George Kittle returns to practice ahead of 49ers opener in Melbourne
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 8, 2026, 3:16 AM
Last updated Sep 8, 2026
The San Francisco 49ers arrived in Melbourne to prepare for their September 11, 2026, NFL season opener against the Los Angeles Rams at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. This matchup marks the first NFL game held in Australia. During the team's arrival, George Kittle addressed social media backlash directed at players regarding their interaction with the hotel's resident Labrador retriever, Charlie. Kittle clarified on X that multiple players spent time with the dog upon their arrival. Regarding his own availability, Kittle has completed two positive practice sessions following a torn right Achilles sustained in the playoffs last season. Though he began training camp on the physically unable to perform list, his recent progress has positioned him for a potential return to the field against the Rams.
- •The 49ers and Rams play in Melbourne on September 11, 2026.
- •George Kittle has participated in two recent full practices.
- •Kittle is recovering from a right Achilles tear suffered during the postseason.
- •The tight end publicly defended teammates after criticism regarding a dog at their hotel.
- 3:16 AMYahoo Sports — George Kittle "in good shape" to play season opener
- 7:52 PMYahoo Sports — George Kittle Clears the Air as 49ers Get Surprising Australian Backlash
"George Kittle is still working towards his full recovery as the San Francisco 49ers are close to beginning their 2026 NFL season. The team will open their regular season with a special international game in Australia against the Los Angeles Rams on September 11, 2026. Kittle suffered a serious injury last season which kept him […] The post George Kittle Clears the Air as 49ers Get Surprising Australian Backlash appeared first on Gridiron Heroics.
"Tight end George Kittle traveled with the 49ers to Australia, which was a sign he would play in Thursday night's season opener.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsSep 8, 2026, 3:16 AMGeorge Kittle "in good shape" to play season opener
Tight end George Kittle traveled with the 49ers to Australia, which was a sign he would play in Thursday night's season opener.
- Yahoo SportsSep 6, 2026, 7:52 PMGeorge Kittle Clears the Air as 49ers Get Surprising Australian Backlash
George Kittle is still working towards his full recovery as the San Francisco 49ers are close to beginning their 2026 NFL season. The team will open their regular season with a special international game in Australia against the Los Angeles Rams on September 11, 2026. Kittle suffered a serious injury last season which kept him […] The post George Kittle Clears the Air as 49ers Get Surprising Australian Backlash appeared first on Gridiron Heroics.
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