The San Francisco 49ers stunned fans with the announcement of re-signing tight end Ross Dwelley, a former standout at Oak Ridge High School in El Dorado Hills, California. The one-year contract marks Dwelley’s return to the team where he spent the first six seasons of his NFL career before a brief stint with the Atlanta Falcons in 2024.
Journey from Oak Ridge to the NFL
Ross Dwelley, born on January 26, 1995, left a lasting mark at Oak Ridge High School, where he excelled in both football and baseball. Initially playing as a quarterback for his first two seasons, Dwelley took a break from football in his junior year to focus on baseball. However, at the urging of Oak Ridge’s football coach, he returned to the gridiron for his senior year, switching to the tight end position. The move paid off as he recorded 43 receptions for 568 yards and 5 touchdowns, earning the team’s offensive MVP honors.
At the University of San Diego, Dwelley continued to build his football career. After redshirting his freshman year, he played in 47 games (starting 44) over four seasons, amassing 197 receptions for 2,305 yards and 26 touchdowns. Despite going undrafted in the 2018 NFL Draft, Dwelley signed with the 49ers as an undrafted free agent.
Career with the 49ers and a Brief Stop in Atlanta
Dwelley joined the San Francisco 49ers in 2018 and quickly carved out a role. After being cut from the initial roster at the end of training camp, he was signed to the practice squad before being promoted to the active roster on October 15, 2018. He made his NFL debut in a 33–30 loss to the Green Bay Packers on Monday Night Football and recorded his first reception in a 34–3 victory over the Oakland Raiders.
Over six seasons with the 49ers (2018–2023), Dwelley appeared in 101 games, starting 17. He recorded 45 receptions for 523 yards and 5 touchdowns. Notable moments include a 56-yard reception in a win against the Los Angeles Rams in 2022 and his first career touchdown in a victory over the Arizona Cardinals in 2019.
However, Dwelley’s 2023 season was cut short by a high-ankle sprain sustained against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 13, sidelining him for the remainder of the year. He had just one reception for 12 yards in 12 games that season, primarily contributing as a pass-blocker and on special teams.
In 2024, Dwelley signed with the Atlanta Falcons, but his time there was unremarkable. After one season, the 49ers decided to bring him back, adding depth to the tight end position alongside star George Kittle and rookie Luke Farrell.
A Surprising Return
On May 3, 2025, the 49ers announced a one-year deal with Dwelley, marking his second stint with the team. The move was seen as a surprising yet strategic decision to bolster roster depth, especially since the team did not draft a tight end in the recent NFL Draft.
Dwelley, with his extensive experience in the 49ers’ system and versatility in pass-blocking and special teams, is expected to be a valuable addition. His close friendship with George Kittle was also a talking point among fans on social media when the news broke.
Impact and Expectations
Dwelley’s return is not only significant for its on-field implications but also serves as an inspiring story for the El Dorado Hills community. As an Oak Ridge product, he has shown that perseverance and hard work can propel an undrafted player to compete at the highest level.
In the 2025 season, Dwelley is likely to serve as a backup to George Kittle while contributing in special teams situations. With his familiarity with head coach Kyle Shanahan’s system and strong ties to the team, he has an opportunity to make an impact in his second tenure.
Conclusion
Ross Dwelley’s return to the San Francisco 49ers is a shocking yet promising development. With his experience, versatility, and dedication, the Oak Ridge alum is poised to continue his NFL journey. Fans of the 49ers and the El Dorado Hills community will undoubtedly be cheering him on in the upcoming season.