The San Francisco 49ers have one key cog in the building and another staying away amid contract negotiations.
Quarterback Brock Purdy reported for the first day of the Niners' offseason workout program on Tuesday, NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero reported, per sources informed of the situation.
On the flip side, tight end George Kittle won't be in attendance as the sides aren't close on a new pact.
"That's Brock. He's a pro," 49ers general manager John Lynch said Tuesday afternoon when he addressed the media, via the Bay Area News Group's Cam Inman. "We're grateful for him and looking forward to having him as our QB a long time."
Purdy reporting is an indication that talks are headed in the right direction, which was exactly the sentiment delivered by Lynch.
"I think there's been some substantive talks that have this thing going in a good direction," Lynch said.
Rapoport noted that the sides are having continued conversations about a new deal for the underpaid starting quarterback. The final selection of the 2022 NFL Draft, Purdy has been playing for relative peanuts. He's due a massive pay increase, and regardless of what rival Puka Nacua thinks, it'll likely land in the $50 million range.
Kittle enters the final year of his contract. He's set to earn a $14.4 million base salary, but none is guaranteed. The 31-year-old remains a vital piece in Kyle Shanahan's offense.
"We've had good communication," Lynch said, via ESPN's Nick Wagoner. "Good talks and we'll see where it goes."
Kittle's ability to snag passes and block well is invaluable. Kittle's $15 million average per year contract (signed in 2020) is the fourth-highest among tight ends. Arizona Cardinals pass-catcher Trey McBride recently reset the market for the position at $19 million annually.
The last time Kittle signed an extension in San Francisco, it took until mid-August. It appears that train could be on a similar track on this trip to Contract Land.
