NFL - The Athletic on George Kittle

ArticleHow Myles Garrett launches Rams defense into an entirely new stratumCaptured July 6, 2026
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the 49ers had to keep All-Pro tight end George Kittle in to help future Hall of Fame left tackle Trent Williams in protection. Williams is a player you would feel good blocking one-on-one against almost anyone, but not Garrett. Kittle had to release late and was easily covered, while Garrett was still able to walk Williams back into Brock Purdy's lap, even with the chip.

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Garrett forces Kittle into protection, limiting his receiving role against Rams.

All-Pro tight end forced into protection role against Garrett; on third-and-9 play from last season, 49ers had to keep Kittle in to help Hall of Famer Trent Williams in protection against Garrett. Kittle had to release late and was easily covered, while Garrett still walked Williams back into Brock Purdy's lap even with the chip. 49ers offensive line coach Chris Foerster said finding out about Rams' acquisition of Garrett felt like a 'gut punch,' as players like Garrett force schematic adjustments that offenses don't want to make.

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