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San Francisco 49ers: Early predictions for 2017 depth chart, 53-man roster

By Peter Panacy

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
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 31, 2015; Iowa City, IA, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes tight end George Kittle (46) reaches out to catch a pass while chased by by Maryland Terrapins defensive back Anthony Nixon (20) and linebacker Brett Zanotto (38) during the first quarter against the Maryland Terrapins at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 31, 2015; Iowa City, IA, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes tight end George Kittle (46) reaches out to catch a pass while chased by by Maryland Terrapins defensive back Anthony Nixon (20) and linebacker Brett Zanotto (38) during the first quarter against the Maryland Terrapins at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports /

Tight End (3)

George Kittle, Logan Paulsen, Garrett Celek

The 49ers attempted to move No. 1 tight end Vance McDonald just before the NFL Draft. And even though no deal took place, this doesn’t bode well for McDonald’s future in San Francisco.

He’ll likely be overtaken by George Kittle — a fifth-round addition from this year’s draft, who likely would have had a more prolific profile had he played in a more noteworthy collegiate system than Iowa.

Kittle may be the steal of the draft for San Francisco. He has excellent hands and possesses all the makings of a mismatch nightmare.

Related Story: Why George Kittle may be the steal of the NFL Draft for San Francisco

San Francisco also added veteran tight end Logan Paulsen via free agency. While not known as a premier pass catcher, Paulsen is one of the better blocking TEs in the NFL. And he has familiarity with head coach Kyle Shanahan’s offense — a valuable bonus.

Garrett Celek, who has emerged as a decent pass-catching threat in recent years, rounds out this group at No. 3 on the depth chart.