49ers' George Kittle: Gets run with first-team offense

Kittle, a fifth-round selection in the 2017 draft, got extensive work with the first-string offense during minicamp, Grant Cohn of The Press Democrat reports.

Analysis:

Kittle only had 48 receptions in four seasons playing in a run-heavy offense at the University of Iowa, but his impressive showing at the Combine -- where he ran a 4.52 40 at 6-foot-4, 247 pounds -- suggests he has the potential to pose a major receiving threat in the NFL. His lack of pass-catching experience normally would have him pegged as a developmental prospect, but San Francisco's lack of talent at tight end hints at an open competition for snaps during training camp. Returning starter Vance McDonald (shoulder) was shopped during the draft, while Garrett Celek and Logan Paulsen are mostly valued for their contributions as run blockers. Kittle could make a push for one of the top two spots on the Week 1 depth chart.