49ers’ George Kittle misses practice again as status for Bears game Sunday remains uncertain

George Kittle’s injured ankle forced him to miss practice again on Thursday, leaving the 49ers’ Pro Bowl tight end’s status for Sunday night’s game against the Chicago Bears in question.

Coach Kyle Shanahan said on Wednesday that Kittle still has “a chance” to face the Bears as long as he was able to heal quick enough from his injury during Monday night’s win over Indianapolis.

San Francisco (11-4) has clinched a playoff spot and can earn the top seed in the NFC by beating the Bears (11-4) and Seattle (12-3) in the final two games of the season.

But losing Kittle would be a big blow to a San Francisco offense that has been operating at a high level during a five-game winning streak. The Niners have gone back-to-back games without having to punt for the first time in franchise history.
Kittle is a key part of both the run and pass game for the 49ers. The Niners’ running game has improved since Kittle returned after missing five games early this season with a hamstring injury.

Meanwhile, 49ers receiver Ricky Pearsall practiced on a limited basis for the second straight day on Thursday, meaning he has a shot to take the field Sunday. Pearsall, who missed Monday’s game with a knee injury, has 31 catches for 443 yards on the season.