Today is the one-week anniversary of the first full day of free agency. We continued what has become a yearly tradition of maintaining a minute-by-minute account of all the happenings.
However, we're going to be on a schedule today. From 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., I'll be posting updates every quarter-hour. Like a harried bus driver, I'll try to keep from falling behind. If I can't keep up, I'll try to safely drive a little faster next time to get to the next stop on time.
I'm thinking I probably should've informed my boss I was leaving for a few days before writing this. Oh, well, maybe if I link to his "American Idol Chatter" blog, he'll forgive me.
Here we go. Please wait until we come to a complete stop before exiting:
8:00 a.m. (PT): Today at the 49ers' practice facility, lineman Barry Sims and 49ers strength and conditioning coach Duane Carlisle will take part in a "Finding Balance" session to help maximize the potential of young female athletes. The title, T.H.I.N.K. GOLD! represents the objectives: Training, health, inspiration, nutrition and knowledge. The 49ers are joining the FC Gold Pride and the Bay Area Women's Sports Initiative to co-host the conference. Guard Tony Wragge took part in the first event, a community caravan, in which he was joined by Brandi Chastain, among others. Chastain is the keynote speaker today at 11:30 a.m.
8:15 a.m.: Cardinals free-agent CB Eric Green is scheduled to visit the 49ers today. He has already visited the Dolphins and Titans. As is the case with these visits from Cardinals free agents, the first 45 minutes seems to be the key.
8:30 a.m.: GM Scot McCloughan is on record as saying the 49ers have not closed the door on Terrell Owens. I heard him say it on KNBR. He put his name behind that statement. Until he comes out, publicly, and says the 49ers are "moving in a different direction" or "there is no interest," we have to hold him at his word. The 49ers used a similarly wimpy approach to the whole Michael Vick stuff. McCloughan and Mike Singletary have never publicly said they're not interested in trading for him. But a club spokesman, apparently after speaking with McCloughan and Singletary, said the 49ers are NOT interested in Vick. Still, when given a chance - on the record - to say the same thing, McCloughan and Singletary have not spoken so definitively. Most of us know Owens and Vick would be HORRIBLE fits, but publicly the 49ers are not ruling it out. It's almost as if they're afraid to offend Vick and Owens . . . or their agents.
8:45 a.m.: Why Eric Green? Good question. The 49ers are currently down one cornerback, as free-agent Donald Strickland remains unsigned. Always thought Strickland would definitely return. I don't know why this is taking so long. I know Strickland recently took a trip to
9:00 a.m.: These 15-minute intervals sure come up in a hurry. I'm taking the kids to school right now. I'll be back in a bit.
9:15 a.m.: Sorry I'm late, but now I can relate to Brenda Warner. I had to plead with my kid to remain someplace she didn't want to be: school.
9:30 a.m.: On the whole subject of the 49ers' non-offer offer to Warner. Here is exactly what agent Mark Bartelstein told me two days ago: "I told them (the 49ers), theoretically, what I thought was the right deal for Kurt, and they agreed." And we all know that Bartelstein thought Warner should make very close to the "franchise" salary of $14.65 million. So, basically, the 49ers did not make an offer. Instead, Bartelstein made a proposal and the 49ers indicated they would be willing to pay it.
9:45 a.m.: Cornerback Eric Green (Cardinals) has arrived at the 49ers' facility. He's in the process of getting his physical, and then he'll meet with the coaches. His flight is scheduled to leave later this afternoon. As noted, he has already visited with the Dolphins and Titans, so we'll see if the 49ers sign him before he jumps on that flight. Keep it tuned right here.
10:00 a.m.: Free-agent offensive tackle Damane Duckett will likely not be back with the 49ers, agent Jim Naughton said. The 49ers did not tender Duckett as a restricted free agent, therefore making him eligible to negotiate and sign with any team. The players' union incorrectly had Duckett listed as an unrestricted free agent in its paperwork immediately following the season. Duckett, who was converted from defensive tackle in 2007, spent last year on injured reserve because of an injury involving cartilage under his kneecap. He has been healthy for several months, Naughton said. I figured all along that Duckett would be back because he continued to work out at the 49ers' facility during the season. However, with the coaching change, the 49ers have apparently decided to move on without him. Naughton said Duckett considers himself an offensive tackle. He is not looking to move back to defensive line.
10:15 a.m.: Niners free-agent quarterback J.T. O'Sullivan has officially signed with the Bengals. "J.T. saw a lot of action last year and we see him as a player with still a lot of upside," offensive coordinator Bob Bratkowski said on bengals.com. "He has experience in a number of systems and is a very sharp guy. We're happy to have him as a backup to Carson (Palmer)."
10:30 a.m.: The day free-agency began, McCloughan was asked about the odds of the team re-signing O'Sullivan: "Fifty-fifty," he said. "I mean, again, no doors are closed on any quarterbacks. You know, we know what J.T. is and he is a talent or a skill level that we like. So definitely, the door is not closed on J.T."
10:45 a.m.: Your opinions of Kurt Warner might differ, but at least he was good for "Instant 49ers." On Monday, this blog had its most page views in a single day: more than 104,000. Over the three-day stretch, there were 270,000 page views. Thanks, Kurt, for jumping on that jet to visit.
11:00 a.m.: From the community relations department . . . Niners owner John York and team president Jed York, along with several players and coaches, will take part in the Eighth Annual West Coast "Open Your Heart to the Children Benefit" at The Contemporary Jewish Museum in
11:15 a.m.: Absolutely loved it when Shaun Hill said he was happy Kurt Warner re-signed with the Cardinals. Of course, he loved it. Why wouldn't he? Hill has a strong chance to be the 49ers' starter in 2009 at about one-tenth the price it would've taken to acquire Warner. He would've been back on the bench if Warner had signed. Now, Hill is the front-runner for the starting job. By the way, when I spoke to Hill on Wednesday he was fishing for rainbow trout on the
11:30 a.m.: The 49ers talked about using some of their ample cap space to sign extensions with some of their players who are coming up on the ends of their contracts. By my count, there are at least 14 players from the 2008 roster whose contracts are set to expire at the end of the end of the coming season. Those players are OLB Parys Haralson, G David Baas, NT Aubrayo Franklin, CB Walt Harris, WR Isaac Bruce (who is considering retirement), WR Arnaz Battle, LB Jeff Ulbrich, S Mark Roman, K Joe Nedney, LS Brian Jennings, G Tony Wragge, CB Marcus Hudson, LB Ahmad Brooks and T Barry Sims.
11:45 a.m.: The final fishing tidbit concerning Shaun Hill . . . he was using a lure.
Noon: The 49ers announced the hiring of Jason Michael as offensive assistant. He was tights coach at the University of Tennessee under Phillip Fulmer last year after spending the previous two years as N.Y. Jets, first as quality control coach and then as tight ends coach. He was also offensive quality control coach and video assistant with the Raiders in 2005. He worked with Jimmy Raye with the Raiders and Jets. Michael was a quarterback at
12:15 p.m.: It is highly likely I have reported in the past that TE Vernon Davis and LB Manny Lawson could opt out of their deals after the upcoming season and become free agents. I provided inaccurate information. Please forgive me. Both first-round picks from 2006 signed straight five-year contracts. Both Davis and Lawson are signed through the 2010 season.
12:30 p.m.: The 49ers' free-agent agreement with defensive end Demetric Evans (Redskins) can only mean one thing: The 49ers will move Isaac Sopoaga back to nose tackle. Remember, when Sopoaga signed his big contract, the comparable that was used in agreeing on the deal was the Cowboys' Jay Ratliff. The 49ers will shift Sopoaga back to the nose, where starter Aubrayo Franklin has just one year remaining on his deal. Then, Evans - known as a hard-worker and a great teammate - will compete at left defensive end with Kentwan Balmer. The 49ers expect Evans to provide a great example for Balmer. The plan is, eventually, Balmer will take over as the main man at that spot.
12:45 p.m.: McCloughan said at the combine that the spread offense in the college ranks is beginning to make for a dearth of defensive lineman for the NFL. He said this is a deep draft for those hybrid defensive end/outside linebackers that the 49ers will seek to rush the passer. But he said it was a bad year for defensive linemen. It looks as if the 49ers already have the six linemen who will comprise their roster in 2009: Evans, Sopoaga, Balmer, Franklin, Justin Smith and Ray McDonald.
1:00 p.m.: The Pro Bowl will be returning to
1:15 p.m.: Working on getting in touch with Demetric Evans.
1:30 p.m.: Ooops, almost forgot . . . I'm scheduled to go on a Stockton radio station right now.
1:45 p.m.: Yes, I'm wondering what exactly the 49ers have planned at right tackle. Worst-case scenario, I suppose, is Adam Snyder starts there. If they've been looking at tackles in free agency, they've done it completely under the radar. The plan might be to select one of those four potentially outstanding tackles from the draft. The top four guys are Jason Smith (Baylor), Eugene Monroe (
2:00 p.m.: Hold my spot for me. I'll be back.
2:15 p.m.: I got off the phone with Demetric Evans, who expects to sign his two-year contract with the 49ers today and overnight it back to them. I'll probably milk the contents of this interview for a couple hours.
2:30 p.m.: The 49ers showed a little bit of interest in Jaguars free-agent tackle Khalif Barnes, but backed off, according to his agent Kenny Zuckerman. Barnes visited the Raiders this week, but it looks as if he is going to sign with one of two other teams (not the Raiders or the 49ers), Zuckerman just told me.
2:45 p.m.: Demetric Evans said he is coming to the 49ers with the idea of competing for a starting job (at left defensive end) and helping the defense move up the rankings into the top 10, if not the top 5, he said. He said he's still hungry to perform. That fire is what enabled him to become a starter last season - in his seventh year in the league. If he did not have that will to get better, he never would've kept pushing to win a starting job.
3:00 p.m.: Demetric Evans will come out to the Bay Area alone. His wife, Dr. Aungel Latchley Evans, is in her third year of her residency, so she can't move out West.
3:15 p.m.: Mike Singletary said a couple days after the season that he was looking for upgrades at safety and pass-rusher. Perhaps, he meant those replacements were already on the roster. Dashon Goldson is expected to replace Mark Roman at free safety, and Singletary has dropped hints that he believes Manny Lawson can become a third-down pass rusher. Unless the 49ers find some answers in the draft, Goldson and Lawson are the most likely solutions.
3:30 p.m.: Proven, big-time pass rushers generally are not available in free agency. The 49ers have shown some interest in Jason Taylor, but so have a lot of other teams. The 49ers are trying to build the roster, so I don't see them giving up draft picks to try to pry franchise player Julius Peppers away from the Panthers. Lawson was the first linebacker off the field this past season on passing downs. But, remember, he did come to the 49ers after a successful college career built around getting to the quarterback. Singletary mentioned he has confidence Lawson can rush the passer. Lawson has not shown that ability in the NFL. But, also, he hasn't been given much of a chance to show that aspect of his game.
3:45 p.m.: Safety Mark Roman, who has started 48 consecutive games since signing with the 49ers in 2006, was given permission from the team Tuesday to seek a trade. His agent, Albert Elias, said if he can't find a trade, Roman can return to the 49ers as a spare defensive back who plays on passing downs. After all, Roman's contract is not a burden to the 49ers. The average salary of the top-10 paid safeties last season was $5.13 million. Roman's cap figure was $1.325 million. He is scheduled to make $900,000 in base pay in 2009.
4:00 p.m.: There wasn't much of a market for free-agent safeties. The Rams franchised O.J. Atogwe. Yeremiah Bell (Dolphins) and Jermaine Phillips (Bucs) re-signed with their old teams. You would've thought the Browns' Sean Jones would've gotten some attention, but he ended up signing only a one-year deal with the Eagles.
4:15 p.m.: The bus is running ahead of schedule . . .
Veteran receiver Isaac Bruce at some point in the near future will tell the 49ers if he plans to play this season. If it takes this long for a guy to decide whether he wants to return to action, he should go ahead and retire. Brandon Jones, the highest-paid receiver on the team, and Josh Morgan are penciled in as the starter, with Jason Hill and Arnaz Battle competing for the slot receiver. Sure-handed Dominique Zeigler also returns.
4:30 p.m.: Don't know if we'll have any news for you about Cardinals free-agent cornerback Eric Green before I sign off in the next half-hour to have dinner with friends tonight. Green's agent just told me he's in discussions with three teams. The 49ers are in the running, along with the Dolphins and Titans (the other teams Green visited this week). If the 49ers acquire Green, what does that mean for Donald Strickland and/or Shawntae Spencer? Strickland is a free agent. Spencer opened last season as the third corner before sustaining a torn ACL in the second game of the season. Spencer is scheduled to make $1.67 million in base pay this season, which is not outlandish for a corner who is going to see a lot of playing time. But the time might be here for youngster Tarell Brown to get more playing time, too.
4:45 p.m.: Back to the subject of offensive tackle . . . Snyder will be back on the team. Sims is under contract. All indications are that Jonas Jennings will not return. So, obviously, the 49ers will be interested in an offensive tackle with the No. 10 pick in the draft. Will Andre Smith be there? He did himself no favors at the combine, but he's very talented. Watch this interview and his explanation, and tell me whether you want him on the 49ers.
5:00 p.m.: Is it already 5 p.m.?
I was hoping for a fantastic ending to the day, but instead it'll end with a thud.
Hey, at least today's exercise accomplished one thing: I don't feel as bad about taking several days off from work now. Hope you found at least two items useful during my nine-hour blogapalooza. Sorry I couldn't expedite the whole Eric Green episode to get you an answer during regular business hours.
Have a great weekend!
* * *
HEY matt..
Mort is driving me insane.. saying the 49ers have talked to owens agent and maybe interested. PLEASE SAY IT AINT SO!!!
Matt - Barry Sims and "Balance" are you kidding me....he must be attending the session to learn right?
WCC Tourney- baby! SMC going down - Go Broncos!
Have a good time in LV!
HEY matt..
Mort is driving me insane.. saying the 49ers have talked to owens agent and maybe interested. PLEASE SAY IT AINT SO!!!
Mac- I am hearing a lot of talk of us being involved with Owens too. What is the truth Matt?
--Dom
I wouldn't mind having Green. Barrows talked about the Niners having probably the deepest secondary unit in the league if we acquired him.
--Dom
I really doubt Green will sign with us. He'd be going into a position where he'd need to fight for a spot on the roster, whereas the Dolphins and Titans aren't nearly as deep.
Finalyst- You make a good point. But he is making the trip down here for a reason. He has an interest. If he didn't, he wouldn't have bothered.
Matt- So what I am getting from you is that you think the Niners are more or less just making a NFL political move by not shutting the door on Owens? But in all reality they won't go after him?
--Dom
Take a chance - go and get TO. I understand he is a threat to the opponent, our team and himself but bottom line he is a THREAT - and someone the other team needs to focus on other than Gore. We have a bunch of back up receivers Hill, Battle, and Bruce are simply not good enough. Imagine how good Gore, VD, and others could be with a major threat like TO in the line up. 2 yrs deal if he screws it up - boot him.
Come On - Jed-I take a chance just like Uncle Eddie did with Fred Dean in '81.
Uh, I know Matt is big on WCC, but the rest of this blog doesn't sound like the normal Matt at all. Not sure what's going on. I wish there was some way to validate...
Matt- i was reading up on fox sports that McCloughan might consider cutler. Even though in the quoye it says "I'll just say that there have been no talks" that doesnt rule out that they might have considered a trade or am i wrong?
Niners GM Scot McCloughan said the 49ers never got involved in trade talks for Matt Cassel, who was traded from New England to Kansas City. He had no comment on quarterback Jay Cutler, who is disgruntled in Denver but remains under contract. "I'll just say that there have been no talks," McCloughan said
While I understand TO is certainly a divisive figure - he seems to receive universally negative coverage from the media. It seems to me that ESPN relishes creating villainous figures to keep people watching/reading their network. I hope that we can rely on some media outlets reporting both sides of the story rather than just creating a villain to keep people entertained. It's rather transparent/boring to hear people like Mark Schlereth just babbling on the company line about TO with nobody ever defending him. Obviously Owens has done a lot of wrong, but to say he's never done positive things is absurd. Hopefully he can receive some fair local coverage if the Niners do indeed pursue him.
Matt,
In your opinion is Green an upgrade over Strickland?
I like Strickland too. He has come up with some big plays when called upon in games.
Matt:
Is it not more likely that the reluctance to publicly rule out the possibility of interest in a player is simply the precaution of "never saying never"? So in case something changes radically--always a possibility, however remote--the front office can change plans without losing credibility because of making what is really an unnecessary announcement?
(And why play to the media and kick a guy when you don't have to, even if there is only a million-to-one chance you would ever want him? There are more important games to play).
And thank you for your dilligence Matt. Most guys would say " I'm going away for the weekend, talk to you on Monday!" But not you. Every fifteen minutes?
It's obvious that you love and take pride in your job.
And you do it well. Thanks again.
And by the way, maybe you might want to think about every 30 minutes instead of every 15. . .
Just a suggestion.
come home T.O.!
i don't see why he would be a horrible fit. i love T.O. and if there's any coach in the league T.O. would respect more or keep him in check is Singletary. i'd replace Isaac Bruce for T.O. in a heartbeat. even at his age he can still crank out 1000 yard seasons and double digit touchdowns. with him on the field it would open everything up for Gore, VD, and Morgan.
when did Mort say this? do you have a link?
Matt,
Have you ever been around an organization that is as poor at communication as the 9ers current regime? There is a constant "thats not what i said" or "we're interested/not interested" or "we didn't offer a contract". I thought it was just Nolan but the trend continues with Sing and McC. It makes the leadership look like idiots.
As for Owens, I hope the 9ers do sign him if only for the drama. I don't have high hopes next year so the only thing worth watching might be the relationship between Singletary and Owens. Maybe Hill would even grow a pair and actually stand up to the juvenile receiver like some other QB should have done years ago.
Communication with the media has zero to do with winning. Otherwise, Belichick would never win a game. On the opposite spectrum, we have Jerry Jones, who spews one thing after another to the media and what does it get him? Lots of media coverage! No offense to Matt, who I do not include in the following, but media tends to get indignant and punitive when management closes all the leaks and gives them zero substantive to write about.
Owens is a threat, but do we really want someone who was second in the NFL in drops with 33? But I would have to say we do need sombody who can make a big play or two a game. Take some pressure off gore. I mean VD has hands of stone two but we love him, right?
Great stuff MM. I might break the refresh key on my computer today!!!
I don't know about signing Owens, but he would provide a few things. He would give a deep threat, and he is also an excellent run blocker.
Kings: Ha ha, I came on to post the exact same thing, T.O. cannot catch the football anymore. Sean Payton, HC of the Saints, is on record as claiming Owens dropped the ball 33 times last year, and while I don't believe it was that high (sounds more like the last 2 years to me), he is totally unreliable now.
He used to be able play a bit, but now he can't play, any team which signs him will regret it, like his previous teams.
What is with all those who are willing to sacrifice Niner team chemistry for T.O. ? He is a cancer to any team, has been with the Niners, and then last year he was here last he was dropping all sorts of balls. Sing has built up TEAM mentallity for the Niners and T.O. would totally screw it up. Just another inept PR message coming from McClueless.
Matt, - been reading your blog for a short while and you really go all out with a 5 star effort for us fans. It is really appreciated and a big thanks for your efforts. As for today, 30 min. or hourly updates would be fine.
What would be wrong with TO?
You sign him to a game by game contract. You have a contract that says anything he does detrimental to the team or its chemistry and this is determined by coach sing of course he loses money This also is a incentive based contract day by day. He is there to play football and that's it. he get's out of line he goes away.
If Cutler is not happy in Denver stay away from him. I don't believe in trading for disgruntled QBs. A QB is a team leader and when he doesn't want to lead his team there is something very wrong.
You da man, Matt!
Forget what I said about TO...the real cancer is he Drew Rosenhaus, I forgot he was his agent. The league started going down hill when people like this started to get involved.
I just get the feeling this guy would through his mother under a bus if he new he would collect on the insurance.
Matt can you call Alex Smith and ask him where he went on his honeymoon? Because that's more interesting than the T.O. coming back idea.
Singletary and Owens would be GREAT THEATRE! Imagine Singletary kicking TO off the field and making him take his helmet. It's funny, but I think Singletary would be able to handle TO and stand up to him. I know TO is known as the team BULLY everywhere his has been but DO ANY OF YOU REALLY THINK TO WOULD CONFRONT SINGLETARY PHYSICALLY? Singletary would break him down.
Matt, please ask McLoughan that if A-Rod decided to play football, would the niners extend an offer to him? Or maybe Joe Namath has been sober for a while and thinks he'd like to come out of retirement and give it a shot. My money is that he would still give the standard answer of "you know, there is talent there. Each individual has talent. it's a win win for us to talk about it and I would say the chances are 50 -50. we wouldn't close the door."
Let's see how outrageous he will go before he can finally say, NO WE ARE NOT INTERESTED.
Hi Matt, When do you think the Niners will start bringing in NFL draft prospects? Also, will they be holding another draft party this year?
pboss FTW. Great post.
Hey Matt: Are those unique hits or are they repeat visitors through out the day?
I still want to know what kind of fish Hill was fishing for in Mizzu. It's still winter time. Then again in conversation with the late Tug McGraw to qoute him "off season Hunting and Fishing is Really Whiskey and Women"! Either way it's a win win in my book
Matt...
I think the work you do at the Press Democrat is great. And they should realize your importance to the paper! I really think since you sports reporters are running Blogs and extras for us fans, your work seems like it's 24/7! I hope the Press Dem realizes what you mean to them AND us!
Especially in these days of the collapse of the Newspaper business, you sports guys keep plugging along realizing the importance of your info to us fanatic fans! And don't think we don't appreciate it! Especially from you Matt.
So take a break and watch the WCC! If you feel like it, throw us a few facts here and there! Remember were like sharks here! You throw us some food and we'll gobble it up! Then when that's gone, we can turn on ourselves for a while until some more food is given to us!
I hope it's nice and warm in Las Vegas! I hope the games are great! I hope you enjoy!! Don't think for a second you're not appreciated here in this Blog!
Rainbows in Missouri? Having lived in Indiana I haven't seen a Rainbow since the Feather River in Plumas County.
Sigh.... good times....
Can not wait till draft day. Matt when will your mock be ready?
Like Michael Irvin just said "TO would respect MS because Singletary has played the game at the highest level."
Whether the Niners sign TO or not, the main point is just that one. Having a HOF player as HC is a definite advantage for the 49ers.
Scott had reduced free agency to getting people with his criteria of being over 35, being a backup, or costing less than 3 mil/yr. Owens and Taylor fit one of those so it’s a possibility. Just like Warner, it’s a bad idea.
We aren't going after starters in FA to address our needs. Year after year we sign these mediocre players like, D Thomas, TBC, Lelie, Sims, Roman, Foster, etc and most don’t work out. We overspent for Smith and Clements but at least we got good starters that filled a need. We shouldn’t spend for the top guys or be like Washington. We do need starters though and there are people we could get for between 4-6 mil/yr.
We have these major holes, #1 WR, ROT, NT, ROLB, FS we never seem to fill.
We are going to have to draft for need and probably an OT in rd 1. We won’t be able to fill all these needs with people that can contribute right away.
At the beginning of the draft Scott goes after BPA. We had these same needs last year and ended up with a LDE, G, and CB.
How are we ever going to meet those needs with this repeating cycle? I’m afraid we’re on a 10 yr plan.
Why is Barry Sims even on the team still????
Bait fishing? Fly fishing? Spinners? Did he catch any? C'mon Matt, we expect the real scoop. . .
Michael Irvin would support Dennis Rodman in a bid to be a Birthday Party Clown. That doesn't mean we want T.O. here.
OLB Parys Haralson - extend
G David Baas - extend
NT Aubrayo Franklin - extend
CB Walt Harris - extend
WR Isaac Bruce - one more year
WR Arnaz Battle - should come cheaper
LB Jeff Ulbrich - let him go
S Mark Roman - let him go
K Joe Nedney - extend
LS Brian Jennings - extend
G Tony Wragge - extend
CB Marcus Hudson - extend
LB Ahmad Brooks - let him go
T Barry Sims - ROFLOL let him go
One good thing about not getting Warner, his annoying wife!
Shasta county for me Jim...and it's been way to long. I used to murder'em on the Sac any time of the year!! It always seems to be the colder the temperature the bigger the fish were. From Keswick all the way down to Red Bluff...lot's of great fishing holes.
Couple or so thoughts:
I wonder if McClouhgan was really saying he didn't have a high opinion of Cutler as a QB. He certainly wouldn't be alone in that.
Are we sure that Strickland is being pursued by the Niners?
My guess is that Singletary & McCloughan sometimes waffle when interviewed independently because they haven't discussed it between the two of them yet. After suffering 18 months of crap because the meedja jumped on an innocent comment made about the Niners not being interested in hiring Martz before Nolan in fact hired him, I suspect McCloughan is gun shy.
I'd sign TO betting Singletary can keep him under control. If not, cut him at the first sign of trouble. For 7 or 8 mill, it would be worth it. He may drop 33 passes but he scored 10 TDs. Imagine what that extra 70 points would have done to the Niners record last year.
T.O. would take a lot of attention off of Gore and our other receivers too. And could you imagine having VD, TO, Staley, and Morris clearing the path for Gore?
--Dom
Shame on you Indy for proposing to axe fan favorite Ulbrich.
He provides us with depth that's required in a 3-4, and he's also a special teams head hunter – a role he gladly embraced to stick with the team.
He's a Singletary soldier... don't see him getting kicked out of Candlestick this year.
They should lock up Haralson,Baas,Nedney,B. Jennings, and maybe Battle for the future. The rest are either going to be too old or irrelevant.
Can you imagine the team-imposed fines?
Franchise, I'm not the guy that released Ronnie Lott, Roger Craig and Tom Rathman.
Franchise, I'm not the guy that released Ronnie Lott, Roger Craig and Tom Rathman.
MM - any word out there in teh NFL about a trade market for Roman?
Wasn't that Dwight Clark who let them go?
Well, let us look on the bright side. The 49ers sign TO. They draft a QB in the first round and a stout defensive lineman in the 2nd round with a big upside a few years down the road. McClown loses his job within 12 months and The Boy Prince goes thru a gruling, very public process of hiring a new GM. At the end The Prince hires Billy Beane because they connected over "football" (unfortunately Beane meant futbol..as in soccer).
The Yorks watch their son become vilified in the local press (Ralph challenges him to fight over the KNBR airways) and wisely decide to sell the team to a group of local buyers led by Steve Young and Brent Jones.
Unfortunately, the decision to sell changes when the Joe Montana group inform the Yorks they'll beat any bid by the Mormon Boys by 100 million.
Montana brings in Eddie D and Carmen Policy he also states in his first press conference that the voices Kurt Warner hears are not from God but from the offensive coordinator up in the press box.
The 49ers pass a ballot iniative for a new stadium and waive TO the next morning.
Now...what's the problem with signing TO?
12:30 p.m.: Sing is taking a dump
12:45 p.m.: Sing is still taking a dump
1:00 p.m.: Sing appears to be praying and taking a dump
1:15 p.m.: Raye has fallen asleep waiting for Sing to finish taking a dump
No, Carmen Policy let all three go.
Disappointed he's not a FlyFisher...
I think you should blog live from the WCC and it would be wise to not drive your wife crazy........
Between the White lines is the prime place, second to that is the locker room. With Owens, there is no doubt in my mind Singletary could and would channel this player to be productive in those two areas. Owens professed problem is that he trusts No One. Period. That is a sad commentary. However, a sensible, knowledgeable and humble man of faith such as Singletary could reach this youngster. Have a straight-up, man-to-man chat along the lines of "...what will work here and now is very simple, think first of this team always, first, last and foremost while you do your thing, and we will get along fine. The first instance of you jeopardizing the team in any unecessaty way, and I will not allow you to stay here. Do we understand each other, and can you live with that - if the answer is Yes - then let's go to work?" And that would just about do it - along with a "worthwhile contract" of course.
Teams are aware/leery of Frank Gore. No one, repeat, no one else on our roster concerns or intimidates even the equipment boy on the opponents side. We need a bunch of T.O's and several others like him. That's reality.
digital high five 9ernutt!!
Rawk on Niner Nutt. there is sense in what you say. The only variable is T.O.'s willingness.
The anticipation is killing me. WTH is taking Tom Condon so fracking long?!?!?!?!?!
Michael Irvin, who is a friend of TO's and has spoken to him since his release, said that MS could control TO because TO would respect a man like Singletary who played at such a high level.
TO grew up without a father. MS is the ultimate Father Figure.
GeoMak I like that last statement, I've made it myself.
However, I've said this other places, too: Michael Irvin would support Dennis Rodman in a bid to become a Birthday Party Clown, too.
Forget Demetric Evans. Call Tom Condon and tell him to stop being an idiot.
Or not. You know, go either way with that one.
Like I said, seeing TO go after Singletary would be GREAT THEATRE! Hope it Happens!
God help me I'm starting to like the TO idea. I am sick.
That's not what Mort said when I saw him on ESPN yesterday. He said that basically all teams but the raiders and 49ers have either stated outright they don't want Owens or they don't need a wr (Cardinals etc). He never mentioned the 49ers meeting with Owens agent.
Update: Team sources with the Raiders have said they have no interest in Owens.
Oh dear God.... so basically the 49ers would be THE ONLY ONES LEFT?!?!?!?!
Re 12:30 post on Evans: another example of McSing quietly and methodically and unspectacularly taking care of current business with a future design, despite getting pilloried from all sides by the press and hysterical bloggers.
ahh Matt, Stockton thats the home of the greatest indie rock pand ever.......our own Pavement
I meant Band, not pand.
really? Green is signed already.....that is great news
1st forty five or was it a colt 45 malt that sealed the deal?
Hey Matt - while you are in Vegas I highly recommend going to Batista's (http://www.battistaslasvegas.com/). Great atmosphere and authentic Italian joint. A block behind the strip and easily walkable. Plus you get to escape the overpriced casino restaurants. Bon Appetit!
If anyone can contain TO its Samurai Mike.
Sing would be a perfect "father figure, and Raye a perfect "grandfather figure"....I'll take his 10 TD's/1000 yards anyday. He is a punk, but a damn good player. It's all those steroids he took when he was younger, i'm telling you....Come HOME, Terrell!
THis 15 min update thing is great. Whaddya think we implement this when you return from LV?
Listened to the Huard interview on a radio station via Sando's blog, and the radio host said, and I kid you not, "I even hear RUMORS that the 49ers are THINKING about bringing Alex Smith back at a greatly reduced price."
Talk about a dude way behind the curve.
Matt, Is Eric Green officially a 49er yet? Any update?
The thought of T.O. coming back to the 49ers must be really exciting for all the people who didn't donate their T.O. Jerseys to the Salvation Army!
Matt, Is Eric Green officially a 49er yet? Any update?
The thought of T.O. coming back to the 49ers must be really exciting for all the people who didn't donate their T.O. Jerseys to the Salvation Army!
The thought of T.O. coming back to the 49ers must be really exciting for all the people who didn't donate their T.O. Jerseys to the Salvation Army!
The thought of T.O. coming back to the 49ers must be really exciting for all the people who didn't donate their T.O. Jerseys to the Salvation Army!
The thought of T.O. coming back to the 49ers must be really exciting for all the people who didn't donate their T.O. Jerseys to the Salvation Army!
The thought of T.O. coming back to the 49ers must be really exciting for all the people who didn't donate their T.O. Jerseys to the Salvation Army!
The thought of T.O. coming back to the 49ers must be really exciting for all the people who didn't donate their T.O. Jerseys to the Salvation Army!
The thought of T.O. coming back to the 49ers must be really exciting for all the people who didn't donate their T.O. Jerseys to the Salvation Army!
Re 1:45 post on RT: they might also be considering moving Rachal to RT and putting Wragge back in at RG. We'll see.
Matt, Is Eric Green officially a 49er yet? Any update?
I'm wondering what the plan is with Eric Green. If we sign him, do we trade Shawntae Spencer. After all $3+ mil is a lot to pay a #3 or #4 CB. Green would be a capable but much cheaper alternative. Perhaps we have an acceptable offer on the table already?
Dr AquaFresh - you sir, are repetetive.
Matt, I'm tellin ya - call Alex or Elizabeth, find out where they went on their honeymoon. You'll have content for DAYS.
you know what i am tired of this T.O bashing....niners made the guy......come home T.O.........on an unrelated stuff by MM - "Hill is the front-runner for the starting job" - according to you MM, according to the majority of niner fans A.Smith is and will be the front runner for the starting job.
i am starting to suspect even without a reduction in salary A.Smith will still be back.....i mean which QB in FA is worth the money, time and has the org really rooting for him........
Dr AquaFresh
Pressing the "submit" button is not part of a video game there buddy..one time and step away from the computer..
One time and step away from the computer...one time and step away from the computer...one time and step away from the computer..one time and step away from the computer....
oneniner I agree with the sentiment but not the delivery.
I mean oneniner's FIRST comment. Not the second. The second is just.... wrong. Smith will never come back at 9 Mil.
you don't think there would be a backlash if the only qb's we hav on the roster is hill, huard and a rookie?.......McGm showed how weak his liver his for chasing warner.....i believe we hav no choice but to hav A.Smith on the roster...
kudos for reporting his wife is a Dr. ....that is positive reporting especially for a nfl player....
I can't imagine Smith being welcomed back without a restructured contract. I think it would be more likely they'd abandon hopes of him and go after Leftwich (since there wouldn't be an agent discrepancy any longer) or something if they couldn't come to an agreement. Alex Smith's entire tenure hasn't yet been worth $9 million in my opinion, let alone for this upcoming season where he will have to win the starting job.
Too bad to hear Evans' wife can't join him out here. I hope that doesn't weigh on him too much.
NO WAY Smith comes back at 9 mill. And rightfully so. In fact, even the 5.3 mill he would get if he were cut would be a complete travesty for what he's accomplished. He needs to be restructured to get maybe 1, 1.5 mill or so, whatever he is worth as a 3rd string QB, which is what he is, at best. Even his 06 season was below average by NFL standards. It's not like teams are knocking down the door to trade for him either. Even the QB "guru" coaches haven't inquired about him. And the 3 OC's excuse doesn't cut it anymore. They have nothing to do with him throwing balls 8 feet over open WRs heads or taking 15 seconds to recognize a wide open WR downfield....at some point natural talent/instinct must step up and show itself, and it just never has with him. Just like Tim Couch, a college wonder. It's easy to look great at Utah in the Mountain West with 12 seconds to read, decide, & release every play.
NO WAY Smith comes back at 9 mill. And rightfully so. In fact, even the 5.3 mill he would get if he were cut would be a complete travesty for what he's accomplished. He needs to be restructured to get maybe 1, 1.5 mill or so, whatever he is worth as a 3rd string QB, which is what he is, at best. Even his 06 season was below average by NFL standards. It's not like teams are knocking down the door to trade for him either. Even the QB "guru" coaches haven't inquired about him. And the 3 OC's excuse doesn't cut it anymore. They have nothing to do with him throwing balls 8 feet over open WRs heads or taking 15 seconds to recognize a wide open WR downfield....at some point natural talent/instinct must step up and show itself, and it just never has with him. Just like Tim Couch, a college wonder. It's easy to look great at Utah in the Mountain West with 12 seconds to read, decide, & release every play.
NO WAY Smith comes back at 9 mill. And rightfully so. In fact, even the 5.3 mill he would get if he were cut would be a complete travesty for what he's accomplished. He needs to be restructured to get maybe 1, 1.5 mill or so, whatever he is worth as a 3rd string QB, which is what he is, at best. Even his 06 season was below average by NFL standards. It's not like teams are knocking down the door to trade for him either. Even the QB "guru" coaches haven't inquired about him. And the 3 OC's excuse doesn't cut it anymore. They have nothing to do with him throwing balls 8 feet over open WRs heads or taking 15 seconds to recognize a wide open WR downfield....at some point natural talent/instinct must step up and show itself, and it just never has with him. Just like Tim Couch, a college wonder. It's easy to look great at Utah in the Mountain West with 12 seconds to read, decide, & release every play.
Sorry in advance about the triple post, my first 2 came back with "submission error" and they did not post at all, so I post a 3rd one, then suddenly all three appear! Not sure WHAT is up with that....
As always, thanks for the great insight and up to the minute info on this sight. Don't know how I'd get my Niners fix without it. With that said... I notice Sean jones S for thr Browns is still available. This guy makes plays, he's got 14 INT's since '06. I like Goldson, but there is a reason he coúldn't beat out Roman for teh starting gig when Roman was already on the hot seat. I'm all for keeping him as a back-up and if becomes more consistent in his game, give him a shot at the starting spot. For now... Sean Jones. I still think the Niners will take a OT with the # 10 pick. To all you negative trash talking haters... buy yourself some Raider gear and leave rooting for the best team in the league to real fans. GO NINERS!
Jennings & Sims are on the roster with Synder right behind them, who needs another RT?
Maybe you are about to address this, but if you are correct and our FS and pass rush help are coming within, and you assume we take a RT with our 1st pick.... What the heck else are we gonna draft? They seem intent on a HB, we brought in a wr in FA, a blocking TE? I am operating under the assumption that we could get someone who might make an impact with our top 3 picks, but I can't think of three positions. All I got is RT and HB. I know they like to beef up both lines, but you seem to think our Dline is set.
If indeed we do sign Green at Corner does that indicate that possibly Harris might be sent to compete at FS ?
Brown or Green or Spencer ,etc etc at Corner .
We need a ballhawk at FS and if Goldson is not ready then why not Harris? He must have lost some of that Corner speed at his age and is surviving at Corner on experience. He would still be a pertty fast player for a FS !
Why else would we be going after so many D backs ?
A
And OneNiner and Indy: You guys betray your real doubts by constantly bringing up the Alex nonsense over and over and over again. If you were really confident about Alex being the Niner's starter then you would be calm and confident about it instead of feeling the need to advertise for the guy . Are you three related ? lol.
IF Alex stays he will be fighting it out for #2 with Huard (and he would probably lose).
What I believe is that the team does expect Alex to sign a contract for chump change and stay to get himself back together mentally and physically. IF he decides that he doesn't want to sign for the small money he is worth to a team then that is why the Niners went out and signed Huard to be the backup behind Hill,with a draft pick at #3 (for insurance against Smith not wanting to stay or because they don't want him to stay). IF there is no QB draft pick then it would probably be Hill/Huard/and Smith as #3. If Smith shows his best camp and preseason of his career then he could possibly climb to #2,maybe.
Thanks for the updates Matt, and have a great weekend! Question: We haven't heard much about Alex smith's possibly restructured contract. Are the Niners and Smith's agent at an impasse? Feels like the deal should have been done by now. Thanks.
SIGN T.O. NOW! he's a 49er, we drafted him, we deserve him. How can anyone on this board say he's lost a step? he burned our 80 million dollar corner for 200 yards. And if any coach can handle him, it's singletary. T.O. wasn't the problem in Dallas, he was the scapegoat for Romo embarrasingly playing bad down the stretch again!
RB Rashad Jennings just ran a 4.52 at his pro day.
Two questions:
1) Were there any 49er scouts there?
2) Does this move us out of contention for him (too early for our 2nd rounder, too late for our 3rd rounder)?
RB Rashad Jennings just ran a 4.52 at his Pro Day.
Two questions:
1) did the 49ers have any scouts there?
2) does this performance move him out of our reach (our 2nd rounder would be too early to take him, and he could be gone by our 3rd rnd pic)?
RB Rashad Jennings just ran a 4.52 at his Pro Day.
Two questions:
1) did the 49ers have any scouts there?
2) does this performance move him out of our reach (our 2nd rounder would be too early to take him, and he could be gone by our 3rd rnd pic)?
also, I'm getting some kind of submission error, so if it did post multiple times, my apologies.
DD.com contributor Josh Buchanan reports Central Washington quarterback Mike Reilly will have a private workout with the San Francisco 49ers.
DD.com being DraftDady.com. Can you confirm this Matt
Thanks
***
I heard that. Sing would definitely handle T.O. He started a niner, let him retire a niner!
I saw draft Andre if he's available. That kid is telling the truth. He didn't think it would be a big deal and he was wrong. As the experts say, the tape doesn't lie. If he shows well at his pro day, I say draft him.
I say draft Andre if he's available. That kid is telling the truth. He didn't think it would be a big deal and he was wrong. As the experts say, the tape doesn't lie. If he shows well at his pro day, I say draft him.
I say draft Andre if he's available. That kid is telling the truth. He didn't think it would be a big deal and he was wrong. As the experts say, the tape doesn't lie. If he shows well at his pro day, I say draft him.
If Andre Smith's there at 10, take him, unless Crabtree's there too. Bottom line is he's a dominating football player and he seems like a good kid. We could move Staley back to RT and potentially have a dominating offensive line.
I say draft Andre if he's available. That kid is telling the truth. He didn't think it would be a big deal and he was wrong. As the experts say, the tape doesn't lie. If he shows well at his pro day, I say draft him.
Sorry about the repeats. The website said "posting error!"
Tack...Ast...Total...Sack...PassDef
32.....30.....62......15.....2
33.....25.....58......11.....4
These are two NC St DE's that were taken in the first round of the 2006 draft... One, of course, is Mario Williams, the #1 pick in the draft, and the other is Manny Lawson. I'm sure people can tell which is which, but anyone that thinks that Manny cannot get to the QB is kidding themselves. Some would argue that teams had to account for Williams, thus freeing Lawson to make plays. That just means that if the Niners can find a legit ROLB, it will make Manny that much better. My guess is that Manny's lack of contribution came from two places, 1) his injury in 07, 2) Nolan's "complex" defense.
I posted this on a previuos blog, but this is my frustration as a 49er/SF Giants fan. They say they are going to upgrade at there areas of need (both team) then they do nothing when known comodities are available. SF Giants said at the end of last season they would improve thei line-up, then did nothing and want us to beleive that that was improving on what they had last year by relying on a couple of rookies. Seems like that is what the niners are about to do. But relying on rookies to provide improvement to the team is like saying you want to earn more money and playing the lottery (while rookies do provide impact to improving their teams...it is just unpredictable which ones will)
I remember it being discussed many times last season how disappointing Goldson was because he was not good enough to unseed Roman, he only looked good in pre-season last year. So why haven't the 49ers added to this position by brining in a free agent? If they draft someone at that position, it is a big assumption to think that person will challenge for the starting spot. So, like just a fan asked, what's their plans with free agent free safeties.
I am not that excited about Huard, because I don't think he is better than Smith, and Singletary said they would bring in improved competion at that position and free safety (as well as pass-rusher and OT)
Since Peyton Manning and Ed Reed aren't in this years draft, seems that they haven't made any significant progress at these claim.
The sad thing about being a 49er fan is that this is the most exciting part of the year, no matter what we do or how bad we look doing (see McCloughan's rediculous response to being turned down by Warner); we still haven't lost a game.
I posted this on a previous blog, but this is my frustration as a 49er/SF Giants fan. They say they are going to upgrade at there areas of need (both team) then they do nothing when known commodities are available. SF Giants said at the end of last season they would improve their line-up, then did nothing and want us to believe that that was improving on what they had last year by relying on a couple of rookies. Seems like that is what the Niners are about to do. But relying on rookies to provide improvement to the team is like saying you want to earn more money and playing the lottery (while rookies do provide impact to improving their teams...it is just unpredictable which ones will)
I remember it being discussed many times last season how disappointing Goldson was because he was not good enough to unseed Roman, he only looked good in pre-season last year. So why haven't the 49ers added to this position by brining in a free agent? If they draft someone at that position, it is a big assumption to think that person will challenge for the starting spot. What would have been the big deal bring in free agent free safeties? Their price range doesn't seem to be that expensive, and they really haven't spent much of their cap room (which we should be worried about).
I am not that excited about Huard, because I don't think he is better than Smith, and Singletary said they would bring in improved completion at that position and free safety (as well as pass-rusher and OT)
Since Peyton Manning and Ed Reed aren't in this year’s draft, seems that they haven't made any significant progress at these claims.
The sad thing about being a 49er fan is that this is the most exciting part of the year, no matter what we do or how bad we look doing (see McCloughan's ridiculous response to being turned down by Warner); we still haven't lost a game.
Mock draft for the Niners including comp picks assuming its at the end of the 5th and 6th rounds.
Round 1: Andre Smith OT Alabama-Can play both LT and RT. Best available player, and a team need.
Round 2: Hakeem Hicks WR North Carolina-Issac Bruce might not come back, and would pair nicely with Josh Morgan, Jason Hill, and Brandon Jones giving them a nice young receiving core.
Round 3: Clint Sintim-OLB Virginia-Dominant Pass Rusher what Ahmed Brooks should have been.
Round 4: Joson Gilbert DT SJSU-Local product from SJSU. Impressed at the combine and provides depth at the DL eventhough the Niners are stacked at the DL already.
Round 5: Rashad Jennings RB Liberty-Big dominat small college RB prospect to go with Frank Gore in the 2 back RB combination that the Niners will be running.
Round 5 (Comp. Pick): David Burton S Nortre Dame: Feels a need at FS in case Dashon Golston can't stay healthy.
Round 6: Mike Rielly QB Central Washington-Young QB arm who can sit for 2 years and learn the offense.
Round 6: Christoper Owens CB SJSU: Another CB from nearby SJSU that can provide special teams help.
Round 7: Rich Belton FB Wake Forest-FB prospect backing up Moran Norris and can play special teams
Bob: Because of the cap space most team have these days there are really not THAT many good free agents out there anymore. Most are re-signed by their teams if they are any good.
The Niners have signed those good free agents in recent years when they were available (Clements,Smith ). But this year they see the FA market as a plce to fill in some spots of need on the roster. When a big time player and area of need presented itself (Kurt Warner) the Niners gave it a shot,even though they knew Warner would want to stay in Arizona .
So it seems to me that the Niners (unlike your SF Giants) ARE improving the team and filling in the areas of need on the roster in FA. Of course they have said all along they believe they are at a place with the current roster that FA will not be the main place to look to get big upgrades but they have said all along that they want to build a great roster through the draft,like all good teams do !
Quite interesting video on Andre. Doesn't seem the nut job that initial press reports had him as. I say we draft Andre or Oher at #10. Oh, and maybe T.O. could get a job as a towel boy.
Mike from 209... I like Jennings a lot... but NO WAY he lasts to round five. Three, maybe.
Hey TOP_CAT relax dude. It's called BOREDOM.
Competition with Hill and Damon Huard? I'm as relaxed as could possibly be.
Interesting to watch the Andre Smith interview. I wouldn't use that interview at all in evaluating him. It was staged and he's been coached in what to say. I hope the Niners do a good background check on him, especially around his work ethic and consistency of play. If this incident was a single error in judgement, and his history looks good, then consider him. But, if it was my choice and any of the other 3 highly rated OTs are available at #10, I would take any one of them instead.
Regarding Eric Green, I think he would be useful because he would add experience to our DB depth, and we have a DB shuffle coming up. Spencer has been getting hurt more seriously and more often, and at least one of the CB's will probably move back to fill in at safety. Having Green would give us a lot more flexibility in terms of adjusting our roster.
No worries Indy,I was just giving you guys a poke in the ribs,like you guys are always doing to others (about Alex.).
In reality I hope he does well enough to beat out Huard for the backup to our starter,Hill.
I am glad they signed Huard though,because he is good insurance for the posibility that Smith may not want to return here at a small salary. Especially since we will probably draft a QB of the future in a later rounds and Smith has no real future here (unless a miracle happens and he suddenly got those extra pounds and some skill to go along with it at the same time,lol ).
Wouldn't surprise me if Reilly is scheduled for a showing-I've been touting this kid for months (see forum -Buzz T.) - he is special-word has it according to NFL SCOUT Scot was impressed with him at the Combine...however so is Seattle according to the same report. IMHO he would be an outstanding pick in mid rounds!
I think you are now my best friend; I am a mock draft dork...
Alright, so this is an early submission for a mock draft and you guys could probably care less. However, if you are going to do a mock draft show for the 49ers, here are my two cents. Dorky…the draft is more than a month away. But Free Agency for the 49ers has been so disappointing and boring I had to get excited about something for them. Starred is who, out of my projections, I believe Mc Singletary will pick.
Pick 10 (Rd. 1)
1st Choice – Brian Orakpo (DE)
2nd Choice – Tyson Jackson (DE)*
3rd Choice – Michael Oher (OL)
Pick 43 (Rd. 2)
1st Choice - Brian Robiske (WR)
2nd Choice – Ron Brace (DT)
3rd Choice – Jamon Meredith (OL)*
Pick 74 (Rd. 3)
1st Choice – Nate Davis (QB)
2nd Choice – Lawrence Sidbury (DE)
3rd Choice – Phil Loadholt (OL)*
Pick 106 (Rd. 4)
1st Choice – Jason Watkins (OL)
2nd Choice – David Bruton (S)*
3rd Choice – Kyle Moore (DE)
Pick 138 (Rd. 5)
1st Choice – Sammie Lee Hill (DT)
2nd Choice – Reshard Langford (S)
3rd Choice – Patrick Turner (WR)*
Pick 171 (Rd. 6)
1st Choice – John Parker Wilson (QB)
2nd Choice – Chase Daniel (QB)
3rd Choice – Nathan Brown (QB)*
Pick 202 (Rd. 7)
1st Choice – Cedric Peerman (RB)
2nd Choice – Stryker Sulak (DE)
3rd Choice – Terrence Knighton (DT)*
Also, sorry to everyone for my repiting post, it kept saying there was an error
Matt,
Let me go on record as saying that I'm very willing to volunteer and help the 49ers assist female athletes. I could be very good at that. LOL. And, if the cheerleaders need any help, I could do that, too.
-Ender
Good flurry of notes today Matt...ever heard of Woot.com? They sometimes have woot offs...every hour or so they sell a new item. That's what this entry was like.
Have a good wknd!
I always suspected that you were a real humanitarian. This only confirms my suspicions.
I'm very surprised at the amount of support TO mounted earlier in this section.To my mind he is a prime example of what is wrong with professional sport and the very antithesis what Coach Singletary professes i.e. team comes first ! Here is a guy with superior athletic skills and no sense of sportsmanship- who like Narcissus holds a mirror to himself and loves what he sees so much that it is his undoing...despite the rhetoric explaining his behavior as based on someone who cares too much and the sociological explanations about the absence of a father- etc etc the fact is he is not a cancer- he a tragedy...someone to be pitied more than coveted !
I don't think they''ll draft 2 OT's. With Jennings gone, they 9ers have still have Staley, Snyder and Simms under contract. With Wragge, Baas and Rachel at OG and Heitmann and Wallace at center, that would make 10 OL, not including Bender and/or PS guys. Simms probably won't get cut. I see drafting only 1 and in one of 2 situations: Elite OT high (top 4) and start at RT, moving to LT and shifting Staley to RT, or second day RT. We should know more about the plan when we look at the signings over the next few weeks.
"If it takes this long for a guy to decide whether he wants to return to action, he should go ahead and retire."
Matt, not sure why you think this way. he's not hurting anybody at this point. It's a huge decision for a player, I think he's earned the right to take his time and figure it out on his schedule and not ours.
"If it takes this long for a guy to decide whether he wants to return to action, he should go ahead and retire."
Matt, not sure why you think this way. he's not hurting anybody at this point. It's a huge decision for a player, I think he's earned the right to take his time and figure it out on his schedule and not ours.
Ok- just for fun and this will change:(1)M.Oher OT-(2) Connor Barwin OLB -or R Ayers OLB(3)Ramses Barden WR (4)Domonique Johnson CB-(5)Frantz Joseph ILB-(6)Herb Donaldson RB or Tyler Roehl RB/FB-(7) Greg Micheli QB-the steal of the draft!(extra picks added later!)
What a difference this blog is today...Somebody must have used some "troll be gone".
You guys and your draft predictions are off the charts!!
I never heard of 80% of the guys being mentioned in the 3rd and there after rounds. I love it!! Great stuff fellas!! Keep it up!!
Here are my thoughts about the draft, for what it's worth. First, let's look at the numbers.
OL: 10 currently on roster, 8 in real rotation (including Simms and with Jennings cut). Figure that the 9ers will look to add at 1 OT in 3 situations. Top 4 draft, switch Staley; 3rd/4th rd RT (cut Simms); Veteran pick-up (cut Simms). The 9ers kept 8 OL last year and the 3OT, 3OG, 2OC is a good mix.
DL: 6 on roster. Converting to a 3-4 means a total of 6 DL on roster, max 7. Problem is we have 3 LE, 1 NT and 2 RDE. If Raji is availible??? Maybe we'll add 1, but the numbers suggest we're done here.
QB: 3 on roster. Lots been said here. But I would hope we would draft a prospect/project QB and sit him for a couple of years. Hill should be the starter, Smith and Huard can fight it out. Personally, while I think Smith is a talent, he should move on. I feel this relationship is like my first girlfriend, we both knew it was over but were trying to hang onto something that just isn't there. Move on Alex.
RB: Like the Norris signing. Gore needs a real time-splitter and not a backup. He needs to cut his workload to be productive so look for a 60/40 split. I think we go with drafting a big bruiser, but a true halfback may be an option. Clayton just won't cut it.
LB: 3-4 is heavy at this position. We have 2 needs. Dominant rush OLB and a TED. I hope we look to fill OLB early and TED in FA. Spikes is aging and we need a long term solution. Otherwise, we'll get multiple warm bodies to work special teams.
DB: Again, we have pretty mediocre talent here, we could use a better FS and another corner. Walt's pretty much done as a corner. I don't think he should move to FS because he is likely to give up a home run. Goldson may be a FS, but he keeps getting hurt. Smith and Brown need to step up, Strickland is up in the air. Can never have enough DB's
WR: Can always add a burner, but the numbers would suggest we have enough here, particularly if we are a run-first. drafting another, unless it's Crabtree, is just churning the bottom of the roster.
TE: We actually may draft a one here. VD is VD. Walker should get more in pass sets. Bajema is getting expensive. VD is actually our blocking TE. a little competition here would be welcome.
Special Teams: best part of the team. No need.
Huge cockfighting ring busted?
Mike Vick/T.O. unemployed?
Geez, say it ain't so, we may as well bring back Garcia too?
How do you spell dysfunctional in terms of media ammunition.
Let's paint a big pair of angry LB eyes on Sing's backside while he provides a can't coach 'em don't need 'em tirade on locker room cancers in today's NFL.
Olshansky signed with Dallas
Saw Olshansky coming the minute Canty left Jon -
Romo and Kitna?
Suddenly we have to like our chances too.
I'm still wondering what Jerry J.O. was doing when he took Brooking over Ray Lewis at MLB?
Way to go Big Duh. Maybe it's time for Jason Taylor too.
I am hoping they don't draft 2 OT, but I just think they are that conservative (if they get 2, 1 will pan out). Actually that might be the appoach they need to take for a QB in waiting (I think Hill is servicable for the next couple of years).
Based on my projections here is what I hope they do:
Pick 10 (Rd. 1)
**Brian Orakpo (DE)** this is a pipe dream so...
Michael Oher (OL)
Pick 43 (Rd. 2)
Brian Robiske (WR)
(He looks like a stud in the mold of Andre Johnson and I think they need a big receiver opposite Morgan)
Pick 74 (Rd. 3)
Nate Davis (QB)
Pick 106 (Rd. 4)
Lawrence Sidbury (DE)
Pick 138 (Rd. 5)
Reshard Langford (S)
Pick 171 (Rd. 6)
Cedric Peerman (RB)(Fast(4.45 40), Strong(27 reps); not that Gore isn't but he might be faster...this is a luke warm pick because I also like Clayton)
Pick 202 (Rd. 7)
Terrence Knighton (DT)
NinerBob I'm looking for the OG too.
Good options, I like Sidbury and the kid Johnson from GT as fringe guys.
We need a contributor on the DE/OLB pick, so I'm guessing another nice 'maybe' guy is Barwin from Cincy.
Don't forget we have 2 Comps coming too.
Might sneak an OG in the 5 range?
I don't know about what is going to be after the first round, too many variables. But there are 5 guys that I think we should target. At least 1 should be available:
Oher (second level of elite tackles)
Smith (film don't lie, he's the best. Due diligence though)
Raji (Completes the D-Line, will dominate the Nose)
Orkapo (best Rush OLB after Curry is gone)
Brown (Could be a beast)
Thanks for that info...I totally forgot about those (they weren't in Matt's list):
I would throw in another pass-rush prospect in Tyrone McKenzie and the OG Andy Kemp (not knowing where those Comps. land)
I heard some talk of moving Barwin back to TE on NFL network today. Just talk but I think the 49ers could always use that kind of athleticism.
While I'm at it NinerBob, take a look at the bio on Jamaal Westerman (DE) from Rutgers too.
Very similar in size to Everette and played in more game. Size/Speed comparable as well.
Can't see him making it to FA, but I'd take a chance with him in the later rounds (5-7).
He's big, gets to the QB and from what I've seen of him he's a motor guy.
Singletary should have a very keen eye for the LBs and this crop is extremely deep.
Good scouting is where it's at. Get the guys that like to play football. That's my concern with Andre.
If he loves the game, grab him at 10, (if there), and coach him up.
OGs have to be nasty IMO. Go find the LB and knock his d*ck in the dirt kinda guys.
Kid like Canfield/Cincy for instance.
Another move worth thinking about is C Alex Mack/Cal to start at OG as he is likely an upgrade over Wallace.
I'm not sold on Baas, so there's always good depth on OL options. Many of these guys play any interior position.
Thanks for the tip on Westermen, still researching him (is he an underclassmen or not invited to the combine?)
I agree with you on Mack, he was looking more impresive than Oher at the Senior Bowl practice that I saw.
I believe he is a graduating Sr, not invited to Indy.
2 of team mates were, Kenny Britt and S Courtney Greene.
What I like about Rutgers is that Greg Schiano was the DC at Miami FL before getting the HC gig here.
he quietly assembled a pretty good corp of players.
Have a read -
http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/518828
While you're there, get a read on Courtney Greene.
Played both Safety positions and is extremely durable.
He's another guy I'd quietly keep an eye on for a S selection that probably flies under the radar sweep.
I was doing some research on Brandon Jones with a friend who follow the titans very close.
Brand Jones is a slot receiver, not a split end or flanker.
I think we have Josh Morgan as the starter but I dont understand why we let Bryant Johnson go. Unless we have Bruce back, then the answer will have to be in the draft for another starter.
He mentioned Jones is a good slot receiver, but sometimes he will drop a few passes.
However, he mentioned Jones was always good on third downs and critical moments. We will see, I like what Jason Hill has been doing there on the slot position.
personally I think OT by far makes the most sense with the 10th pick. At the moment it looks like J.Smith and Monroe won't be there but A.Smith and Oher could. I think each of them would be very good pick-ups. In the second round I'd LOVE to get Connor Barwin. That would cover up our biggest needs. In the middle rounds I see us taking a RB (A.Brown or R.Jennings seem to fit) and a WR (eg Massaquoi, Iglesias, Barden, Ogletree and so on). As for QB I think very highly of Tom Brandstater from Fresno St. For the later rounds, NT (R. Miller), ILB, another pass rusher and a FS (Bruton) could be targetet. TE could be another possibility but if we were to get Barwin, he could be that 3rd guy.
Marc the Rutgers program is very strong and thanks for insightful analysis -several good players coming out of that program including one of my fav's this year K. Britt. Another great program is my small school favorite- Coach Kehres' masterpiece at Mount Union (Div.111)...they have been dominant for years now due to the truly inspiring leadership of an exceptional Coach and program-I highly recommend further enquiry into one of the best and largely overlooked football coaches in recent college history! While you due that please take note of his QB of the last few years-the 2008 ESPN Academic All American winner;Canton's Gagliardi trophy winner (K Britt was a competitor in that race);the career passing rating leader in college history 197.+ with a GPA of 3.86 in Math -yes one Greg Micheli who wasn't even invited to the combine !Can you say... sleeper!
OOPs- that is do not due!
P.S -while you are at it check out Nate Kmic's stats- Mount Union's RB-...another sleeper -you'll be surprised! (sorry about sub -.due for do in last post!)Buzz
Fantastic job Matt. Didn't think you'd make it through the entire day. Well done.
ECSTATIC!! Finally someone believes Manny Lawson can be best used as a pass rusher!! And MS is the guy! Knowing MS sees what many have seen in Lawson proves the point that this is what Lawson is good at and should have been drafted for! Nolan immediately announced after drafting Manny he was going to be a LB! But we all know now Nolan thought and spoke out of his a@#!
Lawson was a DE who dominated the line of scrimage in college at NC State. The opponents sometimes had to double team Lawson to hold off the pressure he put on the opposing QB's to say nothing about his sacks!
Now it's true the 3-4 defense does make a difference compared to the 4-3 that Lawson played in college. And each makes for different skills to be used by players. But when someone can pressure the QB, it doesn't matter which defense he plays in!
It's a proven, despite what some say, that weight, the thing always brought up as a negative about Lawson, really doesn't matter when quickness and just plain speed can over power a LT or TE.
It's great to see MS sees the something in Lawson that he can work with that IS the guys strength! And who can question MS when he played and oversaw what the WHOLE DEFENSE did in his HOF career? I thinks it's another positive of having MS as HC! He knows things need to be tweeked and in some areas and just reconstructed in other places on the team. God knows Nolan had NO CLUE what he was doing on offense and especially the defense that was supposed to be his strength (watch out Denver!)
With each move I see, and there hasn't been a lot yet, but I know there coming, MS is molding! I like this move with Lawson! MS is using a guys strength and quickness to the teams advantage! Different from coaches like Nolan who takes a guy and says you're this and it's up to you to fit into it!
Another positive of MS!
Dunno about that. He's had plenty chances to pass rush and hasn't got it done. Not all college success translates to the pro game and he doesn't have Williams anymore.
Your comment is well taken. But Lawson has never been allowed to be on the line and consistantly rush the passer. I believe under the nonsense of the Nolan fiasco, Lawson was never really given the chance to put the talents he has to their proper use.
I seems from Matt's remarks quoting MS, that MS sees Lawson's pass rushing skills and can use them. The way it's worded, MS believes Lawson's talents were being missused or not used. I think so, also. I hope MS gives him the chance at a position that will take advantage of his skills.
Terry, you've got a good point. I could be wrong but I can only remember Lawson rushing from a LB position. Usually after dummying a drop into coverage. Can't think of a DE rush from the line.
Point well taken, Realfan!
T.O. 1yr $6.5MM with Buffalo
Thanks for the link. ESPN had a different take on his pass-rushing abilities, but I don't always find them very reliable. Why Kiper keeps putting Maybin in as the 49er pick is beyond me. I did not like what I saw from that guy in the Rose Bowl. I think Maybin would be Todd Kelley all over again.
Don't forget that Lawson played opposite Mario Williams in college. Lawson played on an overall very talented line in college and that allowed him some maneuverability in rushing the passer. Every player on that D-line made each other better, and obviously having Mario Williams play opposite you is going to make your life easier as well.
Again.. If Andre Smith is available at 10, Take him. A great left tackle is exactly what the O Line needs. Staley can move back to RT which is better suited for his talents. We need a better O Line.
Actually Andre might well be better on the right side. He is less of a pass blocker than Jason Smith for instance. But he is a huge guy who can move the pile.
As for Lawson, yes, he would be more effective rushing 25% of the time on the strong side, with a great pass rusher on the weak side coming 75% of the time, and Justin and Sopoaga putting pressure up the middle. Everette Brown?
Check there -problem is as I'm sure you know Andre has dropped on the boards but is still a 1st round pick -the same is true with E.Brown chances are very slim of getting either one in second round-I like the form of the notion tho ...Connor Barwin might supplant E Brown in above scenario(Draft dog just moved Barwin up to first rounder also-so who knows!?)!
B-Rows has some great comments/info on Demetric Evans. I agree that this signing might be bigger than some of us had expected. Word on the street is that he will be a beast on that left end spot.
I'm hesitant to believe in Manny as a real pass rush threat. Love the kid and like that he is on our team, but let's not forget he has not shown much yet. Terry - MS also said multiple times that TBC would be a double digit sack guy. If Manny can pick up on some of the Julian Peterson moves (Smaller skinny DE/LB guy as well) he might have a chance. Regardless, I expect BIG things out of Manny this year.
Speaking of Demetric Evans, it looks like most Redskins fans thought highly of him and were pissed to see him go.
http://www.extremeskins.com/showthread.php?t=282157
It never fails that people forget the medical aspects of the game. Lawson tore his ACL - which takes 18 months to fully recover (to 100%) from. We didn't see him at 100% last year. But he should be fully recovered by now.
thankfully the niners won't have to play the bills next year =D. 6.5 mil for a hof WO is a steal.
Why no apparent interest in Safety Roy Williams?
He has been a terrific safety for the Cowboys, and is not over the hill yet.
Roy Williams did not play well last year and was a weak spot on the defense. They tried to trade him and couldn't. So they cut him. He wouldn't start for the Niners.
Because Roy Williams gets routinely beat deep in coverage. His forte is not playing pass routes, but rather playing near the line of scrimmage on run support or tackling on short routes. We already have one of those in Lewis. We need a pass-coverage safety opposite Lewis.
There's a reason why Dallas let him go. He's a liability in coverage. That's also our Michael Lewis' weakness but he's better than Williams.
I've been pulling for getting Reggie Smith some PT at SS. (Maybe some mop-up duty if we can get some leads on some of these teams.) We need to get younger & upgrade that spot. Lewis should be able to hold it down for another year, maybe 2.
As a reminder Reggie Smith STARTED 20 GAMES AT STRONG SAFETY in college. He deflected 22 passes & had 8 INT's. I know McNolan drafted him hoping he would be a physical #2 CB. Coach Sing has a lot on his plate but I hope he hasn't overlooked that he was MOSTLY used as a Strong Safety. His MO is he is a hitter but he also played extensively at CB (who has "good instincts") which should improve the pass coverage at that spot.
Back to Andre Smith...
Many thanks to MM for posting that vid of his testimony "don't blame me, blame my agent."
Regardless, the one thing scouts will always tell you is that you can't teach size and strength, and Andre has plenty of that. Just lack of discipline – maybe Coach Sing can fill in those gaps. And McGM has been quoted to say that it's more important to watch college than combine tape – Andre comes out way ahead again. Andre has had more pancakes than IHOP.
Assuming Orakpo, Oher, and Crabtree are donning other NFL caps before our pick, then my heart tells me Sanchez, but my head is now saying Smith. Both will not be day one starters unfortunately, but both players indubitably have huge upsides.
When I get the call from McGM and Coach Sing from my armchair on April 25th, I'll give them my blessing to move forward on either pick.
As much as I beat on this kid Andre Smith he would be a starter in the NFL. I remember when Warren Sapp was an idiot his first year with the Bucs, then came Mr Dungy. Dungy straighted Sapp out and in 1996 was a force!! Ruined Jerry Rice's knee in the first game of that year if I remember right. I think if coach Sing gets ahold this young man he has a chance to become an incredible football player.
Although there are still quite a few mocks indicating Sanchez at #10 spot- as much as it brakes your heart I concur they won't take him there...chances are very high of OT or pass rush specialist at that slot (if it's Andre fine -he better be prepared to work!)-as for me the guy I'm hoping for is Connor Barwin -however his stock is up and he may not be there in round 2-we've got alot of Beef at DL line but damn if J. Gilbert wouldn't be tempting if Barwin is gone in second -don't be surprised if they take QB in midrounds-that is if Seattle doesn't grab him first!
P.S.-the midround QB I was referring to is Mike Reilly...although Pat White might be a tempting prospect who brings WR/QB skills to the table ...much like Barwin being able to play TE as well as D!
Andre Smith would be the starting LT on this team Week 1.
Guarantee it. He was such a monster LT prospect before the agent blunder and the nitpicking of his game by scouts.
Good points John.
And ditto on Barwin hightop. High on motor, athleticism, and character. Reminds me alot of tweener Mike Vrabel, who was an indispensable cog in the Patriots defensive machine during their Super Bowl streak.
Andre Smith needs to be looked at closely. The film don't lie, he can play. Talent doesn't mean everything though. We have to make sure that he is going to play and fit in on the team. He really needs to work on his lower body and gain strength. He has the big child look. He may be there when we pick. It'll be interesting if we have the choice between pass rush/DL and OL who we'll choose
Andre Smith needs to be looked at closely. The film don't lie, he can play. Talent doesn't mean everything though. We have to make sure that he is going to play and fit in on the team. He really needs to work on his lower body and gain strength. He has the big child look. He may be there when we pick. It'll be interesting if we have the choice between pass rush/DL and OL who we'll choose
What Singletary can do for Andre Smith he can do the same for Oher. With what Smith pulled at the combine he probably swapped places with Oher taking the #3 OT spot.
Oher was brought down for getting lazy in his work ethic during his Senior year & inconsistency in his play. It also showed up during the combine. He would make some good blocks then lose focus & get beat like he did when Mathews/USC bull rushed him into the QB (dummy). Getting these young bucks motivated, focused, & getting a solid work ethic & learning how to win is Singletary's forte.
You repair these weaknesses & any of these 2 can be steals with the 10 pick. I'd be psyched to land any one of these guys. IMO Smith's more suited to play RT & paired with Rachal I envision them blowing massive holes on that right side. Smith in time has to prove he can handle speed rushers & control his weight every year before switching him to the left IMO. Who knows if Staley holds up & the Smith/Rachal production comes to fruition we could leave it at that. At the very least I see him as a starting RT who easily beats Snyder/Sims in the talent dept which these 2 don't have much of. (Snyder is a good backup.) We should be able to plug him in right away at that spot like we did with Staley & get him on the fast track of developing.
With Oher he has all the tools...strength, natural size/feet/technique. He's the naturally bigger man than Staley & who's the better pass pro guy than Smith. He has the better chance to swap with Staley. Again with Sing's tutelage he could develop into a stronger run blocking tackle. Same as Smith you should be able to plug in Oher at RT immediately. He should be able to beat out Snyder/Sims.
One thing we need to be very aware of is the fact that Sing is a general, not a lieutenant. All of us have been saying Sing will fix this defect in that player. What we don't need is for him to be bogged down micromanaging player behavior and take his focus on the larger things. For Oher and Smith, if we draft them, Foerster will be the one to have to sign off on the pick. Sing is a motivator, and Foerster is the one who will be ultimately responsible for developing the talent.
If you look at any professional sports, the rosters are full of guys with character flaws. The responsible teams look for minor flaws that are manageable, and hopefully not felonies.
Mitigating players with major flaws in character certainly helps the "general" perform his function -composed as you know of a series of functions aimed ultimately at having the the whole(team) be greater than the sum of its parts-with the goal, in this case, of winning football games.It is said Coach Wooden asked two questions of the young men who wanted to play for him:(1) Are you a good man (2) Do you have a passion for the game. One suspects the first question made more than one prospect circumspect! I wonder how young Smith would reply with "general" Singletary staring deep into his eyes...
I apologize if this has already been discussed, butI read a lot of posts and didn't see it mentioned. What about Kahlif Barnes to shore up the OL. I think it was mike Santarosa that was talking about him earlier as being a potential tier 1 FA talent. I noted his 2007 season VS his 2008 season. We are now deep into Free agency and he is still out there. I would assume that would bring his $$price tag down. What does everyone know about him? If we sign another tackle in Free Agency that alllows us to go after another position in the draft. Raji, Sanchez, Rak or Everrette? I have not been in favor of taking a QB early in the draft, but I am starting to warm up to the idea. Robiskie in the 2nd. Again not a huge position of need, but these players would give a bright future to the SF franchise. Another thing taking a RT at #10 seems like paying too much for the position. I think Staley would benefit from playing the same position two years in a row and not constantly switching. thought?
I think that McCloughlin is relunctant to sign Barnes for franchise LT money,and that's what it is going to take. The last franchise LT didn't work out to well. Perhaps there is some talks going on behind the scene, but I think the Yorks are not going to spend all the money under the cap in this economy. I wouldn't be upset if they went after him as it would, as you pointed out, gives us more options in the draft.
leads me to your second point. #10 is definitely too high to take a RT, so if a OT is drafted there, figure that Staley and him are going to fight it out for LT. Staley will benefit from not switching, but he has played both well and the team comes first. This is where the BPA comes in. We can just take out higher rated player. If it is a LT, then we can look to add pass rush later (and pray that Lawson and Parys develop) in the draft. If we take NT or OLB, we can take a RT later. It'll depend on whether we are drafting a RT or LT. As an aside, signing Barnes would be much more expensive than a draft pick and if we pay that much, he better be a franchise LT.
I'd much rather spend #10 on OT than sign Barnes.
Jonas Jennings, when healthy, is better than Barnes. Barnes is a good run blocker on the left side but his pass protection is only about average and he really doesn't fit as a RT. I thought I read he signed with Oakland but that could have been a mistake.
I am starting to get into the A. Smith bandwagon for #10 also. He can immediately be the starting RT we need.
As for 2nd round, Barwin, Larry English or Clint Sintim would make me real happy if one of them is there.
John Parker Wilson later on (very smart kid) and Arian Foster for RB...
Let's see what happens...
The closer we get to draft day the more I am convinced that it's gonna be a OT.
It's 9:17am Pacific. Do you know where Alex Smith's restructured contract is?
it's 9:46 am pacific. Do you know where your restructured contract is?
Isn't this the week of Classroom "stuff"...
We made it over 200 posts..some of them dbl's or even trips, but who cares.
Indiana Jim - it's 10:12am PST time and do you know where our fearless blogger extraordinaire is?
The question remains will A.Smith be there at 10. If he is I would absolutely take him. The fact that Jacksonville signed Tra Thomas would indicate they will not take an OT.
I tried, honestly I tried, but I got 2 paragraphs into SI's Peter King's MMQB and it almost made me punch the monitor. In all of my life I have never read a sport columnist like Peter King. I loved Howard Cosell and that was a pompous SOB. But nobody comes close to this guy. I wonder exactly what this guy does to players in order for him to be able to write the stuff he does. The women folk at the soon to be dead Chronicle write more masculine columns than Peter King. It's almost gross. I wonder what this guys wife is like? This guy reminds me more of a gossip columnist than a NFL writer. He would do better work writing for a womans mag than SI. When all's you wanna do is catch up on some football news...and you know you shouldn't have, I was telling myself don't do it, don't click on that MMQB link...don't do it...Dang it!!
My response: I'm in my hotel room in Vegas watching "First Take." It's the first time I've watched any sports coverage on TV in more than two weeks.
Wanted to pass along a pretty cool email I received a couple days ago. I won’t mention the parties involved unless they tell me it’s OK.
Two people were personally attacking each other for their 49ers’ comments on this blog. I got fed up, sent them each other’s email address and encouraged them to keep their argument private. Here’s an email I received from one of the erstwhile combatants:
“I just wanted to take a little of your time to tell you that the exchange of emails to end some of the sniping that goes on in your comment area worked for me! You sent me (name deleted) email address, and him mine. We started emailing each other and worked out our differences and became friends! He knows about me and me about him! Thanks for giving this old guy a chance to work things out in private. Like the old saying goes, ‘You never know anything about a person until you stand in his shoes!’”
The 49ers will probably announce the Demetric Evans signing today, as he was expected to overnight a signed contract back to the team’s offices in Santa Clara. I’ll return to work when I get back to the Bay Area at some point tomorrow.
--Matt M.
it's 10:55 am pacific and I have no idea about anyone's whereabouts.
Nice feel good story M&M.
its funny you wrote that cuz - i just went thru the whole "telling myself don't do it, don't click on that MMQB link...don't do it...Dang it!!" - after reading all the jibbrish about T.O - i just had to shut it off......the one thing consistent about Peter king is his ability to waste your time reading nonsense and make a reader dumb and dumber.....
dammit - no news?....
What, no emails from Tom Condon?
Matt – you have further defined yourself as not only a terrific sports columnist, but a true moderator.
Can world peace be far behind?
As for PK – I personally don't find him offensive or repugnant. He just likes to toot his own horn that he's copied on phone calls and text messages from NFL players. John mentioned Cosell to draw comparisons, and quite frankly, old Howie would have no part of that BS, or even share it with others.
Matt – you have further defined yourself as not only a terrific sports columnist, but a true moderator.
Can world peace be far behind?
As for PK – I personally don't find him offensive or repugnant. He just likes to toot his own horn that he's personally copied on phone and text messages from NFL players and coaches. Nice to be "in the know", but keep the pomposity down to a dull roar. Even if Howie were around today, he wouldn't go to those lengths.
Wholly run away socialism OneNiner! I couldn't have said it better.
".the one thing consistent about Peter king is his ability to waste your time reading nonsense and make a reader dumb and dumber....."
One thing other thing. The Chronicle was my newspaper until the mid 90's. I still read the sports page and then when Ira Miller left...well it became much more difficult but one person has always made me go back to the sporting green. "The Betting Fool", if you got time drop him an line and tell him ya miss him. "The Fool" has become a great email buddy of mine for a very long time. He had a very tough time not to long ago and as we speak the Chron is cutting more jobs than a horse whip manufacture 100 years ago!
Matt - I hope you don't mind me jotting that down. As you know, you have the ultimate job, getting paid to watch sports, with the added bonus of being able to meet and write about modern day gladiators. I hope you are around as long as the fool has been. Blowing a little sunshine your way there Matt.
Matt, I love you man!
Peace!
I am going through withdrawal pains ! NinerLand without MM is like coffee without the cream and sugar ...(or the coffee or the cup ,lol ).
I think after what happened in the combine A. Smith will be there, besides there are another 2 top OTs who will definetly be taken by #10. Jason Smith and Eugene Monroe.
And if he is taken for some reason, I will be happy with Oher, but I see the OT being addressed at this point.
Unless some team releases a good OT before the draft and we decide we want to go after him,I am resigned to the fact that we probably do grab the best OT on the board at #10.
I would rather have pass rush but we do need an OT . I just hope he is good enough to come right in and start without getting Hill killed and not need all that much time to learn .
Why do you suppose there has been no talk of Darren Sharper? He is a HUGE upgrade at saftey. We only need him for a year to give Goldson some more learning time. Plus, Sharper is a smart play maker with all the range they are looking for.
Why do you suppose ther has been no talk of Darren Sharper? I know he is old, but he would be a perfect one year upgrade at saftey. He is a smart playmaker with the range that Singletary is looking for. His experience would do wonders for Goldson. I think Sharper starting in ‘09 with Goldson as backup would be much stronger than Goldson starting with Roman as backup. Unless of course Goldson has learned how to read offenses and adjust the defense. I don’t know, and would appreciate your thoughts. Also, what about Spencer at free saftey?
Sorry about doubling down.
just a fan,
i am not an expert by any means but based on the niners strategy(minus the flirtation with warner) the niners are not interested in an older player to fil a hole for one year, they are looking for younger players with the potential to improve. While based on what i have seen i agree sharper would be an improvement last year, salary demands, and speed concerns(no sharper isn't slow but he's another year older and probably another step slower) probably pushes the niners out of that market.
insidesf49ers.blogspot.com
SCOOP! http://www.profootballtalk.com/2009/03/10/alex-smith-does-a-new-deal/
Indiana, I can't find anything else to confirm. But it was more likley he resigned rather then leave now this late. We'll see how training camp shapes up. Stay healthy Alex, it'd be nice to see a fair and full QB comp.
alex smith resigns for a 2 year deal . hope it's less than 3.9 mil with incentives
My guess would be 2.5 with incentives.
Had to be under $2.625MM so that the 49ers could still have the $7MM cap savings they would have had if they released him.
this is breaking news to MM - as if everyone didn't know this was going to happen.....all that talk about A.Smith is not guranteed a roster spot was a waste of time......hopefully everyone comes to their senses and allow A.Smith to start and prove the naysayers wrong.....Go A.Smith aka the ONE...Go niners
...fyi ...."Now that the dust is settling on what ended up being a two-day process, we’re told that coach Mike Singletary was open to the possibility of bringing Owens back to town, five years after he left. Singletary, as we hear it, believed that he could get through to Owens and persuade him to be a good teammate."
Here is the scoop. Also - reports are Sing wanted T.O. and the front office was INSISTANT on not going after him (I will post that when I find it):
ALEX SMITH DOES A NEW DEAL
Posted by Mike Florio on March 10, 2009, 11:44 a.m.
At a time when one of Tom Condon’s high-profile clients is contemplating taking a salary haircut in order to stay with a California team, another high-profile Tom Condon client has opted to reduce his compensation in order to keep his job.
Per a league source, the 49ers have agreed to a new two-year deal with quarterback Alex Smith, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2005 draft.
Though specific numbers are not yet available, we’re told that it’s normal two-year money for a backup-type deal, but all in all a fair package.
Our guess is that Smith will make something like $2 million to $3 million per year.
It’s not chump change, but the tables definitely have turned since Smith was the first pick, and Aaron Rodgers did the green room slide.
Perhaps we shall call Alex "Neo."
I wonder if A. Smith will talk today and answer Q's. I'm pretty happy this got done. This is his last shot to prove himself though. I hope he can shake off the negitivity that has surrounded his career. I'm happy with either Hill or Smith leading the team next year, with either one ready to take over at anytime. At this point, even if we draft a QB, the class is pretty weak. 2010 is loaded with quality QB's so if this Hill/Smith-Smith/Hill plan fails this year, We'll find the right guy next year.(I hope it doesn't fail)
Matt, go all in, and put it all on red , also sit on the very left side of the table, thanks.