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.
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.
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
Writer urges 49ers to consider trading one player—at the right price
There was plenty of speculation surrounding San Francisco 49ers quarterback Mac Jones this offseason. Many believed the team could trade Brock Purdy's backup before or during the 2026 NFL Draft. That never materialized, and Jones appears poised to remain Purdy's primary backup... -
49ers' Kyle Juszczyk shares encouraging George Kittle injury recovery update
San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle continues to make encouraging progress in his recovery from the Achilles injury he suffered during last season's playoffs. After looking sharp during on-field workouts at Tight End University (TEU), optimism continues to grow that... -
49ers TE George Kittle inches closer to Hall of Fame résumé
San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle has already built an impressive résumé as he enters his 10th NFL season. The All-Pro tight end has totaled 595 receptions, 8,008 receiving yards, and 52 touchdowns throughout his career, placing him among the league's... -
49ers' George Kittle slips in ESPN's tight end rankings
San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle remains among the NFL's elite at his position, but he slipped one spot in ESPN's annual rankings heading into the 2026 season. After ranking No. 2 last year—and earning the top spot in 2022—Kittle landed at No. 3 in ESPN's latest...