49ers training camp: 5 early takeaways from 2020 practices

No. 2: George Kittle’s extension talks haven’t affected 49ers camp… yet

It can’t all be positive, right?

If there has been something of a negative development for San Francisco, it’s the fact no extension has been reached between the Niners and their top offensive player, All-Pro tight end George Kittle.

The latest report from NFL Network’s Mike Silver earlier in the week suggested talks between Kittle and the 49ers have been moving at a snail’s pace. Or as Silver referenced it, like an inchworm:

https://twitter.com/MikeSilver/status/1292891620673818624

Kittle is not holding out, however, and he has regularly attended camp practices up to this point.

And so far, no distractions.

“Lots of stuff to talk through with that. Stuff that I am very glad I don’t get paid to do,” Kyle Shanahan told KNBR 680 (h/t NBC Sports Bay Area). “I’m very glad I can sit here and talk mainly football, and enjoy that stuff with George. That’s been great with him because he’s been great in the walk-throughs, great in the meetings.”

Then, on Thursday, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported progress had been made.

There are more than a few obstacles in the way of the 49ers reaching a new agreement with Kittle, who is expected to smash the market for tight ends and then some.

Still, regardless of what happens on the field, Kittle’s pending extension or lack thereof will be one of the key discussion points at every notable calendar date between now and the regular season.