Matt Kartozian-Imagn Images

49ers Announce Decision After George Kittle Development

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Chris Phelps | Last updated Oct 21, 2025 6:55 PM ET

George Kittle and the San Francisco 49ers got back on track in Week 7, moving to 5-2 on the 2025 NFL season after defeating Bijan Robinson and the Atlanta Falcons 20-10 on "Sunday Night Football." Christian McCaffrey led the way for the 49ers, recording 24 carries for 129 yards and two touchdowns while adding team-highs of seven catches for 72 yards.

Kittle made his return after suffering a hamstring injury in Week 1 against the Seattle Seahawks. The 49ers placed the tight end on injured reserve, sidelining him for the next five games. But despite playing 54 snaps against the Falcons, Kittle failed to record a catch on two targets. Still, even with Kittle back in the lineup, the 49ers felt the need to make a few additional moves at the position.

San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle (85)Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images

Messiah Swinson, after two seasons with the Arizona State Sun Devils, went undrafted in 2024 before joining the Green Bay Packers, where he spent the majority of his rookie year. Swinson was released before the start of the 2025 season, but upon Kittle's injury in Week 1, the 49ers added him to their practice squad.

But on Tuesday, the 49ers announced they had signed tight end Brayden Willis to their practice squad, a player who has moved on and off San Francisco’s roster since 2023. And, in light of Kittle and Willis’ returns, the 49ers also announced that Swinson has now been released.

"The San Francisco 49ers today announced they have released TE Messiah Swinson from the team’s practice squad," the 49ers wrote on X.

The San Francisco 49ers today announced they have released TE Messiah Swinson from the team’s practice squad.
— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) October 21, 2025