Jake Tonges is one of the NFL’s inspiring underdog stories — a hard-working tight end whose journey from undrafted free agent to meaningful contributor with the San Francisco 49ers has captured fans’ attention. In this in-depth profile, we break down his contract, college history, salary details, on-field stats, fantasy football relevance, and career highlights.
Early Life & College Career
Born on July 8, 1999, in Los Gatos, California, Jacob “Jake” Tonges grew up playing football and eventually walked on to the University of California, Berkeley’s football program.
At Cal, Tonges redshirted his first season and worked his way up over five years, ending his collegiate career with 47 receptions for 620 yards and 4 touchdowns. His senior year was his most productive, emerging as a reliable target for the Golden Bears.
Professional Career & Contracts
Undrafted to NFL Roster
Despite a productive college run, Tonges went undrafted in the 2022 NFL Draft. He signed with the Chicago Bears as an undrafted free agent, making the initial 53-man roster before bouncing between the active roster and practice squad.
In 2023, after being waived by Chicago, he landed on the San Francisco 49ers practice squad, later signing a reserve/future contract with the team.
2025 Contract Details
For the 2025 season, Tonges signed a one-year contract worth approximately $1,030,000 with the 49ers as an exclusive-rights free agent. His deal carries no significant guaranteed money, typical for players with limited accrued seasons.
This contract places him behind star tight end George Kittle and veteran Luke Farrell on the 49ers’ TE salary rankings.
Salary & Financial Snapshot
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2025 Base Salary: ~$1,030,000 — standard for an exclusive-rights free agent TE.
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Career Earnings: Over $1.6 million across NFL contracts since 2022.
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Guaranteed Money: Minimal to none, highlighting the typical structure for undrafted players early in their careers.
As a depth player, Tonges’ compensation reflects his role — more modest compared to top-tier tight ends — but his contributions on offense and special teams have increased his value.
NFL Stats & On-Field Performance
In the 2025 NFL season, Tonges saw a significant uptick in offensive production with the 49ers:
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27 receptions
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233 receiving yards
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4 touchdowns
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8.6 yard average per catch
(Stats as of late 2025)
His first career touchdown was a memorable moment — a game-winning 4-yard score against the Seattle Seahawks in September 2025, drawing national attention.
While most of his early career game action came on special teams and in reserve roles, Tonges has shown he can step up when called upon.
Fantasy Football Outlook
From a fantasy football perspective, Jake Tonges is considered a sleeper or deep-league tight end option:
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Tonges has been featured by fantasy managers due to his red-zone usage and potential in PPR leagues, especially during stretches where he’s stepped in while George Kittle has dealt with injuries.
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His production is inconsistent — largely dependent on offensive role, injuries ahead of him on the depth chart, and offensive game plan each week.
In dynasty formats, he can have spot value during injury-driven opportunities, but long-term outlook remains tied to his role within San Francisco’s TE rotation.
Career Highlights & Future Potential
Jake Tonges’ NFL path is unconventional — from undrafted free agent with limited targets to clutch performer in 2025. His resilience, work ethic, and team-first attitude have earned praise from coaches and fans alike.
Some key moments include:
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First career catches and game-winning touchdown in 2025.
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Increased offensive snaps due to injuries and roster changes.
As he continues to develop, Tonges could carve out a meaningful long-term role as a reliable backup and situational receiving tight end — especially in an offense known for creative use of multiple tight ends.
Summary
Jake Tonges exemplifies perseverance in the NFL: from undrafted free agent to contributor with a growing role. With an active contract, reliable blocking and receiving skills, and moments of clutch play, Tonges is a player worth watching — both on the field and on fantasy football rosters.
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