:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69670949/usa_today_15397500.0.jpg)
Since entering the NFL in 2017, the San Francisco 49ers’ George Kittle has established himself as one of the most complete and dominant tight ends in the game. After missing half of 2020 with injury, he returns to an offense well suited to his playing style.
Here, we take a look at the prop bets on the table for Kittle on DraftKings Sportsbook ahead of the 2021 NFL season and make our picks.
George Kittle player props 2021 NFL season
1025.5 receiving yards: Over (-115) or Under (-115)
Our pick: Over
Kittle’s role in the 49ers offense hasn’t changed as he enters his fifth season, and even the potential for No. 3 overall pick Trey Lance to take over for Jimmy Garoppolo under center at some point in 2021 shouldn’t affect the tight end’s standing as the go-to target. However, Kittle’s health has held him back at times, as he has missed 10 games over the last two seasons. But the All-Pro’s per-game numbers stayed relatively static over the past three years. He might miss some games again, but probably not half the season.
5.5 receiving touchdowns: Over (+100) or Under (-130)
Our pick: Under
Head coach Kyle Shanahan has leaned more on his ground game than most NFL coaches, and no where does that manifest more than near the goal line. While Kittle can score from anywhere on the field — a rare trait for a tight end — he doesn’t see the ball as much inside the 10-yard line as his peers. Since the start of 2019, the 49ers have targetted Kittle just 12 times inside the 10, less than the number of like targets Travis Kelce saw in 2020 alone. Even if the 49ers shift more toward the passing game, Kittle might still not see a huge uptick in usage at the goal line.
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) (IL).Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ/WV/PA/MI), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (NH/CO), 1-800-BETS OFF (IA), 1-888-532-3500 (VA) or call/text TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN).21+ (18+ NH). CO/IL/IN/IA/NH/NJ/PA/TN/VA/WV/MI only. Eligibility restrictions apply. See draftkings.com/sportsbook for full terms and conditions.