The NFL season is nearing its end. As happens every year, injuries are rearing their ugly heads. As fantasy football managers prepare to set Week 17 lineups, it’s important to stay informed on the latest injury news. George Kittle missed practice time this week due to injury. What is his current status and outlook for this week?
Is George Kittle Playing Week 17?
Kittle exited Monday night’s victory over the Indianapolis Colts with an ankle injury and did not return to the game. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that Kittle is dealing with a mid-to-low ankle sprain, which is significantly better news than a high-ankle sprain that would have sidelined him for multiple weeks. Kittle himself indicated after the game that he believed he avoided a high-ankle sprain, and that assessment proved accurate.
The injury occurred early in the third quarter when Kittle believes he was brought down by a hip-drop tackle. He attempted to tape up the ankle and continue playing, but the ankle stiffened throughout the game and ultimately prevented him from returning. The tight end finished Monday’s contest with seven catches for 115 yards and a touchdown before the injury ended his night.
Kittle did not practice all week as the San Francisco 49ers prepared for Sunday night’s matchup against the Chicago Bears. Head coach Kyle Shanahan addressed Kittle’s status earlier in the week, stating that the tight end “has a chance to play” against the Bears. The 49ers listed him as questionable on the final injury report despite his complete absence from practice.
Players rarely suit up after going DNP-DNP-DNP throughout the week. However, if anyone has the ability to defy that trend, it would be Kittle.
The veteran tight end does not have a significant history of playing through injuries, though. Kittle has dealt with multiple injuries throughout his career and recovers well from them, but he rarely takes the field while operating at less than full health.
Given the complete lack of practice participation and Kittle’s historical approach to injury management, the expectation should be that he does not play against the Bears. Fantasy managers in championship week need to have a backup plan ready at the tight end position rather than banking on a last-minute miracle.
Kittle’s Fantasy Football Outlook
Kittle racked up a season high 111 air yards on Monday night in Indy (previous season high: 75) and has scored in consecutive games.
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The upside is evident in how they use him and the floor is supported by his efficiency. Kittle has caught at least 80% of his targets in eight of 10 games this season (19 catches on 22 targets over the past three games) and is averaging 1.2 red zone touches per game.
The receivers in San Francisco can have their moments, but this passing game is built to support Kittle and Christian McCaffrey: play him and enjoy your weekly edge over the teams that don’t have Trey McBride.
— Kyle Soppe, PFSN Fantasy Analyst
