Introduction
Jacob “Jake” Tonges is an American football tight end for the San Francisco 49ers in the National Football League (NFL). Known for his towering frame, gritty NFL journey and clutch plays, Tonges’ story continues to resonate with fans and analysts alike. In this comprehensive profile, we’ll cover every major aspect of his life — from early years and ethnicity to pro stats, relationships, injury history, and net worth.
Who Is Jake Tonges?
Jake Tonges was born on July 8, 1999 in Cincinnati, Ohio, and is currently 26 years old in 2025. He plays as tight end, wearing #88 for the San Francisco 49ers. Before reaching the NFL, Tonges starred at Los Gatos High School in California and then at the University of California, Berkeley.
Early Life and Background
Family and Parents
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Father: Tim Tonges
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Mother: Erika Tonges
Jake grew up in the Bay Area (Los Gatos, California) — a football-rich region near the 49ers’ Levi’s Stadium — where his athletic talents began to flourish. He comes from a supportive family that fostered both his academic and sporting pursuits.
Ethnicity and Heritage
While specific details about his ethnicity are not widely documented, Jake Tonges is American by nationality. Like many NFL players, his personal and family background reflect the diverse roots of athletes in U.S. sports — with a focus on community and opportunity rather than celebrity lineage.
High School & College Career
Los Gatos High School
At Los Gatos High, Tonges was a multi-sport athlete competing in football and basketball. Initially a quarterback, coaching staff recognized his athletic potential and shifted him to tight end, where his size and hands could be better utilized.
University of California, Berkeley
Tonges played college football for the California Golden Bears from 2017 to 2021. He redshirted his first year and steadily improved, finishing his collegiate career with:
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47 receptions
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620 receiving yards
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4 touchdowns
His versatility as a blocker and receiver earned praise from coaches and scouts, setting the stage for his NFL opportunity despite going undrafted in 2022.
Professional Career
Jake’s NFL journey reflects resilience, adaptability, and patience — traits that ultimately rewarded his persistence.
Chicago Bears (2022–2023)
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Signed as an undrafted free agent in 2022.
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Made the Bears’ 53-man roster out of training camp.
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Was waived in Nov 2022 and later re-signed to the practice squad.
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Earned a reserve/future contract in Jan 2023.
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Placed on injured reserve in August 2023 before being waived.
San Francisco 49ers (2023–Present)
After leaving Chicago, Tonges signed with the 49ers’ practice squad on September 27, 2023, eventually earning a reserve/future contract in February 2024. In 2025, Tonges made headlines:
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Re-signed with the 49ers on April 17, 2025
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Scored his first NFL touchdown — a game-winner — on Sept. 7, 2025 against the Seahawks.
NFL Career Stats (as of 2025)
Here’s a snapshot of Tonges’ pro performance through the 2025 NFL season:
| Category | Stat |
|---|---|
| Receptions | 34 |
| Receiving Yards | 293 |
| Receiving Touchdowns | 5 |
| Games Played | 36 |
| Average Yards | 8.6 |
These numbers position him as an ascendant role player in the 49ers’ offense.
Injury History
Injured Reserve – 2023
Jake’s most significant injury moment occurred during his time with the Chicago Bears when he was placed on injured reserve in August 2023 following training camp. While the exact nature of the injury wasn’t publicly detailed, it resulted in a temporary setback that preceded his departure from Chicago.
Since joining the 49ers, he has remained healthier and more available, highlighted by a strong 2025 campaign.
Age & Physical Profile
As of 2025:
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Age: 26 years
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Birthdate: July 8, 1999
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Height: 6′ 4″ (1.93 m)
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Weight: 240 lbs (108 kg)
His size, athleticism and hands make him a dynamic TE option, especially in clutch situations.
Personal Life
Relationship Status & Wife
Despite his rising profile, Jake Tonges keeps his personal life private. There is no public record of a wife, spouse or long-term partner as of 2025 — suggesting he is either single or intentionally keeps his relationships out of the spotlight.
Social Media & Off-Field Personality
Tonges maintains an active but modest social media presence, engaging primarily with family, training, teammates and 49ers content. This reflects a grounded persona rather than celebrity flamboyance.
Parents & Family Support
Jake’s parents, Tim and Erika Tonges, remain pivotal figures in his personal narrative. From youth football in Los Gatos to NFL Saturdays, family support has been foundational — be it cheering in the stands or offering unwavering encouragement as he climbed the ranks.
Net Worth & Earnings
Estimating net worth for athletes still early in their careers is speculative. However:
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Jake’s 2025 NFL base salary (with the 49ers) is reported to be around $1,030,000.
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Combined with prior Bears contracts and bonuses, analysts estimate his net worth between $2 million to $3 million as of 2025.
Unlike superstar teammates, Tonges hasn’t yet attracted major endorsements — instead building wealth primarily through playing contracts and bonuses.
Achievements & Highlights
Here are some of his notable accomplishments:
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Scored first NFL touchdown — a clutch game-winner in 2025.
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Earned spot on Bears roster as undrafted free agent.
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Developed into a versatile blocker and receiver at Cal and the NFL level.
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A model of persistence for aspiring NFL players.
Legacy & Future Outlook
Jake Tonges represents the archetype of the underdog NFL success story — unheralded in the draft, battling injury, and ultimately breaking through on a championship contender. His trajectory points to an expanded role with the 49ers — in both receiving and blocking schemes — as his career matures. If his 2025 breakout is any indication, bigger performances and financial growth likely lie ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Jake Tonges’ age?
Jake Tonges was born on July 8, 1999, making him 26 years old in 2025.
2. What NFL teams has Jake Tonges played for?
He began with the Chicago Bears (2022–2023) and currently plays for the San Francisco 49ers.
3. Has Jake Tonges been injured?
Yes. He was placed on injured reserve in August 2023 while with the Bears before eventually joining the 49ers.
4. What are his 2025 season stats?
In 2025, Tonges recorded 34 receptions, 293 yards, and 5 touchdowns.
5. Is Jake Tonges married?
No. There’s no public information confirming a wife or spouse as of 2025.
6. Who are Jake Tonges’ parents?
His parents are Tim and Erika Tonges, who supported his athletic journey from youth football to the NFL.
7. What is his net worth?
Estimated between $2 million to $3 million in 2025, based largely on NFL salaries and contracts.
Conclusion
Jake Tonges’ story is a testament to grit, adaptability and incremental growth. From a Los Gatos high school quarterback pivoting to tight end, to a rising NFL contributor scoring game-winning touchdowns, his career resonates with aspiring athletes. While still early, Tonges’ journey reflects not just talent, but tenacity — qualities that may well define his legacy in the NFL.
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