to sit still.
“Not even a torn Achilles can stop George Kittle from golfing,” the post read-and it’s hard to argue.
This isn’t just about golf. It’s about a player who, even while injured, continues to lead by example.
During locker room cleanout day earlier this week, Kittle spoke about the injury in surprisingly upbeat terms. He noted the location of the tear and the strong blood flow in the area-factors that could aid in a faster recovery.
His goal? To be back well before November, ready to contribute to the 2026 season.
Not even a torn achilles can stop George Kittle from golfing pic.twitter.com/vwChbcRGg3
— Coach Yac 🗣 (@Coach_Yac) January 24, 2026
That kind of mindset matters, especially after the way San Francisco’s season ended. The 49ers were steamrolled in a 41-6 Divisional Round loss to the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field-one of the most lopsided playoff defeats in franchise history.
It was a jarring end to a year that had once held Super Bowl aspirations. Now, the focus shifts to recovery, roster evaluation, and retooling for another run.
And while Kittle won’t be on the field for a while, his presence still looms large. He’s not just a top-tier tight end-he’s a tone-setter.
His toughness, energy, and leadership have long been foundational to the 49ers’ offensive identity. Even in a walking boot, even swinging a golf club from a cart, Kittle is finding ways to stay involved.
That’s the kind of influence that goes beyond the stat sheet.
For San Francisco, seeing Kittle engaged and optimistic is more than just a feel-good offseason moment. It’s a reminder that their heartbeat is still very much present-and already working toward the next chapter.