San Francisco 49ers: 5 best UDFAs during John Lynch era
By Robert Smith
No. 5: 49ers Tight End Ross Dwelley
This spot was kind of tough to choose.
With all due respect to former Niners offensive lineman Erik Magnuson and backup linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair, tight end Ross Dwelley flashed just a bit more when given the opportunity, including his two-touchdown performance against the Arizona Cardinals last season. All told in 2019, Dwelley caught 17 passes for 105 yards to go with those two touchdowns.
Dwelley presents himself well as a target for quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo, and although he hasn’t been a huge contributor so far in his short career, Dwelley has shown solid hands and a willingness to absorb contact. Playing second fiddle to all-world tight end George Kittle may limit playing time and opportunities, but Dwelley’s arrow seems to be pointing up.
After making strides as a contributor last season, he may become even more involved in the offense this upcoming season. His ceiling could be higher than the team originally thought, even after producing 198 catches for 2,305 yards and 26 touchdowns over his four years at the University of San Diego.
If he continues to produce when receiving more playing, he may stave off sixth-round draftee Charlie Woerner, who was more of a blocking tight end than a pass catcher in college.
It will be interesting to see how Kyle Shanahan uses the second tight end position in the offense this season.