49ers report James Thompson's limited return as Bosa, Kittle stay restricted

49ers report James Thompson's limited return as Bosa, Kittle stay restricted

The San Francisco 49ers said defensive tackle James Thompson resumed limited practice on in Melbourne, while Nick Bosa and George Kittle remained on limited status ahead of the Week 1 game against the Los Angeles Rams. Earlier in the week, coach Kyle Shanahan clarified that his comment about Kittle taking a step back was misphrased and did not indicate a delay in the tight end’s return. He also said the team would use three upcoming pre-season practices to evaluate the health of Kittle and Bosa before traveling to Australia.

Reports later indicated that Kittle’s recovery from a torn Achilles was progressing and he could be activated for the opening game, and defensive coordinator Raheem Morris stated that Bosa’s repaired knee was sufficient for him to suit up. ESPN subsequently reported that both Bosa and Kittle were slated to be active for the Melbourne Cricket Ground matchup, although NBC Sports later listed them among nine players on limited practice.

Actors

Kyle Shanahan George Kittle Nick Bosa San Francisco 49ers

Locations

San Francisco, California, United States Los Angeles, California, United States Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Articles

September 09, 2026
1 total
49ers report limited return for DT James Thompson as other key players stay restricted
49ers report limited return for DT James Thompson as other key players stay restricted

NBC Sports • 09 Sep 22:50

Defensive tackle James Thompson resumed limited practice for the San Francisco 49ers, while Nick Bosa and George Kittle remained on limited status ahead of the season opener.

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September 08, 2026
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49ers list nine players, including Nick Bosa and George Kittle, as limited in practice
49ers list nine players, including Nick Bosa and George Kittle, as limited in practice

NBC Sports • 08 Sep 22:45

The San Francisco 49ers reported nine players as limited during Tuesday's practice in Australia, with defensive end Nick Bosa and tight end George Kittle among them.

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49ers expect Nick Bosa and George Kittle to play in season opener in Australia
49ers expect Nick Bosa and George Kittle to play in season opener in Australia

ESPN • 08 Sep 03:19

Defensive end Nick Bosa and tight end George Kittle are slated to be active for the San Francisco 49ers' Week 1 game against the Los Angeles Rams at Melbourne Cricket Ground.

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49ers confirm defensive end Nick Bosa will suit up for season opener
49ers confirm defensive end Nick Bosa will suit up for season opener

NBC Sports • 08 Sep 02:15

Defensive coordinator Raheem Morris said Nick Bosa’s repaired knee is sufficient for him to play in the team's first game against the Rams.

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September 03, 2026
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49ers tight end George Kittle could return for Week 1 despite Achilles injury
49ers tight end George Kittle could return for Week 1 despite Achilles injury

NBC Sports • 03 Sep 19:07

Reports indicate George Kittle is progressing in his recovery from a torn Achilles and may be activated for the San Francisco 49ers' opening game in Australia, though his snap count could be limited.

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August 31, 2026
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Shanahan says Kittle and Bosa's rehab will be evaluated in three pre-season practices ahead of Australia opener
Shanahan says Kittle and Bosa's rehab will be evaluated in three pre-season practices ahead of Australia opener

NBC Sports Bay Area & California • 31 Aug 21:40

49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan said the team will use three upcoming practices to assess the health of George Kittle and Nick Bosa before traveling to Melbourne for the season opener.

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Shanahan clarifies Kittle comment, says no setback expected
Shanahan clarifies Kittle comment, says no setback expected

NBC Sports • 31 Aug 21:12

San Francisco 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan said his remark about tight end George Kittle taking a step back was misphrased and does not indicate a change in the player’s return timeline.

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