MNF: 49ers-Vikings game features George Kittle and T.J. Hockenson from Iowa - Sports Talk Florida

Iowa has become a top producer of NFL tight ends, with George Kittle and T.J. Hockenson leading the way.

In a recent nationally televised game, the San Francisco 49ers' starting offense was introduced one by one. Among them was George Kittle, the team's tight end, who confidently proclaimed, "George Kittle, Tight End University." This clever introduction left some casual fans wondering about the origins of Kittle's craft. The answer lies in his college days at the University of Iowa, a program known for producing top-notch NFL tight ends. Iowa has built its reputation around this position, combining both finesse and toughness in a way that no other college team can match.

Kittle, a fifth-round draft pick by the 49ers in 2017, credits Iowa for instilling in him the importance of being a well-rounded player. He recalls his first day on campus when he was told that if he didn't learn how to run block, he would never see the field. This became a personal passion for Kittle, and he embraced the mentality that Iowa instills in its players – the idea that hard work is necessary to succeed, no matter the circumstances.

Interestingly, Kittle's former teammate at Iowa, T.J. Hockenson, will be on the opposing team when the Vikings host the 49ers on Monday night. Hockenson, who was drafted by the Detroit Lions in 2019, echoes Kittle's sentiments about Iowa's emphasis on running off the ball and attacking players. Both Kittle and Hockenson will play significant roles in their teams' passing and running games, showcasing the skills they honed at Iowa.

Iowa has produced an impressive number of tight end alumni currently playing in the NFL. With five players on opening weekend rosters this year, Iowa is tied with Georgia, Notre Dame, and Stanford for the most tight end alumni in the league. Collectively, these former Hawkeyes have recorded 94 catches for 1,014 yards and eight touchdowns so far this season, making them the most productive tight ends from a single school in the NFL. This trend has continued over the past five years, with Iowa outperforming other notable schools like Miami, Notre Dame, and Stanford.

The success of Iowa's tight end program can be attributed in part to current offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz, who has a deep understanding of the position. Ferentz, a former tight ends coach for the New England Patriots, has played a crucial role in developing Iowa's tight ends. His coaching, combined with the winning culture at Iowa, has attracted talented players like Hockenson, whose dream was to play for the Hawkeyes.

In the offseason, Kittle and Hockenson train together at Kittle's 75-acre property in Tennessee. They have created a workout facility in a remodeled barn and even built a football field in the yard. The duo also organizes an annual summer summit called "Tight End University," where NFL tight ends gather to improve their skills and support one another.

Kittle has made significant contributions to the recognition of tight ends in the NFL. During a game in 2018, he wore a microphone and playfully declared it "National Tight Ends Day" after a touchdown catch by teammate Garrett Celek. This moment gained traction on social media, and the league embraced the idea, officially designating the fourth Sunday in October as National Tight Ends Day.

The upcoming game between the 49ers and the Vikings is a fitting occasion to celebrate National Tight Ends Day, despite falling a day after the official holiday. The prime-time matchup will provide Kittle and Hockenson with a grand stage to showcase their skills and highlight how far they've come in their careers.

In the spirit of friendly competition, Kittle jokingly mentioned that he would sell Hockenson's trade secrets to the 49ers defensive backs. However, he also expressed his admiration for Hockenson's game and the respect he has for him as a player. Kittle's lighthearted remarks reflect the camaraderie and mutual support among tight ends in the NFL.

As the 49ers and the Vikings face off, audiences can expect an exciting display of talent from two of the league's most promising tight ends. Kittle and Hockenson represent the legacy of Iowa's tight end program and serve as a testament to the hard work and dedication required to excel in the NFL.

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