George Kittle, unlike most tight ends in the NFL, spent the week’s leadup to Super Bowl 58 working hard and speaking to the media. Following a 1000-yard season, many expect contract talks to start up.
However, the 49ers don’t view it as a pressing need. At least, that is what insider Jeremy Fowler said on SportsCenter, per a Saturday article on 5Goats.
“So this is not a pressing need. But I was told that, yeah, this is a player who might need a new contract eventually or even this offseason … Still, a big part of what they do, so they might have to pay him. A lot of major decisions coming.”
In other words, the tight end could be setting himself up for a classic situation. In such a situation, the team doesn’t want to pay the player who performed above expectations while the player wants to be rewarded.
This sets up for another potential struggle for the 49ers. They are also engaged in a negotiation war with Brandon Aiyuk with Brock Purdy’s extension potentially coming before the 2026 season.
Exploring George Kittle’s contract situation with 49ers
The San Francisco 49ers tight end had a productive year past the age of 30, which most agree is worth applauding. However, heading into an age 31 season, Kittle is heading into troubled waters on the contract front. His mega deal signed in 2020 is entering a period in which little is guaranteed.
According to Spotrac, 2024 serves as a potential out for the 49ers. If they were to cut Kittle, they would save $3 million.
Of course, cutting ties with the only tight end to earn 1000 yards last season is unlikely. However, Kittle objectively has his back against the wall over the age of 30. He’s still signed through the 2025 season and is in line for a $9 million raise in 2025.
At this point, asking the 49ers to do more might be an uphill battle based on that alone.
George Kittle positioned to enter league-wide extension sweepstakes
Of course, he isn’t the only player negotiating a raise. Justin Jefferson received a salary placing him above Nick Bosa as the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL. Jaylen Waddle also secured his lucrative second contract. Christian McCaffrey also received an extension.
Additionally, Amon-Ra St. Brown received a breakout deal. At this point, a George Kittle extension would be late to the party. Of course, there are also several extensions waiting in the wings.
Tyreek Hill is expected to make a push for a new deal. CeeDee Lamb and Dak Prescott are also working on new deals. Micah Parsons, additionally, is in line for a new deal.
Could George Kittle land a new deal this offseason? On the other hand, could the tight end be playing on his final 49ers deal?
