McKitty is a former third-round pick from the 2021 class. The former Georgia Bulldog has struggled to get his NFL career off the ground through three seasons, totaling 16 receptions for 117 yards in 34 career games. At 24-years old, McKitty could catch on with another team, but it will likely be as a practice squad member at this time.

Both the receptions and yards would have gone down as the third most of McKitty's regular season campaign. McKitty now enters the back half of his rookie contract with 16 grabs for 117 yards through the first two years of his career. Never an explosive pass catcher in college, McKitty is not looking like someone who will develop an extra gear at the pro level. Even if restricted free agent Donald Parham is non-tendered behind Gerald Everett, we are not excited about McKitty's 2023 prospects. 

McKitty saw additional run with starting tight end Gerald Everett leaving the contest in the second quarter with a groin injury but failed to fully capitalize on the opportunity against the stingy linebacker corps of the 49ers. He heavily out-snapped fellow reserve tight end Richard Rodgers, who caught his only target for four yards, but displayed poor chemistry with quarterback Justin Herbert. Everett could be called upon to serve as the de facto lead tight end against the Chiefs in Week 11, pending the status of Everett.

A Georgia product, McKitty (6'4/246) was underutilized as a pass-catcher throughout his career, failing to eclipse 70 receiving yards in any of his 42 collegiate games while totaling just three receiving scores, two of which came on red-zone plays. Although he earned the top tight end award for the American team at the Senior Bowl, McKitty may have been red-flagged by some front offices since he was unable to work out at UGA's pro day due to a left knee scope. The Chargers had a need at tight end after letting Hunter Henry sign with the Patriots this offseason. McKitty should open 2021 as a blocking complement to Jared Cook who can contribute in the pass game.