Brock Purdy’s Presence
Two of the biggest stars on the San Francisco 49ers are taking very different approaches to their voluntary offseason workouts, a decision that may speak volumes about how contract negotiations are going behind the scenes.
Quarterback Brock Purdy reported to the team facility in Santa Clara on Tuesday, despite ongoing contract negotiations that could soon make him one of the highest-paid players in the NFL. Meanwhile, tight end George Kittle was missing from the 49ers practice as he is also in the process of negotiating a new deal with his team.
#49ers QB Brock Purdy has arrived with his team for voluntary offseason conditioning, per me and @TomPelissero, as the two sides are having continued conversations about an extension.
Star TE George Kittle won’t be in attendance, as his contract extension is not close. pic.twitter.com/mlagJerjIS
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 22, 2025
Around the league Brock Purdy’s decision to attend practice is already drawing praise. Entering the final year of his rookie deal, where he’s being paid pennies compared to other starting quarterbacks, the 25-year old is due to become a free agent. Purdy is eligible for a massive extension that could be as much as $50 million per season, most would do the bare minimum or the cautious thing, but he’s reporting to work instead.
By doing so, it’s a smart move both as a leadership move and as a good will gesture, because 49ers brass, particularly CEO Jed York, have been vocal about wanting to lock Brock Purdy up long term. It speaks to his attendance: he’s all in.
George Kittle’s Voluntary Participation
However, George Kittle’s absence could be an indication of trouble. The 31-year old, entering the final season of a five year, $75 million deal has a $22 million cap hit for 2025. The two sides are reportedly far apart in negotiations, so it’s certainly not common for veteran players to skip voluntary workouts, though the timing of all of this is very hard to ignore.
Also Read: San Francisco 49ers: 3 Vital Veterans Expected to Skip Voluntary Activities Amid Contract Negotiation Controversy
However, do not overlook the importance of not overreacting. Voluntary workouts are just that—voluntary. In a league that has always been characterized by action over words, it’s easy to read the movement that Brock Purdy is making now: he’s here, he’s committed, and he’s nearly on the verge of a deal. Kittle? He’s getting it out there that the ball is in the 49ers’ court.
San Francisco fans can only hope both sides reach agreements before these storylines grow louder heading into training camp.
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