Despite the decline, Kittle is still widely regarded as the NFL's best all-around tight end. He remains one of the league's premier pass catchers at the position while continuing to set the standard as an elite run blocker.
"We're a completely different offense when we got a guy like that at the tight-end position," 49ers tackle Trent Williams said in the reveal video.
Kittle's impact on the 49ers' running game underscores Williams' point. In the 11 games Kittle played last season, San Francisco averaged 4.1 yards per carry on designed runs with him on the field. That number dropped to 3.7 yards per carry when he was off the field.
"George is the best tight end in football," Williams added. "There's no doubts about it. And there's nothing he can't do. He's literally Superman on the field."
Kittle is coming off a significant injury, which may have contributed to his slide in the rankings. The star tight end suffered a torn Achilles during the 49ers' playoff victory over the Philadelphia Eagles. However, Kittle remains optimistic that he will be ready for Week 1 of the 2026 season.
"He's a freak. Like, all levels. Blocking, receiving, yeah, dude," Houston Texans tight end Dalton Schultz said. "When he's at the top level, and he's healthy, dude, he's the best in the league."
Limited to 11 games due to injury, Kittle finished the 2025 season with 57 receptions for 628 yards and seven touchdowns. Despite the shortened campaign, he earned Pro Football Focus' highest overall grade among NFL tight ends (90.8) and also led the position with a 91.2 receiving grade.
"A Pro Bowler for a fifth year in a row and seventh overall, Kittle's overall game remains outstanding," NFL Media's rant Gordon wrote. "He still finished second on the 49ers in receptions and touchdown catches (tied)."
Kittle has now earned a spot in the top 50 of the NFL Top 100 Players for an impressive eighth consecutive year.
"A fan favorite and clearly a favorite among his fellow players, Kittle's all-around game continues to set a standard in an era in which tight ends are more important than any before," Gordon added.
Kittle is the third 49ers player unveiled in the NFL Top 100 Players of 2026. Quarterback Brock Purdy previously ranked No. 85, while linebacker Fred Warner came in at No. 54.
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