George Kittle

The rationale that went into George Kittle landing the top spot on this list likely had to do with the blocking impact he provides the San Francisco 49ers. He does so much that doesn’t show up in basic counting stats in addition to the strong production that does.

Keep in mind, Kittle appeared in just 14 regular-season games last season and still put up 85 receptions for 1,053 yards and five touchdowns. It’s obviously not an exact status but he was was actually on pace to exceed 1,200 yards had he played in all 16 games.

The other two tight ends to surpass 1,000 receiving yards and five touchdown grabs played in two more games than Kittle last season. The 49ers star achieved those marks while posting a 79.4 percent catch rate, which trailed only Michael Thomas when compared to the players ranked in the top 25 in receiving yards.

There should be little that will change from Kittle in 2020 given the continuity on the coaching staff and at quarterback. The only major change to the 49ers’ receiving hierarchy was Emmanuel Sanders’ departure to the New Orleans Saints but the selection of Brandon Aiyuk will help.