San Francisco 49ers: Who Is The Answer At Tight End?
By Dan Fappiano
Aug 28, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; San Francisco 49ers tight end Asante Cleveland (45) celebrates scoring a touchdown during the first half against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Cleveland went undrafted in 2014 out of Miami(FL) before signing with the 49ers as an undrafted free agent. He was released and then signed to the team’s practice squad. Cleveland was then called up to the active roster in September. He dressed for six games but saw no targets.
San Francisco 49ers
Cleveland is an intriguing player given how his college career panned out. After being a three star prospect, Cleveland committed to Miami(FL). His rookie year he caught for over 100 yards but failed to reach that mark in any of his three following campaigns. He caught his one and only touchdown in the last game of his senior season. He was used mainly as a blocker for the Hurricane.
That’s the same role he would play for the 49ers. At 6’5″ 260, Cleveland’s size is ideal for a blocking tight end. He could be a key secondary piece for a team looking for a strictly blocking tight end.
Unfortunately, the 49ers have too many tight ends on their roster to keep Cleveland on their main roster. His offensive liability makes him expendable going into the season.
Cleveland would most likely compete for TE3 duties, but due to his lack of offensive ability, Cleveland will most likely either get cut or spend another tenure on the 49ers’ practice squad.
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