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Christian Kirk getting closer to making a difference for injury-riddled 49ers

SANTA CLARA — Christian Kirk was a spectator for the first five games of the regular season.Now, he is getting closer to making a difference for the 49ers.Kirk has been sidelined for nearly three months with a calf injury. The…

By Brock Purdy · NBC Sports Bay Area

Published: Thursday, 15 October 2026 at 5:02 PM

Key Things to Know

The 49ers opened Christian Kirk's practice window following his recovery from a three-month calf injury.
Kirk sat out the first five regular season games and must now earn activation from injured reserve.
San Francisco's receiving corps is depleted with Deebo Samuel sidelined and rookie De’Zhaun Stribling recovering from surgery.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Christian Kirk is nearing his return to action after the San Francisco 49ers opened his practice window on Thursday following a calf injury that sidelined him for nearly three months. Kirk, who sat out the first five games of the regular season, participated in a limited practice as he attempts to earn activation from injured reserve to the active 53-man roster.

His potential return comes at a vital time for the unbeaten 5-0 49ers, who are managing injuries across their wide receiver group. Deebo Samuel is out with a hamstring injury, rookie De’Zhaun Stribling underwent ankle surgery, and top receiver Mike Evans missed practice with rib and Achilles soreness.

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Christian Kirk getting closer to making a difference for injury-riddled 49ers

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