The San Francisco 49ers have officially added tight end Hayden Rucci to their roster through a future/reserve contract. This strategic move aims to strengthen the team's depth at the tight end position, especially as veteran George Kittle recovers from an Achilles injury. Rucci's previous stints with the Miami Dolphins and Detroit Lions practice squads, along with his collegiate experience at the University of Wisconsin, bring a unique blend of athleticism and familiarity with a system similar to the 49ers'. His journey from an undrafted rookie to a promising prospect highlights the continuous efforts teams make to build a competitive and resilient squad.
49ers Secure Tight End Hayden Rucci in Key Offseason Acquisition
In a significant offseason development on Thursday, January 22, 2026, the San Francisco 49ers formally announced the signing of tight end Hayden Rucci to a future/reserve contract. This move follows Rucci's brief but impactful tenure on the 49ers' practice squad, which began just days before their pivotal divisional playoff encounter against the Seattle Seahawks. His re-signing signals the team's intent to cultivate talent and prepare for potential roster adjustments in the upcoming season.
Rucci initially entered the National Football League as an undrafted free agent in the 2024 draft, joining the Miami Dolphins. He spent the majority of the 2024 and 2025 seasons primarily on the Dolphins' practice squad, gaining valuable experience. In 2025, he was elevated to Miami's active roster for four games, where he contributed 39 offensive snaps and 42 special teams snaps, showcasing his versatility and commitment. After his release from the Dolphins in late November of that year, Rucci briefly joined the Detroit Lions' practice squad before finding a home with the 49ers.
The acquisition of Rucci comes at a crucial time for the 49ers, particularly with star tight end George Kittle currently sidelined by an Achilles tear. While Rucci may not possess extensive NFL experience, his history with Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel, who previously served as the 49ers' run game coordinator, could prove to be a significant asset. This connection might enable Rucci to integrate quickly into the 49ers' offensive scheme, giving him an edge in the competition for a tight end roster spot during the offseason. During his four-year collegiate career at the University of Wisconsin, Rucci recorded 17 receptions for 200 yards and one touchdown across 36 games, demonstrating his potential as a pass-catching tight end.
This signing underscores the proactive approach of the 49ers in addressing team needs and fostering a competitive environment within their roster. It also highlights the intricate web of connections within the NFL, where past associations can often pave the way for new opportunities.