After a disappointing 2024 NFL season, the San Francisco 49ers are determined to bounce back. For that reason, the NFC West club has acquired a former weapon of Kirk Cousins to bolster Brock Purdy‘s offense.
The 49ers entered the 2024 season as favorites to win the Super Bowl. Unfortunately, those expectations proved too high, as the team didn’t even make the playoffs.
Amid numerous injuries and inconsistent performances, the NFC West club was quickly eliminated from playoff contention. However, the front office believes things can turn around and is focused on regaining its status as a top contender for the upcoming campaign.
49ers sign Kirk Cousins’ former weapon to support Brock Purdy
The 49ers went from being the 2024 Super Bowl runners-up to an absolute disappointment the following year. After a standout 2023 season, they failed to reach the playoffs in 2024 and fell far short of expectations.
Injuries played a major role, especially on offense. Key players like Christian McCaffrey, Brandon Aiyuk, Brock Purdy, Deebo Samuel, and George Kittle all missed significant time, making it impossible for head coach Kyle Shanahan to maintain consistency.
Now, with the roster healthy again, the team is ready to contend. Still, Shanahan isn’t taking any chances and has added depth to protect against potential injury setbacks.
On Friday, the 49ers added another weapon to Brock Purdy’s offense—one he knows well. Ross Dwelley has returned to San Francisco after spending the 2024 NFL season playing with Kirk Cousins for the Atlanta Falcons.
Dwelley began his NFL career with the 49ers in 2018. While George Kittle remains the team’s top tight end, Shanahan values depth at the position, which is why the 30-year-old veteran has been brought back for the 2025 season.
Who are the 49ers’ tight ends for 2025?
A few days ago, the 49ers reached a contract extension with George Kittle, securing their top tight end for the foreseeable future. However, no tight end can play every snap, and depth is essential.
With Dwelley’s return, the 49ers now have four tight ends: George Kittle, Ross Dwelley, Luke Farrell, and Brayden Willis. Farrell and Willis are currently listed ahead of Dwelley on the depth chart, but the veteran will undoubtedly compete for the backup role behind Kittle.