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49ers Bring Back Tight End Jake Tonges on 2-Year, $8M Deal
Tonges emerged as a viable second option behind George Kittle last season.
Mar. 11, 2026 at 11:35pm
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The San Francisco 49ers have agreed to a two-year, $8 million contract with tight end Jake Tonges, who had a breakthrough season in 2025 and will now return to the team as a viable second option behind star tight end George Kittle.
Why it matters
Retaining Tonges was an important move for the 49ers, as they look to bolster their tight end depth with Kittle recovering from an Achilles tendon injury. Tonges proved he can be a reliable target in the passing game, providing quarterback Trey Lance with another weapon.
The details
Tonges, who joined the 49ers as an undrafted free agent, had played only 50 offensive snaps with no catches before last season. In 2025, he stepped up in Kittle's absence, catching the game-winning touchdown pass in Week 1 against Seattle and finishing the year with 34 receptions for 293 yards and 5 touchdowns.
- Tonges agreed to the two-year, $8 million deal on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.
- Tonges had played only 50 offensive snaps with no catches since joining the NFL as an undrafted free agent prior to the 2025 season.
The players
Jake Tonges
A tight end for the San Francisco 49ers who emerged as a viable second option behind star tight end George Kittle in the 2025 season.
George Kittle
The 49ers' star tight end who is recovering from an Achilles tendon injury.
What’s next
The 49ers will look to Tonges to continue his development and provide a reliable target for quarterback Trey Lance, especially while Kittle recovers from his injury.
The takeaway
The 49ers' decision to re-sign Tonges on a two-year deal demonstrates their commitment to building depth at the tight end position and providing their young quarterback with multiple receiving threats, even as they navigate Kittle's recovery from injury.
