A staple cartridge comprises an outer tissue-contacting surface comprising at least one first staple cavity. The at least one first staple cavity is configured to receive at least one first staple that includes a first staple leg with a first tip protruding beyond the outer tissue-contacting surface when the at least one first staple is in an unfired position. The staple cartridge includes an inner tissue-contacting surface comprising at least one second staple cavity. At least one pocket extender protrudes from the outer tissue-contacting surface, wherein the at least one pocket extender is configured to conceal the first tip when the at least one first staple is in the unfired position. The inner tissue-contacting surface cooperates with the outer tissue-contacting surface and the at least one pocket extender to define a contoured frame configured to reduce friction against tissue as the staple cartridge is moved relative to tissue.
