San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle told the New Heights podcast on 3 Jul 2026 that catching a touchdown feels far more rewarding than laying a pancake block. He laughed that a clean TD catch spares him the bruising of a block, yet the sheer satisfaction of flattening a defender still gives him a rush.
What did Kittle say about touchdowns vs. blocks?
When Travis Kelce asked whether he liked scoring more than pancaking a defender, Kittle answered without hesitation. “At this point in my career, I thoroughly enjoy scoring touchdowns,” he said. He added that a TD means “no physicality, usually, just catching a touchdown,” while a perfect block “feels great, you hear the guy’s breath exhale.” The TE emphasized that both actions matter, but the instant joy of a score edges out the grind of blocking.
Why does the comment matter for his role?
Kittle’s remarks highlight the dual identity of modern tight ends. Fans often celebrate his highlight‑reel catches, yet his blocking is a cornerstone of the 49ers’ run game. By openly preferring touchdowns, Kittle gives a glimpse into his mindset as he balances elite receiving with the blue‑collar work of a blocker. The comment also underscores the physical toll: “One play later, they could be knifing your knees out as you try to catch a ball over the middle.”
What’s the story behind the “F*ck Dallas” shirt?
During the same podcast, Kittle revisited the controversy of his “F*ck Dallas” T‑shirt. He first wore it under his uniform in a 2023 game against the Dallas Cowboys, earning a $13,659 fine. Kittle explained that head coach Kyle Shanahan and defensive coordinator John Lynch taught him the franchise’s gritty past, pointing to former linebacker Gary Plummer who famously sported the same shirt pre‑game. The TE said the shirt still sits in his locker, and he slipped it on again for the 2024 matchup, though he kept it hidden this time.
How might this affect the 49ers heading into the season?
Kittle’s candidness comes as San Francisco prepares for the 2024‑25 NFL season. His confidence in scoring could translate to more red‑zone targets, while his acknowledgment of blocking duties reassures the offensive line that he’ll still pound the line of scrimmage. The 49ers’ coaching staff may lean on his versatility, using him both as a primary outlet in the passing game and a key piece in the power‑run scheme that helped them reach the playoffs last year.
What’s next for Kittle on the podcast circuit?
Kittle hinted he’ll appear on more shows, eager to discuss the TE position’s evolution. He plans to keep the “F*ck Dallas” shirt as a personal reminder of the team’s history, even if it stays hidden under his jersey. Fans can expect more unfiltered takes as the 49ers aim for another deep postseason run.
George Kittle’s frank take on touchdowns versus blocks adds a fresh layer to his already colorful persona, reminding everyone that even elite NFL players still relish the simple joy of a well‑timed catch.