The 49ers do not want defensive tackle DeForest Buckner or tight end George Kittle to ever reach free agency.
Retaining Buckner and Kittle appear to be the organization’s top long-term priorities. They have contract rights to both players through the 2020 season.
But, first, the 49ers have to deal with the situations of players on contracts that are set to expire after Super Bowl LIV. The list includes three players who rank among the top 30 scheduled free agents, according to Pro Football Focus.
The 49ers’ top-ranked player scheduled for unrestricted free agency, according to PFF, is wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders, who came to the club in a midseason trade with the Denver Broncos.