dailyloe.com – San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan is using Boston Celtics player Jayson Tatum’s comeback as motivation for tight end George Kittle. Tatum returned to play 10 months after rupturing his right Achilles tendon. Shanahan expressed hope that Kittle can achieve a similar recovery for the upcoming 2026 NFL season.
Shanahan stated, “I keep telling Kittle that Jayson Tatum got hurt in the playoffs and he’s looking pretty damn good right now with his Achilles.” He emphasized Kittle’s talent and character, expressing eagerness for his return. Kittle suffered an Achilles tear during the NFC wild-card playoff win against the Philadelphia Eagles in January.
While Kittle’s exact return date is uncertain, Shanahan mentioned a possible return for Week 1 of the 2026 season. General manager John Lynch echoed this timeline, and Kittle has provided positive updates from his rehabilitation process. Tatum’s injury occurred in May 2025 during Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks.
Tatum made a remarkable return to the Celtics lineup in early March 2026, performing at a champion-level standard. He concluded the regular season with an average of 21.8 points per game. Shanahan’s comments reflect a strategy to inspire Kittle by highlighting Tatum’s successful recovery journey.
