Report: 49ers, Brock Purdy ‘inching closer’ toward top-10 contract

A report from The Athletic's Dianna Russini that linked George Kittle's absence from the start of the San Francisco 49ers' offseason program to a contract dispute was quickly refuted by the All-Pro tight end himself. Kittle took to social media, stating, "Your source is incorrect."

However, Russini's report included an update on another 49ers star: quarterback Brock Purdy, who is also currently negotiating a contract extension.

"The San Francisco 49ers and Brock Purdy are inching closer to a long-term extension, according to sources close to the situation," Russini wrote. "The contract is expected to include an average annual value that ranks in the top 10 in the NFL (and at Purdy's position)."

To crack the top 10, Purdy would need to earn at least $51 million annually, the same figure currently held by Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts, who rounds out the league's top-paid passers.

There was speculation surrounding whether Purdy would report to the start of the offseason program while contract talks were ongoing. Ultimately, he joined his teammates as negotiations continue on a deal that will undoubtedly make him the highest-paid player in franchise history.

On Tuesday, general manager John Lynch provided a positive update to reporters.

"I think there's been some substantive talks that have this thing going in a good direction, and I'll leave it at that," he said.

As for Purdy's arrival amid ongoing contract talks, the GM wasn't surprised.

"That's Brock. He's a pro," Lynch said. "Brock's very clear-minded, and not going to let other people influence what he should be doing. It's one thing everybody, I think, respects about Brock. He's done a lot for this organization, and we're grateful for him and looking forward to having him as our quarterback for a long time."