With the second pick in the fifth round (146 overall) of the 2017 NFL Draft, the San Francisco 49ers have selected Iowa tight end George Kittle. He joins his former Iowa quarterback C.J. Beathard, who was selected by the 49ers in the third round.
Kittle redshirted in 2012 and was a reserve in 2013 and 2014. In 2015, he got more playing time, starting six of Iowa's 14 games and catching 20 passes for 290 yards and a team-high six touchdowns. Last year, Kittle was an honorable mention All-Big Ten pick after starting 11 games and catching 22 passes for 314 yards and four touchdowns despite being limited by a foot injury the second half of the season.
NFL.com projected that Kittle would be selected in round 4 of the NFL Draft.
Pro Football Focus stats to know: Has only allowed a single quarterback pressure over the last two seasons combined. Earned the second-highest run blocking grade (79.6) in 2016 among the TE draft class.
"H-back type who lacks the desired size for in-line blocking but certainly has the technique and willingness to do it. He has good hands and flashes an ability to challenge as a pass catcher on all three levels. Kittle has the athleticism and blocking ability to become an effective move tight end if paired in the right system."
"Kittle has the athleticism to be a receiving mismatch at the next level though it's his blocking that makes him a perfect fit as a No. 2 tight end capable of playing in a "move" role. He can separate from linebackers and safeties, whether attached to the formation or in the slot, and while he'll likely never be a dominant in-line run blocker, Kittle projects as a useful matchup option in a two-tight end offense."
Measurables
Height: 6-4
Weight: 247 lbs.
Arm length: 33 1/8 inches
Hand length: 9 1/4 inches
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