Report: 'Pretty significant disconnect' exists between George Kittle, 49ers in contract negotiations

Silver states that the 49ers want to give the 26-year-old a "great tight end deal," but Kittle believes he's more than just a tight end. 

Kittle, who was just voted the seventh-best player in the NFL by his peers, could potentially reset the tight end market. However, some believe he could be paid similarly to a wide receiver.

Hall of Famer and three-time Super Bowl champion Steve Young said earlier this month that San Francisco is going to "have to pay" Kittle like a wide receiver because he's one of the most talented and productive players in the league. 

Similarly, former Indianapolis Colts punter and current podcast host Pat McAfee believes Kittle "will get" wide receiver money. 

Earlier in the offseason, there were reports that the two-time Pro Bowler could receive as much as $20 million per season. However, The Athletic reported several weeks ago that he'll likely receive $13 million per year. 

If the 49ers plan to keep Kittle, they better pay him handsomely. In his first three seasons, Kittle has racked up 2,945 receiving yards, which is the most by a tight end in NFL history. He's recorded wide receiver-like numbers the past two seasons, so it's no surprise why he's looking to be paid like one. 

Kittle currently is entering the final year of the four-year contract he signed as a fifth-round pick in 2017. He's set to make just $2.133 million in 2020 after making $1.96 million combined over his first three seasons. Quite frankly, he's due for a hefty raise, and he's put up the numbers to prove it.