George Kittle, entering the ninth season of his NFL career with the San Francisco 49ers, is considering a surprising path for his life after football. As Kittle approaches his 32nd birthday during the team’s Week 6 game, the standout tight end recently revealed plans linked to the wrestling world, signaling a potential shift following his NFL tenure.
The 49ers reaffirmed their faith in Kittle’s abilities by extending his contract for an additional four years, ensuring he remains with the franchise until 2028, barring significant injury setbacks. By the end of this deal, Kittle will be 36, an age at which physical demands could dictate retirement if his body no longer withstands the rigors of professional football.
Kittle’s Retirement Plans Influenced by Health and Family
In a candid conversation on Barstool Sports’ “Bussin With the Boys,” Kittle explained that the decision to retire will largely depend on his enjoyment of the game and his physical well-being. He emphasized that his wife Claire’s observations might ultimately influence his choice.
“Literally until I don’t have fun anymore or until my wife, Claire, looks at me and goes, ‘You kinda look like s**t out there; you should retire.’ I don’t know, I think if I get to 35 and it hurts to put pants on in the morning, I think I’ll be like, ‘This isn’t too much fun anymore‘.” — George Kittle
This openness indicates Kittle’s self-awareness about the toll football takes and highlights the personal nature of his retirement timeline, which could happen before his current contract expires.
Highest-Paid Tight End with Continued Performance Expectations
Kittle’s recent contract extension made him the highest-paid tight end in the NFL, earning $19.1 million annually. Despite his age, Kittle’s performance remains at an elite level, with last season showcasing a thousand-yard receiving campaign that underpinned the 49ers’ offensive strength.
ESPN analyst Mina Kimes praised Kittle’s efficiency, noting his standout position among all pass catchers in yards per target last season, a crucial metric for assessing receiver effectiveness.
“George Kittle, amongst all pass catchers last year, was FIRST in yards per target. Brock Bowers was the next tight end at 31st. So, between George Kittle and the next tight end, there were 30 receivers in yards per target… George Kittle is still so good.” — Mina Kimes
With the 49ers avoiding major injury concerns heading into the new season, including the full recovery of running back Christian McCaffrey, expectations are high for Kittle to continue driving the team’s offensive efforts.
Considering the WWE as a Post-Football Career
While many NFL players transition into coaching roles, scouting, or sports media after their playing days, Kittle is contemplating a unique alternative. He expressed a strong interest in joining WWE, viewing professional wrestling as a new arena to extend his athletic career in a different light.
“I would love to do WWE. I think there’s definitely opportunity within that world, and I would love nothing more than to be a part of it.” — George Kittle
Kittle’s enthusiasm, however, is tempered with caution. He recognizes the skill and dedication wrestling demands and joked about his novice status despite some initial exposure in the wrestling ring.
“I’ve been in a WWE ring like three times. I don’t know what I’m doing out there. I have an understanding of how it works, but I haven’t moonsaulted off the top rope at WrestleMania like Pat McAfee did.” — George Kittle
Before making any definitive moves towards WWE, Kittle wants to ensure he completes his obligations with the 49ers and contributes to the team’s development and success. The franchise, with key players healthy and poised for a strong campaign, relies on his veteran presence and leadership.
Upcoming Season Outlook and Team Preparedness
The 49ers have organized a series of preseason games against the Broncos, Raiders, and Chargers, with a challenging season opener against their divisional rivals, the Seattle Seahawks. This preparation period is crucial for both Kittle and the team to build chemistry and refine strategies ahead of the regular season.
With a full-strength roster except for some minor exceptions like wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk recovering over time, the 49ers are positioned to pursue playoff aspirations. Kittle’s commitment on and off the field will be vital to maintaining the team’s competitiveness in the NFC West.
Significance of Kittle’s Future Choices
George Kittle’s potential shift from the NFL to WWE highlights the evolving pathways athletes consider for life after their primary sport. His openness about retirement being influenced by personal and physical factors reflects a pragmatic approach to career longevity in professional sports.
Should Kittle follow through on his wrestling ambitions, it would mark a significant crossover from elite football to entertainment wrestling, a transition few players have attempted at his level of NFL acclaim. This move could inspire other athletes to explore diverse avenues post-retirement, blending athleticism with showmanship.
For now, Kittle remains focused on delivering peak performances for the 49ers, with the certainty that his football chapter will eventually give way to fresh challenges, possibly inside the WWE ring.