Just prior to the start of Day 2 of the 2017 NFL Draft, Michael Lombardi reported that the San Francisco 49ers were interested in trading TE Vance McDonald. With the draft wrapped up, it is obvious that the 49ers were unable to accomplish that.
On Saturday, following the 49ers' final selection of the draft, 49ers general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed that they were actively shopping McDonald but were unable to complete a deal. Lynch said that McDonald is expected back.
On December 9th, McDonald and the 49ers' previous regime agreed to a five-year, $35 million extension that includes $16 million guaranteed. McDonald ended the 2016 season on injured reserve. The tight end left the game, which was an overtime loss to the New York Jets, following the announcement of his contract extension with a shoulder injury.
Prior to the injury, McDonald was having the best season of his career. He had 391 yards receiving, which was a career best. McDonald also had four touchdowns last season. He was originally selected by the 49ers in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft out of Rice.
The 49ers ended up drafting a tight end in the fifth round with the selection of George Kittle of Iowa. Kittle played with another 49ers selection, Iowa quarterback C.J. Beathard, who was selected in the third round.