George Kittle: Ankle Injury, Game Status, Wife, Stats & Size — Full 2025 Update

American football icon George Kittle continues to be one of the most dynamic and hard-working players in the NFL. As of late December 2025, the San Francisco 49ers star tight end is in the spotlight due to a recent ankle injury, sparking concerns among fans, fantasy football managers, and analysts alike. In this detailed article, we’ll break down the latest on Kittle’s injury, his status, career statistics, physical profile, and a glimpse into his personal life — particularly his relationship with his wife, Claire Kittle.

Who Is George Kittle? Quick Overview

George Kittle is a professional American football tight end for the San Francisco 49ers in the National Football League (NFL). Drafted in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft, Kittle has risen to become one of the premier tight ends in the league, known for his elite blocking, explosive receiving ability, and relentless competitive drive.

Key Profile Facts

• Full Name: George Krieger Kittle

• Birth Date: October 9, 1993

• Height: 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)

• Weight: ~250 lbs (113 kg)

• Team: San Francisco 49ers

• Jersey Number: 85

• College: University of Iowa

• NFL Draft: 2017 — Round 5, Pick 146

• Pro Bowl Selections: 6× (2018, 2019, 2021–2025)

• All-Pro Honors: Multiple times First and Second Team All-Pro

• Records: Among the best receiving tight ends in NFL history.

George Kittle Injury Update: Ankle Status and Game Availability (2025)

In Week 16 of the 2025 NFL season, George Kittle suffered an ankle injury during the 49ers’ game against the Indianapolis Colts. The injury occurred in the second quarter on a hip-drop tackle, and although Kittle continued to play into the third quarter, he eventually exited the game due to increasing discomfort.

Latest Injury Details

• Injury: Left ankle injury

• Occurred: Week 16 vs Colts

• Status: Did not return to finish the game

• Initial Comments: Kittle expressed hope it wasn’t a high-ankle sprain but left his playing status for following games uncertain.

Before exiting, Kittle put up an impressive stat line with 7 receptions for 115 yards and a touchdown, demonstrating his toughness and importance to the 49ers’ offense.

Fantasy football players have shared reactions that suggest a relatively minor injury — with some optimism that he may be game-ready sooner rather than later — but official medical updates will determine his exact availability.

Injury Outlook

At this point, medical evaluations are crucial. Ankle injuries can vary from minor low-ankle sprains to more significant high-ankle sprains, and the specific classification will determine recovery time. Kittle’s own remarks indicated he doesn’t think it’s high-ankle, giving some cause for cautious optimism.

Career Stats — By the Numbers

George Kittle’s NFL career numbers place him among the best tight ends of his generation.

Career Summary (Regular Season)

(As recorded in 2025)

• Receptions: 575

• Receiving Yards: 7,776

• Receiving Touchdowns: 50
  (Career totals through the 2025 season — per official sources.)

His performance across multiple seasons has consistently shown elite production, especially in seasons where he’s fully healthy.

2025 Season Snapshot

In the 2025 season, before his ankle injury:

• Receptions: ~45

• Receiving Yards: ~484

• Touchdowns: 6
  (Stats as of recent games in 2025.)

Kittle’s ability to contribute both as a blocker and a receiving threat makes him an invaluable asset to the 49ers offense, especially in schemes that emphasize tight end usage.

Size and Athletic Profile

Physical metrics are fundamental to understanding why George Kittle is so effective on the field. His height and weight contribute to his dual role as both a receiving and blocking weapon.

Physical Attributes

• Height: 6’4”

• Weight: ~250 lbs

• Build: Powerful yet agile, combines bulk with speed and strength — ideal for the tight end position in the NFL.

This combination of size and athleticism allows Kittle to:

• Get open against linebackers and safeties

• Make tough catches in traffic

• Dominate in run-blocking assignments

Personal Life — Wife: Claire Kittle

Off the field, George Kittle shares his life with his wife, Claire Kittle.

Relationship Snapshot

• Met: As freshmen at the University of Iowa

• Married: 2019 (eloped), celebrated again with family later

• Claire’s Background: Collegiate basketball player, fitness enthusiast, former personal trainer

• Residence: Nashville, Tennessee (offseason)

• Interests: Fitness, comic books, video games, game-day fashion, hosting “KittleFest” events with friends and teammates.

Fans have noted Claire’s energetic and stylish game-day support, and often she’s seen cheering loudly in the stands wearing custom gear.

Their life together also includes their Bernedoodle dog “Deenie,” and they share a close bond that complements both of their athletic backgrounds.

George Kittle Injury History

Kittle’s history of injuries has been a talking point throughout his career — but it’s also a testament to his resilience.

Notable Previous Injuries

• Torn hamstring in 2025 opener (IR, returned)

• Shoulder, core, and fractured rib issues in past seasons

• Occasional hamstring and ankle reports
  Overall, while he has missed games due to injuries, his ability to return and perform at a high level has proven his toughness.

 Key Takeaways

 George Kittle continues to be a top NFL tight end.
 He suffered an ankle injury in Week 16 of 2025 and exited early — status uncertain pending evaluation.
 Career stats place him among the all-time greats at his position.
 Physical size and skillset make him a dual threat in the NFL.
 Off the field, he’s married to Claire, a former athlete with an active social profile.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is George Kittle out for the season due to his ankle injury?

Answer: As of the latest update, Kittle exited the Week 16 game with an ankle injury and his status is undetermined until medical evaluation clarifies the severity. He expressed that he doesn’t think it’s a high-ankle sprain — which bodes well but doesn’t confirm anything yet.

Q2: What exactly happened to his ankle?

Answer: Kittle suffered the injury on a hip-drop tackle and continued playing for a period before exiting as the discomfort worsened. Initial impressions suggest it might not be a high-ankle sprain, but official medical confirmation is pending.

Q3: How tall and heavy is George Kittle?

Answer: He’s 6 feet 4 inches tall and around 250 pounds, a size that’s ideal for a versatile NFL tight end.

Q4: Who is George Kittle’s wife?

Answer: George Kittle’s wife is Claire Kittle, a former collegiate basketball player, fitness enthusiast, and frequent supporter at 49ers games. The couple met at the University of Iowa and married in 2019.

Q5: What are George Kittle’s career stats?

Answer: Through the 2025 season, Kittle has recorded 575 receptions, 7,776 receiving yards, and 50 touchdowns, making him one of the most productive tight ends in NFL history.