Over the years, the San Francisco 49ers have tried (and mostly failed) to find and develop quality backups to support All-Pro tight end George Kittle.
Two of those backup tight ends, Charlie Woerner and Ross Dwelley, had lengthy tenures with the Niners prior to departing via free agency in 2024 for the Atlanta Falcons. Dwelley, in particular, spent the previous six seasons in San Francisco before heading to the NFC South for a single season, logging just one reception for 5 yards over the course of his lone year in Atlanta.
Dwelley's return doesn't happen in a vacuum, though.
The 49ers were aggressive in free agency early on as they inked former Jacksonville Jaguars tight end Luke Farrell to a three-year deal worth up to $15.75 million, all but ensuring this move is far more than just landing a camp body behind Kittle.
While Farrell's blocking prowess should free up Kittle to run more routes, the former's presence doesn't bode well for Dwelley's immediate future.
Don't expect Ross Dwelley to stay on 49ers roster much longer
San Francisco likely keeps three tight ends on its 53-man roster this season, leaving the final spot behind Kittle and Farrell to Dwelley, Jake Tonges and Brayden Willis.
Having a third tight end on the roster in Dwelley makes little sense. It's hard to imagine keeping a 30-year-old player on the practice squad when Willis is five years younger and still has the promise of potential.
Even though Dwelley has caught five scores, all of his touchdowns have been prior to the 2023 season. He has never logged 20 or more receptions in any year, either.
With the 49ers committing over $90 million between Kittle and Farrell, the cost to pay Dwelley to play in 2025 is roughly $1.4 million. Cutting him carries no financial burden as the Northern California native has no guarantees in his contract.
In fact, the 49ers may be better off bidding Dwelley farewell sooner than later, not only since he's clearly not a part of their roster plans but to also give him a jumpstart on finding a new gig elsewhere.