The Big Disadvantage: Offensive Line Troubles
As much optimism as Kittle’s return brings, it can’t mask San Francisco’s most pressing issue — its offensive line.
The 49ers have struggled to protect their quarterbacks all season, and the problem became glaringly obvious during last week’s 30-19 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Jones was sacked six times and hit 10 more, losing 52 yards on sacks alone.
Left tackle Trent Williams remains reliable but is battling fatigue and minor knee swelling. Meanwhile, right guard Dominick Puni and center Jake Brendel have both underperformed, allowing consistent interior pressure. Even promising rookie Colby Jones has allowed three sacks and committed multiple penalties through six weeks.
That’s not good news heading into a matchup with an Atlanta front seven that ranks sixth in QB hits and ninth in run defense. The Falcons’ interior line, led by Grady Jarrett, poses exactly the kind of mismatch that could neutralize San Francisco’s short passing and inside run schemes — even with Kittle back in the mix.
Mindset Over Mechanics
Still, the 49ers know that one game can flip momentum, especially in October. The locker room mood has shifted noticeably with Kittle’s return.
“He brings confidence,” McCaffrey said Friday. “When he’s in the huddle, you feel that spark. You know he’s going to do something to wake everyone up.”
Kittle himself was in high spirits when asked about returning to action.
“I’m ready to roll,” he said. “You can’t win a championship in six weeks, but you can build the mindset that gets you there.”
That mindset — toughness, accountability, and precision — is exactly what Shanahan has been demanding from his players after a sloppy two-week stretch.
What’s at Stake
At 4-2, the 49ers still lead the NFC West, but the Seattle Seahawks are gaining ground. A loss to Atlanta would mark three straight defeats and raise serious doubts about the team’s postseason trajectory.
The Falcons, meanwhile, are 3-3 and hungry to prove they can hang with elite NFC competition. Quarterback Desmond Ridder has quietly improved each week, while rookie running back Bijan Robinson remains a threat to exploit any defensive lapse.
San Francisco will need a complete effort to regain control — and it starts in the trenches.
Final Word
George Kittle’s return gives the 49ers something numbers can’t measure: belief. His energy, leadership, and physical dominance can ignite an offense that’s been out of rhythm. But his comeback won’t automatically fix the fundamental flaws along the offensive line that have left San Francisco vulnerable.
Sunday’s clash with the Falcons isn’t just about one player’s return — it’s about whether the 49ers can turn renewed hope into renewed execution. If they do, Week 7 could be the moment this team reclaims its identity.
