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Rumor Swirls: $14.21 Million 49ers Star on the Chopping Block – George Kittle Fires Back with Bold TE1 Claim


Posted August 21, 2025

The San Francisco 49ers have been pulled into an August swirl of cap talk. With veteran tight end George Kittle carrying a 2025 cap hit around $14.21 million, some whispers suggest the franchise could consider a tough move on an aging star. Instead of letting speculation write his future, Kittle has answered with a message aimed straight at doubters and decision-makers.

Give me one more chance and I’ll be TE1 — own the seams, hammer the red zone, and that’s how we get back to the Super Bowl.(reportedly said)

A Fan Favorite on the Hot Seat

Since 2017, Kittle has been more than a safety valve — he’s been the heartbeat over the middle, an elite blocker, and a multi-time All-Pro/Pro Bowler. At 31, he’s also entering the phase where production, health, and cost are scrutinized more than ever, even after his four-year, $76.4M extension this spring that lowered his 2025 number. 

The TE1 Promise

Kittle’s pledge isn’t about flash; it’s function. Be the chain-mover on third down, own the seams, and finish in the red zone — while setting the edge in the run game. On the depth chart, he remains the unquestioned starter, with younger tight ends pushing behind him. 

What’s Next for the 49ers?

Moving on from a veteran would free flexibility, but it could also strip the offense of its middle-field identity. Keeping Kittle is a bet that his TE1 impact — in yards after catch, leverage blocks, and high-leverage downs — outweighs the spreadsheet. For now, after April’s extension, Kittle is locked in for 2025; what comes after will be decided by health, production, and how far this offense climbs.

49ers Fan-Favourite OL Faces Family Tragedy Ahead of Week 6 Game as Military-Trained Skydiving Instructor Dies in Nashville
San Francisco 49ers rookie offensive lineman Dominick Puni is mourning a devastating personal loss following the team’s Week 5 matchup, as his cousin Justin Fuller, a respected military-trained skydiving instructor, died in a tragic tandem jump accident near Nashville.Fuller, 35, was fatally injured after becoming separated from his parachute harness mid-air during a jump organized by Go Skydive Nashville. His student survived after landing in a tree with the parachute deployed and was later rescued by firefighters.Police confirmed Fuller’s body was recovered in a wooded area off Ashland City Highway. The Nashville Fire Department called it “one of the most complex high-angle rescues in recent years,” commending its personnel for the effort. Justin Fuller, known by the nickname "Spidey," died after a tandem skydiving jump went wrong on Oct. 4, 2025, near Nashville, Tennessee. (Facebook/Justin Fuller Spidey) Fuller, known affectionately as “Spidey,” had completed more than 5,000 jumps and trained U.S. military personnel in advanced aerial maneuvers. Friends described him as “fearless, focused, and committed to lifting others higher — both in life and in the air.” Puni, whose mother is the younger sister of Fuller's , grew up admiring his cousin’s discipline and sense of purpose. Family members say that influence helped shape his mental toughness and leadership on the field. A relative told local media, “Justin taught Dominick that strength isn’t about being unbreakable — it’s about standing firm when life hits hardest. That’s exactly how Dominick lives and plays today.” Puni, a rookie out of Kansas, has steadily earned the 49ers’ trust along the offensive line, praised for his physicality in the run game and poise in protection. Coaches describe him as “wise beyond his years.” The 49ers have privately offered support and time for Puni and his family, ensuring he can process the loss away from team obligations. Teammates have rallied behind him, honoring his family’s resilience and service background. The FAA is investigating the incident, while tributes to Fuller — under his nickname “Spidey” — continue to flood social media from military peers, skydivers, and fans nationwide. “He taught others to fly — now he’s flying higher than all of us,” one tribute read.