Kittle has been NFL's best tight end since injury return

The 49ers' game plan of Get The Ball In George Kittle's Hands was a pretty damn good one in their 26-23 overtime win Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals. 

Kittle was targeted 15 times, and the tight end came away with a season-high 13 receptions, which is the second-most of his career. He caught his sixth touchdown over the 49ers' last six games and finished with a game-high 151 receiving yards. This is nothing new for Kittle, especially since returning from his calf injury. 

In fact, Kittle has been hands-down the NFL's best tight end since returning to the 49ers in Week 9. Just look at these numbers. 

That's after Kittle had just 19 receptions for 227 yards and failed to score a TD in the 49ers' first four games. 

RELATED: NFL Power Rankings: Where 49ers stand after beating Bengals

Kittle on Thursday admitted that his calf injury actually first happened in Week 1 and progressively became worse until he had to miss multiple weeks. He called it the worst injury of his career aside from breaking his foot, and said he felt pain every step he took. 

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Now that he's more healthy, Kittle is back to his dominant ways. His best self shined bright in the 49ers' win against the Bengals, which ended in a much-needed win for San Francisco. 

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