George Kittle Will Play Against Seattle Seahawks
The 49ers will face the Seahawks on Sunday as George Kittle overcomes an illness and the team adds depth at tight end.
Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Football
Live Poll
Is it appropriate for a star player to compete in a game while managing an illness?
George Kittle is expected to play for the 49ers during their Sunday afternoon game against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field despite dealing with an illness. To bolster the roster, the team has elevated tight end Jack Stoll from the practice squad.
Why it matters
The roster move follows a knee injury sustained by fullback Kyle Juszczyk during the team's Week 4 matchup, leaving him unavailable for Sunday. The team will rely on tight ends to manage responsibilities typically held by the fullback position.
George Kittle enters the game with 16 receptions, 244 receiving yards, and four touchdowns this season. Jack Stoll brings 28 career receptions, 239 career receiving yards, and one career touchdown to the active roster.
The players
George Kittle
He is a veteran tight end for the San Francisco 49ers who is a key target in the team's passing attack.
Jack Stoll
He is a tight end who has appeared in 76 games over five NFL seasons and was recently elevated to the 49ers' active roster.
Kyle Juszczyk
He is a versatile fullback for the San Francisco 49ers known for his blocking and receiving skills.
Luke Farrell
He is a tight end for the San Francisco 49ers who is expected to take on multiple roles against Seattle.
Brayden Willis
He is a tight end for the San Francisco 49ers slated to line up in various positions during Sunday's game.
The details
With Kyle Juszczyk sidelined, the 49ers plan to use tight ends to handle fullback duties, with Luke Farrell and Brayden Willis expected to line up in multiple positions. George Kittle remains available despite his ongoing illness.
Timeline
Week 4: Kyle Juszczyk sustained a knee injury.
Sunday morning: The 49ers announced Kittle's status.
Sunday afternoon: The 49ers play the Seahawks at Lumen Field.
Season Trajectory
This adjustment to the 49ers' personnel reflects the team's need to maintain tactical versatility in the absence of a primary fullback. The outcome of this game will impact the team's divisional standing and overall momentum heading into the remainder of the season.
The absence of Kyle Juszczyk forces a shift in rotation that may alter offensive play-calling responsibilities among the tight end group. Fantasy managers should monitor the usage of Luke Farrell and Brayden Willis as they fill the fullback role in this specific game plan.
The takeaway
The team's reliance on tight ends to fulfill fullback duties highlights the importance of roster depth during an injury-prone season. Having flexible players who can fill multiple roles allows the team to maintain its offensive structure even when key starters are unavailable.
Further reading
For more updates on team news, visit San Francisco Football.
Live Poll
Is it appropriate for a star player to compete in a game while managing an illness?
