San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle suffered an ankle injury in the third quarter of his team's Week 16 game against theIndianapolis Colts.
The injury occurred on a third-and-long when Kittle was running a route across the field. The 32-year-old veteran pulled up after trying to make a cut and finished the play limping.
Kittle was able to get off the field under his own power. He went to the sideline and sat on the bench, where he was seen hunched over in apparent pain.
Kittle never went into the blue medical tent but was seen speaking to San Francisco's training staff on the sideline. The ESPN broadcast later captured Kittle trying to get loose and testing whether he could come out of his stance on the balky ankle.
Week 1: Detroit Lions wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa (18) makes a catch for a touchdown against the Green Bay Packers during the fourth quarter at Lambeau Field. The play was originally ruled an incomplete pass, but the call was overturned. Despite TeSlaa's effort, the Packers won the game 27-13." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
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Week 1: Detroit Lions wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa (18)makes a catch for a touchdownagainst the Green Bay Packers during the fourth quarter at Lambeau Field. The play was originally ruled an incomplete pass, but the call was overturned. Despite TeSlaa's effort, the Packers won the game 27-13.
George Kittle injury update
The 49ers announced Kittle was "questionable" to return because of the ankle injury. However, Kittle was not on the field on the drive following his injury.
Kittle led the team with seven catches and 115 yards and scored a touchdown before exiting the game.
Who is George Kittle's backup?
Luke Farrell is listed as Kittle's top backup on the 49ers' depth chart. The five-year veteran is better known for his blocking and has recorded just 11 catches for 85 yards this season.
Farrell spent the first four seasons of his career before joining the 49ers as a free agent during the offseason.
49ers TE depth chart
The 49ers have three tight ends on their 53-man roster. Below is a look at the pecking order within the unit:
George Kittle
Luke Garrell
Jake Tonges
Tonges was used as the 49ers' top receiving touchdown early in the season when Kittle was injured. He entered Monday's game having recorded 26 catches for 226 yards and four touchdowns.
(This story will be updated as more information becomes available.)
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:George Kittle injury update: 49ers TE exits 'MNF' game vs. Colts
