George Kittle's latest decision points to trouble ahead for 49ers

Aaliyan Mohammed

George Kittle's latest decision points to trouble ahead for 49ers image

The San Francisco 49ers are still working to extend Brock Purdy, however, one of their other stars is also seeking a new contract. George Kittle's latest decision puts more pressure on the 49ers to get a deal done.

According to Adam Schefter, Kittle will skip the team's voluntary off-season workout program.

"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," wrote Schefter.

Kittle signed a five-year, $75 million extension in 2020. He is in the final year of his deal, and Spotrac projects him to earn a two-year, $32 million deal. However, the 49ers will want to get a deal done with Brock Purdy before committing any more money to Kittle. Purdy, unlike Kittle, is attending the voluntary workouts.

"49ers QB Brock Purdy, who has been discussing a new deal with San Francisco, is in attendance today for the start of the team’s off-season workout program," wrote Schefter. "Some thought Purdy might have stayed away without a new deal, but that’s not the route Purdy chose."

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Kittle has been a key player for the 49ers, and they may not be able to afford losing another weapon. He was a Pro Bowler last season and a six-time Pro Bowler overall. He is also a two-time All-Pro. Kittle deserves an extension, but it seems the 49ers are putting all of their focus on extending their quarterback first. However, if Purdy's negotiations continue to drag out, it could lead to a holdout for Kittle.

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Aaliyan Mohammed

Aaliyan Mohammed is a sports journalist who graduated from Mississippi State University. He covered MLB prospects for MLB.com. He has also spent time covering the Green Bay Packers as well as college sports in the SEC. His work features interviews with Gilbert Brown, Andre Rison, Mike Leach and multiple MLB executives.