49ers' Kittle promises return vs. Packers: 'I will be playing'

San Fransisco 49ers tight end George Kittle doesn't expect his injury absence to extend beyond one week.

"I will be playing on Sunday. Very excited. Can't pass up playing the Packers," Kittle told reporters Wednesday.

Kittle missed the 49ers' loss to the Seattle Seahawks last week with a hamstring injury. The 31-year-old sustained the injury after scoring a fourth-quarter touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Nov. 10.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan said Monday that Kittle would be "close" to returning to the field, according to ESPN's Nick Wagoner. Kittle was limited in Wednesday's practice.

The five-time Pro Bowler has been one of the 49ers' most productive members this season, recording 560 receiving yards and seven touchdowns in eight games. He's also scored the most points for San Fransisco behind kicker Jake Moody.

Kittle was also sidelined Sept. 22 against the Los Angeles Rams. The absence was his first game missed due to an injury since 2022.

The 49ers face the Packers on Sunday at 4:25 p.m. ET.