Career Timeline of George Kittle: Major Achievements and Milestones

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 2, 2026

How George Kittle built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

George Kittle is a prominent American football tight end currently playing for the San Francisco 49ers in the NFL. After playing college football at the University of Iowa, he was drafted by the 49ers in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft. Kittle has distinguished himself as one of the league's top tight ends, earning seven Pro Bowl selections and First-Team All-Pro honors in both 2019 and 2023. Known for his exceptional blocking and receiving abilities, he is a key player in the 49ers' offensive scheme.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

September 26, 2015: First Collegiate Touchdown

On September 26, 2015, George Kittle scored his first collegiate touchdown against North Texas, with a 43-yard reception from quarterback C. J. Beathard.

March 27, 2017: Participated in Iowa's Pro Day

On March 27, 2017, George Kittle participated in Iowa's Pro Day, completing combine drills and positional drills in front of scouts and team representatives from all 32 NFL teams.

May 4, 2017: Signed with the 49ers

On May 4, 2017, George Kittle signed a four-year, $2.69 million contract with the San Francisco 49ers, including a signing bonus of $298,287.

2017: Drafted by the San Francisco 49ers

In 2017, George Kittle was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the fifth round of the NFL draft, launching his professional career.

2019: First-Team All-Pro Selection

In 2019, George Kittle earned First-Team All-Pro honors, recognizing his outstanding performance during the season.

2019: First Team All-Pro and Super Bowl Appearance

In 2019, George Kittle was named First Team All-Pro, helped the 49ers to a 13-3 record, and advanced to Super Bowl LIV, where the 49ers lost to the Chiefs 31-20. He recorded 85 receptions for 1,053 yards and five touchdowns during the season.

2019: Named Pro Bowler

In 2019, George Kittle was named as a Pro Bowler for the first time in his career. He finished the season with 88 receptions for 1,377 yards and five touchdowns.

August 13, 2020: Signed Contract Extension with 49ers

On August 13, 2020, George Kittle signed a five-year, $75 million contract with the 49ers, including an $18 million signing bonus, making him the highest-paid tight end in the league.

2020: Finished 2020 Season

George Kittle finished the 2020 season with 48 receptions for 64 yards and two touchdowns in eight games and starts.

2021: Finished 2021 Season and Earned Pro Bowl Nomination

George Kittle finished the 2021 season with 71 receptions for 910 yards and six touchdowns in 14 games and starts, earning his third career Pro Bowl nomination.

2022: Tied Franchise Record for Pro Bowl Selections

In 2022, George Kittle finished the season with 60 receptions for 765 yards and a career-high 11 touchdowns and received his fourth Pro Bowl nomination, tying Brent Jones' franchise record for career Pro Bowl selections by a tight end.

2023: First-Team All-Pro Selection

In 2023, George Kittle earned First-Team All-Pro honors, recognizing his outstanding performance during the season.

2023: Broke Franchise Record for Pro Bowl Selections

In 2023, George Kittle finished the season with 65 receptions for 1,020 yards and six touchdowns, earning his fifth career Pro Bowl selection, breaking the franchise record for total career Pro Bowl selections by a tight end. He also earned First Team All-Pro honors for the second time.

2024: Finished 2024 Season and Earned Pro Bowl Honors

George Kittle finished the 2024 season with 78 receptions for 1,106 yards and eight touchdowns in 15 games and starts, earning Pro Bowl honors for the sixth time. His receiving yards mark his fourth career and second-consecutive 1,000-yard season.

April 29, 2025: Agreed to Contract Extension with 49ers

On April 29, 2025, George Kittle and the 49ers agreed to a four-year, $76.4 million contract extension with $40 million guaranteed, averaging $19.1 million per year and making him the highest-paid tight end in the league.