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A New Era in San Francisco: The 49ers Have Found Their Tight End Answer and Are Ready to Move Forward – With or Without George Kittle

San Francisco, California – February 24, 2026

For years, George Kittle has been synonymous with the tight end position for the San Francisco 49ers. His versatility — as a blocker, route-runner, and tone-setter in the middle of the field — helped define the offense under head coach Kyle Shanahan. But 2026 introduces a different reality.

After suffering a torn Achilles in the Wild Card round and approaching his age-33 season, Kittle’s short-term future carries legitimate uncertainty. While the organization remains confident in his leadership and recovery process, the 49ers understand that a championship window doesn’t allow for prolonged questions at such a pivotal position.

That’s where the draft conversation shifts.

Multiple league sources indicate San Francisco is seriously evaluating Justin Joly as a potential third-round selection in the 2026 NFL Draft, should he remain available when they’re on the clock. Joly may not dominate national headlines, but his 2025 campaign quietly impressed evaluators: 49 receptions, 489 yards, and seven touchdowns, along with usage in creative packages that showcased rare versatility for a 6-foot-3, 255-pound tight end.

What separates Joly isn’t just production — it’s flexibility. He can line up in-line and hold his own as a blocker, split wide as a big slot option, and preserve the full complexity of Shanahan’s playbook. For a system that relies on multiplicity and mismatches, that skill set is invaluable.

Jake Tonges provides steadiness. Joly could provide succession.

Drafting Joly wouldn’t signal the end of Kittle’s impact. If Kittle returns healthy and productive, the 49ers gain a developmental asset with immediate rotational value. If setbacks arise, they won’t be forced into reactive roster decisions.

San Francisco isn’t publicly declaring a transition — but they are preparing for one.

The most successful franchises don’t wait for uncertainty to become crisis. They anticipate it. And if Justin Joly’s name is called by the 49ers on draft night, it won’t just represent depth.

It will represent forward-thinking roster management — and the quiet beginning of a new chapter at tight end in San Francisco.

Former Bears Starter Expresses Interest in Green Bay — Fans Speculate Revenge Motive
GREEN BAY, Wisconsin - 25/02/2026 In one of the most unexpected offseason storylines, former Chicago Bears starting quarterback Justin Fields has reportedly expressed openness to joining the rival Green Bay Packers — a development that has ignited fierce debate across NFC North fan bases. Sources close to the situation indicate Fields would welcome the opportunity if Green Bay comes calling. With the Packers potentially searching for a backup behind Jordan Love, the connection has fueled speculation that Fields could land in Titletown. Naturally, Bears fans were quick to interpret the possibility as something deeper. Social media exploded with theories that Fields might be motivated by a desire to prove Chicago wrong — or even “get revenge” on the franchise that drafted him 11th overall in 2021 before ultimately moving on. However, there is little public evidence to suggest personal animosity. When Fields unfollowed the Bears on Instagram prior to his trade last year, some fans viewed it as a sign of frustration. Others dismissed it as typical “Instagram noise.” Fields never commented publicly, and the moment faded without escalation. Following his move to Pittsburgh in 2024, Fields did make comments praising the Steelers’ “culture,” which some Bears fans interpreted as a subtle comparison. Yet the remarks were measured and professional — not a direct criticism of Chicago’s organization. In fact, there has been no documented toxic conflict between Fields and Bears leadership. General manager Ryan Poles personally informed him of the trade decision, and Fields publicly praised the professionalism of the process. Unlike past quarterback situations in Chicago, there were no reports of locker-room drama or organizational feuds. Still, perception often outweighs reality in rivalry markets. Many analysts and segments of the Bears fan base have argued that Chicago mishandled Fields’ development — citing inconsistent coaching changes, offensive line struggles, and the decision to draft Caleb Williams rather than build further around him. But notably, Fields himself has remained silent in those debates. If he were to join Green Bay, the move would instantly intensify the historic rivalry between the Bears and Packers. The narrative would practically write itself: former Chicago starter wearing green and gold, potentially lining up against his old team. Whether fueled by opportunity, professional growth, or competitive fire, one thing is certain — any hint of Justin Fields in a Packers uniform would dominate headlines across the NFC North. For now, it remains speculation. But in a rivalry built on history, pride, and long memories, even the possibility is enough to set the football world buzzing.