Report: The 49ers aren’t optimistic that George Kittle plays today

ESPN’s Adam Schefter tweeted in the wee hours of the morning that tight end George Kittle is unlikely to play Sunday due to a hamstring injury that made him a limited participant during practice all week. Kittle, who is officially questionable, will see how he is feeling pregame before making a final decision, per Schefter. But it doesn’t sound like Kittle will play.

NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport had a similar update Sunday morning regarding Kittle: “Officially listed as questionable with a hamstring injury that first popped up on Monday. It’s an uphill battle to play today.”

Two games ago, Kittle had his best performance of the season with 128 receiving yards. He has four touchdowns in the past four games and seven on the season. Kittle is the 49ers red zone offense, and that’s the area where the Niners have struggled the most. Could we see Jauan Jennings see an uptick in red zone targets? Perhaps Ricky Pearsall? Or is this more of a reason to lean on Christian McCaffrey?

Schefter followed up with Kittle’s injury, saying the 49ers are “more hopeful and optimistic” about All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams playing through an ankle injury. That same injury kept Williams from practicing, but Trent will give it a go pre-game.

Jaylon Moore would start at left tackle if Williams is unavailable.