George Kittle Praises Rising Star Harold Fannin Jr. in 2026 NFL Rankings

George Kittle has praised Cleveland Browns tight end Harold Fannin Jr., calling him a 'very talented player' with a bright future. The 22-year-old Fannin, ranked 10th in Sports Illustrated's 2026 NFL tight end rankings, impressed Kittle with his speed, route-running, and blocking ability.

What did George Kittle say about Fannin?

Kittle spoke highly of Fannin on The Pat McAfee Show in June 2026, noting his ability to win in man-to-man coverage and his strong work in the run game. 'He moves fast, has a good sense of space, and catches everything,' Kittle said. 'He gives a ton of effort on the run game.'

How did Fannin perform in 2025?

Fannin led the Browns in receptions (72), receiving yards (731), and total touchdowns (7) as a rookie in 2025. His standout college career at Bowling Green State University, where he led the NCAA in receptions (117) and yards (1,555) in 2024, earned him MAC MVP and Offensive Player of the Year honors.

Why is Fannin considered a rising star?

At just 22 years old, Fannin is the youngest player on Sports Illustrated's top 10 tight end list for 2026. His combination of athleticism, football IQ, and work ethic has drawn comparisons to Kittle himself, who sees Fannin as a player with immense potential.

What does this mean for the Browns?

Fannin's rapid development gives the Browns a dynamic weapon in their offense. His ability to contribute as both a receiver and a blocker makes him a valuable asset for quarterback Deshaun Watson. With Kittle's endorsement, Fannin is poised to become one of the NFL's top tight ends in the coming years.