SANTA CLARA, Calif. — The San Francisco 49ers have received shocking news as star tight end George Kittle will be sidelined for at least a few weeks due to a hamstring injury. Adding to the tension, quarterback Brock Purdy's status for this week's game is uncertain after he sustained injuries to his left shoulder and toe during the season opener.

Coach Kyle Shanahan revealed they have yet to decide whether to place Kittle on injured reserve, which would keep him out for four weeks, or keep him on the active roster with hopes for an earlier return. Meanwhile, the 49ers are anxiously awaiting further tests on receiver Jauan Jennings' shoulder, though an initial MRI showed no significant damage.

Purdy's situation is particularly concerning—Shanahan indicated that the toe injury poses more risk than his shoulder. "We’re not sure," he stated about Purdy's availability for the upcoming game against New Orleans. "We need to monitor how it heals throughout the week."

Despite the injury, Purdy had a remarkable performance last Sunday, leading a game-winning drive that featured a 4-yard touchdown pass to Jake Tonges with just 1:34 left in a tight 17-13 victory. He completed 26 of 35 passes for 277 yards, along with two touchdowns and two interceptions.

If Purdy can't play this week, the 49ers are set to turn to Mac Jones, the former first-round pick who signed with San Francisco in March. Shanahan expressed confidence, stating, "I think he’s really adapted to our system. If he needs to step in, the guys will believe in him, and I know he’ll perform well."

Kittle’s injury occurred in the second quarter of the game, where he had already made four catches for 25 yards and a touchdown. Tonges stepped in admirably, marking his first career receptions with the game-winning touchdown.

Despite a history of minor injuries, Kittle has managed to play 14 games or more in seven of his eight seasons, including a stellar last season with 78 catches for 1,106 yards and eight touchdowns.

In a related development, the 49ers have signed receiver Kendrick Bourne to a one-year deal worth up to $5 million, who may step into a pivotal role while Kittle is out. The team is also monitoring right guard Ben Bartch, who sustained a minor knee sprain during the game and is considered day-to-day.

Kicking Trouble?

Shanahan hinted at potential changes at kicker following Jake Moody's poor performance, where he missed two crucial field goals, becoming the first kicker in 19 years for the 49ers to miss two attempts inside 40 yards in a single game. Moody’s difficulties resurfaced from last season when he struggled after an ankle injury.

While the team previously cut Greg Joseph as competition, Shanahan has indicated they might look for another kicker this week. "We're exploring all options, whether it’s maintaining the current roster or bringing in new players for workouts," he said.

With the 49ers facing a slew of injuries just as the season kicks off, fans will have to watch closely as they navigate these challenges and fight to keep their playoff hopes alive.