The top of the San Francisco 49ers depth chart is loaded with star power, but the roster also features several reliable backups capable of stepping in when needed. That became evident last season when quarterback Brock Purdy missed time and Mac Jones helped keep the offense operating efficiently in his absence.

One NFL writer believes another underrated 49ers contributor is capable of performing at a high level in 2026, if needed.


Brent Sobleski of Bleacher Report examined every NFL roster and identified each team's best-kept secret heading into organized team activities. For the 49ers, Sobleski selected backup tight end Jake Tonges, All-Pro George Kittle's backup.

While Kittle remains one of the NFL's elite tight ends, durability has occasionally been an issue throughout his career. Over nine NFL seasons, Kittle has played a full regular-season schedule just once—back in 2018.

Kittle is currently rehabbing the Achilles injury he suffered during the playoffs, though he remains optimistic about being ready for the start of the 2026 NFL season. If he is forced to miss time, Tonges could become an important piece of San Francisco's offense.

"Jake Tonges is an important cog in the San Francisco 49ers' offense, hence his new two-year, $8 million contract," Sobleski wrote. "Tonges played in every game last season and finally got his chance to contribute as a pass-catcher. The 2022 undrafted free agent caught 34 passes for 293 yards and five touchdowns."

Filling in for Kittle in the playoff game against the Seattle Seahawks, Tonges caught five of his six targets for 59 receiving yards.


"He's a capable threat that Brock Purdy has grown to trust, which should allow the Niners offense to keep operating at a high level even if one of its top weapons isn't ready for the start of the 2026 campaign," Sobleski concluded.

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