The San Francisco 49ers have had a relatively quiet offseason in terms of internal drama. Due to this, star tight end George Kittle couldn’t be happier. After an offseason of roster changes, Kittle expressed his relief that there have been no contract holdouts or quarterback controversies.
“I’m happy that we don’t have a bunch of guys holding out for contracts,” Kittle told NBC Sports Bay Area’s Jennifer Lee Chan. “I’m glad that we are not having a super drama-filled offseason. I think every year of my career we’ve had a quarterback controversy at some point. And to not have that, it’s going great.”
Kittle secured his own contract early in the offseason and noted that the absence of drama has created a positive atmosphere.
The 49ers’ offseason focus has included several new free agent signings. Kittle emphasized the importance of getting to know these new teammates before the grind of training camp begins. Quarterback Brock Purdy, also reported for the team’s voluntary workouts, and Kittle believes his presence further boosts the team’s chemistry.
“Brock being here reinforces that because everybody knows who Brock is and he is a very social person in the locker room,” Kittle said. “His being around, getting to meet everybody, is just good for our team chemistry.”
Having gone through multiple contract negotiations himself, Kittle has offered guidance to Purdy as he navigates his own contract situation. Drawing from advice given to him by former 49er Richard Sherman, Kittle likened contract talks to getting braces: uncomfortable at times, but ultimately beneficial.
