George Kittle is expected to return for Week 7 after missing four games with a hamstring injury.

San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch said he is "fairly confident" All-Pro tight end George Kittle will practice next week but won’t play this week against the Buccaneers. Kittle, who has been on injured reserve since tearing his hamstring in the season opener, is expected to return for Week 7’s game against the Atlanta Falcons. He missed the minimum four games and has 21 days to practice before being activated or returning to IR. Kittle, 32, had four receptions for 25 yards and a touchdown in the season opener before the injury. He is the highest-paid tight end in NFL history after signing a $76.4 million extension. Wide receivers Jauan Jennings and Ricky Pearsall remain limited or out, having missed the previous game against the Rams.