San Francisco 49ers star tight end George Kittle has been one of the league’s most dominant and consistent players at his position.
Over the last four seasons, he’s had at least 60 catches, 700 receiving yards and six touchdowns per year, including back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons in 2023 and 2024.
As he enters the final year of his five-year, $75 million deal, speculation about his future is heating up. Many insiders believe he’s in line for a record-breaking extension.
49ers Face Tough Cap Decisions Amid George Kittle’s Historic Value
Kittle, a six-time Pro Bowler, has been a cornerstone of the 49ers’ offense, thriving as both a pass catcher and blocker. His on-field impact is undeniable, and as the salary cap continues to rise, so does the price tag for elite tight ends.
“Many in league circles believe TE George Kittle will command $20M per year on his contract extension with the #49ers,” sources report. If that number holds, it would set a new record for tight end contracts and potentially reshape the market at the position.
Many in league circles believe TE George Kittle will command $20M per year on his contract extension with the #49ers.
With the cap going up & key positions hitting the $20M AAV milestone, Kittle likely will be next.
GM John Lynch stated previously: "We want George to retire a… pic.twitter.com/uTeXimlo0J
— 49ers & NFL News 24/7 (@49ersSportsTalk) March 27, 2025
San Francisco currently has $34.36 million in cap space. But committing $20 million annually to Kittle would require some maneuvering. The front office could restructure deals with top players like Fred Warner and Nick Bosa or backload Kittle’s contract to soften the immediate cap hit.
“With the cap going up and key positions hitting the $20M AAV milestone, Kittle likely will be next,” analysts suggest. The NFL financial landscape is shifting fast, and the demand for top-tier talent is driving salaries even higher.
49ers’ Loyalty to Kittle
Kittle has made it clear he wants to stay in the Bay Area. “My goal is to wear red and gold my entire career,” he’s said repeatedly. That same commitment has been echoed by 49ers general manager John Lynch.
“We want George to retire a Niner. He’s one of those guys. He’s a Niner through and through,” Lynch said in a recent interview, underscoring the team’s appreciation for Kittle’s contributions.
What This Means for the NFL’s Tight End Market
If Kittle lands a $20 million-per-year deal, it would set a new benchmark for tight ends and push the position’s value higher across the league. A deal of that size could cause a ripple effect, raising contract expectations for other top players at the position.
As talks continue, the 49ers must balance cap flexibility with the importance of keeping one of their most impactful players. Kittle’s next contract will not only shape San Francisco’s salary structure — it could also redefine the market for elite tight ends across the NFL.
It’s a no brainer, sign him up for a 4 year $80 Million contract, with a guaranteed $65 Million.
He’s a Niners for life and I could see him being a good coach with young players coming in to the league, once his career ends.