49ers tight end George Kittle is dealing with a “mid-to-low ankle sprain,” per source. Kittle said after the game he believed he avoided a high ankle and that is the case.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) December 23, 2025
After Iowa football legend George Kittle exited San Francisco‘s (11-4) eventual 48-27 win over the Indianapolis Colts (8-7) in the third quarter on Monday night with an ankle injury, the former Hawkeye informed the postgame media that he didn’t believe he was dealing with a high-ankle sprain.
Considering the delicate nature of ankle injuries, a high-ankle sprain would likely have sidelined the ninth-year 49ers star for multiple weeks.
Fortunately, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler confirmed Kittle’s self-diagnosis on Tuesday, noting that the injury is a “mid-to-low ankle sprain,” which is much more manageable from a rapid-recovery standpoint.
Losing Kittle would be a substantial blow to San Francisco’s offense, which has been on cruise control, averaging 34.4 points per game during its current five-game winning streak. During those past five games, Kittle has recorded 31 receptions for 415 yards and four touchdowns, including a team-leading seven catches for 115 yards and a touchdown against the Colts on Monday night.
While there’s no definitive timeline for Kittle’s return, the 6-foot-4, 250-pounder’s status for Sunday night’s massive Week 17 clash against the NFC North-leading Chicago Bears (11-4) from Levi’s Stadium remains uncertain.
Given that the 49ers have their first day of practice on Wednesday ahead of their Sunday matchup, Kittle’s status will undoubtedly be one to keep an eye on. Additionally, 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan will speak to the media after practice, which could give some insight into the recovery of the franchise’s star tight end.
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