So, you’re asking the big question: how long has George Kittle been in the NFL? The answer is both simple and wonderfully satisfying. George Kittle was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft. That means he’s been steamrolling defensive backs and catching impossible passes for seven full seasons (and counting) as of the 2024 season.
Seven years! Doesn’t that feel like both an eternity and a blink of an eye? It’s exactly the kind of timeline that makes you stop and think, “Wow, time flies when you’re having fun—and especially when you’re running through a defender’s soul.” So, yes, George Kittle has been in the NFL since 2017, and he shows no signs of slowing down.
From a Fifth-Round “Who?” to a First-Ballot Legend
Let’s be honest: nobody expected this. When the 49ers picked Kittle with the 146th overall pick, most fans shrugged and checked their fantasy football sleepers list. But this guy? He turned a draft afterthought into the gold standard for tight ends. He didn’t just enter the league; he exploded into it in 2018 with 1,377 receiving yards—the most ever by a tight end in a single season at that time.
Must Read
And here’s the fun part: he did it with a smile. You ever see George Kittle block a linebacker so hard the guy’s spirit leaves his body? He’s laughing. That’s the energy we need more of in life. He’s been in the league long enough to become a fan favorite, a Super Bowl runner-up, and the guy who makes you believe that being goofy and dominant can go hand in hand.
What Has He Done in Those Seven Seasons?
Quick highlights, because I know you’re busy planning your weekend: He’s a four-time Pro Bowler, a three-time All-Pro, and he shattered the NFL single-season receiving yards record for tight ends in 2018. He also holds the record for the most receiving yards by a tight end in a single playoff run (2019).
NFL news: 49ers make George Kittle the highest-paid tight end in NFL
But my favorite stat? He’s missed only a handful of games since 2019—and most of those were from a freak ankle injury. The man is a human wrecking ball made of charisma and a little bit of Iowa farm grit. Seven years in, and he’s still trucking like it’s Year One.
Why Should You Care About the Number “Seven”?
Because it’s a masterclass in longevity and joy. In a league where the average NFL career is about 3.3 years, George Kittle has doubled that. And he did it by being himself—a guy who dances in the end zone, acts like a goofball on Netflix’s “Receiver,” and still knocks defenders into next week. He’s proof that you don’t have to be stoic to be great.
Think about it: seven years of hard hits, crazy catches, and constant smiles. That’s not just an NFL career; that’s a life lesson. It’s a reminder that you can work your tail off, laugh through the pain, and still come out on top. The next time you’re struggling with a project or a goal, ask yourself: “What would George Kittle do?” He’d probably block the problem, then high-five someone.
49ers' George Kittle lands historic contract extension
So, What’s Next for Mr. Kittle?
He just signed a contract extension that runs through the 2025 season. That means, at minimum, he’ll be around for nine or ten seasons in total. And knowing him, he’ll probably play until his beard turns gray and his shoulder pads disintegrate. The man loves football, and it shows.
We’re watching a Hall of Fame career unfold in real time—and it started way back in 2017. So next time you see him stiff-arm a cornerback into the fifth row, remember: this is Year Seven. And the ride is just getting funnier, stronger, and more inspiring.
So here’s the uplifting note: You don’t need to be drafted first overall to become legendary. George Kittle was an overlooked pick who turned seven years into an epoch. He shows us that time isn’t just about clocking in years—it’s about making every moment count, especially the ones where you’re laughing while doing the hard stuff. Go ahead, learn more about his story. I promise it’ll make your day a little more fun—and a lot more powerful.