What It Means:

Kittle returned to practice this week and has been cleared by the team's medical staff to play, but the team is still considering shutting him down for the season in an effort to protect him for the future. Kittle has been known for his aggressive playing style, which, while dominant on the field, has led him to a number of injuries throughout his career.

With the 49ers' playoff hopes circling the drain, it might make sense for the team to shut Kittle down, even if the fierce competitor is "pushing to play". Kittle's 2020 numbers were right on pace with his production in previous seasons, as the tight end averaged 9.7 yards per target and had two games of over 100 receiving yards in his five healthy games.