Former Iowa star tight end George Kittle was experiencing one of the best stretches of his career since his second year in the league.
During his sophomore season in the NFL, Kittle put up career highs in receiving yards (1,377), targets (136), and receptions (88).
After putting up those ridiculous numbers in 2018, he followed that up with another 1,000-receiving-yard season in 2019.
Ever since the 2019 season, Kittle has been plagued by injuries, but has been a focal point of the San Francisco offense when he is on the field.
After returning to form over the past few seasons, Kittle suffered a brutal injury in San Francisco's Wildcard win over the Philadelphia Eagles that will greatly hurt the 49ers' chances going forward.
Prayers up for George Kittle 🙏 pic.twitter.com/BaRVd2sWwp
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) January 11, 2026
With just under six minutes left in the second quarter, Kittle suffered a brutal injury, and the trainers said after the game they knew about it before the cart got on the field.
As Kittle was carted off, he gave a salute to the crowd as the 49ers continue to deal with multiple injuries to star players.
The Niners have been without captain and star linebacker Fred Warner for most of the season, and now Kittle's injury could be disastrous for the squad after upsetting the reigning champion Eagles.
After Kittle's injury, the 49ers' surprise run might come to an end
In what can only be described as a masterclass in coaching by Kyle Shanahan, the 49ers have overcome multiple injuries to star players to make it to the second round of the playoffs.
Starting quarterback Brock Purdy was out for half of the regular season, but they found a way to win with backup Mac Jones.
They have also banded together in defense without Warner and have made life difficult for opposing quarterbacks without putting a ton of pressure on them.
The Kittle and Purdy connection was strong this year, and with multiple injuries to other pass-catchers, Kittle was a safety blanket for Purdy this season.
Kittle's loss cannot be understated, and his future is in doubt after suffering a brutal Achilles injury.