San Francisco 49ers right tackle Colton McKivitz is entering the 2025 season with sky-high expectations for himself—and a bold prediction.
"I'm going to be a Pro Bowler this year," McKivitz recently told NBC Sports Bay Area's Matt Maiocco. "I've told countless people. I'm just putting it out there just because that's going to hold me accountable and get me to where I want to go."
The comment is sure to draw some mixed reactions from fans. McKivitz remains a polarizing figure on the 49ers' roster, with some believing the team should have pursued an upgrade this offseason. Many pre-draft projections had San Francisco selecting a tackle early, potentially replacing McKivitz until it came time for the rookie to succeed Trent Williams on the left side.
A pivotal contract year
The offseason chatter likely serves as motivation for the veteran offensive lineman, who enters his third season as a starter.
McKivitz is also entering a contract year with something to prove. The 49ers chose not to address the tackle position this offseason, leaving McKivitz determined to make their future decision a difficult one.
"A key word that I'm using this year is 'Fight,'" McKivitz said. "I do a lot better when things are kind of hectic and in chaos and when I'm fighting for something. I'm putting a lot of pressure on myself to make things a little more chaotic."
Showing signs of growth
McKivitz might have to fight to win over fans who still view him as a liability. McKivitz showed progress in 2024, earning a career-best 72.2 offensive grade from Pro Football Focus. While his 36 pressures allowed were the most among 49ers offensive linemen, it was down from the 47 allowed during the 2023 regular season.
Additionally, McKivitz gave up just two sacks last season, a substantial drop from the nine he allowed the previous year.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan recently expressed confidence in his right tackle, pushing back against what he considers unfair criticism.
"If anyone really studies Colton, Colton's a really good right tackle, and that's really helped us," Shanahan said while explaining why he believes the 49ers' offensive line is underrated.
With renewed confidence and improved play, McKivitz is focused on proving his worth in 2025 and earning a big payday when the season concludes.
"With everything in life, when things get hard, don't quit, fight through it, persevere," McKivitz said. "But then, fight for more. Don't get complacent."