Brock Purdy is grateful for the strong relationship and support of this 49ers teammate

Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images

Tight end George Kittle is considered one of the most optimistic and positive personalities in the San Francisco 49ers locker room. Even in a challenging 6-9 season, Kittle remains optimistic and is committed to playing his best in the final two games of the season in hopes of building momentum heading into the offseason.

Kittle has been quarterback Brock Purdy’s most reliable target this season. With 967 receiving yards, Kittle is just 33 yards away from surpassing 1,000 yards receiving for the fourth time in his career.

Purdy, who entered the league as the last pick of the 2022 draft, has benefited greatly from having Kittle as a teammate. On Friday, the quarterback reflected on the meaning of their relationship.

“Dude, he was great to me regardless of the circumstances, whether he was winning or losing,” Purdy said of Kittle. “He sees something pretty good in me. And he’s just a great encouragement to me. He is honest with me about what I can do and where I can improve. He’s authentic and that’s why I love him.”

“And above all, he is a guy who will do everything for you when you step on the field. He’s there to help you off the field. And for our team, we’ve been in some tough situations this year and that year.” The guy was one of those guys that comes to work every day.

“All the boys have that, but especially George. Every Sunday he shows up and does the dirty work, he blocks, he makes tough plays, he catches the ball, breaks tackles. George did everything.”

Although the 49ers have struggled this season, with several key players missing due to injury, Kittle has remained relatively healthy and has only missed two games – a remarkable feat given his punishing and physical style of play.

“And so we are all very blessed to have George as a teammate and we really appreciate him,” Purdy added. “And to be able to go through things like that is tough, but when you have guys like George, (FB Kyle Juszczyk), (LB) Fred (Warner), (DL Nick) Bosa, guys that care about that organization.”, this team, they are brothers.”

Purdy concluded: “They make coming to work worth it. So I’m very grateful to all of them.”