George Kittle of the San Francisco 49ers has secured a four-year contract extension, making him the highest-paid tight end in the NFL. This early extension marks a shift in the 49ers' approach, as historically, the team has delayed negotiations until late summer, leading to preseason disruptions. Kittle's performance as a five-time All-Pro player, combined with his continued productivity at 31, prompted this proactive move. The stability Kittle's contract brings is essential for a 49ers team eager to return to Super Bowl contention, especially following recent contract disputes with other key players. The team is now looking to apply this precedent to upcoming negotiations with quarterback Brock Purdy, aiming to avoid future turmoil and establish a smoother contract extension process.