The San Francisco 49ers were that one team that came out of nowhere. It helps when being healthy. That will definitely make all the difference. Jimmy Garoppolo put together a nice season. The 49ers also had other players contribute to their success. George Kittle was one of them. He’s become one of the most colorful characters in the game today. He’s that lifeline to the entire team. Contract extensions have been in conversations for months now. The 49ers have made him the richest tight end in NFL history. a five-year deal worth $75 million. $30 million guaranteed.
George has become one of the two best tight ends in the league. He grew tremendously from his 2018 season to last year in which he made a name for himself. I’ll get into his receiving skills shortly. His ability to block is remarkable. I remember in the NFC title game against the Green Bay Packers, he almost plowed B.J. Goodson out of bounds. This isn’t a tight end that just chips people. George will push you completely out of the picture. The 49ers use him as an additional offensive lineman. As a receiver, I love his route running. He’s so fluid in space with the ability to free himself to get open. Jimmy just knows how to get him the ball. There’s no answer for him one on one. George can line up wide as a receiver and takes handoffs in the backfield.
My most memorable play of his is by far the catch against the Saints last season. Jimmy checked the ball down to him and George handled the rest. I’m so happy he got his extension. The 49ers took care of Kyle Shanahan and now have locked in their tight end for the foreseeable future.
