Tim Wigmore
Updated on: October 9, 2024 7:51 am GMT
49ers’ George Kittle Reflects on Offseason Weight Changes
San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle has opened up about significant changes to his offseason training routine that he anticipates will yield positive results throughout the upcoming NFL season. After undergoing core muscle surgery, Kittle’s weight dropped to approximately 214 pounds, prompting a strategic adjustment to his workout regimen. Listed at 250 pounds, he believes these adaptations will not only help him regain his playing weight but ultimately enhance his performance and durability on the field.
Kittle’s Recovery Journey
The five-time Pro Bowler faced a unique challenge during his recovery from surgery. “That process was weird for me, but looking back on it, I think it’s going to be really beneficial for me,” Kittle explained in a conversation with ESPN’s Nick Wagoner. He pointed out that the offseason changes he made could help save wear and tear on his body, an important consideration for a player who has faced durability issues over his career.
A History of Injuries
Kittle’s struggle with injuries has been a recurring theme, with the 30-year-old having not completed a full regular season since 2018. He missed just one game in 2023, finishing with 65 receptions for 1,020 yards and six touchdowns. Remarkably, Kittle played through a core muscle injury for about ten weeks, only to later recognize the potential benefits of prioritizing his health in the offseason.
Strategically Adapting Workouts
In his commitment to adapting, Kittle is not just focusing on returning to his previous weight but is also mindful of optimizing his physical wellbeing. The changes he introduced in the offseason could lead to better performance, potentially making him a more reliable asset for the 49ers and a more valuable option for fantasy football managers.
DirecTV and Disney’s Ongoing Contract Dispute Impacting Viewers
As George Kittle gears up for a promising season, sports fans face challenges outside the field. DirecTV is currently in a protracted negotiation with Disney that has resulted in the blackout of several popular channels, including ESPN, just in time for Monday Night Football. With millions of subscribers unable to access live sports programming, both companies find themselves at an impasse, significantly impacting viewers.
Details of the Dispute
DirecTV’s contract with Disney expired on September 1, 2023, leading to the removal of ABC, the Disney Channel, FX, and other networks from its lineup. DirecTV’s complaint to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) alleges that Disney is negotiating in bad faith, causing widespread dissatisfaction among its subscriber base who have already missed important college football games.
Disney’s Response
In response to DirecTV’s claims, a spokesperson emphasized the company’s readiness to negotiate swiftly to restore access to its channels. “We urge DirecTV to stop creating diversions and instead prioritize their customers by finalizing a deal that would allow their subscribers to watch our strong upcoming lineup of sports, news, and entertainment programming,” the spokesperson stated.
Negotiation Challenges
The negotiations have stalled due to demands from Disney that DirecTV provide a “fat bundle” of channels, which reportedly includes less popular programming. Disney’s insistence on acquiring a deal that would allow its new ”skinnier bundles”—offering only sought-after content—has been a point of contention. Disney argues that its programming holds significant value, with over 90% of DirecTV households watching its content each month.
Impact on Viewers
This dispute is particularly concerning for football enthusiasts who are looking forward to critical matchups, including the Monday Night Football game featuring the New York Jets and the San Francisco 49ers. DirecTV customers hoping to catch the game are left in uncertainty, with an ongoing blackout limiting access to popular broadcasts. Currently, viewers will need to seek alternative methods to watch the game, as the two companies continue their negotiations without a clear resolution in sight.
What Lies Ahead?
As both sides work toward a resolution, DirecTV has expressed hope for an amicable agreement, while Disney maintains that its offers are in line with market expectations and consumer needs. The ongoing stalemate highlights the tension between service providers and content creators, which could have lasting effects on the landscape of television sports broadcasting.
While George Kittle prepares for an excellent season with renewed focus on his health, fans of the NFL are left navigating the complexities of the DirecTV-Disney debate. As negotiations continue, viewers are advised to stay informed and prepare for alternative viewing options until the dispute is resolved.
- DirecTV filed a complaint with the FCC over Disney’s negotiations.
- Millions of fans are currently unable to access ESPN and other Disney-owned networks.
- Both parties express hope for a resolution, but no timeline has been confirmed.
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