George Kittle is currently on injured reserve due to a hamstring injury suffered in Week 1 of the 2025 NFL season. He must miss at least four games and is therefore not eligible to return until Week 6. The earliest game he can play again is the Week 6 matchup on October 12, 2025, against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The 49ers' general manager John Lynch has confirmed Kittle is progressing well but noted the team may take a cautious approach, potentially pushing his return to Week 7 against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday Night Football if needed. Given his history, Kittle has a chance to return as soon as Week 6, but age and soft tissue injury concerns might influence the team's patience to avoid setbacks. There have been no newer updates indicating an earlier return or additional delays. In summary, George Kittle is expected to return no earlier than Week 6 of the 2025 NFL season, with the game against Tampa Bay on October 12 being the first opportunity for his comeback.