Asante

Cleveland

The move all but officially rules out Antonio Gates (hamstring, doubtful) for Sunday’s game. Rookie Hunter Henry is expected to start in Gates’ place and is a fine streaming option against the Colts.

An exclusive rights free agent, Cleveland was retained on a minimum offer. Cleveland played four games for the Chargers after being signed in September. He will compete for a roster spot in camp.

Derek Carrier and Asante Cleveland are the names Maiocco heard, but the 49ers could likely be convinced to part with Vance McDonald as well. With eight tight ends on the roster, San Francisco would probably like to move a couple before cutdowns begin. Though Maiocco does not mention any teams specifically, it is easy to project the Redskins as one of the interested parties.

With eight tight ends on their roster before this trade, the 49ers have been actively shopping players like Cleveland and Derek Carrier to tight-end needy teams. Cleveland will compete with Michael Hoomanaqanui and Jake Bequette for one of the last spots on the Patriots’ 53-man roster.

LB Eric Martin was cut in a corresponding move. A receiving threat at 6-5, 260, Cleveland should add another pass catcher to New England’s banged-up receiver corps.

It likely means that one of Vernon Davis (ankle) or Vance McDonald (knee) isn’t going to play this week. Derek Carrier had 41 yards on three catches filling in for McDonald last week and is in line for significant playing time.