The San Francisco 49ers opened their offseason program earlier this week, but one notable veteran was missing — star tight end George Kittle. Kittle is entering the last year of his deal, which means he’s due for a new contract.
On Wednesday, Dianna Russini of The Athletic reported that Kittle’s absence is related to his contract situation as he wants to be the highest-paid tight end in the league. However, the star pass catcher responded to Russini, saying her sources are incorrect.
One thing for 49ers fans to remember is that the veteran tight end usually skips the voluntary program. That said, Russini is standing by her reporting and discussed the latest information she has received on the Scoop City Podcast.
According to Russini (h/t Grant Cohn of San Francisco 49ers on SI), the Pro Bowl tight end is reportedly looking for a new contract worth $20 million per game, which would be an upgrade from his current AAV ($15M) and make him the highest-paid player at the position.
Russini added that San Francisco offered the veteran pass catcher more guaranteed money than any other tight end. But it didn’t reach the mark set by Arizona Cardinals tight end Trey McBride, who signed a four-year, $76 million contract ($19M AAV).
Given how the 49ers have approached this offseason and the impending Brock Purdy contract extension, it will be interesting to see which side will blink first. Based on Russini’s reporting, Kittle reportedly wants to get paid, but the 49ers aren’t willing to surpass McBride’s contract in AAV.
However, McBride received $43 million guaranteed in his new deal. And according to Russini, Kittle got an offer with guaranteed money, making him the highest-paid tight end. Until Purdy gets paid, we likely won’t see a resolution for Kittle anytime soon.