George Kittle has had quite a season for the San Francisco 49ers, leading them to the playoffs after a gritty 12-5 regular campaign. While they won 23-19 against the Philadelphia Eagles in the Wild Card Round, they lost out in the Divisional Round to the eventual Super Bowl winners Seattle Seahawks with an embarrassing score of 41-6.
The players have since been enjoying their offseason with their family and friends. Kittle has done something for his wife recently for her achieving a milestone in her life.
George Kittle surprises wife Claire for her SI Swimsuit feature
George’s wife Claire Kittle recently debuted as a swimsuit model, with a digital cover feature for Sports Illustrated Swimsuit magazine. She was seen wearing a cherry-red string bikini with the background showing the waters of Captiva Island, Florida. She was one of six models to feature in the magazine’s February 2026 issue which also included Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ wife Brittany and Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff’s wife Christen.
Feb 5, 2023; Paradise, Nevada, USA; NFC tight end George Kittle of the San Francisco 49ers (85) and wife Claire Kittle pose with trophy during the Pro Bowl Games at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 5, 2023; Paradise, Nevada, USA; NFC tight end George Kittle of the San Francisco 49ers (85) and wife Claire Kittle pose with trophy during the Pro Bowl Games at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
George decided to throw her a Valentine’s Day surprise party with a giant poster wall of her swimsuit feature declaring ‘My Cover Girl’, with Claire posting a story that said, “Wait, you guys, George threw me a surprise party today,” alongside cozy shots of the couple kissing.
George previously expressed support for his wife, “She’s just crushing it. People are like, ‘Oh wow, Claire is cooler than you.’ I’ve been saying it for 10 years, that my wife is cooler than me. Now you guys are starting to believe me.” He also added that he would stick the photos as a wallpaper and on his fridge, which he did in the surprise party.
While he is celebrating his wife for her magazine debut, George is also slowly recovering well for the next season.
George Kittle recovering well from injury
Kittle has achieved a lot this season, with some impressive numbers to show for it. While he only managed to play 11 games in the 2025 regular season due to a hamstring issue, he had 57 receptions for 628 yards and 7 touchdowns. During their Wild Card Round win against the Eagles, he suffered a devastating injury as he tore his Achilles tendon.
The injury ended his season which was already near the end, and required surgery. Now, he is resting and recovering well from it. Injuries like this usually require a period of 9-12 months to properly heal. The player is optimistic and is hopeful of playing next season for the 49ers. Sources report that his rehab is going well, and he could return within Week 3-4 of the 2026 season or from the start in the best case scenario.
George Kittle will focus on his recovery before the start of the 2026 season, and keep supporting his wife on her new career as well.