The Atlanta Falcons made headlines before the 2024 season by signing two former San Francisco 49ers tight ends, Charlie Woerner and Ross Dwelley, to bolster their run-blocking capabilities. While Woerner solidified his role as one of the NFL’s premier blocking tight ends, Dwelley’s journey with the Falcons was short-lived, and his recent release from the 49ers marks another twist in his career.
A Brief Stint in Atlanta
Ross Dwelley, a lesser-known but reliable player, appeared in all 17 games for the Falcons in 2024, primarily in two-tight-end sets and on special teams. His contributions were modest, with 105 offensive snaps and a single catch for five yards. According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), Dwelley earned a 59.3 run block grade, trailing Woerner’s impressive 65.6 but surpassing teammate Kyle Pitts’ 46.1.
Despite his steady presence, Dwelley’s time in Atlanta lasted just one season. He returned to the San Francisco 49ers, where he had spent the first six years of his career after signing as an undrafted free agent out of the University of San Diego in 2018. Dwelley’s college career with the Toreros was notable, amassing 197 receptions for 2,305 yards and 26 touchdowns. His best NFL season came in 2020 with the 49ers, when he recorded 19 catches for 245 yards and a touchdown.
A Sudden Exit
Hopes of a 49ers reunion were dashed when ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that San Francisco released Dwelley on Friday afternoon, just weeks before the 2025 season. The move leaves the 30-year-old tight end searching for a new team as the regular season approaches. With a career defined by grit and versatility, Dwelley’s next opportunity may hinge on his ability to market himself as a dependable blocker and special teams contributor.
Falcons’ Tight End Outlook
Back in Atlanta, Charlie Woerner remains the cornerstone of the Falcons’ tight end group, excelling as a blocker while Kyle Pitts operates primarily as a slot or wide receiver. The Falcons typically carry three tight ends on their roster, and with Pitts listed at the position, the backup role behind Woerner is up for grabs. Potential candidates include Nikola Kalinic, Teagan Quitoriano, rookie Joshua Simon, and Feleipe Franks.
In a recent 53-man roster prediction by Atlanta Falcons On SI’s Garrett Chapman, Feleipe Franks emerged as a dark horse to secure the backup spot, especially after impressing during joint practices with the Tennessee Titans. The competition will intensify when the Falcons face the Titans on Friday at 7:00 p.m. EST at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, offering a critical stage for these players to prove their worth.
What’s Next for Dwelley?
For Ross Dwelley, the release from San Francisco is a setback, but his experience and skill set could attract interest from teams seeking depth at tight end. The Falcons could consider bringing him back for another tryout, given his familiarity with their system. However, with a crowded field of contenders in Atlanta and his recent cut, Dwelley’s NFL dreams face an uncertain future as the 2025 season looms.