guys great news ! walter football , the best online site gave our draft an A- (same grade i gave it btw !)they know what they are doing too !!! with that here's .... 146. Scott McKillop, ILB, Pittsburgh
If you get great value and fill a need in the fifth round, you probably know what you're doing. Unlike some teams in the NFL, the 49ers know what they're doing. (Pick Grade: A)
..... this should cheer up the doubters !!!

Criminy, I'd rather see Clayton, not Robinson. He does nothing particularly well. Drives me nuts that they don;t give him a legit shot.

Feel the love, Spit. Ha ha ha ha ha ha ! ! !

I feel a bit upset about Damon Huard taking a roster spot. Can anyone convince me we need his 13 year exp on the roster?.. eh.

I think the WRs need to be used in a way that Bruce, Morgan, and Crabtree all get the most playing time. Maybe we didnt need Jones but Matt said Isaac Bruce, Brandon Jones, Jason Hill and Arnaz Battle are all at flanker and I could see Arnaz and Bruce not being here next year so Jones would still have value.

Hey Matt,

With Crabtree at split end do you think the 49ers will try and move josh morgan to flanker to get him on the field or will brandon jones be in that role? i would hate to think a young talented reciever like morgan would have to sit on the sideline. I also want to say this is my first time posting, and this is by far the best 49er blog i have come across. Thanks Matt

WHAT! MRob is a stud ST. Clayton can't get on the field. If MRob was cut, someone would sign him ASAP. All 31 other teams have had 2 years to sign him off the PS and have not.

The Jones signing is interesting, but they did it prior to drafting Crabtree. They did give him a lot of guarenteed moola and overpaid, I think. He must be a phenomenal blocker. Battle and Zeigler are in a fight though. Never count Battle out, we've been trying to get rid of him since we drafted him and he;s always there. I would think Bruce would need to take a lesser role this year so we can get Hill, Crabs and Morgan on the field at the same time.

Great about Marques' signing, provides depth and experience as a mentor type in the SD 3-4 OLB for Paryls and Manny. Expect a bigger play this year for those guys

HA HA finally remembered my password...

--I really know nothing about Everette Brown, other than an impressive highlight reel on YouTube. The 49ers, and every other NFL team, do a lot more research on these prospects than scanning the Internet for video.

They're called highlights for a reason. Twenty plays out of a 1,000 or more...

The thing with Everette Brown was he vastly over-hyped by the draftnik industry. Kirwan had him at #3. Don Banks had him at #5. Lots of other "mock draft experts" had him in the Top-10. Not because he was good, or worth it, but because mock-draft people are sheep and adjust their rankings to the rankings of others...

So, when the ignorant (eg lacking knowledge) fans saw this, they (incorrectly) presumed Brown was all that and a bag of chips. Not as dramatic as the Ernst Shazor fall from a few years ago, a crappy player (with a great highlight reel) given a Round 2 grade by the draftniks. And yet Shazor ended up undrafted and a FAILURE as a FA with AZ, a team that needed a good safety at the time.

Everett Brown didn't fall as far and as hard. But his "fall" was very akin to the Elton Brown and Alan Branch falls in recent years. Guys who dropped a round or two under where the draftniks had them.

Just checked out Marques Harris. NFL.com lists his HT and Wt at 6'0" 231 seemingly under McCloughan's targets. I went back to NFLDraftSout.com to see what he weighed at the combine. - 6' 0" 231! I have to believe he has bulked up some from then. Also, he was their #8 OLB that year, ran a 4.71 with 22 reps, 40 1/2 vert, 9' 9"BJ,4.07 shuttle and 7.20 cone. Appears to be VERY athletic.

"Harris made a successful return to the gridiron in 2004. A standout defensive end at the University of Colorado earlier in his career, Harris transferred to Southern Utah for his final season. He missed most of the 2003 campaign with two broken bones in his left leg, then, requested his release from Colorado after participating in 2004 preseason drills with the Buffaloes. "

"Harris played in eleven games as a true freshman at Colorado, starting two contests at strong safety. He recorded 14 tackles (9 solos) with 3.5 sacks and three quarterback pressures. He shifted to "Rush" defensive end in 2001, starting every game. He totaled 51 tackles (38 solos) with three sacks, six stops for losses, eight pressures, three pass deflections and an interception."

HE then got caught up in the recruiting scandal. After breaking his leg in a game, he transferred to Southern Utah. According to NFLDraftscout, he plays better standing up than with his hand down.

Hey Matt,

What is it about Thomas Clayton that has limited his career thus far? Aside from Gore, whay is he buried on the depth chart? From what I have seen of Coffee, I can't see how he would be an upgrade over the backs we already have on our roster. You are a lot closer to the action, can you provide some insight.

Thanks

Matt,

As always, thank you for the great 49er coverage. If the opportunity presents itself, could you look into the issue of Crabtree and Morgan playing the same position. I get it if they're trying to create competition between both guys. I also understand that today Bruce may be better than both in the 49ers eyes. But, it just sounds so rigid. I would hate to think on down the road that either Crabtree or Morgan would be sitting despite being the 49ers best 2 receivers. I'm sure they'll work it out but it just sounds funny at this point.

Huard is camp fodder so that Hill's arm doesn't get "tired" again (for real this time), Smith's bionic appendage can survive to the pitch count and Davis can learn what the laces are. When we break camp it will be Hill #1, Smith #2 Davis #3 and Huard will be looking for a job.

Question: If the opportunity presents itself, could you look into the issue of Crabtree and Morgan playing the same position.

My response: Be sure to read my posts from training camp in late July and August when they're both practicing. That's when things are going to shake out. --Matt M.

Another thing I don't think people realize about the Pats. I really think that he would like to get a higher draft choice, but he can't AFFORD it. The top 4 players on his roster eat up $30 mil in cap space and there are an additional 7 players earning more than 3 million a year. He can't afford to get a high draft pick and pay him. If he wants young players, he has to get low caponomic numbers. Pats are made up of veteran role players.

The receiver position is not one to fret over. Having this group of receivers is a good thing...I see both crabtree and morgan being on the field at the same time. I would like to see a lot of 4-wide and opening up the ground game with the ability to go deep. The biggest question is gonna be if we can protect the QB. If Marvel can stay healthy I think we got a shot. Another thing not to forget is there is quality players to be found after training camp cuts and 53-man cut!!!

BallGameIan, don't worry too much about Huard. He was signed mainly because we need 3 throwers for minicamps and we had a minicamp before the draft. For training camop having 4 QBs is fine. And when the season rolls along, he'll probably be cut in favor of Nate Davis unless Davis is so raw we have to PS him.

Could somebody - anybody - please tell me why we so doggedly hang on to Robinson at RB. He is the ONLY back I've seen that uses a Braille technique when carrying. Time and again this youngster will charge right up th back of another player - be it his own or the other side. Change of directions, please. A "runners moves, where? He has the running instincts of Steveie Wonder. And please, don't harp on his Special Team prowess, like he is THAT DAMN GOOD - COME ON!.. And Keasy, please. Give the guy a gold watch a nice little stipend for his effort to date and say goodbye(unless, and until they figure out what position he can actually play on a pro level). Time to Clean house and take the "present" saftey Mike with them.
On first glance this draft didn't appear too great. But study it close, real close as to what specifics were sought - and it was darn near perfect. (Don't be surprised either if, at the last minute, MC C bundles our two first round picks and grabs J Peppers.) Clever!

I was disappointed with the 2nd round trade but I do like haveing two #1's next year. All in all, I liked the draft and will give it a B for now. If Coffee turns out to be a player I'll unpgrade to B+ or A-.

Matt: Obviously, the team wasn't enamored with either Sintim or Loadholt at pick #43. On paper, however, it appears either would have fit a need/scheme. Do you have any insight as to why the team passed on them in Round 2?

i luv the Marques Harris signing, played behind the probowlers in SD and is familiar with our D-Coach.......Crabtree, Morgan, Hill, Battle, Bruce, Jones.....i say we keep them all this yr, Bruce is not coming back next yr and my main man Battle might not return.....Is Dominique Zeigler available for the p-squad?.......

MRob is not really seen as a Productive RB. He is on the team as a Special Teamer stud. Saying you're disappointed with MRob as a RB is the same as saying you're disappointed with Rossum as a
CB. I see what you're saying, but that is not their primary purpose on the team. I'll take his ST productivity in exchange for his lack of productivity as a RB.

I don't think you can blame the Niners for the B.Jones contract. Its pretty clear that no one expected Crabtree to fall in the Niners laps at 10. They stuck to their guns; take the BPA.

9ernutt & Matt -- The idea of using one or more of those 1st round 2010 picks to swing a deal for Peppers is intriguing, particularly since Matt reminded us that on 3rd down the Niners play a 3-4. Could Peppers be a 3 down player with the Niners, playing pass rushing OLB on 1 and 2 and pass rushing DE on 3?

And, Matt, what's your guesstimate on what Peppers would cost, both in trade and then in salary? Do the Niners still have the cap room for the kind of salary he would likely get?

In the first sentence I meant that on 3rd down the Niners play a 4-3

Matt looking at the offensive personel and coaching where do u think this offense will rank? Others please chime in im very curious about what u guys really think about our offense.

Stop this nonsense about peppers - first he costs to much at that age, we will never trade our 1st round for an aging player, never played in a 3-4 before, just too much variables or common sense to see peppers does not fit with the niners...dont get me wrong am a huge tar heel fan but thinking about adding peppers is close to insanity......

Solid draft by the Niners with real football players in the first 6 rounds. Don't know about those 2 7th round picks from LSU, but with their ability, it's worth the gamble that late. With that being said, I feel Scott Mc got overwhelmed by the Patriots selecting players he wanted ahead of us and felt the need to trade the pick. Now the 1st round pick for next year is great, but the best teams play for this year. We should have moved up to get FS Chung or NT Brace (2 areas we need a huge upgrade in '09) or stayed put and drafted E. Brown. I watch FSU games in person here in Tallahassee and when it comes to rushing the QB (our other glaring weakness), there was no better player in this draft. He would have been THE MAN to be that "one-dimensional smaller, quicker defensive end who gets after the quarterback". We'll see how his career plays out, but I'm on record as saying the 49ers made a mistake. Other than the 2nd round, we had a great draft!

With A.Smith as QB we have a huge potential to be in the top 10 offensive rankings,

with S.Hill we have the potential to be in the 10 - 15 rankings,

with Huard we have the potential to be in the 15 - 20 rankings

with davis we have the potential to be in the bottom 5 offensive rankings

Two key positions that MAY require upgrades next yr with the two 1st round picks. - Free safety and Right Tackle......I see pass rush OLB been addressed in the @nd round...........FYI - we are not drafting a QB next yr unless two things happen - A.Smith performs worse than he had before which means we will be picking in the top 10, ...or a Franchise QB falls just like Crabtree did.......McGM believes in A.Smith and I believe in McGm

Whoa oneniner.....So u think our offense will be top 20 at worst?

you must mean a huge potential the top 10 in turnovers... or passes that stretch the receiver so high/behind him/ he cant make a play after the catch.

if i'm wrong and suddenly smith stops being an absolute garbage Qb ill happily eat my words.

Peppers franchise tag is for 1-year $16.7 Million. The tag # for DE is 7.77-8.99 mil, but this is the second year in the row that Peppers has been tagged. It'll cost us at least a first and a second to get him.

Florida Fan: The best teams don't actually play for this year. They keep the long term in mind too. In your example, the Redskins draft and sign FA to play for the next year, the Pats and Steelers draft for the future as well. With respect to Brown, I don't know that it is wise to draft a player that high that is on the field for third downs only.

We would have to give up our #1 pick and sign Peppers to a very simlar contract that the Redskins just gave Haynsworth. I'm guessing the Niners keep the pick and spend that money on Willis, Davis, and Lawsome extentions. For all you Everette Brown lovers. Stack up his college stats against Manny's. Very similar. However, Manny now has an NFL body with a 6-5 frame and 250 pounds. I will still give the edge to Manlaw. As a senior at NC state, he started 12 games and posted 58 tackles with 19.5 tackles for loss, 10.5 sacks, broke up four passes.

Matt, It is not as simple as just "move on" regarding Everette Brown. He wasn't necessarily great because the draftniks said so or because a pretty good footbal team traded a future #1 to get him, but he wasn't necessarily overrated because the "great" Scott McCloughan (the guy with a very mediocre track record in 4 previous drafts),rated him not worthy of a 2nd round pick. A pass rusher has been one of our greatest needs since we inexplicably let Haley go to Dallas. So, if Brown does develop into a great pass rusher, Scott's decision will go down as a one of the great draft day failures. Some of you are too anxious to label this draft a success and justify every decision. Time will tell.

And, your assumption that no one could have replaced Lawson or Parylson as starters greatly over-values those two players. Lawson is still living off the word "potential" and Harylson probably had his caeer year with "8" sacks. These guys are not all-pro candidates.

"Two key positions that MAY require upgrades next yr with the two 1st round picks. - Free safety and Right Tackle......"

I almost forgot... there's this kick ass safety coming out of USC next year. Having that second pick in the first is going to allow a LOT of flexibility regardless of what position they decide to go.

FloridaFan - trading up in 'next year's draft' seems to be working quite well for that team out in Boston.

i just have a problem seeing our offense being productive under Mike Singletary's vision and Jimmy Raye as O.C. Furthermore our offensive line "upgrade" hinges on the health of a player that hasnt been healthy for the last 2 seasons. I think offensively we now have the skill position players (in spite of our QB's)to successful, But i have serious doubts about our scheme and OL.

I think most fans love Robinson for his physicality esp on ST's play. The thing I question is probably the Draft strategy when we picked him. BPA is always a good start but like others have mentioned before you also try to cross check that with need at the appropriate spot we pick. The OTHER criteria a GM should be using IMO is where does he fit in our system? And does he have a true position? From what I'm gathering it seems Singletary is the guy that's conveying that message to McCloughan. A very good change because I'm not sure we got that when Nolan was HC/GM & Scott his sidekick.

Robinson, wasn't he a converted QB? He might have been viewed as the BPA but where were we gonna put him & what exactly is his position? We should know that before drafting a player is my point. That still is & has been the question about Robinson holding a roster spot. He hasn't panned out to be a true RB or FB. He's still on "OJT" with his conversion?

His value on ST's is UNDENIABLE. He's probably the best teams player we have. Formerly KLewis arguably had that top spot. So the question the way I see it is do you keep a guy on the team who's PRIMARILY a ST's player but who once & a while can be used a few snaps at RB? Assuming Coffee & Sheets are retained I don't even see why we need Robinson. (Possibly depth as a 4th back.) Those 3 RB's cover all the bases. Not sure on Coffee being the short yardage guy, he's on the small end. So possibly Robinson can take that role but we really don't see him as the TRUE mainstay short yardage back. I would ideally like to get a FB with some power running ability to take that role. (Brannon Southerland would be great to develop IMO so long as his foot checks out or can be repaired. He's still available. Had a broken foot & NFL teams so far has stayed away. He's a punishing blocker who does it all...block, catch, runs & used in short yardage. Think Rathman or William Floyd of ole.)

So the bottom line comes out to do we have room for strictly a ST's player? If the answers yes we should keep him. If not, we should try & trade him. As much as I really like Robinson for his toughness & physicality I'd lean on trading him. A team who's creative with Offense like NO's Sean Peyton comes to mind where he could use him all over as a weapon + ST's. Here he would have some value. We have a lot of young up & commers so somewhere in there you could get an impact ST's player from a guy who has a TRUE position. Who comes to mind immediately for me is the ILB we just drafted McKillop who I REALLY LIKE & hope he pans out. That's my take on Robinson.

Shootme believe it or not there is a safety Eric Berry of Tennessee that some is calling the best sarety prospect in the last 10 years out there also. Which is great because that gives us more than one great prospect at our position of need.

Why are we quoting Manny Lawson's college stats he has been in the NFL 4 years more time than he spent in college.5 years from now will we still be qouting what he did in college in spite of his track record in the NFL?

worst we will be - top 15 offense in the nfl.....

we have a probowl RB, and a solid backup
we have a hall of fame WR veteran bruce,
we have a young WR superstar,
we have a TE who is a beast
we have the improved WR morgan,
we have an experienced physical WR who played on a team with the best record last yr,
we have two short yardage specialist (though they are rookies TE and RB), ...
we have an above average o-line with a probowler from pittsburg......

the only problem i see is chemistry......

this is the beauty of the NFL and talent, now we dont have to expect the team to lose games just based on our mistakes, we now have a legitimate scenario where the opposing defense can make mistakes that will benefit us because of our playmakers....

...defenses now have to worry about not just one or two players on offense but almost everybody in the skill positions.....our players will deserve some type of attention, imagine a DC trying to come up with a plan (in a week) to stop almost everbody on offense

....previouly when Defenses did make mistakes they knew we couldnt capitalize because all the focus was on Gore and 1 other WR.....now its more than one WR they have to worry about and also TE Davis will benefit the most...

Dude...We "niners" are back.....but for now top 15....in a yr or two top 5 offense in the NFL......

Matt,
Do you think there will be any type of problem with Crabtree's contract? I know there are reports of him being a "diva." Not that I have jumped on that ship, but I wonder if it might play into him getting into camp on time. Thanks for doing such an outstanding job.

Sorry that should have read.....assuming Coffee & Sheets pan out. (Not "retained")

Calm down oneniner......lmao, You are going wayyyyyyyyyy overboard about our offensive line and Vernon Davis, U would be a hell of a car salesman!

"The best teams don't actually play for this year." Oh really? To clarify, by playing for this year, I did not mean signing a bunch of high priced free-agents and trading away all of our future picks. It means getting the best players for your scheme each year to be competitive that season, like the Patriots, Eagles, Giants, Chargers, Steelers, etc. As far as those 3rd downs, have you been watching our team the past 6+ years screaming at the defense to get off the field and they don't? Well, at some point, we should address that problem. And shootme, that team in Boston stockpiles picks year after year in rounds other than the 1st. What draft are you watching?

I can't even envision A.Smith failing.....
He finally has the talent around him to succeed...
he has the experience, he obviously has a chip on his shoulder...
he took a pay cut.....

just too much going on not to be motivated.......no way he busts......

especially since the offense is similar to Norv's offense........
the guy is also smart.....j
ust got married....
nolan is gone........
i mean so many things points to him having a succesful yr.........

unless of course(knock on wood) injuries......

I will bet on A. Smith - it is the typical american story....he was down, now he his up........cmon so obvious (just like i predicted he was going no where)

lol,....cmon..cant yu see it...:).....

lol.....cmon, Davis now gets the less attention...:).....

"And shootme, that team in Boston stockpiles picks year after year in rounds other than the 1st. "

They stockpile picks in ANY round. I seem to recall them getting a first rounder from the niners a couple years back... I LOVE the move because next year's draft is looking so much stronger than this one.

Why are you so adamant that the 49ers wouldn't have taken Raji at #10? What did they not like about him, especially considering that other teams liked him enough that he didn't even make it to #10?

I'm with oneniner...we have a great chance to have an offense in the 10 - 15 range if Alex Smith gets his stuff together. This will be the first year he has had actual weapons, and there is no question he has a better arm than Hill. Mc GM believes in Smith and I believe in him too. I'll be rooting for him to earn his job back and every niner fan with a brain should too!

Outstanding points Oneniner...and the niners ARE definitely back!

I see what you're saying, thanks for clarifying. The teams you all mention are prolly the top 5-6 teams in the league. They draft BPA because they have established, productive veterans on the roster and really don't have need, they draft for potential and depth. If the Pats didn't have Wilfork and Seymour, would we say that Brace is the answer for them this year to put them in the playoffs? I don't think so. Everything in the NFL is cyclical and eventually teams lose their talent base.

Drafting for need leads to reaching and it has been born out that doesn't work. I really agree with you on one critical point, we should draft players that fit the system and character that Sing wants. No more conversions!

Without knowing anything about Raye's offense, how in the hell can you POSSIBLY guess the offensive rankings?

Raye has a 25 year track record,,,,of futility!

The 49ers know what they're doing? That's news to me. Guess that's why they've had six straight losing seasons...

Teach Mrob to return kicks & punts - he can then be strictly ST going both ways - returning kicks and coverage.

Raye also had a 7th ranked offense with KC when he had similar personnel to ours. His scheme fits our talent, unlike the unemployed Martz...

Now that Nolan and his trigger finger are gone, you bet ;)

How can u compare the Chiefs personel to ours? Thay had a QB and most important a OL.

McCloughan Must GO:
In the four years GM Scot McMillen’s been with the 49ers, the Niners’ record is 23 - 41. No excuses, that’s McMillen’s record. He’s never had a season over .500. With an average draft position of 8th overall, McMillen and his staff have drafted 35 players with only two going to the pro bowl.

Bill Parcels: 1-15 to 11-5 in one year. Thomas Dimitroff : 4-12 to 11-5, also in one year. The formula: quarterbacks, offensive tackles and good coaching. Was it a coincidence both Parcels and Dimitroff drafted OTs in the first round in Long and Baker? Was WR part of the formula? When Bob Kraft drafted Terry Glenn in the first round, Parcels hated it, referring to Glenn as, “her,” and, “she,” in press conferences. Crabtree is a girl. Parcels saw the formula years ago, and that’s why he can create 1-15, 11-5 turn arounds in one year.

McMillen not drafting Oher probably made Dimitroff and Parcels smile. Eventually, even if you chose to be optimistic about the Niners and don’t like reading my blogs, you’ll see I’m right about Scot McMillen. Truth isn’t optimistic or pessimistic. Jed York: Eddie D would have known what to do.

FloridaFan - I really like Belichick's Draft strategy. They've done their homework & have certain players they've targeted & will get them at a good value. They do a great job scouting the teams ahead of them & predicting their next pick. If NE's spot is too high for that player they trade down & grab another pick. When it's time to make the move they pounce & walla they get THEIR PLAYER.

Then the next year they've got a stockpile of picks & the show starts all over for them. After a couple years of using this strategy they've accumulated a good bank deposit of picks so they can usually easily trade up for a player. Trading down to the right position of value for their guy again nets them additional picks or trading out of the round if they don't like what they see. The 2nd RD is gold if the Draft class is strong. It's cheaper & you have a great chance of finding solid contributors or eventual starters. Belichick is a master. Damn Pats. The big advantage is he has 2 great strengths. He's an elite HC & pseudo GM. 1) He's the HC that knows what roles need to be filled & he knows what type of player he's looking for. 2) He's also the trigger man that's a master at evaluating talent + knows how to play the Draft game. Sound familiar? When I watch Belichick go to work it instantly reminds of our Master, the 1 & only BW. RIP Oh GREAT one! I thought our guy McCloughan made some good steps on his credibility this weekend.

He's not fast or elusive enough. We need some ELECTRICITY back there. You saw the effects a player like Rossum can do for this team (when healthy). I want more SPEED & EXPLOSIVENESS, can't have enough of that. I'm envisioning Sheets to take over that role in the future. I hope he pans out!

I really like this draft. I think we got some tough players that produced in college and will definitely produce at the next level. What I really like is that we did not get enamored on players with "intangibles" where one envisions them doing things in the NFL that they have never done before. Specifically guys like the Raiders took in DHB. So what if they're fast...how many TD's did they score, etc.

There is a tendency for teams to envision what a player "might" or "could" do rather than what they have already done. I like having players that have already shown they are better or more productive than their peers.

Thumbs up on a great draft to McGM.

Splitblood - Once again your diatribe, while duly noted, contradicts your very thesis. "Was it a coincidence both Parcels and Dimitroff drafted OTs in the first round in Long and Baker" - that is correct, as is the fact that the 49ers traded back into round #1 of the 2007 draft to get franchise left tackle Joe Staley. Sounds like Miami/Atlanta copied McCloughan from one year earlier. Please go back to Lynch’s blog. He reports on hearsay…. Sounds like a perfect fit for you.

For any of you Naysayers out there who are still complaining about McGloughan or Jed ,etc....read this story and smile for a change !
We are in good hands with Scott and Jed and sing !

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ms-trippintuesday042809&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

When people talk about our offense being in the top 15 or top 10 this year, that is quite a leap of faith. Remember we are still unsettled about the QB situation.

Shaun Hill is a gutsy but limited guy. No one knows what his ceiling is. But its nothing more than religious faith to say he can lead us deep into the playoffs. Maybe so, maybe no, but I will reserve judgment until I see him play some more.

Alex Smith is a nice kid with a damaged arm. Reports from the last mini-camp that talked of inaccuracy and 'noodle arms' leave me with very limited hopes he can get it together. Also, he may just be too soft spoken to make it as an NFL quarterback. If you know anything about Montana, you know how competitive he was. Joe could be a bit of a prick at times - remember his rivalry with Steve Young and his exchange with To Tall Jones after the catch in '81:

Jones: "You just beat America's team..."

Montana: "Well, you can just watch the Super Bowl on TV with the rest of America!"

I haven't seen that kind of fire in Alex, unfortunately.

Maybe we can be a playoff team this year - but it's going to take one of these guys taking a major step up. I have hopes, but I don't bet wishful thinking unless I see it happening.

"Crabtree is a girl." - Spitblood.

Hmm. A most compelling and cerebral assessment of Crabtree. Let me ask you a few questions...

Did you ever line up against him on the field?

Did he back down on your press coverage?

When he heard your footsteps, did he convulse into alligator arm syndrome?

When you tackled him, did he wince and squeal?

I'm willing to hedge my bets that answers are NO to all of the above. But wait just a minute... is this actually Texas safety Earl Thomas posting?

I remember a point when Frank Gore was considered washed up after two knee injuries in college. Then out of nowhere he explodes with a 1700 yard pro bowl year. Don't count Alex Smith out, he's coming to play this year!

LOL,If Spitblood thinks Crabtree is a girl then that explains some of his other observations about the team and the GM etc...
Spitblood is blind and he is only posting remarks about what he THINKS he saw,lol ! Or else he is used to having rather ugly girls around? lol

What can I say? I've liked our OL ever since Warhop was canned and Baas and Rachel were promoted. I like Hill as our QB. Hopefully Hill starts and Marvel stays healthy, but like I said, yes similar.

Wow - Great Michael Silver article on Yahoo!, thanks for posting the link. MM - Silver gives YOU some serious props.

4 years as GM? No. McCloughan has been GM since last year and who knows if he even had the "trigger" with Nolan around...

here it is again...

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ms-trippintuesday042809&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

How about this quote from Silver's article - I could see us using that #1 pick next year and going after Braylon Edwards or someone like that (Arizona has said they will not move Q within the division):

All of which explains why McCloughan, after a very happy and casual Monday, was to be back working the phones Tuesday in an effort to see if there’s another move he can make on the chess board.

“My head is always spinning,” he says. “Now, with the second first-rounder next year, I’m thinking, ‘Can we trade for somebody? Should we investigate this stuff that’s out there about the Cardinals moving Boldin?’ Even though this is supposed to be a slower period, my thoughts are dominated by, ‘How do we improve this roster?’ It’s kind of sad, but that’s the truth.”

Thats part of the problem Randy you guys tend to "like" too much instead of evaluating what theyve done, Thats my biggest problem with a lot of u guys, Its nothing personal at all. For example the idea that this draft was "good for Manny Lawson" screw M.Lawson! Tell me whats good for the team!.I am not even close to being a McCloughan fan, But i liked what he did the first day and i was very shocked at the trade for Carolinas No.1 it took balls to do it and im stoked that he did.And i think his Rookie Free Agent signings were brilliant, i actually think those signings are better than the second day picks. I think he wasted the second day,we are not a good enough team to draft for depth, We need 2 more quality OL to complete our line. If Marvel Smith doesnt stay healthy we are right back to where we were last year, with one of the worst lines in the league.

After reading that article (and watching the draft etc) we should ALL be able to sleep well at night,knowing that Scott and Jed and Sing are doing the kind of job we want done! We can finally relax and rest assured that we finally have the right attitude from the top on down and for the first time in many many years we can believe in the leadership of the team.
If you don't want them doing the job the way they are doing it then it seems to me you must want the team to fail and perhaps you are not a fan of this team anyway.

Would like to know what our receiver coach as to say about Crabtree now since he was so outspoken about Jones.

I have a differning opinion on the back up positions and special teams (ST). My opinion is that all your back ups should have the potential to starters. And if after a couple years they can't make positive movement on the depth chart, then you get rid of them (trade, cut etc...) to make way for new prospects. A good ST coach will fashion a good Special Teams Unit(s) out fo the back ups (and even some of the starters). I consider the Niners signing of Foster to be a failiure in personnel management by McC and the continuing investment in Rossum as a "return specialist" to be poor ST coaching to get a returner from the back ups at the RB, WR, CB positions. If Clayton can't even crack the roster in two years and no one else wants him, its time to move on.

Rossum is the best return guy we have had in decades!!! Are you kidding me ?

And Clayton is not taking up ANY roster space on the practice squad ,so why cry about that ?

Rossum is okay,he's not awesome. and he doesn't contribute as a DB whatsoever.

Clayton is taking up a spot on the practice squad. If he can't move up and no one wants him, its time to put another raw prospect there with potential. The fact that we signed Foster last year and kept running Robinson last year proves how much the Niners think of Clayton. Then we go and draft a RB and sign another FA. That practice squad spot is a valuable farming spot for new talent and Clayton just hasn't grown into anything...his time is up.

I "like" what Foester did once promoted. Same with Baas, Rachal, Hill, Singletary etc. They've "done" enough to warrant my enthusiasm for this year and hopefully beyond.

As I've said before, Singletary proved that we have a lot of the right guys, once he did away with Nolan and Martz's overcomplicated schemes. I will agree with you about RT though. If Marvel can stay healthy, we'll be fine there. If not, Snyder will be a weak link.

What you don't seem to understand is that Clayton is on the practice squad because he needs to "practice". That is what the PS is for ! It is said that he was not reliable blocking and we all saw with Steve Young what happens when a running back misses his assaigned block.
But since we are always upgrading the roster and PS,we might just kick Clayton to the curb if he doesn't look really sharp this preseason. After all we just solidified our RB's in the draft and free agency quite a bit. Rathman will be very hapopy indeed with the RB's we have now .

And Rossum IS rather awesome ,maybe you should watch him some more on video.

AND i NEVER DID THINK MUCH OF FOSTER BUT AT LEAST HE WAS A VETERAN WITH CREDENTIALS WHO KNEW WHAT HE WAS DOING AND HE DID HAVE ONE GAME OVER 100 YARDS LAST SEASON. bUT YOU SEE HOW sCOTT AND SING AGREE WITH YOU AND i ON FOSTER,HE IS LONG GONE AND THE SPOT HAS BEEN UPGRADED SIGNIFICANTLY !
Sorry about the cap lock ,but I am not going to retype the whole thing .lol.

Great read, thanks :)

rossum didn't lead the league in return yardage. he may even be pretty good. but it still doesn't change my underlining belief that ST players should be back ups with potential to be starters. that's not the case with Rossum.

Of all positions, being a veteran is probably the least important at RB. yes RBs need to be able to block but for the most part you have to have speed, power and instincts. instincts can develop the other traits less so. So I'm glad to see Foster and hopefully Clayton go. (and maybe even Robinson)

Rossum was injured for a few games last season or he night have been close to leading the league? I don't know if John Taylor ever led the league either but I guess you wouldn't want him ?

And besides,if it weren't BECAUSE Clements is so valuable as a starter ,he would be our return guy and we never would have gone out and picked up Rossum. So you see ,being a starter actually PREVENTED Clements from being the return guy,just the opposit of what you were trying to say.

Matt: I would love a world where Crabtree and Morgan are starters. Is there that much of a difference in split end and flanker that they cant BOTH start?

And one more thing...
Rossum did play on offense last year and if he were not hurt Sing was going to use him more and more on offense as the year went along to take advantage of his speed (like we will use Sheets if he makes the roster ,as I suspect he will.

"If Jones is the No. 4, it means the 49ers wasted $5.4 million in guaranteed money."

I still don't understand why he was signed in the first place! I’ve been so frustrated during Free Agency for years because it seems to be the M.O. of the 49ers to sign less than mediocre 2nd and third string wide receivers and expect them to be perennial 1st string type receivers and pay them nearly, if not just as much (e.g. J. Morton, B. Lloyd, A. Bryant, D. Jackson, B. Johnson, A. Lelie). Hopefully with the addition of Crabtree and the evolution of Morgan and Ziegler, the 49ers can put an end to the slippery slope.

uhm..John Taylor was a starter...so he kinda fits exactly what I'm talking about.

Jones was a great signing because he is a really fast and solid receiver .Perhaps if Scotty had a crystal ball and knew Crabtree would fall to #10 ,then maybe they would not have picked up Jones. But in reality we might be glad we have Jones when Battle and Bruce are gone.

still only give this draft a C+ which ain't all that far from being a B...

To give the niners an A is drinking the koolaid a bit much.

I felt a bit better when cris carter said he had the same surgery as crabtree coming into the NFL but he had a butt graft to go along with it. If crabtree had a butt graft then does this eliminate any possibility of a chronically injured foot?

I really can't see this offense improving into a top 5-10. New offensive coach, yet again, and it seems the offense will be simplified. A. Smith is not healed and he is completely rusty so i can't count on a high level of performance until the second half of season if at all this year and that only if he wins the starting job ourright. Hill is what he is and will be the QB for the year IMO. My only hope is that VD and the receiving core get almost an even spread of passes between them....this will keep the chains moving and offense unpredictable enought to allow gore to run.

Eliminating mistakes and turnovers is singletary's mantra and this could get these niners 9 wins while still only being a #16 offense as long as defense is a #9 or #11 ranked. I don't think OC has it in him to wildcat it with robinson.

But is is nice to anticipate the good times.

...And there is NO slippery slope at WR.It is one of the rock solid areas of our roster (and one reason is that we have Jones as a veteran receiver to augment all the youngsters on the roster !).

and please no peppers for #1.....too costly and it doesn't put us over the hump....niners are still climbing a long hill. Maybe if was a dallas when they got haley then OK but not even close.

As it is with A Smith it is time for lawson to put up or else.

At the time Jones was signed, Bruce had not decided upon returning and nobody knew we had a shot at Crabtree. I think they were uncomfortable entering the year with Morgan, Hill, Battle, and Zielger as the receiving core.

Now that Bruce returned & we drafted Crabtree he seems excessive, but I would guess Bruce and Crabtree will start, leaving Morgan, Hill, and Jones to fight for time. Ziegler and Battle are SOL until next year.

Miami and Atlanta copied McCloughan?" Thats the most BRILLIANTLY STUPID comment today at least. Im sorry Mike but Bill Parcells stresses building from the inside out and hes very successful, it doesnt take him 6 or 7 years to get a team into the playoffs. Dont u dare compare Scott McCloughan to Bill Parcells or even his counterpart in Atlanta. These guys aquired bad teams the year before and made the playoffs each with a new QB in their first year. Not only did they make the playoffs. Miami did it in the toughest division in football, While we have been in the weakest division year in and year out and havent been close to sniffing the playoffs..Some of the things said in here is just totally absurd.

...And there is NO slippery slope at WR.It is one of the rock solid areas of our roster (and one reason is that we have Jones as a veteran receiver to augment all the youngsters on the roster !).

ok i posted my message for matt cuz matt, i love your blog and truly value you opinion. i enjoy scrolling thru the comments to see your answers like is another blog in itsself. BUT NOW FAN DISCUSION. What the hell are we going to do at WR. you know, im all for competetion and find the best players at a position but still see us (year after year) as messing this position up. I mean we drafted a stud, thats awesome so we finally have a number one. going in the right direction but if you are gonna draft and sign all these talented kids you have to let SOME of them play. its the only real way they get better. i can honestly see our team havin a BIG time WR crew of Crabtree and Morgan, Hill as a 3 and then someone like a battle and Z at 4-5. then GORE at RB and if Davis pans out. OMG thats a freakin top 5 offense! but you got guys like bruce that hang around. great great reciever but i honestly feel at this point its stunting growth. then we sign a jones cuz he has "speed" HILL ran a 4.3 40 for god sakes and i NVR hear a word about his speed. and if you just want a burner with no proven track record sign a guy who doesnt need almost 6 mill in G money!! so now we have this guy spent all this money to basically be a speciality player in a style offesne we DONT run and there are 4 WRs already better than him on the team (counting bruce) im just starting to feel like Hill is going to be wasted talent (btw we got him in the 3rd rd.. that great) and im gonna love it when this guy picks up somewhere else and does very well i hope he becomes a starter. I live in NY and i bought direct TV just to watch the 49ers from the comfort of my home. and i became a big fan of his last yr when i saw him play. I just feel like every year we try to sign a burner that doesnt fit and we have TOO many guys yes i said TOO many guys fighting for spots. competetion is good but you gotta take into account all the above mentioned factors (money, time frame, style offense and ability to get playin time to learn n get better) does this make sense to anyone else!!???

Allforfun, I understand your point but disagree. The idea that all your back-ups should be potential new starters is, in my view, too much fantasy football. The Niners in their heyday were the best team because of the depth of their roster and that wasn't because the back-up wide receivers were going to replace Rice and Taylor or Montana or Young. First, you need front line talent as starters. Next you have quality depth because every team has significant injuries. That depth means your number 2's and 3's are better than good teams 2's and some of their 1's and generally better than most all bad teams 1's. Then you have young players some of whom have the potential to be starters and others who may never be starters but have the potential to be better than or equal to the mostly older 2's and 3's on your roster. Finally, you have some specialists rounding out your roster who are better than the starter's at a specific task - returner, situational pass rusher, nickel or dime cover corner who can lock down the opponent's 3d or 4th receiver. And, a key part of your draft, particularly late is improving that third tier - the future 2's and 3's.

A material reason the Patriots, Steelers, Colts and Giants are consistent wineers, rather than short term winners, is their back-ups are as good as or better than their peers' starters and back-ups. That is why the Cardinals, in my view, are one yaer wonders. Their roster has some stars who got hot at the right time last year. But, in the long run, they don't have the depth of talent to be consistent.

The 49ers' draft over the last few years has regularly improved the second and third tiers (e.g. look at the OL, DL and WRs. Now, we need, and hopefully, have more playmaker 1's - Gore, Morgan, Crabtree, Davis, Willis, Clemens Haralson and, hopefully, V. Davis - along with 2's who are better than teh 2's and 3's of the Seahawks, Cards and Rams. What stands between this team and the playoffs (NFW West crown) right now is consistent quality play at quarterback. Gotta have it. What stands between this team and success in the playoffs (more than just winning the west) is continued development and consistent excellent quarterback play.

The Jones signing was not a good one even before the draft,That money should have been used elsewhere OL/S which would have made our draft that much better. And if these coaches cant get Crabtree and Morgan on the field at the same time they all should be fired.

Reality: You do remember that Parcells is the one who said that McGloughan was an up and coming executive in the NFL and he inquired with Scotty about moving to Miami and becoming the GM there. Jed hurridly promoted Scott to our GM and that was that !
So apparently the one doing the comparing of Scotty to Parcells was Parcells himself ,lol .

And that is not to mention that Scott trained under Wolf etc and has been around the NFL his entire life (his father and brother are scouts I believe).
So obviously he is a rising star as GM and proved it with his A+ draft as his FIRST draft without Nolan .

Maybe you should read this article ?...

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ms-trippintuesday042809&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

i guess clayton is all muscle no game......

Reality: It didn't matter that we signed Jones as far as "using the money elsewhere". We have plenty of cap space and we are using lots of money elsewhere. We have extended the contracts of several of our star players and will continue to do so.
Jones was a good signing and wil not affect what we do with other uses of the pletiful supply of money the Yorks provide for whatever the GM and HC need.

you get consistent play from your qb "A.Smith", once you have consistent receivers to throw to......its really that simple.......

i'm confused. it sounds almost as if you agree with me with statments like: "Next you have quality depth because every team has significant injuries. That depth means your number 2's and 3's are better than good teams 2's and some of their 1's and generally better than most all bad teams 1's".

What's the best way to have back up talent that can sub for your injured starters and beat another team's #2s and bad #1's? Have your back ups be potential starters. Even if they don't replace your starters, the potential and talent is there and if you've cultivated that talent but aren't ready to get rid of your starter, then trade your talented back up for draft picks. But don't waste roster spots on ST players with no offensive or defensive potential (with the exceptions of kicker, punter and long snapper).

Alex Smith is now the 4th most talented QB on the roster,lol

I dont need to read no freakin article when ive been witnessing his work for the last 5 years. Are u kidding me? he is the architect of a losing franchise. Actions speak far louder than words. Ive watched my team in disgust consistently get their asses handed to them while he sit and makes bad move after bad move, he should be ashamed of himself he has helped make a once proud franchise one of the worst in football and u guys sit on this blog making excuses for them every single year. Why do we go thru this crap every year, its as if you guys havent watched a game the last six years.During the season everyone sucks ,but after the season is over somehow all our players are great and because we win a few games at the end of the year next year is gonna be different and un chumps fall for it every year, not one year but every freakin year. Every one of us on here are good fans but some of us just arent smart fans.

I dont need to read no freakin article when ive been witnessing his work for the last 5 years. Are u kidding me? he is the architect of a losing franchise. Actions speak far louder than words. Ive watched my team in disgust consistently get their asses handed to them while he sit and makes bad move after bad move, he should be ashamed of himself he has helped make a once proud franchise one of the worst in football and u guys sit on this blog making excuses for them every single year. Why do we go thru this crap every year, its as if you guys havent watched a game the last six years.During the season everyone sucks ,but after the season is over somehow all our players are great and because we win a few games at the end of the year next year is gonna be different and un chumps fall for it every year, not one year but every freakin year. Every one of us on here are good fans but some of us just arent smart fans.

I dont need to read no freakin article when ive been witnessing his work for the last 5 years. Are u kidding me? he is the architect of a losing franchise. Actions speak far louder than words. Ive watched my team in disgust consistently get their asses handed to them while he sit and makes bad move after bad move, he should be ashamed of himself he has helped make a once proud franchise one of the worst in football and u guys sit on this blog making excuses for them every single year. Why do we go thru this crap every year, its as if you guys havent watched a game the last six years.During the season everyone sucks ,but after the season is over somehow all our players are great and because we win a few games at the end of the year next year is gonna be different and un chumps fall for it every year, not one year but every freakin year. Every one of us on here are good fans but some of us just arent smart fans.

allforfunnplay replied to comment from Drew | April 28, 2009 3:04 PM | Reply

"i'm confused."
----------------------------------

Yep ! first thing you said on this topic that I agree with .lol (wink,just messing with you .).

I dont need to read no freakin article when ive been witnessing his work for the last 5 years. Are u kidding me? he is the architect of a losing franchise. Actions speak far louder than words. Ive watched my team in disgust consistently get their asses handed to them while he sit and makes bad move after bad move, he should be ashamed of himself he has helped make a once proud franchise one of the worst in football and u guys sit on this blog making excuses for them every single year. Why do we go thru this crap every year, its as if you guys havent watched a game the last six years.During the season everyone sucks ,but after the season is over somehow all our players are great and because we win a few games at the end of the year next year is gonna be different and un chumps fall for it every year, not one year but every freakin year. Every one of us on here are good fans but some of us just arent smart fans.

Matt sorry about the multiple postings,your site said it was an error.

Can't read huh,LOL

Get on the bandwagon while there are seats to be had Reality.(or do you really have loyalties to a different team as it sounds like you do?)

We are not going to trade for WR, Edwards or Boldin (not that AZ would). We now have a solid corps at low cost. Crabtree was drafted to be a #1 and bringing a WR on just would complicate matters. We now have arguably the strongest WR's in the division (when Boldin's gone) and the future looks very bright. WR don't really produce their first year. I expect Bruce to start big and then have his time cut. Morgan will be a beast and Hill will have more production as the game starts to slow down for him. Jones and Zeig are going to have to fight for time. Dominique should start catching punts.

One thing I am glad to see is that McC is starting to value production a bit more. Measurables are important, but production has to be considered.

RealityCheck | April 28, 2009 3:11 PM | Reply
Matt sorry about the multiple postings,your site said it was an error.
-------------------------------

As most of your rants and negative blather are,errors. Scot has turned out to be a really good GM and we are lucky to have him ,along with Jed and Sing.

If you don't like them then maybe you would like to go accross the bay to worship uncle Al's team? Because there is no hope for YOU here since Jed and Scott and Sing will be here for years to come.

Get on board or get out of the way !!! LOL

Matt, Any chance they cut Bruce in training camp because it doesn't make sense to bring in Jones and make him the 4th reciever.

You can either get on board the bandwagon or get out of the way but you are not stopping the train with your futile negativity,you will only be run over.
And I have watched every play of every game since 1979,so get off your high horse there youngster !

Allforfun, I read you as saying every draft pick should be a potential starter. I don't think that is the way you build a roster

Since 1979? Thats even worse.How in the hell can you watch that much football and not know a damn thing. ou got ADD or something?

Reality, you'll notice your previous comment was deleted. Please keep the comments clean. Thank you, Matt.

from SoCal replying to Jon in SoCal.
Correct, wide receivers seldom make huge diff in first season. Rice started but only had 3 TD. Busted loose in second season.
Our 09 improvement will come mostly from development of guys already on the team and muscle additions.
#10 was a steal, but it may take a couply years to see it.
Thanks for your great coverage Matt. Looking forward to a better offense this go round.

Reality,your view of life and the Niners and of me are not anywhere near "Reality" but are clearly rooted in pure negativity and hatred for the team.

If the Niners do well in the next few years ,then I hope you slink away in shame. If they don't do well then I will apologize.

Right now I have not seen the future look this bright since the start of the 80's !
You on the other hand have such strong sunglasses on that you are missing all that is transpiring in front of you. ( Stevie Wonderesk,lol )
How sad for you that IF you are really a former 49ers fan who is bitter and lost and who has had his faith shaken because of the last several years of John york and Donahue and Erickson and Nolan etc that you can't even see the great things that are happening . How sad for you to be missing out on the joy the rest of us clear seeing fans are enjoying.

Get on the bandwagon or get run over. How sad for those that get run over ,after waiting so long for the bandwagon to get going again.

RealityCheck | April 28, 2009 3:11 PM | Reply
Matt sorry about the multiple postings,your site said it was an error.
-------------------------------

As most of your rants and negative blather are,errors. Scot has turned out to be a really good GM and we are lucky to have him ,along with Jed and Sing.

If you don't like them then maybe you would like to go accross the bay to worship uncle Al's team? Because there is no hope for YOU here since Jed and Scott and Sing will be here for years to come.

my guess for our offense is mid pack , somewhere around 16 or 15 ! reality check , you make some good points , and give some perspective here . i don't know about the other guys , but the main difference between you and me is ... you don't need no freakin article !!! lol

then what do you propose? do you draft someone with the intention of making him a special teams player and being a career back up as his upside potential? how do you cultivate talent to become starters? there's only so many roster spots available. do you rely just on top round picks and hope they pan out every time?

my guess for our offense is mid pack , somewhere around 16 or 15 ! reality check , you make some good points , and give some perspective here . i don't know about the other guys , but the main difference between you and me is ... you don't need no freakin article , i guess !!! lol

YES SIR

I Will always be always be a niner fan,just not a ignorant one like yourself. No one can pee on me and tell mw its raining.

Face it ,Jed will be the owner of the team long after you and I are probably gone from this World. So if you hate the way he does everything and you can't think of him or his GM or his HC without gagging and being soooooo negative,then face it,it is time to get another team for your favorite ,one that has a owner and GM and HC that you actually like and can live with without spewing out such hate against them all the time and possibly busting a artery or getting an ulcer etc.

my guess for our offense is mid pack , somewhere around 16 or 15 ! reality check , you make some good points , and give some perspective here . i don't know about the other guys , but the main difference between you and me is ... you don't need no f-----n article , !!! lol

Face it ,Jed will be the owner of the team long after you and I are probably gone from this World. So if you hate the way he does everything and you can't think of him or his GM or his HC without gagging and being soooooo negative,then face it,it is time to get another team for your favorite ,one that has a owner and GM and HC that you actually like and can live with without spewing out such hate against them all the time and possibly busting a artery or getting an ulcer etc.

lmao.....

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ms-trippintuesday042809&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

Sounds like a great ownership and pretty good GM to me !!!

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ms-trippintuesday042809&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

Sounds like a great ownership and pretty good GM to me !!!

And this is only in his FIRST draft without Nolan messing things up !

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ms-trippintuesday042809&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

Sounds like a great ownership and pretty good GM to me !!!

And this is only in his FIRST draft without Nolan messing things up !

Hey Rob...The great fans can be critical of their team and still support the team....Fans whio behave like some in this blog remind me of them obnoxious raider fans who claim they are going to the Super Bowl every year

Hey Rob...The great fans can be critical of their team and still support the team....Fans whio behave like some in this blog remind me of them obnoxious raider fans who claim they are going to the Super Bowl every year

Hey Rob...The great fans can be critical of their team and still support the team....Fans whio behave like some in this blog remind me of them obnoxious raider fans who claim they are going to the Super Bowl every year

Reality: I have been critical when it is appropriate. For instance I don't think alex is a good QB. I am just not hatefull like you are . I actually like alex and wish I could say he was great. That is one difference between you and I,I want my team to do good and I get joy when things go well (like in this great draft). While you seem to only enjoy posting when you can gripe and whine like a little kid who's mommy won't buy him more candy.lol

Matt

I wanted to write and acknowledge the brilliant work you did leading upto and during the draft. Insights like who the 2 players could have been that we would have targeted in the second round had they been available (ray maualuga/ darius butler) or even your clinical analysis of who we might go after in round 1 (crabtree / oher but not Raji/ maybin/ everette brown/ orakpo) is stuff that I can find only on your blogs. Keep up the great work

Regards

I would argue that if you could find a difference maker on st, but would be a backup go for it. Take Devin Hester. He was on his way to be a HOF kick returner, but didn't want to be a b/u CB. He has really struggled to become an every play WR and his returns have suffered. MRob is not Hester by a longshot, but there is room on the roster for specialists.

Rob: middle of the pack offense (from 23), plus a defense that improved just a bit (13 to 10), and we're in the hunt for the playoffs

I also hate some things but not in the manner you seem to hate people etc. I hate FORTYWHINERS,who give us real fans a bad name .
Just like we are not cheese eaters and wine sippers ,like the other fans around the League call us,we also are not FORTYWHINERS as those same fans love to call us. But so called fans like you are the reason those fans have justification in calling us Whiners instead of Niners.
Get off it man,you are giving us all a bad name !!!
Stop the hate !

KK, good thing your middle initial isn't K. Or at least that you don't use it. :)

sounds like an echo in here sounds like an echo in here sounds like an echo in here sounds like an echo in here sounds like an echo in here sounds like an echo in here sounds like an echo in here sounds like an echo in here sounds like an echo in here sounds like an echo in here sounds like an echo in here sounds like an echo in here sounds like an echo in here sounds like an echo in here sounds like an echo in here sounds like an echo in here

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ms-trippintuesday042809&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

GreatFan; any thoughts on who the Niners should have as GM and HC other than the current?

Allforfun, As I tried to state before some players are drafted to provide improved depth - a better back-up - without the thought they will be starters. Nonetheless your overall roster is better. For example, I think the pick of Bear Pascoe in this year's draft is a good pick and good example. He is supposed to be a great in-line blocker and a good pass catcher but without great speed. As Singletary stated a "definite" improvement over Bajema. So, now the Niners are a better 3d and short, red zone and goalline offense because they can go two tightends - with Davis and Pascoe - and run as a strong side to both sides as they are excellent blockers and still have the threat of the play action short or intermediate pass over the middle or into the endzone. Yet, Pascoe is never expected to displace Davis as the starter. Similarly, many of the defensive backs are meant to be upgrades as back-ups or specialty defensive package players but not as everyday starters in your base package.

"some of us just arent smart fans"

-----------------

Yes, your spelling errors and duplicated comments tell us this ;)

Stampede replied to comment from RealityCheck | April 28, 2009 4:41 PM | Reply
GreatFan; any thoughts on who the Niners should have as GM and HC other than the current?
------------------------------------------

It would not matter who . If he could even select the GM and HC all by himself,he would still be complaining about them in short order.
Some people are just never happy and cannot be made happy ,no matter how good things are going.They are unhappy when there is nothing to complain about and therefore they make things up that in their fantasy world are worthy of hate or whining.

Stampede replied to comment from RealityCheck | April 28, 2009 4:41 PM | Reply
GreatFan; any thoughts on who the Niners should have as GM and HC other than the current?
------------------------------------------

It would not matter who . If he could even select the GM and HC all by himself,he would still be complaining about them in short order.
Some people are just never happy and cannot be made happy ,no matter how good things are going.They are unhappy when there is nothing to complain about and therefore they make things up that in their fantasy world are worthy of hate or whining.

Allforfun, What I mean is not all picks are meant to be or need to be starters to improve the team. For example, Bear Pascoe this draft. He is a significant upgrade to Bajema in the third and short, redzone and goalline two tight end packages because he is a better blocker and receiver than Bajema. Those packages, big parts of the game, are all more dynamic and the offense is significantly better but Pascoe isn't seen as or intended to displace Davis as the starting tight end. Another example, McKillop is seen as and hoped to be a potential starter at Ted in the future. But , if not he is seen as an upgrade as a back-up for both Mike and Ted replacing Ulbrich who is a back-up. Ideally, you turn over the bottom portion of your roster every year with younger, faster and less expensive players. Not everyone is intended to be a starter.

Allforfun, What I mean is not all picks are meant to be or need to be starters to improve the team. For example, Bear Pascoe this draft. He is a significant upgrade to Bajema in the third and short, redzone and goalline two tight end packages because he is a better blocker and receiver than Bajema. Those packages, big parts of the game, are all more dynamic and the offense is significantly better but Pascoe isn't seen as or intended to displace Davis as the starting tight end. Another example, McKillop is seen as and hoped to be a potential starter at Ted in the future. But , if not he is seen as an upgrade as a back-up for both Mike and Ted replacing Ulbrich who is a back-up. Ideally, you turn over the bottom portion of your roster every year with younger, faster and less expensive players. Not everyone is intended to be a starter.

we're going to have to agree to disagree. I believe the back up roster spots are the farm for the future. the best back ups are the guys that could potentially start.

I can kind of understand the specialist role of blocking TE but I don't like wasting a draft pick on one because if you're not going to expect starter potential from this "specialist" then you can get a decent quality blocking TE out of the lower end of Free Agency.

Stampede replied to comment from RealityCheck | April 28, 2009 4:41 PM | Reply
GreatFan; any thoughts on who the Niners should have as GM and HC other than the current?
--------------------------------------------

Stampede: It really wouldn't matter if Reality got to choose his own hand picked GM and HC and even owner,he would still be whining about how bad they are in short order.
Some people just are not happy unless they can complain all the time about everything in life. People like that are not fans of any team but are wanna be critics who wish they were Ray Ratto or Ralph Barbieri etc. They just can't get their minds around good times but feel the need to make sour lemons out of sweet lemonade.

Stampede replied to comment from RealityCheck | April 28, 2009 4:41 PM | Reply
GreatFan; any thoughts on who the Niners should have as GM and HC other than the current?
--------------------------------------------

Stampede: It really wouldn't matter if Reality got to choose his own hand picked GM and HC and even owner,he would still be whining about how bad they are in short order.
Some people just are not happy unless they can complain all the time about everything in life. People like that are not fans of any team but are wanna be critics who wish they were Ray Ratto or Ralph Barbieri etc. They just can't get their minds around good times but feel the need to make sour lemons out of sweet lemonade.

Stampede replied to comment from RealityCheck | April 28, 2009 4:41 PM | Reply
GreatFan; any thoughts on who the Niners should have as GM and HC other than the current?
--------------------------------------------

Stampede: It really wouldn't matter if Reality got to choose his own hand picked GM and HC and even owner,he would still be whining about how bad they are in short order.
Some people just are not happy unless they can complain all the time about everything in life. People like that are not fans of any team but are wanna be critics who wish they were Ray Ratto or Ralph Barbieri etc. They just can't get their minds around good times but feel the need to make sour lemons out of sweet lemonade.

MIKE HOLMGREN AND MIKE SHANAHAN

I think the jury is still out on McC as an evaluator of talent. My example is the 2007 draft, where, along with Willis and Staley, he took Hill, McDonald, Moore, Goldson, Brown and Clayton. If some of those guys develop into starters on a playoff team, he will look pretty sharp. From 08, we need to see what Balmer and Reggie Smith can do. But I definitely like the way he followed his plan in 09. You have to play the cards you're dealt and he knew when to hold em (Clayton) and when to fold em (#43 for a 2010 first rounder). The rest are tough, proven football players, not just workout warriors with "potential". But we won't know how successful they will be yet.

Dont confuse typos with intelligence on a blog. Of course you would because this blog IS your life. Its remarkable how much time you groupies spend in the blog and still u dont know crap..........LMAO

Wow - that's your pick? Which one is the GM? Holmgren got stripped of his GM duties because he wasn't getting it done in Seattle and Shanahan got fired for his lack of GM skills as his team had not won a playoff game since Elway retired. Hmmm. Reality - you leave much to be desired. At least come up with a credible GM with NFL success. The two guys you named have been stripped and fired for their GM duties in their most recent NFL jobs.

We could have had a pass rusher rated as a mid-first round pick in the 2d round, plus a candidate for tackle in the 4th round. What we got is a year delay in our rebuilding effort. Seems to me that everyone is singing koom-ba-ya and drinking the McCloughan kool-aid. When, exactly, is this team going to be a legitimate playoff contender again? By my reckoning, not before 2011 at the earliest. Is this the best we can do?

Keep up the lively discussions guys! This offseason is the most promising in years and the energy around the Niners is electric. I feel sorry for the Denver Bronco fans. Did you all hear that they're going to run a hybrid, 3-4 defense this year? Sound familiar? Thank God we've got Coach Singletary now!

RK Willis and Staley great picks ,Willis instantly and Staley is constantly getting better before our very eyes. I think Hill given the opporunity will continue to improve like he did the second half of the season.McDonald has been mediorce at best, Goldston and Brown have potential and would be better suited as backups. Moore and Clayton cant even make the regular season roster, So 2007 was his best draft. Balmer and Reggie Smith? too soon to evaluate. His record since hes been GM cant be ignored.

I feel you TOM_CAT, I just wanted to see if there would be a method to the madness.

Reality; see Mike in SF #2 @ 6:42pm.

The 2 guys ive mentioned u embicile have Multiple Super Bowl rings between them and have built consistent winners where they were. Tell what the hell has your guys done.please tell me. Your guys have NEVER even had a .500 record not even made the playoffs. Your argument cements your idiocy. Just another ignorant groupie running his mouth. Just back away from the keyboard and tuck your tail groupie boy.

i believe Mike Singletary will improve the team, But when it comes to his Offensive philosophy and Jimmy Raye(what his 3rd or 4th choice? a guy who no one else interviewed or wanted) To be successful as coach of the niners he will have to back off his offensive theory and eventually get someone who can maximize the offensive talent (Gore,Crabtree and Morgan).

Yeah Fuzzy these dummies have been drinkin it a lonnnnnnnnng time. and they like it.. Jim Jones McCloughan!

Stampede what is it i am supposed to take from that post? you are kidding rite? Got a few question for you.Hes been here 5 years. How many winning seasons has McCloughan had? How many times has taken the team to the playoffs? Has he earned a Wild Card berth? Has any of his teams even finished .500?...Spare me all the BS and just answer the question ......please. Oh and your fellow groupies are free to answer also

Hey Top-Cat and RealityCheck, just get a room and blog each others brains out already!
Good job this past weekend Scott, Sing, and Jedi!

Why do you have to denigrate the previous player (Bajema) in order to inflate McCloughan's selection of Pascoe? The fact is that you don't know if Pascoe is a better NFL blocker and receiver because he hasn't done it yet. The fact is that Bajema has been recognized as a very good blocking TE; he just got too expensive for that role. Wait until Pascoe actually performs at the next level. All you know now is that Pascoe looked pretty good at Fresno State against WAC competition. I might add that so too did Trent Dilfer. I know that Singletary said its an upgrade, but when have you ever heard a coach say: "Oh, we drafted a dog in the 5th round"? No, its always: "I can't believe this guy was still available".

all4funnplay - I like your basic point about the ST's coach who should be able to create an effective ST's with the backups. The thing I question is the returner. Dunno if you can always count on the backups to find a very good to "special" one.

Some teams spend a Draft pick filling that need in mind. Hester set the bar on the importance of having a HR capable electric returner. Miami had that in the back of their minds when they drafted Ginn (ridiculously too high at 9 though..he wasn't a polished WR). We took Rossum for that role. If we can get that slot filled from one of our starting corners, WR's, or RB's fine. It also depends on how heavy their workload is if I'd use him there. From one of the backups...don't see why not if he can handle it. BUT...I don't have a problem with acquiring a FT specialist. I agree with Parcell's ST's plays a BIG role in winning. Good field position is a great advantage & stopping the other team from getting it. I could see wanting & getting a specialist returner & planting him at that spot for the next 3-5 years, then re-evaluate.

Did anyone catch the NFLN special on Stafford, Cushing, and Crabtree? Crabtree seemed like a descent kid. His entourage looked terrible IMHO. His Uncle David came off as a colossal leach. I can see how some were turned off by all the people waiting to join in on MC's payday.

All this stuff about how Parcells builds a team. How about Bill Walsh? He said get some great players, then build around them. Now, look at the 2005 draft. The Niners took Alex Smith. Who else would you take? DeMarcus Ware and Shawne Merriman went 11 and 12. Who else in the intervening picks would have been a building block guy? I don't think you can criticize Nolan and McCloughan for going for Alex. None of the intervening picks look all that great, and they took the consensus best QB on the board. Nolan and bad luck sure did conspire against Smith's development after that, but that doesn't mean the pick was all that bad. Who here thinks they would have definitely done better?

As for building the line versus taking a great receiver, you just take the great player. I'm hoping we got a great one. I have my doubts about Singleterry and Jimmy Raye, but I'll hope for the best. I would have greatly preferred Shanahan or Gruden, but nothing to do but see how it plays out.

Indulge me with your candidates for OT in the 4th round, because they were all FA quality by then. Every draft publication and draftnik out there said it was the weakest draft for OT in a decade.

However, I wouldn't be surprised if Eben Britton was one of the two players on McGM's radar in the second round. He would have been solid, no doubt. But when he booked his tickets to Jacksonville, McGM did the right thing and looked ahead into 2010. A first round pick for leverage will be a very nice ace card to use next year.

EXACTLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.......LMAO........

Guys! Watch Scott McKillop! He's another Tim McDonald plus 20-30 lbs. He hits like a clone of McDonald and Lott. MS must have thought of the good old days when he saw this kid on film! He'll be playing full time in 2 years!

Jamon Meredith and Duke Robinson arent free agent quality, although thay did slip further than expected.Also You are allowed to reach a little,even Herman Johnson as a guard, who knows but for what Mike Singletary wants to do theyb need to take should have taken a chance on one of these guys because our line just isnt that good

Jamon Meredith and Duke Robinson arent free agent quality, although thay did slip further than expected.Also You are allowed to reach a little,even Herman Johnson as a guard, who knows but for what Mike Singletary wants to do theyb need to take should have taken a chance on one of these guys because our line just isnt that good and Alex Smith was not the "consensus"pick there was a big debate about whom to take. And they decided on the guy who never took snaps from center, who ran the spread offense and who played in a very weak conference over the guy who played in a pro-style offense from the Pac 10 and we all see how that turned out.

I was flaming when he traded the picks. Next day I cooled down, warmed to his move then accepted it. Insurance for franchise QB positioning, could go after another BPA (+ need) 1st RD player, or trade down...all in a stronger Draft.

2nd RD "value" at 43? Barwin (developmental I know but high upside), Sintim, or Brown who McSing obviously didn't believe in. Reach with Shonn Green who can do all the things Coffee can do but s/b more durable being the naturally bigger man + harder to bring down. Gone by the 3rd RD. But for BPA my guy was Fili Moala. 6-4, 305 lbs who to me isn't that far down from Jackson who we highly rated. He's the prototypical big bodied stout + also quick athletic DE we need for the 3-4. When out of the game USC took a big dip down in stopping the run.

In the 4th RD...we could have taken the #1 FB on the board >> Quinn Johnson or Fiametta = both devastating nose bleed blockers to play ST's & develop to be ready to take the reigns from Norris. (Wanted Southerland who blocks the same as the last 2/runs/catches/effective short yardage back but his broken foot injury scared everyone away..rightfully so.) Talented 2 gapping NT Sammy Lee Hill, QB McGee, RT Tupou. I would've put myself in position for Mike Wallace....6-2, 200 lbs ran a 4.28/40 per Mayock from SEC Miss. for an insurance deep threat WR to develop behind Jones who I don't trust yet. (Hope he proves me wrong.) Or FAST Deon Butler. But both WR's ended up being taken. I thought there were WORTHY prospects there we could start developing now a year earlier who have legitimate starter potential down the road.

Allforfunnplay -in principle I believe you are correct (yet Drew the validity of the exceptions you mention have merit.).Building a team composed of players who are starters or potential starters is the ideal-how ideals and principles play out is ,ofcourse' tempered by the individuals/groups involved and the conditions in which they exist.Some choices are made of temporal necessity(stopgaps for holes in the organism!).I think you are also correct in the notion the quicker one refines choices made of stopgap measures toward the ideal the better the team becomes-(the wild card in this formulation is the leadership/chemistry equation but one presumes a strong leader and the habit of winning builds a culture in which those things occur naturally!). Ultimately it's not important to "win" arguments about these things -different presumptions rarely merge- "agree to disagree" is the high road-no?

Matt -- Skeptical or not, do pursue the Julius Peppers angle with the 9ers. The asking price has purportedly dropped to a R2 (to lukewarm reception) & McCloughan now has some leeway with the extra 1st-rounder.

As for Everett Brown, we'll see which front office evaluated him correctly. More pragmatically, he'd cost CAR that future top-rounder so it makes more sense now for them move Peppers ASAP.

Also, I think you should read what ProFootballWeekly quoted a unnamed 9er source saying about Lawson's prospects (see their latest Whispers column).

Totally agree with u about the fourth round

Totally agree with u about the fourth round

Totally agree with u about the fourth round

Matt,

Do you think the 49ers have any interest in the recently released CB Rod Hood or DE Travis LaBoy?

Franchise - Prospects for Tackle that we could have had in the 4th were Fenuki Tupou, Jamon Meredith or Xavier Fulton.

Franchise - Prospects for Tackle that we could have had in the 4th round were Fenuki Tupou, Jamon Meredith or Xavier Fulton.

FYI:

Shonn Greene / RD 3 / pick #1 ........... to Jets
Mike Wallace / RD 3 / pick #20 ............. to Steelers.
Ramses Barden / RD / pick #21 ............ to Giants
Deon Butler / RD 3 / pick #27 ............... to Seahags

Stephen McGee / RD 4 / pick #1 ............ to Cowgirls
TJ Lang (OT) / RD 4 / pick #9 ............... to Packers
Sammy L Hill / RD 4 / pick #15 .............. to Lions
Tony Fiametta / RD 4 / pick #28 ............ to Panthers

Quinn Johnson / RD 5 / pick #9 ............. to Packers
Fenuki Tupou / RD 5 / pick #23 ............. to Eagles

** TJ Lang/OT was also a good 4th RD prospect but got chosen right before our pick. (Not enough beast attitude though that Sing would want. Versatile. In the Max Unger mold...more of a finesse guy.) Also had Ramses Barden as an option in the 4th RD but he got taken earlier. All of my WR's I had slated for the 4th RD all got taken in the 3rd. Hey I'm psyched with the FA Boone/OT pick if he could we can help him get his head on straight!

TOP_CAT,

Save your breath with Brother Bummer (RealityCheck) the guy's hopeless. And now we've got 2 other of his cronnies (Rob & Spitblood) bringing down Matt's blog. You need to just stone these guys & just ingnore them because they're bunch of tools. They're not true 49er fans.

Bloody Raiders got my fave sleeper Franz Joseph- monster LB as UDFA(154 tackles last year-second in the nation- after he transferred from Boston to be with his ailing mother)-glad we got Mckillop would have loved to have grabbed both...I'll quit sniveling now...dirtyrakafratz mumble mumble etc etc.

eh, if anything the opposing opinion caused me to rethink and slightly modify my thinking that some specialists might be necceary (in this case a blocking TE or a third down pass rusher would be another example)to fill roster spots that won't be starters. so I welcome opposing views.

I think you're right about the ideal and then you modify from there. Last year the Niners found that their back up running backs weren't adequate (failure to draft a compotent back up IMO) and they found it necceary to sign a stop gap in Foster. I can understand why but I don't like it as it shows lack of foresight and skill at talent evaluation (shouldn't Robinson and Clayton after one year be good enough to be the back up?). So stop gaps are made to fill out the roster.

Wow, reality, so that's your answer? Anybody but Alex? You tell everybody else they're stupid, but you don't come off as a genius. The point is, nobody with a pick in the top 10 got a franchise player in 2005. So all the GMs are morons? In fact, it's still possible that Alex will turn out to be the best pick out of that group. Granted, not likely, but the jury is still out. Also, I thought you were going to clean up your language.

Thanks.

I wanted Mike Wallace or Fiametta bad. Or an OT or NT at the time the Draft was happening.

When I was scouting NT's during the season (I knew just about every one) I read about this next guy I'm going to mention but admit he slipped through & I forgot about him. San Diego took him in the 4th RD. Remember the name. Vaughn Martin who's from get this, Canada. The Chargers will try & mold him as Jamal Williams' replacement.

From Patrick Kirwan (ex-GM I think) comments post Draft:

Round 4

San Diego selects Vaughn Martin from Western Ontario.
I was fascinated by this pick because of the brute strength, size and speed of the prospect from Canada. Any time you find an athlete in the fourth round who can run a sub-5.0 in the 40 at 333 pounds and dead-lift 345 pounds 44 times, you take the chance. This pick hit my curiosity button. With a year to work on technique, the sky is the limit for this kid.

From Wes Bunting @ the NFP pre-Draft:

It isn’t often that a Canadian prospect generates this type of interest among NFL scouts, but Martin has one of the most intriguing skill sets of any defensive lineman in this year’s class. He has timed as low as 4.98 in the 40, benched 225 pounds 33 times and had a vertical jumped of 31 inches, all at 6-3 and 331 pounds. Martin played mostly DT last season but also saw some time at DE and finished the year with 36 tackles, 3½ sacks and 7½ tackles for loss.

However, it’s the potential growth and upside that Martin offers that has teams so intrigued. He has an impressive looking frame and looks closer to 300 pounds than 330. He carries his weight very well and displays natural flexibility and pad level for a guy his size. He’s also a tough, intense player who at times looks to be hitting anything that moves inside without any real direction. But he’s a smart kid who has the intelligence and work ethic to develop under NFL coaching. He possesses an awesome physical and athletic skill set and has the base strength and explosion to play in either a 4-3 or 3-4. He should hear his name called at some point toward the back end of the draft.

Hmmm, could he be worth a 4th RD pick??? With an excellent DL Coach I think so. The Chargers did. We'll see. Interesting story.

Comment: I think you should read what ProFootballWeekly quoted a unnamed 9er source saying about Lawson's prospects (see their latest Whispers column).

My response: Here is what was written: "While the Niners continue to have high hopes for former first-round OLB Manny Lawson, who has primarily been a one-down player up to now, there are some daily team observers who have their doubts he can ever become a true impact player. . . "

Let's not confuse an onlooker with a "49ers source." Basically, the 49ers have high hopes for Lawson, but the correspondent assigned to give opinions on the team does not have high hopes. --Matt M.

I know f49er.You are right,these guys don't belong on our teams forum.
When the Niners are on top again(very soon) these so called fans will be as unhappy as can be ,lol.
I sometimes wonder why they don't get a hobby that will make them happy but then I realize that nothing in life ever makes that type of hatefull person happy for long. Their hobby is running down the team they claim to be a fan of,yeah right.

Blind leading the blind and they all fall in the ditch.How sad for them.

Question: Do you think the 49ers have any interest in the recently released CB Rod Hood or DE Travis LaBoy?

My response: I do not know, but it certainly would not surprise me. --Matt M.

I know f49er.You are right,these guys don't belong on our teams forum.
When the Niners are on top again(very soon) these so called fans will be as unhappy as can be ,lol.
I sometimes wonder why they don't get a hobby that will make them happy but then I realize that nothing in life ever makes that type of hatefull person happy for long. Their hobby is running down the team they claim to be a fan of,yeah right.

Blind leading the blind and they all fall in the ditch.How sad for them.

Classic Banter - put all of you in the same room with a 49er game on and you are all buying each other beers....except for spitblood...we need to help that poor guy. Seriously.

Matt, is it certain that Reggie Smith will be a safety from here on out? Was he just practicing at that spot in mini camps due to one of the other safeties being absent?

Just because you don't go around kissing up to Scott McCloughan doesn't mean you arent a fan. Quite the contrary, after all these years of losing gives us the right to be critical.

Its all you "yes" men are part of the problems, cuz you mindlessly accept all this spin Scott McCloughan is putting on you, instead of demanding results. You mindlessly accept all the garbage McCloughan is feeding you without evaluating to see if it makes sense.

Its you guys who should be banned from this blog because all your rah rah makes me sick.

Some interesting comments...let me start with the draft. I thought it was well planned and executed. Mac didn't reach for players and got some excellent value, especially on day 2. The Carolina trade was too good to pass up and he didn't. It gives us some big-time options...to either keep both picks, or use one to acquire a player. One guy nobody's talking about is Bear Pascoe...who's a guy with very good receiving skills and is a heckuva blocker. Huge upgrade over Bajema. McKillop's a personal favorite...saw him play several times last year and I'm stoked he's a NIner now. Nate Davis could turn out to be heckuva pick...we'll just have to be patient with him. Coffee's a rising star...look at his record last year...he played very well against 'Bama's toughest competition. I've heard Curtis Taylor's a big-hitter and ST demon, so could be our new Killa. Francois could turn out to be a steal...he played alongside Tyson Jackson and our scouts are excited about his upside. He's good insurance in case McDonald can't answer the bell (a distinct possibility).

As for Brandon Jones, he was a good signing. No WR on the Titans had more catches than he did...and we all know they're a run-first team. He's got the speed to get deep, something we've been lacking. So, to the doubters, I'd say just watch this guy...he can play. I agree Boone and Sheets could be two UDFA's who can stick. Boone just needs to listen to his coaches and keep his nose clean...if he can do that, he's got a shot. Sheets I'm particularly excited about...he's a burner and his addition gives us the most explosive backfield we've had since the days when Hearst and Barlow were tearing up huge chunks of ydg. I also like the Harris signing...see, that's the thing some of you don't appreciate about Mac...he's always looking for talent. Some of the guys he signs may not be household names, but that doesn't mean they can't play.

I think it's premature to rank either our O or D...both have the potential to be better, so to me, that's more important than where they might rank. It's all about making plays and I think both squads have the potential to make more of them than last year. Bring on the mini-camp!

Matt,

There were plenty of good players that went undrafted.

PJ Hill of Wisconsin... Kinda surprised about that.

http://collegefootball.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=940454

Traj

Some a yall is crazy and i love it.

Im okay with some DIEHARD 49er fans just cheering for the team and hoping for the best even tough our ownership and front office has let us down over the past years.

For you fans that are more CRITICAL of the team. I hear ya, but I would say we are looking way better going into the 2009 season than we have looked since our PLAYOFF years. Seems like the less Nolan the better. I actually like most of our roster.

Not a fan.. find the exit sign fast

Exactly-and I don't mean to infer opposing ideas are to be avoided...certainly reasonable interchange can be informative-I weighed in because I've watched your posts recently and valued your point of view. Didn't want to see you get dragged down into the kind of circular arguments that lead to nothing but a display of egoic defensiveness.

The key to this years draft is the Carolina trade. If you look at the way Bellycheat got some great players is that he lurked at the back end of the first with that second first and waited until some team fell in love with a player and then he flips that pick for better value. It doesn't make this class better, but it really gives McC a chance to do something special.

The Sheets signing is awesome. I like his potential. It is a bit of a departure from previous years in that he was a very productive player in college, rather than a physical specimen

Jon,

Can you imagine Sheets on a perfectly executed screen play? OMG the kid is going to blow it up! He reminds me.....And I hope Razor's not around, but he reminds me of Percy Harvin or a slightly bigger version of Darren Sproles doesn't he? I can't recall the 49ers ever having a player so dynamic can you?

Willis is a great pick. The jury is still out on Staley as he was the NFL's 27th ranking LT in given up sacks(8.5)last year. Not very impressive. We gave up a lot for him, a 6th overall to get him. This is the year we find out who he is with a new offensive scheme. Much depends on him actually stepping up and improving.

Jason Peters, recently acquired by the Eagles from the Bills for a 1st, 4th, and 6th, was/is considered one of the best left tackles in football. He gave up 11.5 sacks last year. Clearly, judging a LT by sacks alone is not an in depth evaluation. The jury isn't really still out on Staley, he's already a very good LT and will only get better as he enters merely his 3rd year in the league.

I'm always around 49erland even though I live in South Bend thanks to this blog. Obviously he did'nt remind anyone else of Mr. Harvin since he went undrafted. Comparing his stats to Percys' relative to their perspective college careers...uh it turns out there really is no comparison. We'll see how he does in training camp via Mr. Maiocco. Ricky Waters was pretty dynamic. I hope you're right though. I've been saying all along we need a playmaker on offense and now sure enough as luck would have it we do. Got my Crabtree jersey on order.

Boys - Here is your slap in the face of the day. S.I. has their 2010 Mock Draft up and the Niners are picking 5th. OUCH:

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/andrew_perloff/04/28/2010/index.html

When in another year "maybe" 2 when our rosters more solid I'd like to see McCloughan use some Belichick tactics. The ideal scenario is once our rosters built to be a legit consistent playoff team. CONSISTENT playoff team = more likely 3 years to me.

At that point we could start targeting the players we want in RD's 1 & 2, possibly 3 & making sure WE GO GET THEM PERIOD. Ex's - Is Terrance Cody or Taylor Mays our guy...boom, use your first 1st RD'er assuming we're at the ideal spot. If not, consider trading up? OT Russell Okung in mid to lower 1st? Carolina pick I'm thinking around pick 12-20. Trade down at a spot you know you're going to get him..get the extra pick & boom, snag your man. RD 2 - your prime pass rusher you know you want lines up to be in the top heap? You make sure you get to the right spot to grab him. ETC. It's all about maneuvering to grab your man you've already decided your going to get at as close to best value position as possible before where other teams are projected to take him.

Point is have anywhere from 2-4 guys you know exactly who you want that is the perfect fit for your team because you've researched him thoroughly the whole year & know he's your guy. In order to do that though you have to have an already well built roster IMO & start accumulating a bank deposit of picks. If you play this game long enough you should be able to do that. Add picks every year by trading down + deal for 1 or 2 (maybe more) for next year if you can. The longer you play this game the more you're building picks year to year. Nothing wrong with watching & learning from the best. Damn Vader, I mean Belichick!

i noticed the martin kid from canada also....though it sounds all good, it reminds me of soap who had the strength and potential to be a beast...but so far soap is no beast.......most of you tend to focus so much on stats and forget about the personality.....sure he might be huge and strong but does he hav the tough skin to move from canada to the usa and deal with all the pressure of growin up fast........

...on the FB talk...i am sorry but that is just plaine dumb.....why waste a pick on FB just to block and play st,....

McGM was and is smarter - he picked the best blocking TE in the draft (who plays like a tackle) he also caught 112 passes for 1294 and 10 tds....can someone say REDZONE offense

...you keep saying we could have done this, we could have done that based on your thoughts ....did you ever stop to think all this fantasy thoughts about the players are not guaranteed in the nfl...

....by the way i don't need no freakin article !!! lol

Think about this too. If you look at some of Crabtree's highlight, he takes a simple bubble screen he attacks the pass and takes it to the house! He blocks on those plays as well. I hope we bring some athleticism back to our OL so they can get out and convoy

Willis is awesome. Staley will probably be very good, though not quite all-pro, once he settles in on one side and stays there. Rachal, IMHO, will be better than Staley as a guard. Future pro-bowler, and if the team has some modest success, it could even happen as soon as this year. I'm also encouraged by how hard Balmer has apparently worked this off-season to get ready to challenge at LDE. And Morgan will likely be a great number two WR, especially if Crabtree makes a splash on the other side and one of our QBs develops and gets him the ball.

So far, I can't fault the last two drafts (07-08) at all. I didn't like the draft day trade of our two this year, but I'm willing to wait and see how the players available at that pick turn out, and what Scotty does with the one from Carolina next year.

With Singletary, I expect the team to continue to show modest improvement in any event, as we at least have a leader for HC now - a big improvement over the Nowin regime. But building a real perennial contender will still require Scott to step up and get the players. Time will tell.

Convoy, yea...like the sound of that. Question for y'all-Is there a better leader with a bigger heart of a lion in the 2010 draft than Timmy TBow? If not isn't that what we are lacking in Alex Smith? I know we Nate Davis and I hope he turns out to be our savior at the position. I presume we will move up next year to take either Mays or Okung. That would make alot of sense to me I'm just saying leadership,character,will to win,heart+moxie you have to say Tebow is the definition for all.

Marco i wasnt saying Staley was a great player , The point i was trying to make is that he has shown steady improvement vfrom the time he stepped foot on the field as has P.Haralson., While players such as Alex Smith and Vernon Davis progress has been stagnant over a longer period of time.

Took an extra few minutes to dig this up.
SI's early 2009 Mock Draft.
FWIW..a few laughs anyway.

http://www.burntorangenation.com/2008/4/29/469892/a-ridiculously-early-look

oneniner - Sing's putting an emphasis on toughness, attitude, beast mode & the power running game. Also Gore more effectively runs with a FB leading the way. Norris last year dropped off on his play + he's older now...is this the year when that catches up to him & he's not as effective a la the same questions for Walt Harris?

It's all about getting the baddest, most dominating run game as possible so if you go after that #1 TOP SHELF FB as one of the teams did a few picks later in Fiametta your running game will be dynamite! Think of those 3rd & shorts & goal line runs we didn't make. Now line up Pascoe & Davis @ TE & Fiametta or Quinn Johnson at FB....now tell me the Defense doesn't feel the power??

Plus if you looked farther up at 1 of my earlier posts I mentioned a FB like Southerland. Ideally I would want a versatile FB who can do it all & he's just as punishing a blocker as the first 2 I brought up. A la Tom Rathman/William Floyd. Not just a FB who blocks but one who's a legit weapon on ALL downs. Southerland is capable & did do that for Georgia when he blocked for Moreno. On a 2 RB set he can run block, pass pro, go out on a route, run, or get the 1st's & TD's on short yardage runs. Southerland being the legit short yardage RB he's capable of ....boom, completes another important need we've been trying to find through the entire Nolan era up till now.

Get the picture now? Who's your idea of an ideal 4th RD pick?

Vaughn Martin is an intriguing prospect I put out there more for entertainment. We wouldn't have taken a guy that raw when we have major holes in other areas. If we already had an established but aging NT like the same scenario in SD yeah he'd be a more serious consideration project pick. For an interesting story just watch SD & see if he comes through to succeed for Williams. No need to take that prospect idea so seriously. Just enjoy the Draft analysis dude!

As far as beast mode attitude NO DOUBT that's the players we're looking for. It's about time & THANK YOU SING! That's probably why he passed on the remaining OT's but I do believe Tupou could have filled that role. Hey because your a 49ER faithful oneniner I'm giving you a good deal....no charge for the article! :-)

Actually I think that was remarkably good for a mock made a year before the fact.

Hey Matt, was wondering if you saw this...fellas over at Fox did a mock draft for 2010. Has the 2 49ers picks next year in 1st round. Has Colt McCoy comin over to us and has us pickin in the top 10 again. I think we'll be better than that this year.....let's hope anyway. Here's a link.....

http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/9513448/Let's-get-our-2010-mock-draft-on

Hey Matt, was wondering if you saw this...fellas over at Fox did a mock draft for 2010. Has the 2 49ers picks next year in 1st round. Has Colt McCoy comin over to us and has us pickin in the top 10 again. I think we'll be better than that this year.....let's hope anyway. Here's a link.....

http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/9513448/Let's-get-our-2010-mock-draft-on

:)...thanks for not charging me.....but seriously your coments did have some flaws...even though you did make sum point which in general is not false but at the same time most of thoughts are based on fantasy....

your focus on the FB is exxageratted.....
last yr one of the baddest fb was drafted by seattle....i really didnt think he made that much diff. in yr 1 maybe in yr 2 he would.....

.you assume ..."Also Gore more effectively runs with a FB leading the way"....that is not always true, ...it depends on the coaching plan....you can't look at Martz offense and conclude because there was no FB, Gore struggled.....I actually think Gore benefits the most when he had a strong LT and RT

FB or no FB - the O-line is the key in running the ball...

my counter....I say forget the FB and be very happy we got the BEAR......this guy is the definition of the beast

.....not only was he the best blocker in this past draft (according to scouts)...he his also a pass catcher.....i see no reason they cant use him as a blocking FB and TE, and it was also reported he plays like a tackle when line-up on the line.....

....i see the BEAR taking care of the FB duties and more.....

if your concern is short and goal - isnt that what coffee was drafted for?

That's great. Thank you for finidng that. Did you see they had the Seahawks taking Alex Boone at 23? Kids a first round talent if he can keep is booze under control.

cmon dude...relax...we just finished this yrs draft and you already thinking about 2010 mock draft...

.if you are so bored and really need something to do just mock our 2009 roster...that should keep u busy.....

Razor,

I knew you weren't too far away to read my last post lol, My comparison between Sheets & Harvin was strictly based on physical measurments not production. Both are 5' 11" & both ran the 40 in the low 4's. And obviously both have the ability to take it to the house anywhere on the field with that type of speed & agility. Agreed?

LOL Razor,

I knew you weren't too far away from reading my last post. My comparison between Sheets & Harvin was strictly based on physical measures not production. They're both 5'11" & both ran the 40 in the low 4's. They both have the speed & agility to take it to the house from anywhere on the field. I think you can agree with that right?

Matt,

Thanks for the heads-up regarding Marques Harris. He sounds like good veteran depth at OLB - although I'm assuming he's more than 231 lbs now. You and I are in agreement that the 9ers will give Manny a chance to show he belongs on the field for 3rd down, so getting another true 3-4 OLB is more important than a college DE who's never been in pass coverage.

Do you have any more info on Marques? How about the 4 pending UDFA signees from your last post? Perhaps Brandon Long could be the pass rush specialist (like Rod Green) that we would use if we do need to get more pressure on the QB.

oneniner, I mostly agree with your statemetns. but i though i'd point out one slight weakness in one of your statments. A blocking fullback and a blocking TE have diffent blocking skills. One is Iso Blocking on the move and the other is Inline Blocking on the line. Fullbacks tend to be shorter than TEs. TEs tend to be about 6'3" - 6'6" and can reach to crab high passes over the coverage. Fullbacks (usually about 5'10"-6') any taller and they have a harder time getting low on the move for the iso block. So while Bear is/may be a good blocking TE, being a blocking fullback may not be in his skill set.

I agree with you on the OL. In 2006 when we had our best running year we had a dominant healthy line. JJ/Allen/Heitman-Wragge/Smiley/Harris. This year we had a LOT of changes, started a Rookie mid-season, & had a big weakness at RT with Snyder-Sims. New positions for Staley & Baas plus learning a new Offense. I'm not sold on THE FB Keasey hence we brought in Norris. And in '06 the run blocking combo of JJ/Allen on the left was awesome. We should be much better this year with a 2nd year of seasoning & everyone healthy. If Smith can stay healthy that will be huge.

Now imagine having 2 Pascoe's? That's what adding a new young hungry stud FB would accomplish. I wanted to get a head start on old man Norris' replacement just in case his play begins to take a big dip. Plan ahead to keep the continuity. As far as Coffee I'm not sold on him being a short yardage back. He's too small for that IMO at 210 lbs. I would've liked to had Shonn Greene but he went too early. Coffee looks OK, he should be fine splitting the workload with Gore.

Matt – please make a new post. The scroll bar is killing me. Nothing like the doldrums between draft and training camp.

You could post... uh... I dunno... how about what you're cooking tonight for dinner? Better yet, who's going to get axed from AI tonight?

DITTO ! Ditto ! DITTO ! Ditto ! Haven't they signed some other rookies that haven't been mentioned yet ???

Comment/Question: please make a new post. The scroll bar is killing me. Nothing like the doldrums between draft and training camp.

You could post... uh... I dunno... how about what you're cooking tonight for dinner? Better yet, who's going to get axed from AI tonight?

My response: I'm working on pan-fried salmon. Interesting? Sure. Worth an entire blog entry? Probably not. As for AI, I think Matt is gets the big haircut tonight. --Matt M.