George Kittle Will Play Against Seahawks Sunday
The 49ers elevated tight end Jack Stoll to replace injured fullback Kyle Juszczyk for the game in Seattle.
Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Football
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George Kittle is expected to take the field for the San Francisco 49ers against the Seattle Seahawks this Sunday afternoon despite an illness. The team adjusted its roster to cover for fullback Kyle Juszczyk, who will miss the game due to a knee injury.
Why it matters
The 49ers must now recalibrate their offensive formations to handle the loss of Kyle Juszczyk, a key versatile piece of their blocking and receiving schemes. Fans will see if the team can maintain its momentum at Lumen Field without a traditional fullback in the lineup.
George Kittle heads into Sunday with 16 receptions, 244 yards, and 4 touchdowns this season. Jack Stoll brings 5 years of NFL experience to the roster, including 28 career receptions and 1 touchdown.
The players
George Kittle
A star tight end for the 49ers who is expected to play through an illness.
Kyle Juszczyk
The team's veteran fullback who will be sidelined with a knee injury.
Jack Stoll
A veteran tight end with 76 career games who was elevated from the practice squad.
Luke Farrell
A tight end expected to fill multiple roles in the offensive formation.
Brayden Willis
A tight end expected to line up in multiple positions during the game.
The details
To compensate for Juszczyk’s absence, the 49ers elevated Jack Stoll from the practice squad to the active roster. The team intends to utilize tight ends including Luke Farrell and Brayden Willis to perform duties typically handled by the fullback position. The club confirmed Kittle’s status Sunday morning ahead of the afternoon kickoff.
Timeline
Kyle Juszczyk sustained a knee injury during Week 4.
The 49ers announced Kittle's status on Sunday morning.
The 49ers play the Seahawks at Lumen Field on Sunday afternoon.
Across the Bay
This roster adjustment follows the 49ers' established tactical trend of utilizing tight ends to perform duties typically assigned to the fullback. The strategy remains a core component of the team's offensive identity whenever depth is tested.
If you are following the game, expect to see new faces in the backfield during the Sunday afternoon kickoff at Lumen Field. Keep an eye on how the offense shifts its blocking assignments with Juszczyk out of the lineup.
The takeaway
Watch how the 49ers integrate tight ends into the fullback role to see if the team can maintain its offensive efficiency. Fans should monitor the snap counts for Luke Farrell and Brayden Willis to track the shift in team blocking assignments.
Further reading
For more updates on the roster, check the Football section.
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