George Kittle Cashes In With Landmark Tight End Deal

Former Iowa Hawkeye tight end George Kittle has signed a contract extension with the San Francisco 49ers...and it's a BIG ONE!

Niners Nation reports that San Francisco has signed Kittle to a four-year extension worth $76.4 million. The new deal will allow Kittle to once again be the highest-paid tight end in the National Football League. His average salary during the deal will be $19.1 million, passing the previous high of $19 million set by Arizona tight end Trey McBride.

Niners Nation reports that the new deal includes $40 million in guaranteed money with $35 million at signing, and an extra $5 million in 2027. Kittle has expressed his desire to play for San Francisco for his entire career, and this new deal should ensure that the 31-year-old former Hawkeye ends his career in the Bay Area. Kittle had another great year in 2024, racking up over 1,100 receiving yards and scoring 8 touchdowns.

Kittle might not be the final Niner to do a contract extension. Niners Nation reports that linebacker Fred Warner could be extended even though he still has two years left on his current deal. Why all the extensions? San Francisco is no doubt trying to free up salary cap room for an expected deal with quarterback Brock Purdy. The former Cyclone is entering the final year of his rookie deal and could demand more than $50 million a year.