49ers post-OTA 53-man roster predictions for 2021

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San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle (85) Mandatory Credit: Stan Szeto-USA TODAY Sports /

49ers Tight Ends (4)

TE George Kittle

TE Ross Dwelley

TE Charlie Woerner

TE MyCole Pruitt

Frankly, the roles of tight end Nos. 2 through 4 on this roster aren’t all that vital so long as TE1, George Kittle, is healthy and producing.

Ross Dwelley has been serviceable in relief of Kittle over the past few seasons, but he doesn’t strike fear in the hearts of opposing defenders the way the 2019 All-Pro does. While Charlie Woerner and MyCole Pruitt are more block-first options who are still developing as receivers.

The 49ers never got to see the Kittle and Jordan Reed tandem on the field in 2020, and Reed retired in the offseason after one year in San Francisco, leading many to believe the team would upgrade behind Kittle.

So far, Pruitt is the only experienced addition at the position, and he has pulled down just 32 career receptions in 63 NFL games.

It’s certainly possible the undrafted free agent, Josh Pederson, son of former Eagles coach Doug Pederson and the rookie out of Louisiana-Monroe, could make some noise and push for a roster spot. But for now, look for the 49ers to settle with these four guys and hope for a full season out of their top option.