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49ers Preseason: Evaluating Bubble-Watch Players for Each Position

By Peter Panacy

Aug 14, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Blaine Gabbert (2) warms up before the game against the Houston Texans at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 14, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Blaine Gabbert (2) warms up before the game against the Houston Texans at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports /
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Aug 14, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers tight end Vance McDonald (89) catches a touchdown against the Houston Texans in the first quarter at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 14, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers tight end Vance McDonald (89) catches a touchdown against the Houston Texans in the first quarter at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports /

Tight End

Lock: Garrett Celek, Vance McDonald, Bruce Miller

Looking Good: None

Strong Bubble: Blake Bell

Weak Bubble: Busta Anderson, Je’Ron Hamm

Yes, tight end Vance McDonald will make the roster in spite of previous ball-catching questions. His 43-yard touchdown reception from quarterback Blaine Gabbert helps ensure this.

https://twitter.com/NFL/status/764967234619842561

And fellow TE Garrett Celek’s four-year, $10.2 million contract extension also ensures he’ll be on the roster this season. Former fullback, turned tight end Bruce Miller also isn’t going anywhere.

Second-year pro Blake Bell is a little more interesting a commodity though.

Keep in mind Bell had just one collegiate year at the position, after spending three as a quarterback for Oklahoma, and he’s very raw. Bell hasn’t cemented himself as a legitimate option at this position, so he has to be viewed as on the bubble.

But it’s doubtful the Niners are willing to give up on him just yet.

Next: Wide Receiver