George Kittle is entering the final year of his rookie contract with the San Francisco 49ers. Both Kittle and the 49ers have begun preliminary talks on a new contract, but neither side seems close to hashing out a deal.
Despite the current outlook on the situation, 49ers general manager John Lynch provided an important update on Kittle's extension, per Brian Murphy of KNBR 104.5 FM.
Lynch on Kittle contract: "George is planning on coming. We've exchanged ideas. It'd be silly not to figure it out. You ask for timetable, I don't have that. No updates. I don't think there's anything to be discouraged." #49ers
— Brian Murphy (@knbrmurph) July 28, 2020
Seeing that Kittle has exceeded his value as a fifth-round pick, the pass-catching tight end is seeking a new contract in the near future. However, given the position he plays and how vital he is for the 49ers, getting an extension in place could take some time.
In the past two seasons, Kittle has recorded 80+ receptions, 1,050+ yards, and five touchdowns in each season. Besides his impressive receiving numbers, Kittle has shown that he's the most well-rounded tight end with his ability as a run blocker. Therefore, Kittle is reportedly looking to garner a contract that pays him as more than just a typical tight end.
As of this moment, the highest-paid wide receiver in the NFL in Julio Jones averages $22 million a year in base salary. On the other hand, the highest-paid tight end is now Austin Hooper, with an average salary of $10.5 million. Given that, it's inevitable that Kittle is going to surpass Hooper's salary in the near future.
Of course, Lynch and the 49ers would love to get a deal done with Kittle done as soon as possible. While both sides seem far apart on an agreement, at the least, Lynch is confident that Kittle will be present for San Francisco's training camp.
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