Injury updates: Kittle still isn’t practicing

San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan provided injury updates Wednesday afternoon before the team took the practice field. Star tight end George Kittle didn’t practice, and Shanahan said it would come down to the wire again. That will make three weeks in a row. I understand there’s no reason for Shanahan to be transparent to the public, and he doesn’t owe us that. That doesn’t stop this from being confusing and leave fans speculating that there is more to Kittle’s injury than the head coach is leading on.

Kittle has been out with ankle/knee injuries after a helmet hit his knee Week 9 against the Cardinals. If we’re speculating, Kittle’s injury may be a bone bruise. That seems to be the most likely answer. Kittle was on the field doing light rehab, which would be a good sign. It isn’t much you can do with a bone bruise other than letting it rest. Kyle Juszczyk was on 95.7 the game, where he didn’t sound so positive that Kittle would suit up.

“Um, you know, I’m not too sure what his status is,” were Juice’s exact words. “When he does come back, he’ll be the same old George.”

Shanahan, like only he, can, said this on Wednesday: “The healthier you get, the easier it is to run. I think getting Kittle back will help.” There are a few players that will be a game-time decision against the Packers. Shanahan also mentioned that the late start would help some players suffering from an injury. Again, another hint that Kittle will play.

Here is the practice participation from Wednesday’s practice:

Did not practice

Emmanuel Sanders

George Kittle

Matt Breida

Dee Ford

Joe Staley

Deebo Samuel

Robbie Gould

Limited

D.J. Jones

Raheem Mostert

Each player that did not participate is a game-time decision, per Shanahan. I don’t believe he’ll play, but Ford being a game-time decision, indicates that his injury isn’t severe. That’s good news. If he and Sanders didn’t practice for the rest of the season but suited up, I’d be fine with that. They’re veterans. They need to take care of their bodies and limit any wear and tear possible.