George Kittle is reportedly dealing with a groin injury that ‘could’ force him to miss Week 1’s matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers, according to a report from San Francisco 49ers beat writer Eric Branch.

Kittle also missed last year’s season opener against the Chicago Bears.

Kittle is one of a long line of recent talented NFL tight ends who went to Iowa, joining Noah Fant, TJ Hockenson and, though it’s been 10 or so years, Dallas Clark. And Kittle might be the best of the bunch from a pure talent perspective.

Kittle has receiver speed and is a touchdown magnet. Injuries have slightly slowed his production, and we can only hope this recent injury doesn’t turn into anything serious for the former Hawkeyes standout.