Tension is quietly building inside the San Francisco 49ers locker room amid swirling trade rumors that have shaken the team’s offensive core. With All-Pro tight end George Kittle officially cleared to return from injury, speculation has begun over which player might be the odd man out.

For weeks, the 49ers’ coaching staff has praised the next-man-up mentality that carried the offense through Kittle’s absence. Yet behind the scenes, multiple league sources confirm that the front office is exploring trade opportunities as Kittle prepares to reclaim his starting role. Among the potential trade partners, the Seattle Seahawks have reportedly shown serious interest.

That’s where emotions reached a breaking point. Breakout tight end Jake Tonges, who filled in for Kittle and quickly became one of the team’s surprise success stories, has reportedly

threatened to retire if traded to Seattle — a division rival he refuses to suit up for.

“I’d rather walk away than play for a team I’ve battled against my whole career,”

he told teammates in a private conversation. “San Francisco believed in me when nobody else did. If they don’t see a future here, I’d rather step aside than line up in blue and green.”

Tonges’ rise this season has been remarkable. In Kittle’s absence, he delivered 10 receptions for 99 yards and two touchdowns over the last two games, proving his reliability as both a blocker and pass catcher. His effort didn’t just stabilize the offense — it earned him the respect of the locker room and coaching staff alike.

Now, with Kittle’s return shifting depth chart dynamics, general manager John Lynch faces a difficult decision: trade Tonges while his value peaks or keep him as crucial insurance for one of the league’s most physically demanding positions.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan declined to confirm trade discussions but admitted the emotional toll these situations take. “This is the hardest part of the job — these aren’t just players, they’re people who’ve given everything for the team.”

For 49ers fans, the idea of losing Tonges cuts deep. His underdog story embodies the spirit of the red and gold — and if retirement truly becomes his answer, it will mark one of the most bittersweet turning points of San Francisco’s season.