SAN FRANCISCO — George Kittle is raising eyebrows about a curious theory surrounding the injuries plaguing the 49ers. In a recent interview, the star tight end discussed the possibility that an electrical substation near the team’s practice facility could be contributing to the team’s injury woes.

Kittle shared his thoughts during a conversation with host Jordan Rose, expressing skepticism towards the theory yet emphasizing the need for careful investigation. “It’s something that definitely deserves to be looked into,” Kittle stated. He recalled a veteran player from his rookie season in 2017 who pointed out that the trees separating the facility from the substation always had dead leaves.

Interestingly, the NFL took the initiative to remove those trees this year, raising further questions in Kittle’s mind about the potential effects of the substation. “The trees aren’t there anymore, so no one can see them. Only us veterans know that was the truth,” he said. The absence of the trees has sparked Kittle’s curiosity, leading him to wonder if there might be some validity to the theory.

Teammate Kyle Juszczyk echoed Kittle’s desire for clarity, noting that players such as himself are focused on maximizing their performance. “If something’s affecting you negatively, even by a small percentage, you’d want to uncover that,” Kittle added. He also emphasized that, while he’s open to the idea that the substation is harmless, it’s better to explore all possibilities.

The 49ers have faced a slew of injuries this season, with players like linebacker Fred Warner and quarterback Brock Purdy dealing with serious setbacks. Kittle himself suffered a torn Achilles during a playoff game against the Eagles, highlighting an injury crisis that has gripped the team.

Following another challenging season marked by injury struggles, the 49ers organization is exploring all avenues, including the electrical substation theory. General Manager John Lynch stressed the importance of investigating any factors that could impact player health and safety. “Because it relates to the well-being of our players, we have to explore every angle,” he stated.

Though some experts have dismissed the theory, citing scientific evidence against it, Kittle remains unconvinced. He pointed out that players like Warner, who trains year-round at the facility, have also encountered major injuries, further complicating the narrative surrounding injury causation.

Injuries this season have hindered not only Warner but also key players like Nick Bosa, who suffered a torn ACL, and various others battling ongoing ailments. With so many players sidelined, the question of whether external factors contribute to these injuries hangs heavily over the team.

As the 49ers gear up for the offseason, Kittle is hopeful for answers. “Let’s just figure out if it’s actually harming the players or not,” he remarked. The inquiry into the substation and its potential effects will continue as the team seeks to mitigate injury risks moving forward.