No. 85 in your programs, but as No. 31 overall in the NFL, George Kittle's star is still bright

Former Hawkeye George Kittle was initially heading into the final season of his previous deal with the San Francisco 49ers before the season began.

Kittle was noticeably absent from voluntary workouts, and rumors were swirling that he was unhappy with the negotiations, and wanted to be highest paid tight end in the NFL.

Kittle quickly shut those rumors down, saying the source of the rumors was incorrect.

At the end of last season, Kittle stated he wanted to be a Niner for life, and finally got a deal done with little to no drama involved. He signed a four-year, $76.4 million contract extension, with $40 million guaranteed.

Kittle has been extremely productive when he has been healthy for the Niners, and that continued last season. He posted the most receiving yards he has had since 2018 (1,106) and again finds himself on the NFL's Top 100 Players list.

Even after posting his second-most receiving yards (1,106) and touchdowns (8) in a season, Kittle dropped 17 spots to No. 31 overall on the NFL's Top 100 Players of 2025 list.

Kittle also posted his best PFF offensive grade (92.3) and his best PFF receiving grade (92.4) since 2019.

Overall, last season, Kittle tallied 1,106 receiving yards (14.1 average) and eight touchdowns on 78 receptions.

During his eight-year NFL career, Kittle has accumulated 7,380 receiving yards and 45 touchdowns on 538 receptions in 113 games played.

After signing his new contract extension, Kittle will likely end his career in San Francisco. If Kittle can propel the Niners' offense forward and their key players can stay healthy, the 49ers have a good chance to make it back to the playoffs.