San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle addressed reporters Monday morning as players cleared out their lockers following a disappointing 2024 season. The 49ers finished 6-11, missed the playoffs, and landed at the bottom of the NFC West standings.
Amid the struggles, Kittle was one of the 49ers' bright spots, finishing with a team-high 1,106 receiving yards and eight touchdowns. This marked his fourth career season—and second consecutive—surpassing the 1,000-yard milestone. His eight touchdowns were the second-highest of his career, following his 11-touchdown performance in 2022.
Kittle remains under contract through the 2025 season, but the San Francisco Chronicle's Eric Branch suggested that a contract extension could benefit both Kittle and the team. The tight end's response will delight 49ers fans.
"I want to be a Niner for my entire career," Kittle said. "I love wearing the red and gold. And whatever the front office wants to do, I'm all ears."
According to Over The Cap, Kittle's 2025 cap hit is projected at $22.1 million, currently the second-largest on the team behind linebacker Fred Warner's $29.2 million.
With quarterback Brock Purdy expected to command a significant extension that would make him the team's highest-paid player, the 49ers may need to explore creative cap solutions to head into future seasons with competitive rosters. Kittle seems open to discussions and is willing to help the team if it means staying in that locker room.