Earlier this week, The Athletic's Dianna Russini reported that teams might inquire about trading for San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle as contract negotiations between the two sides continued. Kittle did not immediately report for the start of the 49ers' offseason program, and Russini stated that his absence was contract-related.
Kittle quickly shot down that report, saying, "Your source is incorrect."
Russini, however, stood by her reporting, explaining that after further investigation, her sources continued to back her original claim.
"And there was just so many people sharing about this, that I knew it wasn't wrong, and it's not wrong," Russini later said.
Kittle eventually reported to the 49ers on Friday, with reports indicating that contract talks between the star tight end and the team are ongoing.
On Saturday, ahead of Day 3 of the 2025 NFL Draft, Russini provided another update, noting that negotiations were moving in a positive direction. However, she also revealed that some teams had reached out to the 49ers to express trade interest.
"Teams did inquire with the 49ers about a possible trade, but they are expected to keep him," Russini shared on social media.
Negotiations between TE George Kittle and the San Francisco 49ers continue to move in a good direction with Kittle showing up for voluntary OTAs, per sources.
Teams did inquire with the 49ers about a possible trade, but they are expected to keep him. pic.twitter.com/bWSWq2OsGF
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) April 26, 2025
Given that Days 1 and 2 of the draft are in the books, and that the 49ers focused heavily on the defensive side of the ball with their first four picks, it seemed increasingly unlikely the team would part ways with their All-Pro tight end.
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