Niner Noise
FanSided

5 49ers players who need to stay healthy in 2019

By Aaron Tan

NASHVILLE, TN - APRIL 25: Nick Bosa of Ohio State speaks to the media after being selected with the second pick in the first round of the NFL Draft by the San Francisco 49ers on April 25, 2019 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
NASHVILLE, TN - APRIL 25: Nick Bosa of Ohio State speaks to the media after being selected with the second pick in the first round of the NFL Draft by the San Francisco 49ers on April 25, 2019 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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SANTA CLARA, CA – OCTOBER 21: George Kittle #85 of the San Francisco 49ers reacts after a play against the Los Angeles Rams during their NFL game at Levi’s Stadium on October 21, 2018 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
SANTA CLARA, CA – OCTOBER 21: George Kittle #85 of the San Francisco 49ers reacts after a play against the Los Angeles Rams during their NFL game at Levi’s Stadium on October 21, 2018 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

No. 1: Tight End George Kittle

The only reason why tight end George Kittle‘s rookie year was somewhat of a disappointment is because he was hurt for a good chunk of it. He only completely missed one game that year, but he would often get hurt mid-game and miss practices due to injuries. This led veteran tight end Garrett Celek to get the lion’s share of snaps during games.

However, Kittle avoided getting hurt his sophomore year and blew up, simultaneously smashing records and defenses along the way. Kittle showed that he is one of the premier tight ends in the league, and the steal of the 2017 NFL Draft (drafted in the fifth round).

Kittle can do it all — he is absolutely incredible at blocking defenders, running routes, catching the ball and gaining yards after the catch. He should become Jimmy Garoppolo’s No. 1 target this upcoming season, which makes it crucial that he stays healthy.

The tight end depth after Kittle is not great, to say the least. Celek, a career backup, is about to turn 31 years old, and sixth-round rookie Kaden Smith’s lack of speed (4.92-second 40-yard dash) will limit his abilities in the passing game.

dark. Next. 3 players who benefit most from early OTA injuries

If Kittle goes down, the tight end position becomes a glaring hole. And the 49ers will be down their most talented weapon.