San Francisco's starting tight end, All-Pro George Kittle, is recovering from an Achilles injury. While he hopes to return closer to the start of the season, nothing is certain. Tonges provides some security if Kittle's recovery takes longer than expected.
Tonges entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent out of the University of California, Berkeley, in 2022, selected by the Chicago Bears. He spent his rookie season in Chicago, where he appeared in four games before moving to the 49ers' practice squad in September 2023. He signed a reserve/future contract with the 49ers in February 2024 and re-signed with the team on April 17, 2025.
During the 2025 season, Tonges appeared in 17 games with two starts, recording career highs of 34 receptions for 293 yards and five touchdowns, averaging 8.6 yards per catch. He had not scored a touchdown before the 2025 season, with his first coming as a game-winner against the Seattle Seahawks on September 7, 2025.
Over his NFL career, Tonges has appeared in 37 games. His offensive production in 2025 accounts for all of his receiving statistics. He has also recorded seven career tackles on special teams.
Related News
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers to work out UFL MVP quarterback Jack Plummer ahead of training camp
According to KPRC2's Aaron Wilson, the San Francisco 49ers are set to work out United Football League (UFL) MVP Jack Plummer on Friday, a day before veterans report to training camp. Plummer also has a workout scheduled with the Miami Dolphins. UFL @UFLonFOX MVP quarterback... -
49ers waive offensive lineman ahead of training camp
The San Francisco 49ers announced Friday that they have waived offensive lineman Zach Thomas ahead of the start of training camp. Rookies are scheduled to report on Saturday, while veterans will arrive a week later. The San Francisco 49ers today announced they have waived OL... -
Ranking the 49ers Position Groups Ahead of Training Camp
Despite the seemingly never-ending Brandon Aiyuk saga, the San Francisco 49ers have had a productive offseason, addressing several positional weaknesses and reshaping key areas of the roster. That said, a few concerns remain, and some spots still feel more unsettled than... -
Analyst urges 49ers to sign WR Stefon Diggs
The San Francisco 49ers made a splash in free agency this offseason by signing Mike Evans, a move that headlined the team's efforts to revamp its receiving corps. One ESPN analyst believes the 49ers shouldn't stop there. He thinks San Francisco should add another accomplished...