NFC West Roundup: Kittle Teases Reunion, Keion White Recovering, Rams Add to Staff, and Walker Stays Humble After MVP Performance
The 49ers may have fallen short of their ultimate goal this past season, but George Kittle isn’t ready to call it a disappointment. In fact, the All-Pro tight end is framing it as a stepping stone - not a setback.
“My one message for Niners fans: ‘Hey, if a rebuild year got us to thirteen wins and a win in the wild card - that’s pretty good,’” Kittle said. And he’s not wrong.
San Francisco, despite battling injuries across the roster, still managed to put together a strong campaign. Kittle believes the best is yet to come, hinting that the core is staying intact - and maybe even growing.
“All the boys are coming back again,” he said. “And who knows, we might add some past friends.”
That last line raised eyebrows, especially when Kittle followed it up by mentioning a recent hangout with former teammate Deebo Samuel.
“I don’t know. I hung out with Deebo last night. That was fun… I love Deebo.”
He stopped short of confirming anything outright, but it’s clear there’s mutual affection - and possibly mutual interest - in a reunion. Samuel, a dynamic playmaker with a unique skill set, was a key part of the 49ers’ offensive identity during his time in San Francisco. If there’s any traction to Kittle’s comments, it’s something 49ers fans will want to keep an eye on.
Keion White Recovering After Shooting Incident
In more serious news, the 49ers confirmed that defensive lineman Keion White was shot in the ankle on Monday morning in San Francisco. According to the team, the injury is not expected to be life- or career-threatening.
“Keion White was a victim of a shooting and sustained a bullet wound to his ankle this morning in San Francisco. He is currently undergoing surgery at a local hospital. We will provide further updates when appropriate.”
White’s health is the top priority right now, and the team has made it clear they’re supporting him through his recovery. There’s no timeline yet for his return, but the early indications are positive.
Rams Tap Michael Hunter for Defensive Backs Coach Role
The Rams are continuing to build out their coaching staff, and their latest move brings in a young but experienced name. CBS Sports reports that Los Angeles is hiring Michael Hunter as a defensive backs coach.
Hunter had recently accepted the cornerbacks coach role at Tennessee for the 2026 season, but the Rams opportunity proved too good to pass up. Prior to that, he spent two seasons with Ohio State as an assistant in the secondary.
It’s a notable pickup for the Rams, who have been focused on developing young talent in the secondary. Hunter brings both college and pro experience to the table, and his recent work at two high-profile programs should serve him well as he transitions to the NFL level.
Kenneth Walker Shares the Credit After Super Bowl MVP Performance
After rushing for 135 yards and earning Super Bowl MVP honors, Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker could’ve taken a well-deserved victory lap. Instead, he used the spotlight to shine it on his teammates.
“We worked on the run game all week leading up to the game,” Walker said. “I’ve got to give the credit to the o-line, the wide receivers and the tight ends. They were detailed in the run game and did their job, and made my job a lot easier.”
It’s a classic Walker response - humble, team-first, and grounded. But make no mistake: his performance was electric.
He found seams, broke tackles, and delivered when it mattered most. Still, his acknowledgment of the blocking unit speaks volumes about the culture in Seattle.
It wasn’t just his moment - it was a group effort, and Walker made sure everyone got their due.
From potential reunions in the Bay to coaching changes in L.A. and a Super Bowl celebration in Seattle, the NFC West is already buzzing in the early days of the offseason. And if Kittle’s comments are any indication, the 49ers might not be done making noise just yet.