Kyle Shanahan is giving Cameron Latu a second chance! With George Kittle sidelined due to a hamstring injury, the 49ers suddenly face a tight end shortage. Consequently, Shanahan is reportedly looking to bring back the player he waived last year in August 2024. Latu, a 2023 third-round pick by the 49ers out of Alabama, isn’t just any backup; he caught 30 passes for 377 yards and four touchdowns in his final college season and was a trusted target for Bryce Young.

Moreover, Latu already knows the 49ers’ system, making him a ready-made solution while Kittle recovers. This reunion isn’t just about filling a roster spot; it’s about redemption, opportunity, and potentially reshaping Latu’s NFL trajectory.

Clearly, Shanahan’s decision to bring Latu back emphasizes both familiarity and potential. As NFL insider Alberto R. explained: “I think their first move will be to promote or elevate Brayden Willis from the practice squad… or maybe sign Cameron Latu off the Philadelphia Eagles practice squad.” Latu’s knowledge of the 49ers’ offense and prior experience make him a logical option while Kittle recovers.

Amazingly, Latu’s NFL journey has been anything but smooth. Drafted 101st overall in 2023, he spent five seasons with Alabama, becoming the first Alabama tight end drafted since Irv Smith Jr. Despite this promise, his rookie year ended early with a torn meniscus, and he was waived by the 49ers on August 27, 2024. He later spent time on the Browns and Eagles practice squads, waiting for another opportunity.

Analysts also see promise in his skill set. Lance Zierlein of NFL.com said: “High-hipped pass-catching tight end with run blocking fortitude to mold. Latu’s lean legs and angular frame aren’t made for drive blocking or neutralizing bigger players, but he does a nice job of sustaining move blocks in space… Latu could have roster appeal as an F tight end with an average ceiling.”

Originally drafted as Kittle’s backup, Latu was expected to refine his blocking and adapt to the NFL game. He also became the eighth Alabama player selected in the 2023 draft, joining stars like Bryce Young, Will Anderson Jr., and Jahmyr Gibbs. His return now represents a second chance for both the player and the team, a low-risk, potentially high-reward move.

With Latu poised to step in, the 49ers must also navigate the absence of their star tight end Kittle, whose injury has put the team’s depth to the test. Kittle’s absence weakens both the 49ers’ run game, where his elite blocking covers for offensive line flaws. Without him, San Francisco loses both physical dominance and a vertical spark.

George Kittle was placed on injured reserve

The 49ers placed George Kittle on injured reserve after he sustained a hamstring injury during the season-opening win over the Seahawks. Shanahan confirmed that Kittle will miss at least four games, ensuring he won’t be rushed back on a short week against the Rams and can return safely for Week 6 against the Buccaneers.

Kittle had already made an impact before exiting, catching all four of his targets for 25 yards and a touchdown. Shanahan emphasized his role: “He was the focal point of the game plan against the Seahawks.” With Kittle sidelined, backups like Luke Farrell and Michael Tonges stepped up.

While Farrell caught a 4-yard pass on fourth-and-2, Tonges, who had no prior NFL regular-season receptions, caught three passes for 15 yards, including the game-winning touchdown. Owing to this, Shanahan praised their effort: “Those guys stepped up big, man, especially to end it with the game winner.”

The injury comes amid quarterback uncertainty, as Brock Purdy battles toe and shoulder injuries. If Purdy cannot play against the Saints, Mac Jones could start, with practice squad tight end Brayden Willis likely stepping into Kittle’s roster spot. Alberto R. stated: “He [Willis] had good chemistry with Mac Jones this summer, noteworthy if Purdy can’t play.”

At 32, Kittle has missed eight games over the past four seasons, including two last year with an ankle injury. He was poised for a standout 2025 season, coming in excellent shape with a strong rapport with Purdy. However, his absence allows backups to prove themselves under pressure.

Shanahan remains confident in his team’s depth: “Next man up is not just a saying around here… Those guys have to step in, and they’ve shown they can handle it.” The 49ers face a critical test with George Kittle sidelined, but Cameron Latu’s return offers a promising chance to maintain offensive strength. Shanahan’s confidence in his team’s depth highlights a resilient spirit ready to overcome adversity and keep the momentum going.