49ers: Looking at San Francisco's locks and bubble-watch players after NFL Draft

San Francisco 49ers: Looking at locks and bubble-watch players after the NFL Draft

Sep 12, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers right cornerback Jimmie Ward (25) and cornerback Rashard Robinson (33) reacts in the game against the San Francisco 49ers in the third quarter at Levi's Stadium. The 49ers won 28-0. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports /

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Oct 13, 2014; St. Louis, MO, USA; San Francisco 49ers tight end Vance McDonald (89) fumbles the football during the first half against the St. Louis Rams at the Edward Jones Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports /

Tight End

Blake Bell, Garrett Celek, George Kittle, Vance McDonald, Logan Paulsen

The 49ers tried to move tight end Vance McDonald just before the NFL Draft, but nothing happened.

That alone suggests McDonald’s tenure in San Francisco may be short. Especially with the Niners adding a very talented TE in Iowa’s George Kittle in Round 5.

San Francisco also inked blocking tight end Logan Paulsen via free agency. He won’t be too much a receiving weapon. But he understands head coach Kyle Shanahan’s scheme from their days with the Washington Redskins, so he’ll be the mentor for the rest of this group.

As for the rest? Well, it’s going to be an uphill climb for likely three roster spots.

San Francisco 49ers: Looking at locks and bubble-watch players after the NFL Draft

By Peter Panacy | May 5, 2017

Tight End

Blake Bell, Garrett Celek, George Kittle, Vance McDonald, Logan Paulsen

Locks: George Kittle, Logan Paulsen

Good Shape: Vance McDonald

Strong Bubble: Garrett Celek

Weak Bubble: Blake Bell