George Kittle had a strong individual performance in the 2024 NFL season, recording 78 catches for 1,106 yards and eight touchdowns. However, his team, the San Francisco 49ers, struggled and finished with a disappointing 6-11 record, the lowest in the NFC West division. This tough season prompted significant offseason changes, with the 49ers letting go of key players and acquiring new talent aimed at improving the team’s prospects.
Despite questions surrounding Kyle Shanahan’s future following the lackluster season, the 49ers’ management chose to keep Shanahan as head coach. They will move forward with a refreshed roster and a franchise quarterback who recently signed a lucrative new contract, signaling their intent to remain competitive.
Insights Into George Kittle and Kyle Shanahan’s Bond
On June 13, during an interview on The Pat McAfee Show, George Kittle shared positive views about his relationship with Kyle Shanahan. When asked about their connection, Kittle highlighted Shanahan’s accessibility and approachability toward players.
AJ Hawk: “George, what’s your relationship like with head coach Kyle Shanahan?”
Kittle: “One of my favorite things about Coach Shanahan is that he has a 24/7 open-door policy, like, if somebody has a question for him. Someone wants to know where they stand with the team. Someone has an idea, his office is always open…”
“Me and Kyle have a great relationship. You know, I like to golf with him down in Cabo in the off-season, and then I like to win football games with him in the fall. So there’s just, he holds us all accountable. He definitely puts a lot of pressure on all of the guys on the team that have to help us win games.”
Kittle emphasized that Shanahan’s leadership style involves holding the team accountable and fostering strong connections, which he values deeply as they prepare to bounce back from last season.
Playful Exchange About Travis Kelce’s Height During Offseason Chat
During the same appearance, Kittle joked with host Pat McAfee about Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce’s recent public appearance alongside Taylor Swift at a Stanley Cup game. McAfee humorously remarked on Kelce’s perceived height increase due to Swift’s tall stature and her wearing high heels.
“I don’t know if you know this. Travis Kelce is now 10 feet tall. Did you see that last night? … Taylor was wearing huge heels. I mean, those things in Travis’s head was hitting off the roof. This dude might have grown this offseason. He might be 10 feet tall. Because Taylor is very tall,” McAfee said.
Kittle joined in the jest, adding briefly:
“He is definitely 10 feet tall.”
Looking Forward: 49ers Aim to Challenge the Reigning Champions
With offseason adjustments and renewed determination, the 49ers are preparing to challenge the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Philadelphia Eagles. The changes in the roster and retention of Kyle Shanahan as head coach reflect the organization’s commitment to returning to playoff contention and competing at the highest level in the upcoming season.