49ers Rumors: George Kittle Hopeful to Play vs. Jets Despite Knee Injury

San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle won't participate in practice this week as he works through a knee injury.

But according to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Kittle is "hopeful" he can take the field against the New York Jets in Week 2. 

The Niners' Week 1 loss to the Arizona Cardinals saw a number of key players incur more than few bruises. 

Seven players were either held out or limited during Wednesday's practice, including cornerback Richard Sherman, who joined wideout Deebo Samuel (foot) on injured reserve with a leg injury. Sherman will miss at least three games.

Kittle suffered a sprained left knee against the Cardinals, and San Francisco has shown caution with the 26-year-old, who signed a record five-year, $75 million extension just before the season. 

"We'll see how he comes in on Wednesday," head coach Kyle Shanahan told reporters earlier this week. "He was a little sore [Monday], but we'll wait to see how he is on Wednesday to see if he's able to practice or be able to go this week. We know there will be some question."

Wednesday didn't provide much of an update.

Kittle is officially questionable for Week 2. Shanahan said the tight end is "battling" and "fully expects to be there Sunday." If not, it'll be a huge loss for the Niners' passing game. 

The 2019 All-Pro tied tailback Raheem Mostert for the most targets on the team in Week 1 with five. Kittle caught four of those passes for 44 yards in the 24-20 loss. 

Any chance to build on that rests with Kittle's knee.