Christian Kirk injury update: 49ers open practice window for Week 6 vs. Commanders

Christian Kirk took a step toward making his 2026 debut when the 49ers opened his 21-day practice window on Thursday. Kirk has been on injured reserve since injuring his calf on the first day of training camp.

What happened

Kirk practiced on a limited basis on Thursday, his first practice since training camp began. According to the Associated Press, this was the first time he has practiced since hurting his calf in July.

The 49ers have two more games before their bye. The team could let Kirk use the next few weeks to ramp up his conditioning, though head coach Kyle Shanahan said Kirk had a “real good week and an awesome weekend” leading into Thursday’s session.

Context

Kirk spent last season with the Texans and caught 28 passes for 239 yards and a touchdown in 13 games. In his career, the former second-round pick has 432 receptions for 5,415 yards and 30 touchdowns.

The 49ers’ wide receiver group has been hit hard by injuries, including Deebo Samuel’s hamstring issue. Mike Evans has been the primary target, with 34 targets, 24 catches and 326 yards through five games.

Depth chart

Evans remains the No. 1 receiver, but Kirk could eventually work into the rotation behind him. Jacob Cowing has just one catch for 9 yards this season, Brandin Cooks has one catch for 7 yards in two games, and Jordan Watkins has two catches for 60 yards.

Demarcus Robinson is also on injured reserve with an ankle issue.

What’s next

The 49ers host the Washington Commanders on Monday night in Week 6. Kirk’s practice window has been opened, but it is unclear when he will be activated to the 53-man roster.