The San Francisco 49ers signed George Kittle to a four-year contract extension worth $76.4 million, making him the highest-paid tight end in NFL history. The deal features $35 million in guaranteed money with an average annual value of $19.1 million.
Kittle, 31, has been one of San Francisco’s most consistent players since entering the league in 2017. The veteran has 538 career receptions, 7,380 yards, and 45 touchdowns. Interestingly, one of the loudest supporters of Kittle’s new deal isn’t even on the 49ers.
Kayla Nicole Applauds NFL’s Top-Paid Tight End George Kittle
Kayla Nicole, the ex-girlfriend of Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce, grabbed attention across social media when she chimed in on Kittle’s record-setting extension.
The original Instagram post came from Kittle’s wife, Claire, who wrote, “Beyond proud of you @gkittle — you’ve manifested this. The People’s TE is back again!”
Nicole then commented on Kittle’s post with a congratulatory five-word reaction: “HELL YEAAAAAA! Bang bang baby.” Unsurprisingly, her comment quickly generated buzz.
Coming off another Pro Bowl season, Kittle has long been considered one of the most complete tight ends in the NFL, blending elite blocking with explosive 1,000-yard receiving ability.
As for Nicole, she’s no stranger to the spotlight. Her former relationship with Kelce, which was on and off for several years before ending for good in 2022, often made headlines during the Chiefs’ Super Bowl runs. Kelce has since started dating pop superstar Taylor Swift, whose appearances at Chiefs games last season brought a new level of attention to the franchise and Kelce personally.
The post didn’t feature any added context, so it remains open to interpretation whether Nicole’s post was meant as a subtle shade toward her ex-boyfriend or simply an innocent and genuine show of love for Kittle. Nicole has been publicly linked to the 49ers’ culture and players in the past. She has also remained close with several NFL players and their spouses.
In the end, Kittle got paid, Nicole went viral, and the NFL offseason rolled on with another off-the-field headline that grabbed attention. While Kelce may still hold the crown for being the most popular tight end, aided by Swift, Kittle just established the financial benchmark and apparently has fans far beyond the Bay Area.
Kittle was named to his sixth Pro Bowl team in 2024 after recording 78 catches, 1,106 yards, and eight touchdowns in 15 games. The 49ers now have a big decision to make at quarterback as Brock Purdy enters the final season of his rookie deal.
