Purdy-Kittle chemistry looks ready for 49ers season as camp rolls on
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy and All-Pro tight end George Kittle are building what appears to be midseason-level timing during training camp, a development that could anchor San Francisco’s offense early in the season given ongoing uncertainty at wide receiver.
The two have put in major offseason work together. After Purdy signed a five-year, $265 million extension in May, he even bought a home near Kittle in the Nashville area to keep their on-field connection strong and their friendship growing. On the practice field, Purdy and Kittle spend time breaking down plays and reviewing performances to stay in sync for Week 1.
Yeah, I think, just overall, Kittle, he and I, we talk about almost every rep that we have—same with [RB] Christian [McCaffrey] and stuff. But where we could both get better, what to expect with that certain look. And obviously, going back to this offseason, we trained together every single day, and I think that really has paid off, just with timing, and where he needs to be, and us both trusting each other.
Purdy also noted the everyday emphasis on building trust and timing, a key factor as San Francisco looks to maximize its offense with Kittle’s veteran presence and reliability.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan offered a lighthearted takeaway when asked about improvements in Purdy and Kittle’s chemistry compared to last season—when Kittle piled up 1,106 receiving yards and eight touchdowns. “Yeah, I’ve noticed Brock had a couple more Bud Lights lately,” Shanahan joked. “I think that’s from Kittle. I’m just joking. Brock’s not like that, but I think hanging out with Kittle’s awesome. They got a lot more work in. But it’s not necessarily stuff you see on the field. It’s just cool to see guys get closer and just become more comfortable with each other. We’ve been here now, I think, three years, four years together, and you don’t spend a lot of time with people like that in your whole life. So hopefully, it’ll be four more.”
Their collaboration isn’t just about the on-field timing. Purdy said Kittle does a great job balancing football focus with team camaraderie, often coordinating dinners and other activities that strengthen trust off the field and translate to better execution in games. Kittle’s leadership and passion for football have been evident since Purdy’s rookie season, with the veteran helping younger players navigate the new environment.
The contract thread also matters here. Kittle recently agreed to a four-year, $76.4 million extension, keeping him under contract through 2029, strengthening the 49ers’ stability at a crucial position. Purdy’s own commitment to San Francisco’s plans is underscored by his move and continued collaboration with one of the team’s most important veterans.
For fans, the takeaway is clear: San Francisco is prioritizing continuity and trust between its quarterback and a central target as it navigates questions at receiver. With Purdy-to-Kittle forming a steady core, and McCaffrey in the mix as a versatile playmaker, the 49ers appear poised to lean on their established connection while the rest of the offense solidifies around it.
What to watch next: how this chemistry translates to Week 1 reps, how the 49ers deploy their receiving corps as they integrate new or less-established targets, and whether Purdy can sustain the quick-decision, precise timing that has defined his arc so far.
Summary: Purdy and Kittle are intensifying their offseason work to sharpen timing and trust, complemented by both players’ extensions. The dynamic could provide a reliable cornerstone for the 49ers as they manage WR uncertainty and aim to start strong.
Positive note: If this on-field bond continues to grow, San Francisco’s offense could benefit from a seasoned, high-chemistry duo that helps the team stay balanced and aggressive early in the season.