During Super Bowl LX week, the NFL announced that the 49ers will open the 2026 season in Australia against the Los Angeles Rams. While that trip alone represents a major travel challenge, it may not be the only international journey San Francisco makes next season.

Kittle added fuel to the speculation when he posted an Instagram story showing a route from Levi’s Stadium to Mexico City, captioned: “Another one.” The message strongly hinted that the 49ers could also be headed to Mexico in 2026.

A rare international schedule for the 49ers

If San Francisco ends up playing in both Australia and Mexico, the team could travel more than 38,000 miles during the 2026 season. No team in NFL history has surpassed that mark. The Chargers (2025) and the Rams (2016) previously logged around 37,000 miles — the highest totals recorded.

Several franchises have played two international games in the same season, but under different circumstances. The Jacksonville Jaguars have played back-to-back games in London, and the Minnesota Vikings did so last year in consecutive weeks in nearby countries such as England and Ireland. However, combining trips to Australia and Mexico would represent a much more demanding logistical challenge.

The 49ers already struggled with injuries in 2025, and added travel could further impact player health and performance. Kittle has previously voiced concerns over 49ers issues with electrical substation, and this potential schedule only intensifies those discussions.

Earlier reports suggested the Dallas Cowboys could play in Mexico, but the NFL ultimately sent them to Brazil. Now, it appears the 49ers may renew their connection with Mexico by returning to Estadio Azteca — now known as Estadio Banorte — for the first time since their 2022 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals.

While the theory was dismissed by NFL chief medical officer, Dr. Allen Sills, who stated there is no evidence to support it, George Kittle wants to make sure. “If something’s affecting like negatively 0.25 percent, you’d want to know about it… You’d probably change that,” Kittle said to Jordan Rose of Complex.

“So I think all we’re saying is, as players, it’s like, we would just like to look into it to make sure it’s not something. That’s what I would just appreciate. Like, ‘Hey, this isn’t gonna affect you guys.’ And then if they come out and they do some research, like, ‘No, you guys are good,’ then I don’t think we’ll think about it.”

Kittle also voiced his displeasure with 49ers having international games

It’s been reported that 49ers could play in Mexico. It’s also rumored that the team will play in Week 1 against the Rams all the way in Australia. The tight end posted on social media his disgruntlement after the reports came out. Kittle is recovering from an Achilles tear, and he is not fond of recovering to get to leave the United States constantly.

With trips to Mexico and Australia, the 49ers will become the first team in NFL history to play multiple international games in non-consecutive weeks. Teams might have played back-to-back London games, and the Vikings played back-to-back games in London and then Ireland. However, San Francisco will also play in South America and Oceania, making an unprecedented case of traveling in NFL.

Travels can harm the team massively

If the 49ers do end up playing in both Australia and Mexico, the team will end up traveling more than 38,100 miles in 2026. That would be the most ever for a team during a regular season. The 2025 Chargers and 2016 Rams both flied over 37,000 miles, but no team has ever hit the 38,000-mile mark.

This could also imply more fatigue, jet-lag, and less time to recover or treat injuries for the team. For a team that’s always heavily injured, the less travel time you have, the better. For the 49ers, they would get a bad hand to deal with if they end up with two international games.

Kittle took a more measured tone in his comments. “As a professional athlete, you’re doing anything you can to get 1% better… What if there’s something that’s making you 1% worse? If this substation is making you 1% worse, wouldn’t you want to know about it?” Kittle said during an episode with Pat McAfee.

Kittle’s remarks are among the most recent from 49ers players on the topic, but even Christian McCaffrey had already made comments about the substation weeks earlier. Still, hearing comments from two players on the same day came as a surprise.

Bourne also spoke about the substation.

Bourne has few doubts about the substation and admits that he believes in the theory. “I kind of buy it. I’m a conspiracy theorist, so I don’t know. Our grass is brown on that side and the soccer field on the other side is green.”

“So that kind of trips me out a little bit, but I don’t know. There’s so much research they probably have to do, but whatever we can do to help prevent injuries, we’ve got to look into it,” Bourne said, adding that he hopes a deeper analysis of the situation can be done regarding the theory.

Many people, analysts, doctors, and even reporters, have been discussing the substation theory. Some have pushed back against it, including Brian Sutterer, MD, who said, “I can’t believe this EMF conspiracy is still getting traction,” while others have spoken in favor of one of the theories that has captured growing interest.

“In 2014, the same year the 49ers’ injury issues began, the substation went from a small local plant to a full regional transmission hub, increasing capacity by 2,000%. This is the detail that matters most in this story, in my opinion,” Tristan Scott (@bitcoinand_beef) wrote on X.

Kittle tore his Achilles on January 11, an injury that typically requires a lengthy recovery and would likely delay his return until late in the year. However, based on his recent comments, there is growing optimism that he could make it back onto the field sooner than initially expected.

“Surgery went really, really good,” Kittle said, via ESPN. “[Dr. Neal ElAttrache] said best-case scenario when you tear an Achilles is that you tear it up high by your soleus, which is what I did. I had a clean tear. They didn’t have to drill into my heel. And where the repair was there’s more blood flow. And so it takes some time off of the recovery time… It’s not as bad as other ones.“

The injury, suffered during the Wild Card Round matchup against the Eagles, was extremely serious, and the player himself revealed that he immediately knew the situation was severe the moment it happened.

“I knew exactly when it happened, it felt like someone put a shotgun up against my calf and pulled the trigger,” Kittle said. “The second it happened, I knew exactly what it was… Unfortunate, but football’s tough sometimes.”

How long does it take to recover from a torn ACL?

For high-performance athletes, the recovery timeline for an ACL tear typically spans between 9 and 12 months. While some elite competitors may attempt a return to the field within 6 to 8 months due to advanced rehabilitation protocols, experts generally recommend waiting at least 9 months to ensure biological graft maturity and to minimize the high risk of reinjury.

Time to reset for the San Francisco 49ers

Heading into the 2026 season, the San Francisco 49ers are laser-focused on durability after an injury-plagued campaign that sidelined cornerstone players. The team’s primary goal is to ensure that stars such as Brock Purdy, Nick Bosa or George Kittle can maintain their health throughout the year.

Alongside this rehabilitation effort, the front office is shifting its attention to the 2026 NFL Draft, where the Niners hold the 27th overall pick. With a roster that remains championship-caliber when healthy, the 49ers aim to use the draft to bolster their depth, particularly on the offensive line and in the pass rush, to better protect their stars and build a more resilient squad for another Super Bowl run.

However, a loss in Week 18 against the Seahawks changed all their plans. They lost a valuable week of rest and had to face the playoffs on the road. Surprisingly, they overcame their first obstacle by defeating the Eagles.

Now, trying to reach the Super Bowl, a rematch with Seattle is looming, but in devastating news, Kittle will not be available. Another heavy blow in a year plagued by injuries across the roster.

Why is George Kittle not playing today for 49ers against Seahawks in 2026 NFL playoffs?

George Kittle is not playing today for the 49ers against the Seahawks in the 2026 NFL playoffs because he suffered an Achilles injury last week in the game against the Philadelphia Eagles. He is out for the rest of the season.

Who is out for 49ers against Seahawks in Divisional Round of 2026 NFL playoffs?

George Kittle, Nick Bosa, Fred Warner, and Brandon Aiyuk are out for the 49ers against the Seahawks. Their inactives are: Isaac Guerendo (RB), Jordan Watkins (WR), Brandon Parker (OL), Robert Beal Jr. (DL), Kevin Givens (DL), Sebastian Valdez (DL), and Ji’Ayir Brown (S).

Who is inactive and out for Seahawks vs 49ers?

The inactives for the Seattle Seahawks are: Jared Ivey (LB), Josh Jones (T), Bryce Cabeldue (G), Mason Richman (T), and Rylie Mills (DE). Also out are Elijah Arroyo (TE) and Chazz Surratt (LB).

While reports say the 49ers haven’t cleared All-Pro linebacker Fred Warner to return for the game against Seattle, Warner says otherwise. “I’m ready whenever they’re ready,” Warner said on Ryen Russillo’s podcast. “Unfortunately, if it were just up to me, I’d be out there this weekend, but it’s unfortunately not that way. I’ve got to make sure I’m checking all the boxes, and everybody has to give me the OK before they let me go out there.”

It seems like the 49ers are the ones holding Warner back, and they’re been cautious despite being in a win-or-go-home situation against the Seahawks. Warner hasn’t played since Week 6 when he suffered a severe ankle injury.

The 49ers should consider giving Warner a go

Obviously, Warner has to go and check all the boxes to assure the team he is fit to play, but he is very important. Warner had 51 tackles, three passes defended and two forced fumbles in only six games this season.

The four time All-Pro is widely regarded as the NFL‘s best linebacker. He alone is a game-wrecker due to his ability to read the game, his high IQ and his marvelous tackling. Another huge quality he has is how he covers the field.

The 49ers are looking for one more upset

The Seahawks are a touchdown favorite against the Niners for this game. However, at this point, you can’t count the 49ers out. Even if they don’t have George Kittle, Shanahan proved that he has a deep playbook to earn yards no matter what.

On the other side, they already beat the Seahawks this season. Albeit in Week 1, the 49ers must still feel capable of pulling off another upset. With an all-time high motivation, they will be dangerous.

Behind Kittle on the 49ers’ depth chart are Jake Tonges and Luke Farrell. Tonges has been productive this season, scoring five touchdowns, while Farrell has recorded 11 receptions for 85 receiving yards and added two touchdowns for the team.

With Kittle sidelined, the 49ers obviously lose a veteran who knows what it takes to play in the postseason. Still, they’re not in the same position as in past seasons, when they had very limited depth available at tight end.

Eagles fans show respect for Kittle

In a genuinely classy moment, Eagles fans showed nothing but respect once they realized Kittle was being carted off the field. The scene was reported by John Clark of NBC Sports Philadelphia on X.

“Respect. Eagles fans clapping for George Kittle as he is taken off the field on a cart. George said this week he really appreciates how much Eagles fans love their team,” Clark posted on X. Fans in Philadelphia also echoed that sentiment across social media.

NFL insider Ian Rapoport described Kittle’s injury as devastating not only for San Francisco, but for the league as a whole: “Heartbreaking for one of the NFL’s best. George Kittle carted off after a non-contact injury.”

Brock Purdy knows it won’t be an easy task to take down their division rival—especially if he’s not at full strength with his weapons at his disposal. Ahead of kickoff, the NFL’s official website listed both players as questionable, although there is a strong chance that each will be available for the game.

NFL insider Adam Schefter revealed that Pearsall will be evaluated right up until game time before a final decision is made: “I don’t think they’re gonna make decisions on Ricky Pearsall and Trent Williams until pregame warmups. Both are gonna be tested to go. Both are gonna be challenging. We’ll see if either one can make it back. I think the 49ers are hopeful, but uncertain either one can play.”

Meanwhile, George Kittle’s situation appears more optimistic, according to what David Lombardi reported on X. “George Kittle ‘absolutely’ plans to to play Saturday. There was very little doubt before and there is now zero doubt he will be suited up for the biggest game of the season.”

What injuries are affecting Kittle and Pearsall?

Ricky Pearsall is currently managing a dual injury to his knee and ankle, both sustained during the Week 15 victory against the Tennessee Titans. While his ankle sprain occurred early in that game, he later aggravated a pre-existing PCL irritation in his knee—an issue that had already sidelined him for six games earlier this season.

Meanwhile, George Kittle is recovering from a mid-to-low ankle sprain suffered during the Week 16 MNF matchup against the Colts. Kittle was injured in the third quarter following what he described as a “hip-drop” tackle; although he tried to play through it, the ankle stiffened up, forcing him to miss the subsequent game against the Bears.

The impact of Kittle and Pearsall on the 49ers’ offense

Despite their recent injuries, both players have been vital to the 49ers’ offensive identity this season. George Kittle remains the engine of the passing game, hauling in 52 receptions for 599 yards and leading the team with 7 touchdowns, averaging 11.5 yards per catch as a premier red-zone threat.

Also, Ricky Pearsall has emerged as a dangerous deep threat; although he is still searching for his first professional touchdown, his 36 receptions for 528 yards and impressive 14.7 average per catch have provided the vertical stretch the offense needs.

However, George Kittle’s participation in today’s NFL Week 17 clash between the 49ers and the Bears remains uncertain, as he has been listed as questionable on the latest injury report. He has been dealing with an ankle injury for the past few days, and according to a report from ESPN’s Adam Schefter, is “highly unlikely” that he will play.

This game means more than just a victory; the 49ers‘ position in the standings is also on the line. There are concerns about the implications of a potential loss to the Bears, which is why the fanbase is eagerly anticipating an exciting matchup today.

Meanwhile, the Bears‘ fanbase is similarly concerned about the repercussions of losing to the 49ers in this game. The presence of their best players is crucial, with much at stake for both franchises as they look ahead to next year’s playoffs.

49ers full injury report

In addition to Kittle, Ricky Pearsall is also in doubt for an appearance in today’s game against the Bears, according to the injury report. Here is the full injury report for the 49ers:

• Out: QB Kurtis Rourke (knee), CB Renardo Green (neck)
• Questionable: WR Ricky Pearsall (knee/ankle), TE George Kittle (ankle)

Bears’ full injury report

The Bears approach this matchup with several key players listed as questionable, including Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, who is an important player that might miss today’s game against the 49ers.

Here is the full injury report for the Bears:

• Out: WR Rome Odunze (foot), CB Nick McCloud (illness)
• Questionable: RT Darnell Wright (illness), OG Luke Newman (foot), LB T.J. Edwards (glute), CB Josh Blackwell (illness), CB Nahshon Wright (hamstring/illness), S Chauncey Gardner-Johnson (knee)

Midway through the second quarter of the game, the TE suffered a scare when one of his ankles appeared to get caught in the turf while running a route. Defensive coverage and the artificial surface were among the factors that may have contributed to the setback.

“My concern level? I don’t think it’s a high-ankle sprain, so we’ll take it one day at a time and go from there,” Kittle said during his press conference. “It happened in the second quarter. I feel like I got hip dropped, ankle got stuck in the grass or the turf, the cork turf, really weird field.

“Tried to tape it up, went in in the third quarter, really got worse from there. If I can’t run very fast or plant I think it’s better to have other tight ends in there making plays.”

George Kittle’s season in the Bay

George Kittle continues to be a vital asset for the San Francisco 49ers’ offense this season, showcasing his elite playmaking ability and reliability. With 52 receptions for 599 receiving yards, he has consistently moved the chains while maintaining a solid average of 11.5 yards per catch.

Furthermore, his 7 touchdowns highlight his efficiency as a premier red-zone threat, proving once again why he remains one of the most dominant tight ends in the league.

The race for the NFC’s No. 1 seed

The San Francisco 49ers control their own destiny in a high-stakes race for the NFC West and the conference’s top seed. Currently battling the Seahawks, Rams, Eagles and Bears for positioning, San Francisco will look to capitalize on its final two games at Levi’s Stadium.

By hosting both the Bears and the Seahawks at home, the 49ers have a golden opportunity to leapfrog their rivals and secure home-field advantage for the postseason.

“If people had said that you guys were going to be 9-4 into the bye and you weren’t going to have [Fred] Warner, [Nick] Bosa, Kittle was going to miss five weeks, and Brock [Purdy] was going to miss the first 6-7 weeks, I think a lot of people would have laughed,” Kittle said after the win against the Browns.

Kittle’s sentiment is understandable; with so many teammates injured, including himself, reaching this level of success wasn’t the expectation this year. However, it’s a challenge the 49ers have been managing for some time, and they have historically reached the playoffs despite similar issues.

Kyle Shanahan echoes Kittle’s relief

Following the Browns game, Kyle Shanahan also spoke about how tough the weeks have been leading up to the Bye Week and the chance to finally rest, especially with a 9-4 record that offers the team some peace of mind.

“I love where we’re at right now. I believe we’d be in the playoffs today if it started. It’s been a long wait for a bye week — I’ve never had one this late; I don’t know if anyone on our team has — but it’s finally here. Mentally and physically it’ll be awesome to rest, and then be able to come back from that with four games to play and a chance to get into the playoffs.”

The 49ers’ remaining schedule

The final four games of the regular season look quite manageable for the 49ers. After the bye week, they will play the Titans at home (one of their last two home games of the regular season). Their other remaining opponents are the Colts, Bears, and Seahawks.