Jake Tonges

Great to hear that George Kittle is aiming for a Week 1 return, though management remains cautiously optimistic rather than making any official guarantees. Even if the season opener proves too ambitious, the 49ers expect their star tight end back early in the 2026 campaign. Barring setbacks, even a stint on the PUP list would see him back on the field by Week 5 at the latest.

Kittle will return to a revamped passing game that will need his production to be successful. He provides a great source for upside in the later rounds of best ball drafts and has a couple good years left in dynasty leagues.

The San Francisco 49ers outlasted the Chicago Bears 42-38 in a Week 17 shootout that delivered massive fantasy production on both sides.  Brock Purdy put together a strong championship week performance, throwing for over 300 yards and three touchdowns.  He added two more scores with his legs.  Heading into Monday Night’s game, he is quarterback 1 on the week.  While Christian McCaffrey once again anchored fantasy lineups with 140 rushing yards and a score.

Through the air, Purdy’s leading receiver was Ricky Pearsall, who returned from injury and made an immediate impact, finishing with five receptions for 85 yards.  With George Kittle sidelines, Jake Tonges stepped in and delivered a strong fantasy performance, hauling in seven catches for 60 yards and a touchdown.  Tonges currently sits as TE3 on the week, making him a surprise contributor in fantasy championship matchups.

Author:  Jake Lewis (@Lewylewis5)