San Francisco 49ers give latest indication that help for George Kittle is an NFL Draft priority

The San Francisco 49ers have made no effort to hide their desire to some of the burden off starting tight end George Kittle.

Having failed in their bid to sign restricted free agent Brock Wright away from the Detroit Lions, the Niners added Eric Saubert on Monday.

Despite that deal, the 49ers are clearly still interested in boosting their ranks at the position in this month's draft. 

The Niners, per Aaron Wilson of KPRC2, held a virtual meeting with Louisiana tight end Neal Johnson.

Johnson is coming off a senior season in which he posted career-highs in receptions (30), receiving yards (383) and touchdowns (5).

He averaged 12.8 yards per reception for his career. His receiving average for his career was 11.8.

With five seasons of his college play under his belt and a track record of efficient production, Johnson has attracted interest from several teams.

Per Wilson, he has had dinner meetings with the Commanders and Patriots as well as a virtual meeting with the Denver Broncos. Johnson has also been invited to the Dallas Cowboys' local pro day.

Kittle was a first-team All-Pro last season after racking up 1,020 receiving yards and six touchdowns. No other 49ers tight end had more than three receptions. Charlie Woerner had three catches for 32 yards but left for the Atlanta Falcons in free agency. A blocking tight end, Woerner played just under 30 percent of the offensive snaps in 2023, Kittle played 84 percent.

A free agent in 2026, the 49ers might soon need to start preparing for life after Kittle. It appears the Niners are at least interested in making Johnson a part of that future.