Kyle Juszczyk

Kyle Juszczyk is recognized as a leading fullback in the National Football League, noted for redefining the position's role in modern football. A Harvard University alumnus, Juszczyk was a unanimous first-team All-Ivy League selection and an Associated Press All-America First-Team honoree. He became the first fullback drafted from Harvard when the Baltimore Ravens selected him in the fourth round of the NFL Draft. During four seasons with Baltimore, Juszczyk emerged as a starter and led all NFL fullbacks in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns before signing with the San Francisco 49ers as a free agent, where he received a record-setting contract for a fullback.

With the 49ers, Juszczyk has played a key role in head coach Kyle Shanahan's offensive system, demonstrating versatility as a blocker, runner, and pass catcher. His performance contributed to San Francisco's appearances in multiple NFC Championship Games and two Super Bowls. In Super Bowl LIV, Juszczyk caught a touchdown pass, marking the first by a Harvard alumnus in Super Bowl history and the first by a fullback in the game since Mike Alstott in Super Bowl XXXVII. He later signed a five-year extension with the 49ers, again setting a record for the largest contract given to a fullback.

Juszczyk has earned 10 consecutive Pro Bowl selections, the most by a fullback in NFL history, and has been named a first-team All-Pro. He has led NFL fullbacks in receiving yards, with notable seasons including 24 receptions for 213 yards and two touchdowns. Pro Football Focus has ranked him as the top fullback in the league, and he has received the Bill Walsh Award from the 49ers organization, which honors the player who best represents the standard of professional excellence established by the Hall of Fame coach.

Juszczyk is credited with influencing the evolution of the fullback position, expanding its role beyond blocking to include dynamic contributions in the passing game. His athleticism, football intelligence, and durability have established him as a significant figure in professional football and a key component of the San Francisco 49ers' offensive strategy.