The San Francisco 49ers future Hall of Famer George Kittle could be on the trade block this offseason since he may hold out for a new contract. According to reports, one source believes the 49ers should trade Kittle if a holdout happens, as the team will likely rebuild after the 2025 season. It’s clear the organization wants to spend less money, and the only way they do that is by not giving Kittle a new massive extension, but it might not give the 49ers a choice, so the team could be in a standoff on what they want to do for the future of this team.
Before trading Jordan Mason, there were rumors that an NFL insider believed that if the 49ers wanted to fulfill the “rebuild,” they should trade Christian McCaffrey. However, it doesn’t look like that will happen, and a Kittle trade seems more likely in the 49ers’ offseason situation as they’re negotiating a long-term deal with quarterback Brock Purdy. It’s easy to say the team might have to re-think about giving Kittle a long-term contract, considering his age and where he is in his career. Originally selected in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft, the former Iowa product became one of the best tight ends in the league on the level of legend Rob Gronkowski, Antonio Gates and Jason Witten.
The six-time Pro Bowler might not be open to a trade, but if he doesn’t get a deal he deserves, he might change his mind and these five teams could pursue him.
REPORT: 49ers Hall of Famer George Kittle May Holdout for Contract, Trade Possible
Next Possible Teams
Baltimore Ravens
It’s still possible the Baltimore Ravens could trade Mark Andrews despite positive signs they’re keeping him. If that happens, the team could bank on a capable backup like Kittle. He might not want the backup job, but if it means a Super Bowl run, it won’t matter for the veteran backing up Isaiah Likely.
Los Angeles Chargers
Tyler Conklin is signing a one-year deal, so it seems like the Chargers are testing the waters of any pass-catcher for quarterback Justin Herbert. Since the Los Angeles wide receiver room is still poor, they could make that up to stabilize the tight end unit. Will Dissly could probably get cut if he shows signs of inconsistency, and Kittle is easily the favorable replacement.
Kansas City Chiefs
Travis Kelce is returning for what will probably be his final year in the league. This means the Chiefs will need to do some soul-searching for who will become the next big tight end for quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Despite signing Robert Tonyan, he’s more of a fit as a backup and Kittle could be the next target for the Chiefs if they give the 49ers a worthy deal in a possible trade.
Carolina Panthers
The Carolina Panthers are getting younger each season in their pass-catching department, so they should be on the hunt to sign some capable veterans. Tommy Tremble is returning on a three-year deal, but Ja’Tavion Sanders had his moments and isn’t ready for full-time duties just yet. Perhaps they could trade for Kittle to give quarterback Bryce Young a legitimate, consistent target to boost his chances to move the chains.
Washington Commanders
For the Commanders, they’re maximizing Jayden Daniels’ rookie contract and re-signing a few veterans like Zach Ertz, who was a favorite target on this offense. The Commanders might want to continue to head in that direction. George Kittle reuniting with Deebo Samuel could make sense for what they’re trying to build under Adam Peters.
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