Claire Kittle Graces SI Swimsuit Digital Cover

Wife of 49ers star George Kittle shares behind-the-scenes look at photoshoot

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Claire Kittle, wife of San Francisco 49ers All-Pro tight end George Kittle, was recently announced as one of the 6 NFL WAGs (wives and girlfriends) to grace the February 2026 Digital Cover Models for SI Swimsuit. Days after her cover was released, she shared a behind-the-scenes look on Instagram, expressing her excitement and gratitude for the opportunity.

Why it matters

Claire Kittle's SI Swimsuit cover represents a significant milestone for NFL WAGs, as the magazine continues to feature more diverse and empowered women. Her journey from college basketball player to NFL spouse and now swimsuit model highlights the evolving roles and aspirations of modern professional athletes' partners.

The details

Originally Claire Till, the new swimsuit model played college basketball at Iowa, where she met her husband George Kittle, who was blossoming on the gridiron at the time. During her college career, Claire played in 95 games, mostly as a rotational piece, averaging 1.6 points per game and 1.9 rebounds per contest. The 6-foot talent would later marry George, embarking on a journey together through the professional ranks of the NFL.

  • In February 2026, Claire Kittle was announced as one of the 6 NFL WAGs to grace the SI Swimsuit Digital Cover.
  • Days after the cover was released, Claire shared a behind-the-scenes look on Instagram.

The players

Claire Kittle

Wife of San Francisco 49ers All-Pro tight end George Kittle and a former college basketball player at Iowa.

George Kittle

San Francisco 49ers All-Pro tight end, who has twice been named a first-team All-Pro and is considered one of the league's absolute best at his position.

MJ Day

Editor of SI Swimsuit.

Hillary Drezner

Member of the SI Swimsuit team.

Sev Kalayjian Everitt

Member of the SI Swimsuit team.

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What they’re saying

“I finally have a free second after quite possibly the craziest week of my life. I cannot believe I get to say I'm a SI Swimsuit digital cover model! I've wanted to be a part of the SI family for as long as I can remember. Timing truly is everything and I wouldn't want it written any differently.”

— Claire Kittle (Instagram)

“To the SI team (MJ Day, Hillary Drezner, and Sev Kalayjian Everitt) thank you for bringing my name up in conversations and making my dream a reality. I worked my butt off for two months to look and feel my absolute best and I'm so proud of that strong girl. Here's your sign to say 'yes, why the hell not' to the pinch men scary opportunities that call – they always turn out to be the most rewarding. I can't wait til I'm 80 and my granddaughters think I'm an icon. Confidence is King, Queens.”

— Claire Kittle (Instagram)

The takeaway

Claire Kittle's SI Swimsuit cover represents a significant milestone for NFL WAGs, as the magazine continues to feature more diverse and empowered women. Her journey from college basketball player to NFL spouse and now swimsuit model highlights the evolving roles and aspirations of modern professional athletes' partners.