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San Francisco 49ers TE George Kittle came forward to defend his friend and teammate, Christian McCaffrey, amid the backlash for his underwhelming performance this season.

On Thursday, during a locker room interview, the six-time Pro Bowler dismissed the narrative that McCaffrey’s age is the reason behind his performance decline on the field. George Kittle also drew a comparison with 31-year-old Ravens RB star Derrick Henry.

“When he has several plays in a row, he usually takes (himself out), or a deep route,” Kittle said. “But I disagree with the shelf life thing. I think Christian does a great job of taking care of his body. I think he’ll play as long as he wants to play.

“How old is Derrick Henry? I think he’s doing just fine. I think the shelf life thing is kind of BS. But, whatever.”

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Last season, Christian McCaffrey’s season was cut short because of several injuries. He then suffered a posterior cruciate ligament injury in December against the Bills, sidelining him for the rest of the season. This raised questions about him making a successful comeback this year, as the 29-year-old inches closer to his thirties.

However, the three-time All-Pro running back has been impressive on the field for the 49ers. In nine games, McCaffrey has tallied 596 yards and four TDs rushing, along with 626 yards and four touchdowns receiving. Some analysts predict him to compete with Colts star Jonathan Taylor for the NFL Offensive Player of the Year award.

On the other hand, George Kittle suffered a hamstring injury during the 49ers’ season opener against the Seattle Seahawks. This resulted in him missing out on five games before making a comeback during their 20-10 victory over the Atlanta Falcons in Week seven. In four games, the veteran TE has recorded 100 yards and two touchdowns receiving.

George Kittle shares his thoughts on the 49ers upcoming showdown against the Rams in Week 10

The veteran TE also talked about his team’s upcoming showdown against the Los Angeles Rams. George Kittle also expressed his excitement about watching coach Kyle Shanahan go against Rams coach Sean McVay.

“I always enjoy cause it always a Kyle Shanahan vs Sean McVay game,” Kittle said. “And I feel like, every Rams game is always the same thing. You know, it’s a gritty game. Whether it’s a high scoring game or a low scoring game.

“Whatever, you know, it comes to kind of whoever is more physcial team and whoever wants it more.”

The 49ers vs Rams showdown is scheduled to be played on Sunday at 4:25 p.m. ET. Can Shanahan’s team improve on their 6-3 record in Week 10?