George Kittle Honors Bob Weir Ahead of NFC Playoff Clash

George Kittle, the tight end for the San Francisco 49ers, took a moment to honor the late Bob Weir, co-founder of the Grateful Dead, just prior to his team’s playoff game against the Philadelphia Eagles. Weir passed away on January 10, 2026, at the age of 78, surrounded by family members. Kittle, a self-proclaimed fan of the band, inscribed the phrase “DEAD FOREVER” on the tape around his left ankle, showcasing the tribute during pregame warmups.

The Grateful Dead, which originated in Palo Alto in 1965, gained a devoted following with their unique blend of rock, jazz, and folk music. Kittle has often expressed his admiration for the band, discussing his experiences as a “Deadhead” on his podcast, Kittle Things, co-hosted with his wife, Claire. He reminisced about attending a Dead & Company show at the Sphere in Las Vegas and shared how he connected with fellow fans while his teammates engaged in other activities.

Kittle recalled, “I talked to them for like an hour, just sitting there, having a conversation. It was fantastic.” His teammates, including Nick Bosa, Christian McCaffrey, Kyle Juszczyk, and Jake Tonges, joined him at the concert, highlighting the camaraderie shared among them.

Although Kittle tried to introduce the band’s music during workouts at the 49ers’ facility, he faced some resistance. He humorously noted that his teammates were less than enthusiastic about the jam-band style during intense training sessions. “The guys were like ‘What are we listening to?’” he shared, indicating the stark contrast between the laid-back vibe of the Grateful Dead and the high-energy atmosphere of NFL training.

As the 49ers prepare to face the Eagles, Kittle’s tribute serves as a reminder of the impact Weir had on music and culture, especially in the Bay Area. With a victory in today’s wild-card playoff game, the 49ers hope to continue their journey in the NFC playoffs.

Kittle’s gesture highlights the intersection of sports and personal passions, illustrating how moments of loss can resonate deeply within the sporting community. As fans gather to cheer for their teams, Kittle’s tribute to Bob Weir stands out as a poignant reminder of the power of music and its ability to connect people across different realms.