The sports world is buzzing about the latest comments from a top NFL player about WNBA rookie sensation Caitlin Clark.
What he revealed about the Iowa basketball phenom shows there’s much more to her story than most people realize.
And an NFL star dropped one jaw-dropping truth about Caitlin Clark that left everyone stunned.
NFL Star Drops Truth Bomb About Iowa’s Golden Girl
George Kittle has never been one to hide his Iowa pride, and he’s got plenty of reasons to celebrate his connection with basketball sensation Caitlin Clark.
The 49ers tight end and the WNBA rookie both call the University of Iowa home — Kittle wrapping up his college career in 2017 before heading to the NFL, while Clark transitioned from college basketball straight to professional stardom as the top draft pick in 2024.
Kittle’s latest comments about his fellow Hawkeye before heading to the American Century Classic golf tournament revealed something that goes way beyond typical alumni support.
The NFL veteran didn’t hold back when describing Clark’s character and abilities.
"Caitlin’s a dog. She couldn’t be any nicer of a person. And she is just always nice, takes her time for everybody," Kittle told Fox News Digital.¹
The All-Pro tight end went even further, praising Clark’s remarkable composure under intense public scrutiny.
"I think when you go from being a college student to being one of the most popular people on the planet, I think she handles it incredibly well. She always has. She’s an ultimate competitor," Kittle explained.¹
Kittle Reveals Clark’s Secret Weapon Against WNBA Critics
Clark’s rookie season in professional basketball hasn’t been without its challenges.
Physical play, veteran hostility, and what many observers describe as targeted aggression have become regular parts of her game experience.
When Fox News Digital asked Kittle about this treatment, he revealed something impressive about Clark’s response to adversity.
The 49ers star admitted that Clark "handles whatever is thrown her way incredibly well and with the highest grace."¹
That level of composure isn’t typical for rookie athletes facing this kind of pressure and negativity.
Most young players would either break down or lash out at their critics.
Clark’s approach is completely different.
She continues performing at elite levels while maintaining her character — something that clearly impressed the NFL veteran.
"Just always proud of her and proud to say that she’s a Hawkeye," Kittle said.¹
The Real Caitlin Clark Behind the Scenes
Kittle shared insights from his personal interaction with Clark that showed her authentic character away from the spotlight.
His description of meeting her in Iowa’s training room after a game painted a picture of someone genuinely caring about others.
"We were hanging out in the training room after the game just to get away from the crowd a little bit," Kittle recalled. "She comes in, hugs all the athletic trainers, talks to everybody, talks to us a little bit, and you just see how much people care for her. She has this incredible reputation that she’s built day in and day out. So, she’s done that, and just so excited for her."¹
What struck Kittle most was Clark’s ability to seamlessly transition between her competitive intensity and her personal warmth.
"You see how she is on the court. She has this competitiveness. She’s got this fire in her," he continued. "But as soon as she gets off the court, there’s this flip of the switch. She’s just Caitlin Clark. To be able to go back and forth between all that, you have to be very good to be able to do that, and she does that flawlessly."¹
What This Means for Clark’s Future
Kittle’s endorsement carries significant weight given his own experience succeeding under pressure at professional sports’ highest levels.
The 49ers star has navigated his share of media attention and high-stakes competition throughout his NFL career.
When an athlete of Kittle’s caliber says Clark handles pressure "flawlessly," that represents genuine professional respect between elite competitors.
Clark’s ability to maintain composure while excelling competitively explains her crossover appeal beyond basketball.
Her approach makes the negativity from some WNBA veterans look petty and small-minded.
Rather than responding to cheap shots and jealous behavior, Clark lets her performance speak for itself.
Kittle’s description of Clark as "a dog" who competes with intensity but carries herself with class represents a winning combination for long-term success.
The Iowa connection between these two athletes demonstrates that Hawkeye excellence spans multiple sports.
Both learned to handle pressure while staying grounded and competing at elite levels.
Their shared background shows in their continued success and character — something that makes their alma mater proud.
¹ Fox News Digital, "George Kittle calls fellow Iowa alum Caitlin Clark ‘a dog’ with the ‘highest grace’ in handling WNBA treatment," July 2, 2025.
