While the 49ers state that McDonald has been traded for an "undisclosed draft choice," Adam Schefter of ESPN, who first reported the trade, states that San Francisco will send the tight end and a fifth-round draft pick to Pittsburgh in return for a fourth-round pick. It essentially moves the 27-year old McDonald off of the roster and allows the team to move up one round in the draft.
"We would like to thank Vance for his contributions to this organization on the field and in the community over the last four seasons," said 49ers general manager John Lynch via a statement issued by the team. "Although I have only known Vance for a short time, I quickly learned that he and his wife, Kendi, have been tremendous representatives for the team in the community and their service to others is quite commendable. We wish the McDonald family all the best as they move on to a new opportunity in Pittsburgh."
Last December, McDonald and the 49ers' previous regime agreed to a five-year, $35 million extension that included $16 million guaranteed. McDonald ended the 2016 season on injured reserve.
Prior to the injury, McDonald was having the best season of his career. He had 391 yards receiving, which was a career best, and four touchdowns last season. He was originally selected by the 49ers in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft out of Rice. In four seasons with the 49ers, he has appeared in 48 games, started 30, and registered 64 receptions for 866 yards and seven touchdowns.
With limited roster spots, the 49ers already had a crowded group of tight ends. The team still has Garrett Celek and Blake Bell from last season. The 49ers added George Kittle, who was a fifth-round selection out of Iowa, free agent Logan Paulsen, and undrafted free agent Cole Hikutini.
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