Even with a torn Achilles, George Kittle isn’t slowing down - at least not when it comes to his golf game.
Just shy of two weeks after suffering a season-ending Achilles injury, the 49ers’ star tight end was already back out on the course, proving once again that his competitive fire doesn’t take days off. Kittle, who tore his right Achilles during San Francisco’s Wild Card win over the Eagles on January 11 and underwent surgery three days later, found a creative way to stay in the swing of things - literally.
Still unable to put weight on his foot, Kittle joined teammates Brock Purdy, Trent Williams, and Kyle Juszczyk for a round of golf. But instead of sitting this one out, he brought along a $1,500 device from Power2Golf - a tool designed to let players hit shots from a seated position. With the help of the attachment, Kittle was able to launch drives right from the cart, showing off both his ingenuity and that signature Kittle energy fans have come to love.
It’s a small moment, but it says a lot. This is a guy who, even while rehabbing a major injury, finds a way to stay active, stay connected with his teammates, and keep that edge sharp.
The injury, of course, was a tough blow - not just for Kittle, but for a 49ers team that had already weathered a rough run of health issues throughout the season. After the win over Philadelphia, San Francisco moved on to face Seattle in the Divisional Round, where they were handed a lopsided 41-6 loss. Kittle’s absence was felt, especially in the passing game and as a blocker - two areas where his impact is often underappreciated until he’s not on the field.
This season was a grind for Kittle even before the Achilles tear. He missed five games due to a Grade 3 hamstring strain, sat out another in December with a left ankle sprain, and battled a nagging thigh injury that kept him out of Weeks 3 and 11. For a player known for his physical style and relentless motor, it was a year that tested both his body and his patience.
Still, the 49ers remain confident that their Pro Bowl tight end will bounce back. GM John Lynch has expressed optimism that Kittle will return to full strength in time for the 2026 season - and if his recent golf outing is any indication, Kittle’s not about to let this injury define him.
At 32, Kittle’s already built a reputation as one of the most complete tight ends in football - a rare blend of physicality, athleticism, and personality. And while the rehab process for an Achilles injury is no joke, his willingness to stay active, stay engaged, and keep competing in any way he can speaks volumes about his mindset.
For now, he may be hitting drives from a golf cart instead of flattening linebackers on Sundays, but make no mistake - George Kittle isn’t going anywhere.