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Is George Kittle a first-ballot Hall of Famer? Rich Eisen shares his take on 49ers star

Originally posted on 49ers Webzone | By David Bonilla | Last updated Apr 29, 2025 3:00 PM ET

Back in February, 49ers general manager John Lynch voiced his hope that George Kittle would retire as a lifelong member of the San Francisco 49ers. That vision took a significant step forward on Tuesday morning, as Kittle signed a four-year, $76.4 million contract extension, once again making him the NFL's highest-paid tight end and keeping him signed through the 2029 season.

You may be having a good day, but Kittle is having a better one pic.twitter.com/NoqZQSgyeo— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) April 29, 2025

Kittle is coming off another stellar season, posting his fourth career campaign with over 1,000 receiving yards. His 1,106 yards and eight touchdowns added to an already impressive résumé, and his 92.1 offensive grade from Pro Football Focus led all NFL tight ends.

That Hall of Fame-worthy production became a topic on The Rich Eisen Show following news of the extension. Eisen didn't hesitate to call Kittle a lock for Canton—but stopped short of first-ballot status.

"George Kittle's a Hall of Famer, I would say," Eisen said. "He is getting up there. If he didn't play another down, George Kittle would be a consideration for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

"Not a first ballot. No. I mean, if Antonio Gates wasn't first ballot, [Kittle's not]. But he's up there, and George is one of the all-time great Forty-Niner pass catchers. How does that sound? And I know who I'm talking about here."

Eisen also applauded the 49ers for getting the deal done, calling it a "smart move" and "smart business." But he noted there's still work to do this offseason.

"Sign Brock Purdy and get through it," Eisen added.