George Kittel is an instrumental part of the San Francisco 49ers success in the future.
The 49ers have been dragging their feet on extending their All-Pro tight end. All we have heard about an extension is absolutely nothing and that should concern fans. However, according to NBC Sports Marcus Mariocca, it has to do with the team trying to find ways to save money in order to afford Kittle.
The #49ers are likely saving some cap space for a new deal for George Kittle this offseason. Donte Whitner believes (and I agree) he should not step on the field again without a long-term contract.https://t.co/daWlDHZZWd
— Matt Maiocco (@MaioccoNBCS) April 8, 2020
“The #the 49ers are likely saving some cap space for a new deal for George Kittle this offseason. Donte Whitner believes (and I agree) he should not step on the field again without a long-term contract.”
Since stealing Kittle in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft, he has posted at least 80 receptions and 1,000 yards in back-to-back seasons.
The tight end market has been set after Cleveland Browns gave Austin Hooper a four-year, $42 million. Don’t be surprised if Kittle gets much more than that.
Making room for George Kittle's monster contract extension https://t.co/k4ahKBTSDu
— Beastradamus (@BeastFBall) April 25, 2020
Kittle is set to become a free agent after 2020 and it would be wise for both sides to get a deal done before he hits the market. If that happens, there will surely be another team that would overpay to land Kittle’s services.
The 49ers have already taken steps to free up some cap space by dealing Marquise Goodwin and Joe Staley’s retirement.
The next step is trying to work out how much Kittle truly wants.