49ers stars Kittle, Bosa travel to Australia for opener

San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle and defensive end Nick Bosa will travel with the team to Australia for the season opener against the Los Angeles Rams, a significant development indicating both star players are progressing in their recoveries from major injuries. The team departed on Wednesday, September 2, for the Week 1 game scheduled for Thursday, September 10, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Kittle's participation in the trip is a strong signal he could play in the opener. The seven-time Pro Bowler has been recovering from a torn right Achilles tendon suffered on January 11 during a playoff victory over the Philadelphia Eagles. He was activated from the physically unable to perform list on August 23 and has participated in two positive days of practice this week. Head coach Kyle Shanahan had previously stated he would prefer not to take Kittle to Australia if it appeared he would not be ready to play, making the travel decision a positive indicator. Kittle had 57 receptions for 628 yards and seven touchdowns in 11 games last season.