The San Francisco 49ers have a big issue on their hands in the form of Brandon Aiyuk’s contract extension negotiations and reported trade request.
It is a tricky situation to navigate, as he is expected to sit out training camp, which starts for them on Tuesday, July 23.
But despite all that, star tight end George Kittle says he’s looking forward to the start of the new season, per NFL Network.
“I get to play football again, and I’m really excited about it,” he said.
“I get to play football again, and I’m really excited about it.” @gkittle46 is always ready to get back to the grind. 🏈 pic.twitter.com/KzT67ExO0S
— NFL Network (@nflnetwork) July 22, 2024
If Aiyuk sits out any regular season games or even gets traded as a result of his extension demands, Kittle will be one player who can and will have to step things up to fill the void Aiyuk will create.
Kittle had a strong 2023 season, posting 65 catches for 1,020 yards and six touchdowns while earning his fifth Pro Bowl appearance and second All-Pro First Team selection.
Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs has been considered to be the NFL’s best tight end over the last few years, but his numbers dropped a bit last year, so an argument could possibly be made that Kittle is now the best at that position.
One thing that makes the 49ers difficult to defend is the multitude of options they have on offense, from Kittle and Aiyuk to fellow wide receiver Deebo Samuel and, of course, running back Christian McCaffrey, the reigning Offensive Player of the Year.
If they resolve Aiyuk’s situation and get him back in the fold, they should have a great chance of finally winning their first Super Bowl championship since the 1994 season.
