George Kittle has missed the last three days of practice due to a groin injury but was quoted as saying, “Feeling significantly better than where we were at Monday, even better than Wednesday, even better than Thursday. Taking great steps forward. Definitely doing everything I can to be on the field Sunday. I’ve had games in the past where I haven’t practiced all week and played. Hopefully, getting off the plane, I feel better tomorrow and Saturday, and then I have an actual opportunity to be out there and play.”

Related Players: Charlie Woerner

Judging by his comments, a betting person would likely put money down that Kittle plays on Sunday, but to what extent may be a question. In the first game of the season against the lowly Bears, the 49ers could be conservative with one of the, if not the, best all-around tight ends in the league. Charlie Woerner is listed as the TE2 on the depth chart, and the overall offensive explosiveness would take a hit if Kittle has to spend some or all of Sunday on the sideline.

The San Francisco 49ers are signing TE Tyler Kroft to a one-year deal.

Related Players: George Kittle, Charlie Woerner, Ross Dwelley

Kroft will compete for snaps alongside/behind George Kittle, which means a reduced role for the veteran. Kittle's injury history does put Kroft in play as a waiver wire pick-up during the season, and Kroft has had the most success amongst the remaining tight ends with the 49ers.