George Kittle, the standout tight end for the San Francisco 49ers, has laid out his NFL retirement plans, revealing that his wife Claire’s honest opinion will play a key role. Known for his exceptional ability to block like a lineman and catch like a receiver, Kittle remains one of the most dynamic players in the league. Despite eight grueling seasons and injuries, the 31-year-old is thriving in 2024, posting a league-leading 14.2 yards per catch for tight ends.
In a recent candid interview on the podcast Bussin’ with the Boys, Kittle explained that his decision to retire will not be based solely on stats or age but on his personal enjoyment and how he looks on the field.
Kittle’s Honest Criteria for Retirement
Rather than focusing on numbers or milestones, Kittle’s retirement hinges on two important elements: having fun and his wife’s candid assessment of his performance.
He stated,
“Literally until I don’t have fun anymore,”
hinting that love for the game remains the primary motivator.
He further explained,
“Or if Claire [wife] looks at me and goes, ‘You kinda look like sh*t out there, you should retire.’ I’ll be like, ‘Alright.’”
Kittle also mentioned that if the physical toll becomes unbearable, such as when it
“hurts just to put pants on in the morning,”
retirement will be imminent, likely around age 35. At present, however, Kittle insists he is feeling great and is focused on enjoying what remains of his football career.
What Life After Football Could Look Like for Kittle
Looking beyond his NFL career, Kittle is already entertaining future plans that might surprise fans. Rather than pursuing traditional post-football roles like broadcasting or coaching, he has expressed a strong interest in professional wrestling.
He said,
“I would love to do WWE. I so much love being a fan of WWE… I would only do WWE if I bought a ring and practiced my ass off for a while, so I wouldn’t look like an idiot out there.”
Kittle has already stepped into a WWE ring three times, including a memorable moment recently when he performed the Cero Miedo taunt alongside wrestler Penta as a touchdown celebration. However, he acknowledges that wrestling requires serious dedication and skill.
He joked about his aspirations, stating,
“I haven’t moonsaulted off the top rope at WrestleMania like Pat McAfee did,”
showing admiration for the spectacular stunts performed by other athletes turned wrestlers.
The Lighter Side of Kittle’s Life Beyond The Field
Kittle’s vibrant personality is evident both on and off the field. Recently, he and Claire were spotted enjoying themselves at the Tight End University (TEU) celebration, an event he co-hosts with fellow NFL tight ends Travis Kelce and Greg Olsen. This year’s gathering was especially notable with pop superstar Taylor Swift attending and mingling with Claire throughout the night.
The TEU has grown into a highly anticipated annual event, blending football camaraderie with star-studded fun and capturing significant attention online.
Kittle’s Continued Impact on and off the Gridiron
Whether it is delivering crushing blocks, sharing entertaining moments, or planning an unconventional post-football career in WWE, George Kittle remains one of the NFL’s most genuine and engaging figures. His approach to retirement reflects his authenticity—retiring on his own terms and only when it no longer brings him joy or when Claire calls it quits.
As the 49ers star continues to deliver standout performances in 2024, fans will watch closely, knowing that the end of Kittle’s NFL journey will come not from numbers or external pressure but from a personal and honest place.