The 49ers reportedly will lose one of their backup tight ends in free agency.
Levine Toilolo, a blocking specialist, is expected to sign with the New York Giants upon the start of the new league year Wednesday, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported.
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Toilolo, a seven-year NFL veteran, shared backup duties last season with Ross Dwelley, appearing in 13 games and catching just two passes for 10 yards. But Toilolo saw more playing time than Dwelley down the stretch and in the playoffs, when the 49ers relied more on their running game.
The 49ers on Monday made an attempt to sign Austin Hooper, NFL Media's Mike Silver reported Monday, before he agreed to a Cleveland Browns contract that will make him the highest-paid tight end in the league.
Veteran Garrett Celek, who has been plagued by back issues in recent years, announced his retirement after the season, leaving Dwelley, All-Pro George Kittle and Daniel Helm as the three tight ends currently on the 49ers’ roster.
Kittle, set to enter the final year of his original rookie contract, is expected to become the NFL's top-paid tight end -- by a large margin -- this offseason. Kittle is scheduled to make $2.133 million in base salary this season. Hooper's new four-year deal reportedly will pay him more than $10 million per season.
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The 49ers were active on the first day of the open negotiating period, reaching contract agreements with defensive lineman Arik Armstead, safety Jimmie Ward and backup offensive lineman Shon Coleman. They also finalized a shocking trade that sent team MVP DeForest Buckner to the Indianapolis Colts for the No. 13 overall pick in this year's NFL draft.