Ironically, a missed opportunity led San Francisco to Kittle. Entering the 2017 draft, the 49ers were in search of a productive tight end and had their sights set on another prospect—Gerald Everett.
"I remember speaking specifically to the San Francisco 49ers, who said to me, 'Get ready for the second round. We love this tight end named Gerald Everett,'" ESPN's Adam Schefter said on his podcast, via Aaindri Thakuri of Essentially Sports.
Schefter also recalled conversations with the Los Angeles Rams, who were equally high on Everett, a standout performer who totaled 107 receptions for 1,584 yards and 13 touchdowns in college.
"Now, I would never say to the Rams, 'Oh boy, the 49ers told me they love Gerald Everett,'" Schefter added. "And I wouldn't say to the 49ers that the Rams told me they love Gerald Everett."
Ultimately, the Rams traded up to select Everett with the 44th overall pick, forcing head coach Kyle Shanahan and the 49ers to pivot. That shift led San Francisco to select Kittle in the fifth round—a decision that would pay off in a major way.
"Sometimes you hear about teams wanting these players, targeting these players, going after these players, and not getting these players, and having to turn to an alternative like somebody like George Kittle," Schefter added. "It has happened in every draft. It'll happen in this draft."
Kittle is coming off an Achilles injury but is expected to remain a key contributor in 2026 as he enters his 10th NFL season. He has totaled 8,008 career receiving yards and 52 touchdowns, establishing himself as a cornerstone of Shanahan's offense.
Meanwhile, Everett spent four seasons with the Rams before stints with the Seattle Seahawks, Los Angeles Chargers, and Chicago Bears. He recorded 2,869 receiving yards and 20 total touchdowns over his career, but has not played since 2024.
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