49ers Stun Fans with Surprise Signing of Veteran Tight End—What This Means for the Season

Is there anything quite like the comfort of a familiar face slipping back into the frame just when you least expect it? The San Francisco 49ers seem to think not, bringing Ross Dwelley back into the fold to steady their tight end corps. It’s almost like they’re saying, “Why gamble when you already know the rodeo?” Dwley’s return is more than just nostalgia — it’s a strategic nod to experience, versatility, and that intangible savvy you don’t find in a rookie playbook. As the 49ers pass on drafting tight ends and lean on youthful promise, they’re making a calculated bet on a guy who’s worn the helmet, run the routes, and even filled in at fullback. Could this be the quiet glue that holds a potentially fragile depth chart together? As camp looms, there’s a mix of anticipation and questions—will Dwelley reprise his role seamlessly, or will the fresh blood push him to rediscover his edge? Either way, it’s fascinating to watch a familiar puzzle piece slide back into place just when the stakes get real.

The San Francisco 49ers are strengthening their tight end depth chart with a familiar face.

Ross Dwelley is returning, giving the 49ers a player who knows their system inside and out.

“Niners sign TE Ross Dwelley to one-year deal,” Around The NFL wrote on X.

Niners sign TE Ross Dwelley to one-year dealhttps://t.co/r59htnvkxX pic.twitter.com/HiUxZcPYsf

— Around The NFL (@AroundTheNFL) May 2, 2025

Dwelley joined San Francisco in 2018 as an undrafted free agent and now gets another opportunity.

During his initial San Francisco tenure, he appeared in 84 games with 17 starts over six seasons.

Last season, he played for the Atlanta Falcons, appearing in all 17 games but garnering just one reception for five yards while also contributing on special teams.

The addition comes at an interesting time for San Francisco.

The 49ers passed on selecting a tight end in the 2025 NFL Draft, instead signing free agent Luke Farrell.

Beyond that, the group consists of young, unproven talent like Brayden Willis and Jake Tonges.

What makes Dwelley valuable is his experience and versatility. Throughout his career, he has lined up at multiple positions, even filling in at fullback when Kyle Juszczyk was sidelined.

His career numbers show modest but meaningful production with 45 receptions for 523 yards and five touchdowns in 101 games.

As training camp approaches, Dwelley will compete for a spot on the final roster behind All-Pro starter George Kittle, who recently received a lucrative contract extension.

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