NFL

49ers sign TE George Kittle to four-year, $76.4 million contract extension

Kittle, 31, is still the NFL’s best tight end, so extending him was a no-brainer for San Francisco. The only question now is why the agreement took so long. The 49ers’ financial concerns are certainly a reason as to why, and the roster isn’t getting any cheaper, either. Franchise quarterback Brocky Purdy is due for a massive new deal, which would make it even harder for San Francisco to sign players to this type of contract.

That’s a problem for another day, though. The good news is that the 49ers locked in a Hall of Fame tight end for the rest of his career. Kittle should have a few exceptional years left, if his 2024 production is any indication.

Kittle posted 78 receptions for 1,106 yards and eight touchdowns last season.

Grade: A-

Commanders sign K Matt Gay to one-year, $4.35 million contract

It’s a bit odd that Gay was even on the market, though his struggles from distance in 2024 probably had something to do with it. Finishing just 3-for-8 from 50-plus yards last year, the 31-year-old had his worst season since his rookie year with the Buccaneers in 2019. Given his track record, Gay is a good bet to bounce back this season, but the Commanders are paying a lofty sum for their belief in the kicker.

Washington released kicker Zane Gonzalez in a corresponding move, just one month after signing him to a one-year deal. This one is a head-scratcher.

Grade: C-