The San Francisco 49ers anticipate that tight end George Kittle will be cleared to return to practice on Wednesday, aiming for a potential comeback in Week 7 against the Atlanta Falcons.

Kittle has been sidelined on injured reserve due to a significant right hamstring injury suffered during the first half of the team’s season-opening win over the Seattle Seahawks. Despite the injury, Kittle, a six-time Pro Bowler, managed to play 21 snaps in that game, catching four passes for 25 yards and scoring a 5-yard touchdown.

“We’re expecting George to get back to practice this week,” head coach Kyle Shanahan said. The team has Tuesday off and will resume practice on Wednesday, likely opening Kittle’s return-to-play window as they prepare for Sunday night’s game at Levi’s Stadium.

If he progresses well through practice, the team expects Kittle to be active for the game. “That’s the hope,” Shanahan confirmed.

In Kittle’s absence, tight ends Jake Tonges and Luke Farrell have filled in. Tonges has become the team’s second-leading receiver, tallying 25 receptions for 224 yards and three touchdowns, while Farrell, known more for his blocking, has added six catches for 47 yards and one score.

As for quarterback Brock Purdy and receiver Ricky Pearsall, their status remains uncertain. Purdy has missed the last two games with a toe injury and hasn’t practiced since aggravating it on September 28 against Jacksonville. Shanahan expressed hope that Purdy might do more in practice this week. If not, Mac Jones is set to make his third straight start and fifth overall this season.

Pearsall, who has also missed two games due to a knee injury, will be evaluated during the week to determine his availability for Sunday’s matchup. “We’ll have a better idea on Wednesday,” Shanahan noted.