The Seattle Seahawks are riding high after their Super Bowl 60 victory on the 49ers' home turf, but they're not resting on their laurels as they head into the offseason. With the addition of former 49ers tight ends coach Brian Fleury as their new offensive coordinator, there’s buzz around potential roster moves, particularly with players Fleury has worked with closely.
One name that stands out is Jake Tonges, the backup tight end who stepped up for the 49ers when George Kittle was sidelined with a hamstring injury. Tonges, an undrafted player, made a significant impact with 34 catches for 293 yards and five touchdowns during the regular season. Now a restricted free agent, Tonges is at a crossroads: the 49ers might extend him, tag him, or let him test free agency.
Fleury could play a pivotal role in this decision. If he sees potential in bringing Tonges to Seattle, it could influence the 49ers' strategy. With Kittle recovering from an Achilles tear, Tonges' value as a reliable backup is clear, but the cost of a first- or second-round tender may be too steep for the Niners.
Seattle, on the other hand, could be looking to strengthen their tight end lineup. If Fleury isn't confident in 2025 rookie Elijah Arroyo as a backup to veteran A.J.
Barner, Tonges might be the perfect fit. With Brady Russell, another backup tight end, also a restricted free agent, the Seahawks have some decisions to make.
Ultimately, the ball might be in San Francisco's court. They could let Tonges explore free agency, daring Seattle to make a move, or they might secure him with a longer-term, cost-effective deal. Whatever the outcome, Fleury's move to Seattle adds an intriguing twist to this NFC West narrative, as the 49ers weigh the risk of losing a valuable player to a division rival.