San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle has stirred up speculation after skipping the team’s first voluntary offseason workout. While early reports pointed to a potential contract dispute, Kittle’s direct response suggests the reality might be less dramatic — and more misunderstood.
George Kittle Shuts Down Contract Dispute Talk
Dianna Russini of The Athletic reported that Kittle’s absence was “contract related,” claiming the tight end was seeking a new deal to become the highest-paid at his position. According to her sources, the two sides were “far apart” in negotiations.
Kittle, however, wasted no time pushing back. Quoting Russini’s tweet, he posted a blunt four-word denial: “Your source is incorrect.”
The comment, though brief, immediately lit up social media and threw the initial report’s credibility into question. While Kittle hasn’t provided a reason for skipping OTAs, his public stance makes one thing clear — he’s not happy with how the story is being told.
Kittle, 31, is entering the final season of a five-year, $75 million deal signed in 2020. That contract includes a hefty $22 million cap hit in 2025 — a number that looms large for a franchise also expected to negotiate a major extension with quarterback Brock Purdy.
Despite Kittle’s pushback, ESPN’s Adam Schefter has suggested a contract rework is still on the table, adding another layer to the 49ers’ already complicated offseason finances.
Schefter wrote: “49ers Pro Bowl TE George Kittle, who has been in discussions about a new deal, is not in at San Francisco’s voluntary off-season workout program that starts today.”
More Than Money for 49ers Star?
Kittle remains one of the league’s most valuable tight ends, with six Pro Bowl selections and two All-Pro nods to his name. Yet, his absence has sparked debate about how the 49ers will manage long-term investments in both their offensive cornerstone and rising quarterback.
While it’s still unclear why Kittle missed OTAs, he has made one thing certain: the rumors about his motives don’t line up with his own narrative.
It should be noted that Kittle is still under contract. He hasn’t confirmed any negotiations on an extension. And his message to the media was swift and unapologetic. Whether this is a precursor to behind-the-scenes talks or simply personal time away from football, it’s thrown a wrench into the offseason storyline.
For now, Kittle’s next move — on or off the field — may be the only thing that brings real clarity.
