Kittle Empowers Lucas: New Voice Energizes 49ers Huddle

The Evolution of Leadership in Santa Clara

In the rain-soaked practice fields of Santa Clara, a significant shift unfolded as the San Francisco 49ers prepared for their Week 11 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals. For the first time since Fred Warner's season-ending injury, the team's pre-practice huddle featured a new voice: cornerback Chase Lucas, encouraged by veteran tight end George Kittle to address the team.

Breaking the Huddle Tradition

Historically, the responsibility of rallying the 49ers fell to Kittle and Warner. With Warner sidelined since Week 6, Kittle vowed not to monopolize the leadership role. "I don't like talking every single time," Kittle explained to NBC Sports Bay Area. "I don't want to talk in every single speech. There are guys on this team who have voices, who need to be heard, and Chase is one of those guys."

The 49ers gather in their pre-practice huddle during inclement weather conditions. - Image from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qfA7VnqCxJ0

"He's like KB [Kendrick Bourne] for the defense. Always in a good mood, always bringing it. Always 100 percent effort. When you have guys like that it gets everybody around him to go."
— George Kittle on Chase Lucas

Lucas's Natural Leadership Emerges

Lucas, a former Arizona State captain and seventh-round draft pick, didn't hesitate when Kittle asked, "You got something you want to say to them?" "Hell, yeah, I got something I want to say to them," Lucas responded. His message emphasized seizing the moment: "We got a great opportunity in front of us, and this season can change within this game. It could change positively or negatively."

Chase Lucas addresses his teammates after being encouraged by George Kittle to break the huddle. - Image from https://duckduckgo.com/?origin=funnel_home_website&t=h_&q=Chase+Lucas+addressing+49ers+teammates+helmet+off&ia=images&iax=images&iai=https%3A%2F%2Fc8.alamy.com%2Fcomp%2F3BHWM66%2Fsan-francisco-49ers-cornerback-chase-lucas-26-gestures-toward-teammates-during-practice-at-nfl-football-minicamp-wednesday-june-11-2025-in-santa-clara-calif-ap-photojeff-chiu-3BHWM66.jpg

Lucas's infectious energy has been noted throughout the locker room. Coaches Kyle Shanahan and Robert Saleh have recognized his impact, while Kittle playfully dubbed him the "juiceman" for his Madden NFL "X-factor"-like ability to elevate teammates. "He's always bringing it," Kittle added. "Got the guys going on a rainy day. That's all we needed." Lucas downplays the hype, insisting, "I'm just Chase. I just do the same thing every day. Whether someone is coming with me or not, I'm going to bring that energy." His background as a special teams stalwart (140 snaps this season) exemplifies his relentless work ethic.

Impact Beyond the Field

This leadership evolution reflects a deeper team culture. Kittle's decision to delegate underscores a commitment to shared ownership of the team's mindset. Lucas's words carried extra weight as the 49ers faced a must-win game against division rival Arizona with quarterback Brock Purdy returning from injury.

As Lucas put it, "I'm not new to it, I'm true to it." His address wasn't just about motivation—it was a testament to the 49ers' ability to adapt and find leaders in unexpected places. With playoff hopes hanging in the balance, this new chapter in their huddle ritual could be the spark they need.