The San Francisco 49ers have gained a reputation for their versatile offensive players who excel in multiple positions.
Deebo Samuel, a wide receiver, also showcases his skills as a running back. Meanwhile, Christian McCaffrey, a running back, frequently lines up as a wide receiver. Fullback Kyle Juszczyk demonstrates his versatility by aligning at wideout and tight end. And of course, George Kittle, a tight end, even takes on the role of “left tackle B.”
Kittle jokingly questioned what his unconventional position would be called.
Kittle, an All-Pro player and the only tight end in franchise history with two 1,000-yard receiving seasons, came up with this humorous label when discussing his recent lack of pass-catching production.
In the team’s loss to the Browns, Kittle caught just one pass for a single yard. Two weeks earlier, in a victory against the Cardinals, he only had one catch for nine yards. To put this into perspective, Kittle, who is 30 years old, had never accumulated less than 10 receiving yards in a game during his first 85 career games. However, he has now had two such performances in the span of three games.
So what’s causing this dip in production? It turns out that Kittle has been playing the role of an elite and fierce blocker as a left tackle B. This means he has been asked to focus more on pass blocking this season, resulting in fewer opportunities for pass-catching. Kittle’s projected numbers for the season include 71 targets, 54 receptions, and 612 receiving yards, which would be his lowest since his rookie year in 2017, when he played more than eight games.
Despite the decrease in catches, Kittle remains focused on winning a Super Bowl and is not concerned about individual accolades. As a six-time team captain, he prioritizes the team’s success over his personal statistics.
The increased reliance on Kittle as a blocker is partially due to the team’s decision to start right tackle Colton McKivitz, a rookie who struggled against All-Pro pass rusher T.J. Watt in the season opener.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan admitted that he didn’t provide enough support to McKivitz during that game, leading to Watt’s three sacks. Shanahan also mentioned Kittle’s blocking responsibilities when explaining his reduced production.
Kittle understands the importance of protecting the quarterback and preventing similar outcomes to Watt’s performance. Although he would prefer more targets, he accepts his role in the game plan and is willing to do whatever is necessary for the team’s success.
The 49ers’ upcoming game against the Minnesota Vikings on Monday night provides an opportunity for Kittle to shine. In his last four prime-time games, he has accumulated 18 catches for 337 yards and seven touchdowns.
Kittle’s limited pass-catching numbers also reflect the team’s impressive collection of skill-position players, which expanded with the addition of McCaffrey last season. The team’s young quarterback, Brock Purdy, admires Kittle’s selfless approach and how it is shared by other accomplished teammates.
Purdy recalls being curious about how Kittle’s teammates would react when he had a standout game. To his delight, he discovered that they genuinely celebrated each other’s success. This unity and positive attitude contribute to the team’s special dynamic.
However, the 49ers might face challenges in their next game if McCaffrey and Samuel, both dealing with injuries, are unable to play.
Will this mean that Kittle will focus solely on being a pass-catching tight end and not have to endure the left tackle B role against the Vikings? The answer will be revealed on Monday.
Reach Eric Branch: [email protected]; Twitter: @Eric_Branch
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