The Seattle Seahawks opened their 2025 season with a divisional matchup against the San Francisco 49ers. The game was very much winnable; however, a late-game collapse that included a blown chance at locking up a win and a game-sealing fumble led to a 17-13 loss.
Making matters more frustrating, the 49ers' winning drive came without George Kittle and Jauan Jennings, who left in the second and third quarter, respectively. The five-time All-Pro tight end, in particular, was causing Seattle problems before his exit as he recorded 25 receiving yards and one touchdown on four receptions in just 21 snaps before suffering a hamstring injury.
Kittle has been a pivotal part of San Francisco's passing attack since the franchise selected him in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft. While he has been labeled as injury-prone, the six-time Pro Bowler has actually played in at least 14 games in seven of his eight previous seasons -- with 2020 as the lone exception.
49ers star George Kittle placed on injured reserve following Seahawks matchup
That will change in 2025 as he is set to miss at least four games after being placed on injured reserve on Tuesday.
Kittle's 2025 season was off to a strong start as he appeared to be in line for another big game. His hamstring had different ideas, however, and he was unable to return after going down in the second quarter. ESPN's Adam Schefter revealed that the 49ers have placed their star tight end on injured reserve:
"Sources: 49ers are placing Pro Bowl TE George Kittle on injured reserve, meaning he now will miss at least the next four games. Kittle injured his hamstring during Sunday’s win over Seattle and now will miss games at New Orleans, vs. Atlanta, Jacksonville and at the Rams."
Sources: 49ers are placing Pro Bowl TE George Kittle on injured reserve, meaning he now will miss at least the next four games. Kittle injured his hamstring during Sunday’s win over Seattle and now will miss games at New Orleans, vs. Atlanta, Jacksonville and at the Rams. pic.twitter.com/f73zf9tjcZ
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 9, 2025
It should be noted that Schefter made a mistake and San Francisco will actually face the Arizona Cardinals -- not the Atlanta Falcons. Losing a player of Kittle's caliber is a big blow to the team; however, they do have a relatively easy schedule over the next few weeks.
It is unclear how much the loss will impact them in those matchups, but their passing attack will surely look different in his absence. The injury shouldn't affect the Seahawks' next matchup with their divisional rival, as the two sides won't meet again until the final week of the season. It could, however, cause the 49ers to lose a game or two that they should win and help Seattle in the standings.