The San Francisco 49ers got contributions on offense from the unlikeliest of places in 2025. Kendrick Bourne back-to-back 140-plus receiving games? Check. Demarcus Robinson goes off facing the Philadelphia Eagles in the wild-card round? Check. Third-year tight end with zero catches in his career catches the game-winning touchdown against Seattle in Week 1? Check.
That was the type of year, injury-wise, it was for the 49ers, but not all is lost as players got a chance to play, and Jake Tonges took
full advantage of his opportunities. Before George Kittle returned to the lineup, Tonges stacked consecutive six-plus catch games with seven coming against the Rams in the 49ers’ upset at SoFi Stadium on Thursday Night Football. His finest game as a pro came in the Sunday Night Shootout with the Chicago Bears, where Tonges recorded seven catches, 60 yards, and a TD.
Basic Info
Age: 27
Experience: 3 accrued seasons
Height: 6’4
Weight: 240 pounds
Cap Status
As far as backup tight ends go, Tonges’ contract is a bargain. The two-year base salary totals are $1,145,000 and $1,260,000 for 2026 and 2027, respectively. However, Tonges does have a chance to make more money if he’s active on game days, and there is no reason to think he wouldn’t as of now. With a $340,000 per game roster bonus, Tonges is well set up. His guaranteed money comes in at $1,535,000 in 2026 and $1,350,000 for 2027. In total, $5.45 million is fully guaranteed, including a $2.615 million signing bonus and his 2026 salary.
How does Tonges fit in Kyle Shanahan’s offense?
It’s hard not to envision a Kyle Shanahan offense with two tight ends on the field attacking in the passing game. Well, Shanahan likes two tight ends on the field; it just happens to be for run blocking purposes.
Luke Farrell is on the field much more with George Kittle. Tonges is the backup to Kittle as a receiving threat. Unfortunately, Tonges’ path to playing time is Kittle not being ready for Week 1. Kittle is optimistic about his chances to recover before the season opener.
What are realistic expectations for Tonges in 2026?
Realistically, Tonges has to wait for his opportunities, much like last season. As a backup receiving target, Tonges is a fine addition to the roster. He’s shown rapport with both quarterbacks for the 49ers. If he can duplicate his 34 receptions, 293 yards, and five-touchdown season in 2026, the 49ers will be excited.
