Overview
- Kittle tore his right Achilles on his first catch of the second quarter and was carted off at Lincoln Financial Field.
- Kyle Shanahan confirmed the diagnosis postgame and ruled Kittle out for the rest of the playoffs after a 23–19 win over the Eagles.
- The 49ers plan to redistribute tight end duties to Jake Tonges and Luke Farrell and adapt with more protection and short-area concepts.
- Medical commentators say Achilles ruptures typically require months of rehab, putting Kittle’s Week 1 availability in 2026 in doubt.
- San Francisco advances to face No. 1 seed Seattle on a short week, proceeding without a top offensive weapon and emotional leader.