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San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle (Achilles) said he expects to return to practice “sooner than later” and is “very confident” he will not open the regular season on the reserve/physically unable to perform list. A player with a PUP designation must miss four games from the time they land on that injury list. Kittle continues to circle Week 1 as his goal. But sans PUP, his season debut will likely take place no later than Week 4. It is a notably quick turnaround for a player who tore his Achilles tendon in January. “I have a chance,” Kittle said. “We’re running around a lot at top speeds. Hopefully we’re back in pads practicing sooner than later. Just trying to check the boxes and not be a dumbass.” Advertisement Article continues below this ad Kittle added that he has a known timetable to return to practice. He declined to share details. Kittle also said his availability for the season opener in Australia would likely be determined before the team charters its international flight one week before kickoff. If he is not yet ready, he acknowledged it would make sense to stay back and continue progressing in his rehab. This is a breaking story. Check back for updates.