What It Means:

That number would make Kittle the highest-paid tight end in football ahead of Austin Hooper, who brings in $10.5 million per season. The number may seem somewhat low, but potential revenue deficiencies caused by the COVID-19 pandemic could lower the 2021 salary cap. It was reported at the end of May that Kittle and the 49ers were "far apart" in extension talks. Kittle missed two games with a painful knee injury and also dealt with ankle issues last year, but he still turned in a second straight 1,000-yard campaign with 5 touchdowns. Entering his age-26 season, Kittle is expected to once again be the 49ers' primary option in the passing game.

Kittle is the top tight end in numberFire's preseason fantasy rankings. Our models project him for 130.8 targets, 92.6 receptions, 1,084.9 yards, and 8.2 touchdowns this season.