George Kittle Sternly Refutes 49ers Contract Extension Rumors — Colin Kaepernick Shares His Take on Mac Jones Joining San Francisco

The San Francisco 49ers offseason has been rocked by swirling rumors and strong reactions, with two major storylines captivating fans and igniting heated debates across social media and sports circles.

George Kittle’s Firm Denial of Contract Dispute Reports

After missing the voluntary team workouts earlier this week, reports surfaced claiming that star tight end George Kittle’s absence was due to stalled contract extension talks. According to The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, Kittle was seeking to become the highest-paid tight end in the NFL—aiming for around $20 million per year—while the 49ers were reportedly unwilling to meet that figure. The report suggested that although no trade request had been made, other teams were closely monitoring the situation as Kittle enters the final year of his current deal.

However, Kittle quickly took to social media to shut down these claims, posting simply, “Your source is incorrect,” followed by a laughing emoji, making it clear he rejects the narrative of a contract standoff. Historically, Kittle has often trained away from the team during the voluntary offseason phase, preferring to prepare in Nashville, Tennessee, and usually joins the team when on-field activities begin.

Despite Kittle’s denial, Russini doubled down, emphasizing that multiple sources confirm the contract impasse and that the 49ers have offered a deal with more guaranteed money than any other tight end but still below Kittle’s desired top-tier salary. This tug-of-war has sparked passionate discussions among fans about loyalty, player value, and the 49ers’ commitment to retaining one of their most dynamic offensive weapons.

Colin Kaepernick Weighs In on Mac Jones’ Arrival in San Francisco

Meanwhile, former 49ers quarterback and social justice icon Colin Kaepernick has shared his perspective on the team’s recent acquisition of Mac Jones. In a candid interview, Kaepernick praised the 49ers as a “winning culture” and expressed optimism about Jones joining a proven system under head coach Kyle Shanahan.

Kaepernick highlighted Jones’ strong work ethic and willingness to learn, noting his connections with key figures like Brock Purdy and Shanahan himself. He emphasized that Jones’ arrival could bring fresh energy and competitiveness to the quarterback room, which has been a focal point of speculation this offseason.

Kaepernick’s comments have sparked discussion about the evolving quarterback landscape in San Francisco and the challenges Jones will face stepping into a team with high expectations and a passionate fan base.

The Fallout: Fans and Experts Debate What’s Next for the 49ers

These developments have fueled a firestorm of debate:

• On Kittle’s contract saga, fans are divided between those who believe the 49ers should meet his demands to keep a franchise cornerstone and those who argue the team must manage salary cap realities and invest in youth. Kittle’s public denial adds intrigue—does it reflect a desire to keep peace, or is there more behind the scenes?

• Regarding Mac Jones, supporters welcome the injection of talent and fresh competition, while skeptics question whether he can thrive in Shanahan’s complex offense and live up to the legacy of his predecessors.

The 49ers’ front office faces a critical offseason balancing act—retaining star power like Kittle, integrating new talent like Jones, and maintaining the culture that has made them perennial contenders.

Join the conversation! What’s your take on George Kittle’s contract denial and Colin Kaepernick’s views on Mac Jones? Is the 49ers’ offseason shaping up for success or turmoil? Share your thoughts and fuel the debate across social media!