49ers 2019 roster bubble-watch prediction ahead of preseason Week 1

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CORVALLIS, OR – OCTOBER 26: Kaden Smith #82 of the Stanford Cardinal signals first down after making a catch on fourth down against the Oregon State Beavers at Reser Stadium on October 26, 2017 in Corvallis, Oregon. (Photo by Jonathan Ferrey/Getty Images) /

Tight End

Lock: George Kittle, Kaden Smith

Strong Bubble: Ross Dwelley, Levine Toilolo

Weak Bubble: Tyree Mayfield

Long Shot: Daniel Helm, Garrett Celek

The No. 1 tight end slot isn’t up for grabs, of course. That belongs to 2018 Pro Bowler George Kittle.

After Kittle, however, things get a bit more provocative.

San Francisco used a sixth-round pick on Stanford’s Kaden Smith in this year’s draft. And while he might not be the fastest weapon, he’s a unique pass-catching threat with good run-blocking skills. Those are valuable, and the Niners will want to give him time to develop into something more, potentially.

But the veteran, Levine Toilolo, is an established blocker in support of both the run and pass. Those weapons are vital, too, although the 49ers could wind up keeping both.

Yet second-year pro Ross Dwelley might be another player to watch in the mix here. He’s risen a bit lately in training camp, and the preseason might be a good indicator if Dwelley should have a clear-cut role.

Undrafted rookie Tyree Mayfield, who excelled on special teams at Wyoming, has an extreme outside chance, although a hunch places him on the practice squad.

One should note veteran tight end Garrett Celek (concussion, back) remains on the PUP list and probably won’t be available until a few weeks into the regular season. Even then, his chances to hang around on the roster seem slim.