The American Century Championship will take place on Friday, July 11, from 1-3 p.m. PT on Peacock, and again from 5-7 p.m. PT on GOLF Channel. The tournament will continue over the weekend with local broadcasts on NBC Bay Area (KNTV) from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. PT on Saturday, July 12, and Sunday, July 13.
During the event, 49ers tight end George Kittle addressed the importance of mentoring the team’s 11 rookies selected in the 2025 NFL Draft. In a conversation with NBC Sports Bay Area’s Matt Maiocco, Kittle emphasized that making practices as game-like as possible is crucial for rookie development. He recognized head coach Kyle Shanahan’s efforts to facilitate this through various training drills.
Last season, rookies like safety Malik Mustapha, cornerback Renardo Green, and offensive lineman Dominick Puni had significant participation, showcasing the value of integrating young talent into the roster. Kittle highlighted the critical need for these new players to stay healthy during training camp to maximize their on-field experience and prepare for the demands of a 17-game schedule.
Kittle reiterated, “Just get them out there, get them good reps, keep them healthy,” stressing that consistent practice exposure is vital for rookies to understand the pace of the NFL.
The 49ers are optimistic that their rookie class will make impactful contributions this season, further strengthening the team’s performance.
The optimistic outlook on the rookies underscores the franchise’s commitment to growth and development as they prepare for the upcoming season.