Why did George Kittle’s Combine go under the radar? Looking back at 49ers TE’s bloody but impressive display

George Kittle was selected with the 146th overall pick in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL draft as he wasn't among the top prospects in his position. Tight ends like Evan Ingram, O.J. Howard, David Njoku, Gerald Everett, Adam Shaheen, Jonnu Smith, Michael Roberts, and Jake Butt were all drafted ahead of Kittle.

However, the 49ers' TE has had a better career than all of them.

Kittle had a really unique day at the NFL combine in 2017, and it fit his fiery personality perfectly. He was battling a nosebleed moment, but that didn't stop him from demonstrating his abilities in front of everyone.

Kittle's excellent hands, footwork, and route running were on full display; the sight of him speedily and aggressively going through the workout showed everyone that he could be a special player. This went under the radar, as he fell to the 49ers after the above names were called.

Kittle ran the 40-yard dash in 4.52 seconds, ranking third among all tight ends at the combine. Scouts were impressed by George Kittle, and many believed that he was the best blocking tight end at the time, which he has proven in the NFL.

So far in his NFL career, Kittle has recorded 395 catches for 5,254 yards and 31 touchdowns. He is also a two-time Pro Bowler and is an integral part of the San Francisco 49ers.

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George Kittle has been a premier tight end since his arrival in NFL

George Kittle: San Francisco 49ers v Seattle Seahawks

While Travis Kelce is often regarded as the best tight end in the NFL, George Kittle is not far behind. In 2018, Kittle eclipsed Kelce's single-season receiving yardage record with 1,377 yards.

He is currently the NFL's top blocking tight end, and the 49ers make every effort to maximize his abilities. Sometimes, Kittle's offensive output regresses, although this is due to the number of great players on the 49ers offense, which Kyle Shanahan utilizes to the full.

Kittle was able to form an excellent partnership with rookie quarterback Brock Purdy last season and went on an incredible run. He finished the season with 60 catches for 765 yards and scored 11 touchdowns.

Many teams around the league will be hoping to find a diamond in the rough like George Kittle in the upcoming draft.

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