49ers Eyeing Tight End to Potentially Replace George Kittle

The 49ers are reportedly interested in drafting Wisconsin tight end Lance Mason as a potential successor to star TE George Kittle.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 4:03pm

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With the San Francisco 49ers expected to move on from Brandon Aiyuk and Jauan Jennings testing free agency, the team needs to add help at wide receiver this offseason. While that was the most pressing need, the 49ers are also keeping an eye on the tight end pool for the 2026 NFL Draft as they look to eventually replace star tight end George Kittle, who is set to turn 33 during the upcoming season.

Why it matters

The 49ers are looking to the future as Kittle, a four-time All-Pro, nears the end of his prime. Drafting a tight end to potentially replace Kittle could help the team maintain their offensive firepower and provide a succession plan for the future.

The details

Per reports, the 49ers have been keeping tabs on Wisconsin tight end Lance Mason, a transfer from Missouri State who impressed during Shrine Bowl practices. Mason is considered a "move-tight end prospect" who could be a good fit in the 49ers' offense that often utilizes 12 personnel packages with two tight ends.

  • George Kittle is set to turn 33 during the 2026 campaign.
  • The 49ers are preparing for the 2026 NFL Draft.

The players

George Kittle

A four-time All-Pro tight end for the San Francisco 49ers who is nearing the end of his prime.

Lance Mason

A tight end prospect from Wisconsin who has been getting attention from the 49ers since the Shrine Bowl.

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What they’re saying

“Tight end Lance Mason, a transfer from Missouri State who also performed well during Shrine Bowl practices, ran reasonably well at 4.63 seconds in the 40. Except for his short shuttle time of 4.37 seconds, the rest of his marks were pedestrian.”

— Tony Pauline, Essentially Sports

What’s next

The 49ers will continue to evaluate tight end prospects like Lance Mason as they prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft, with an eye towards finding a potential successor to George Kittle.

The takeaway

The 49ers' interest in drafting a tight end highlights the team's proactive approach to planning for the future, as they look to maintain their offensive firepower even as their star tight end George Kittle nears the end of his prime.