Kittle is entering the final year of his contract with a $22 million cap hit. It’s always tricky to evaluate aging tight ends, and entering his age-32 season Kittle qualifies. He looked as fluid and as fast as ever last season. Ultimately we expect Kittle and the 49ers to bury the hatchet at some point in training camp, but this is quickly taking shape as a potential “hold in” scenario.

Although Kittle missed his standard two games with injury, he sailed by his 2023 marks of 65/1,020/6 with 78/1,106/8. Brandon Aiyuk’s knee injury had a lot to do with that, but Kittle was stacking scores even before Aiyuk’s absence. The true spiked weeks did not arrive until after, however, with Kittle erupting for four 100-yard performances, including a 151-yarder in Week 14 against the Bears. Although he’s going on 32 with a lengthy injury history, Kittle has shown zero signs of decline when active on Sundays. One of the league’s best all-around players who could be headed for another All-Pro designation, Kittle should remain a fantasy monster in 2025. Aiyuk (knee) and Deebo Samuel (potential release) both have uncertain Niners futures. Kittle himself is angling for an extension heading into his walk year.

We wouldn’t be surprised to see Kittle on something of a snap count, but the fact that he’s active at all for this meaningless game suggests the injuries are as minor as possible. With Josh Dobbs under center, Kittle is an uncertain DFS bet, albeit one who always offers massive upside. Inactive for the 49ers are QB Brock Purdy, WR Deebo Samuel, CB Deommodore Lenoir, EDGE Robert Beal Jr., CB Tre Avery, DT Khalil Davis and RB Israel Abanikanda.

Kittle did not practice on Wednesday but was back on the practice field for the next two sessions. He is a true game-time call for Week 18. With nothing left to play for, the 49ers could hold him out even if he is healthy enough to play. Eric Saubert would likely draw the start if he is held out. With Josh Dobbs under center, there isn’t much fantasy value to be had here.