San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle is traveling with the team to Australia as he trends toward playing in its season opener against the Los Angeles Rams, sources told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
Kittle, who's reportedly had two consecutive positive days of practice, returned to the field Aug. 23 for the first time since suffering a torn Achilles during the 49ers' wild-card win against the Philadelphia Eagles in January.
The 32-year-old has been following a practice plan that includes ramping up his workload this week to get him ready for San Francisco's season opener. Kittle said previously that he would prefer not to travel to Australia if he isn't going to play, according to The Athletic's Vic Tafur and Matt Barrows.
Kittle suited up in 11 contests last season, recording 57 catches for 628 yards and seven touchdowns. His 57.1 receiving yards per game ranked second among all tight ends who appeared in at least nine contests, according to TruMedia.
Star edge rusher Nick Bosa, who's been sidelined for the majority of training camp with a knee injury, will also travel to Australia. Bosa is expected to practice this week for the first time since Aug. 3, San Francisco head coach Kyle Shanahan said Monday.
Bosa played just three games last year after suffering a torn ACL in September. The 28-year-old's 17.2% pressure rate since 2021 ranks third among 148 qualifying pass-rushers.
The Sept. 10 matchup will mark the NFL's first-ever game played in Australia. The 49ers are scheduled to leave for Melbourne on Wednesday evening, while the Rams aren't planning to arrive until the day before the game.
