San Francisco 49ers star George Kittle anticipates a rapid increase in the value of NFL tight end contracts over the next few years. Speaking on The Dan Patrick Show, Kittle emphasized that the growth of the tight end market depends on multiple players receiving substantial pay raises rather than just a single top contract. He highlighted the desire for all tight ends to perform well and secure big deals, which would collectively raise the market’s ceiling.
Kittle Highlights Steady Climb in Tight End Earnings
Kittle pointed out that when “Tight End U” first gained attention, the highest annual salary for the position was $15 million, but now top contracts approach $20 million. He described this progression as a positive trend that reflects the demanding and versatile role tight ends play on the field, asserting that the position deserves increased compensation and that efforts to achieve this are ongoing.
Mentoring and Experience: Calais Campbell’s Role with the Cardinals
In Arizona, veteran defensive lineman Calais Campbell cherishes his responsibility as a mentor to younger Cardinals players. Having started his career in Arizona, Campbell values passing on his NFL knowledge to the next generation. He expressed a strong commitment to sharing insights that could elevate his teammates’ performance and contribute to the team’s success.
“I feel there is no point for me to die with all this knowledge, to the graveyard at the end of my career. I have to share with as many people as possible, especially people that are going to help us win ballgames. If I help them to a level that’s better than me, then the team is better and I will find my role and make it work.”
— Calais Campbell, Arizona Cardinals Defensive Lineman
Rams Take Precautions Following Alaric Jackson’s Health Concerns
The Los Angeles Rams are closely monitoring offensive tackle Alaric Jackson, who has been sidelined after experiencing symptoms in his lower leg. A medical scan revealed blood clots, prompting the team to prioritize his health and safety.
Head Coach Sean McVay shared that the medical staff is taking a cautious approach while gathering information and said the team is prepared with contingency plans, including signing veteran D.J. Humphries on a one-year contract to provide depth.
“You pray for him to be able to have a healthy, safe recovery,”
McVay said.
“And we’re really just taking it a day at a time with him. There’s a lot of examples of people that have had situations like this, but they’re all still so uniquely independent in their own right. And so we’re gathering information.”
— Sean McVay, Los Angeles Rams Head Coach
“There needs to be a lot of discussion and dialogue with Jackson and with the doctors about, most importantly, what’s best for him as a human being,”
McVay added.
“And then you talk about football after that. But what we are grateful for is that we were able to identify this based on his communication and get him on the appropriate medicine to make sure that he’s as healthy as possible.”
— Sean McVay, Los Angeles Rams Head Coach
Growing Tight End Market Signals Future Contract Milestones
George Kittle’s predictions underscore a broader shift within the NFL, as the tight end position gains increased recognition for its multi-faceted contributions. His vision includes future stars like Brock Bowers commanding contracts exceeding $20 million annually within a few years, a figure that would redefine the position’s financial landscape. This anticipated growth is tied to multiple players improving their performances and collectively elevating the market value, rather than relying on isolated landmark deals.
This trend could impact team salary structures and contract negotiations league-wide, prompting organizations to invest more heavily in tight end talent. Kittle’s insights reflect a focus on both player performance and market dynamics, affirming the evolving importance of tight ends in modern NFL offenses.