San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch said on Thursday that he is “fairly confident” that All-Pro tight end George Kittle will practice next week.

Kittle has been on injured reserve since hurting his hamstring in the season opener and has missed the required minimum of four games. Lynch told KNBR that the two-time All-Pro and six-time Pro Bowl selection won’t play this week against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

“I do believe we’re nearing, we’re getting there,” Lynch said.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan said on Wednesday that Kittle won’t be available this week but could return from IR for Week 7 against the Atlanta Falcons.

When Kittle officially is designated to return, he will have 21 days to practice and be activated to the 53-man roster or return to IR and be out for the season.

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