Kyle Shanahan vaguely suggests George Kittle has “taken a step back”

When 49ers tight end George Kittle recently emerged from the active/physically unable to perform list, many assumed it meant he’d be available to play in the Week 1 game against the Rams in Australia.

After the recent preseason finale, however, coach Kyle Shanahan made a comment that could be interpreted as meaning Kittle has had a setback in his recovery from a torn Achilles tendon.

While discussing whether various injured players will be available for the season-opening game, Shanahan mentioned Kittle’s name, adding this: “who’s taken a step back.”

It happened quickly. The comment was made almost in passing. There was no further explanation.

Did Shanahan mean Kittle has had a setback? Did it mean he has taken a step back toward playing?

Whatever Shanahan meant, it will surely be one of the main topics the next time Shanahan meets with reporters.