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.













