George Kittle gets real about his relationship with 49ers HC Kyle Shanahan
George Kittle is coming off a solid individual season in 2024, posting 78 receptions for 1,106 yards and eight touchdowns. As for his San Francisco 49ers, they couldn't get things going and ended up posting a 6-11 record, the worst in the NFC West division.
The team underwent multiple changes during the offseason, parting ways with important players and adding new players who carry high expectations.
Kyle Shanahan's future with the team was questioned after the team's underwhelming season, but the front office decided to run it back with a revamped roster and a franchise quarterback with a brand-new, juicy deal.
During an appearance on Friday's installment of The Pat McAfee Show (June 13), George Kittle was asked about his relationship with Shanahan. The tight end had nothing but positive things to say about the coach and how he connects with players.
AJ Hawk: "George, what's your relationship like with head coach Kyle Shanahan?"
Kittle: "One of my favorite things about Coach Shanahan is that he has a 24/7 open-door policy, like, if somebody has a question for him. Someone wants to know where they stand with the team. Someone has an idea, his office is always open...
"Me and Kyle have a great relationship. You know, I like to golf with him down in Cabo in the off-season, and then I like to win football games with him in the fall. So there's just, he holds us all accountable. He definitely puts a lot of pressure on all of the guys on the team that have to help us win games."
George Kittle also spoke about his offseason, among other topics, during his appearance on The Pat McAfee Show.
George Kittle jokes with Pat McAfee about Travis Kelce's height
George Kittle also had time to joke about fellow tight end Travis Kelce's height. After the three-time Super Bowl champion was spotted at a Stanley Cup game with his girlfriend, Taylor Swift.
Pat McAfee initiated by asking if he knew Kelce's height was updated.
"I don't know if you know this. Travis Kelce is now 10 feet tall. Did you see that last night? ... Taylor was wearing huge heels. I mean, those things in Travis's head was hitting off the roof. This dude might have grown this offseason. He might be 10 feet tall. Because Taylor is very tall," McAfee said.
George Kittle responded:
"He is definitely 10 feet tall."
Kittle and the 49ers will try to dethrone the Philadelphia Eagles after the latter team became Super Bowl champions in February. The 49ers have renewed expectations and a revamped roster to do so.