Ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft, the San Francisco 49ers made a bold decision by rejecting an enticing trade offer for star tight end George Kittle, opting instead to sign him to a contract extension that made him the highest-paid tight end in NFL history. According to a report by Dianna Russini on The Athletic’s Scoop City podcast, an unnamed team offered a second-round pick for Kittle, but the 49ers firmly chose to retain the veteran player.
The Trade Offer and the 49ers’ Decision
George Kittle, one of the NFL’s premier tight ends, became the subject of trade discussions just before the 2025 NFL Draft. Russini revealed that a team contacted the 49ers the night before the draft, proposing a second-round pick to acquire Kittle. This was a significant offer, especially as the 49ers were navigating financial considerations to prepare for a contract extension with quarterback Brock Purdy.
However, General Manager John Lynch and Head Coach Kyle Shanahan decided against parting ways with Kittle, who is considered a cornerstone of the 49ers’ offense. Instead, they swiftly reached an agreement to extend Kittle’s contract, ensuring his presence in San Francisco through 2029. This decision not only reflected their confidence in Kittle’s value but also underscored the team’s commitment to maintaining a competitive roster.
A Record-Breaking Extension
Following the rejection of the trade offer, the 49ers signed Kittle to a four-year, $76.4 million extension, including $40 million in guaranteed money, with $35 million guaranteed at signing and $5 million guaranteed for the 2027 season. With an average annual value of $19.1 million, Kittle surpassed Arizona Cardinals’ Trey McBride ($19 million per year) to become the NFL’s highest-paid tight end.
This contract not only solidified Kittle’s status among the league’s elite tight ends but also alleviated pressure on the 49ers’ salary cap. Prior to the extension, Kittle’s projected cap hit for 2025 was $22.03 million. The new deal is expected to lower this figure, creating additional financial flexibility for the 49ers to address other needs, including negotiations with Purdy.
Kittle’s Value to the 49ers
At 31 years old, George Kittle has proven himself as one of the most well-rounded players at his position. He is not only an exceptional receiver but also a critical blocker in Head Coach Kyle Shanahan’s offensive system. In the 2024 season, Kittle recorded 78 receptions, 1,106 yards, and 8 touchdowns, ranking third among tight ends in receiving yards and leading the position in yards per catch (14.2). He was also rated by PFF as the top tight end last season with an overall grade of 92.1, well ahead of second-placed McBride (86.8).
Kittle has overcome early-career health concerns to become an indispensable part of the 49ers’ offense. He is the last remaining player from Lynch and Shanahan’s first draft class in 2017 and serves as one of the team’s spiritual leaders. With Deebo Samuel traded to the Washington Commanders and Brandon Aiyuk recovering from an ACL injury, Kittle is poised to be Purdy’s primary target in the 2025 season.
The Significance of This Decision
By rejecting a second-round pick and securing Kittle with a record extension, the 49ers prioritized retaining key players to sustain their competitive edge. Coming off a disappointing 2024 season (finishing 6-11 and missing the playoffs), keeping Kittle sends a positive signal to fans, especially after the team lost key players like Dre Greenlaw, Talanoa Hufanga, and Jordan Mason.
This decision also marks a shift in the 49ers’ approach, as the team has been known for prolonged and contentious contract negotiations with stars like Samuel, Aiyuk, and Nick Bosa. The swift agreement with Kittle suggests the organization is becoming more efficient in handling contract matters, particularly as they prepare for critical negotiations with Purdy and potentially linebacker Fred Warner.
Conclusion
By turning down a second-round pick to retain George Kittle and signing him to a record-breaking extension, the San Francisco 49ers sent a clear message: they remain committed to building a roster capable of contending for a Super Bowl. Kittle, with his talent, experience, and dedication, will continue to be a centerpiece of the 49ers’ offense in the years to come. This decision not only secures Kittle’s future in San Francisco but also lays the foundation for a promising 2025 season, as the team aims to reclaim its place among the NFL’s elite.