Blog Title: 49ers World

Should Shaun Hill Get More Love?

Niner fans wonder what off-season moves the team can make. Can they trade for Donovan McNabb or Derek Anderson? How about signing Matt Cassel or even bringing home Jeff Garcia? Some fans might think the 49ers should spend their money elsewhere particularly if Shaun Hill continues to play the he has. This guy is good, but is he "Franchise QB" good? Who knows where he'll finish in passer rating and touchdown to interception ratio or completion percentage, but if it's anywhere close to where it is now (94.3, 7 td's, 3 int's, 60.3 completion percentage) I would expect many to call for him to be the team's starter for 2009.

I will say this much for him. Shaun Hill COULD be the QB the 49ers want. How many quarterbacks in the league could post a passer rating that high with an offensive line that doesn't protect well and a receiving corps that lacks a impact player? If Hill played for the Cowboys he'd probably be a MVP candidate. In the second half against Dallas, Hill looked a lot like Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo. Both excel at moving in the pocket, both can make the impromptu play and both have the confidence of their teammates. In leading the 49ers to two fourth-quarter touchdowns against Dallas, Hill had one stretch where he completed five straight passes for 87 yards, including the two scores. On three of those passes, he was pressured, but was able to either move out of the pocket, or slide away from pressure and throw. He had completions of 22, 30 and 18 yards against a defense that was warding against the long pass. With more seasoning and time as a starter, he's the type of quarterback who could get better. Also consider that in five of his seven appearances, he has compiled a rating of over 100, and in his first start, his completion percentage of .815 set an NFL record.

Hiatus

Hi Everyone,

I'm sure everyone is getting charged up for the season, and to see if the Niners can improve on their woefull 5-11 season last year. With J.T O'Sullivan (the QB not the Irish Pub), named as week one starter, it is starting to look like "superbust" Alex Smith's days really are numbered at Candlestick.

I have been uncharacteristically absence on posting so far this preseason - the rigours of starting at a new career and hope to be back posting soon.

In the mean time - it will be interesting to see how the first few weeks play out. I plan to be at the week two contest against the Seahawks in Seattle and hope to be back on here by then to keep you all posted. I am still looking at a 6-10 season this year for the scarlet and gold. I still thing they are weak at the one position that is the most critical - QB. With all due respect to O'Sullivan's preseason success and Shaun Hill's 2 career starts, they are at least 1 draft, coaching change and free agency away from making any real noise in the NFC "Worst"

Talk to y'all soon!
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A sign of things to come? Raiders 18 - 49ers 6

From 49ers.com


The 49ers tried out J.T. O’Sullivan, Alex Smith and Shaun Hill in Friday night’s first preseason game, but none of the quarterbacks involved in the three-man race for the starting job could lead the offensive unit to the end zone in an 18-6 defeat by the Raiders. Smith was the only one of the three without an interception, leading to the highest QB Rating of 72.0. The fourth-year player completed 5 of 9 passes for 51 yards and led his unit to a field goal. O’Sullivan started the game and gunned some crisp passes, including three strikes of 11, 22 and 20 yards to the rookie Josh Morgan. Morgan made his first start as Bryant Johnson sat out with a hamstring and finished as the leading receiver with 4 catches for 68 yards.

Camp Preview: Offensive Line

From 49ers.com, July 14th

Johnson hopes to prove worthy of long-term gig

Matt Maiocco, The Press Democrat

Position By Position Battles - Quarterbacks

With the training camp count down to 24 days, we thought we'd evaluate the positions going into camp, starting with everyone's favorite, quarterback.

ALEX SMITH

Alex Smith rolled right in a game last year against the Saints at Candlestick and then he glared at an open receiver 7 yards away. A voice rang out from above the 49ers' press box as Smith continued to cling to the ball and stare. "THROW IT! (BLEEPING) THROW IT!" He eventually did, completing the pass. But with Smith's inexplicable delay, the play went for 2 yards instead of 8 or 10. The voice may have belonged to a fan. More likely, it was one of the 49ers coaches. Their booth is upstairs from where the media sits and at times, their voices can be heard through the open window, particularly when they yell. Can Mike Martz tap Alex Smith's talent?
The story illustrates Smith's major challenge as he attempts to retain his job against challengers Shaun Hill and J.T. O'Sullivan - the ability to think and act quickly. If one quote illuminates Smith's checkered four-year career, it's the oft-mentioned one his former coach at Utah issued. Urban Meyer, who now coaches the Florida Gators, said the day Smith was drafted that unless Smith knows exactly what the offense and defense is doing, he'll be "non-functional." Last year, offensive coordinator Jim Hostler put too much on Smith. Hostler expanded the playbook and forced the quarterback to rifle through a series of reads on every play and made him responsible, at times, for recognizing blitzes. It compounded Smith's perfectionist tendencies and froze him. One 49ers defender complained privately that in drills without a pass rush, Smith would sit back and stare at the patterns instead of throwing.

So can Smith know his own offense and the opposing defense enough to unlock his abundant talent when a defensive staff works 500 hours in a given week trying to confound him? And on offense, Smith himself said it's impossible to know the entire Mike Martz scheme, making it sound as if Martz's offense was "The blob," - a breathing, moving and ever-expanding organism?

Martz, nevertheless, may save him. He recognized what Norv Turner saw two years ago - that he must unclutter Smith's mind. Give him one or two reads and then instruct him to either throw it away or take off all the while making Smith process everything faster - the huddle, his drop, his recognition, his delivery. Turner constantly hounded Smith to hurry in practice, sometimes doing it while he dropped to throw. When 49ers.com slapped a mic on Martz during one of the June OTA practices, Martz was captured imploring Smith to hurry three times. I thought of a story I did on him in the Chronicle a few weeks after he was drafted while watching Smith this spring in OTA's easily out-perform his challengers.

Smith and his family graciously allowed a photographer and me to go to his parents' home in San Diego for a profile. With his Dad, Doug, a former prep football coach and now a high school principal, Smith watched his game tapes. I asked the Smiths to pop in a tape and talk about what they saw. We watched parts of different games while father and son broke down the plays. Smith looked and sounded like football's version of a young Jason Kidd. He was a step ahead on everything and he exuded confidence, even a cockiness. On the screen, Smith digested the defense in an instant and fired the ball to an open receiver despite having five of them in the pattern on nearly every play. In Smith, there's something special. But can it be tapped or is there too much baggage after disappointments, injuries, a once-poisoned relationship with his head coach and four coordinators in four years? Can Smith remove all of that plus his own immense, play-stopping intellect to get to the pool of talent below? In training camp and the season the answer will un-spool.

SHAUN HILL

Hill is the anti-Alex. While Smith was tossed into the lineup as a 21-year-old rookie, Hill threw one incomplete pass in his first five seasons in the league. Smith was a first overall pick, Hill was undrafted. Smith was looked upon as the franchise quarterback, Hill needed to beat out Jesse Palmer and then former University of Akron player Luke Getsy the last two seasons just to claim his roster spot.

Shaun Hill is a gamer.

While Smith can look impressive in practice, coach Mike Nolan said Hill saves his best for games. Hill also "throws through" or throws to an area before a receiver breaks, something that Smith struggles with. But like Smith, last year, Hill also had a defining play. It came in the third quarter of his first start against the Bengals at home. Faced with a third down in a tight game, Hill settled in a shotgun formation. At the snap, tight end Vernon Davis didn't move, seemingly forgetting the snap count. It allowed defensive end Robert Geathers a free pass at Hill. But he avoided Geathers with two quick steps, one towards the line of scrimmage and the other to his right. As Geathers flew past, a composed Hill continued to run right and threw a completion to running back Maurice Hicks for the first down. Hill executed the play so adroitly, you had to look at the replay a few times to see what happened. But can Hill maintain this excellence of play? He tore up the Bengals completing 21 of 28 passes for 197 yards. While subbing for the concussed Trent Dilfer a week earlier against the Vikings, he completed 22 of 28 passes for 181 yards. Minnesota gave up more passing yards than any other team in the league last year. Cincinnati ranked 26th in that category.

When Hill faced Tampa Bay, which owned the stingiest pass defense in the league, he was 11 of 24 for 123 yards. In all of his appearances except Tampa Bay, his completion percentage was high and his yardage was low, which confirms his lack of arm strength. The overriding questions for Hill: Is he athletic enough and is his arm strong enough to overthrow Smith for the starting job? He faces another challenge. The 49ers paid Smith about $7 million this offseason to continue his contract, meaning Smith has strong advocates within the organization.

J.T. O'SULLIVAN

The former UC Davis player deserves some sort of award. Who can name a quarterback who has existed on the fringes of nine NFL rosters in seven seasons? It's an unusual feat. Martz has an abiding belief in O'Sullivan and seemingly insists that he be part of the competition for the starting job.

Sims seems like a sound signing

The 49ers' signing of former Oakland Raiders offensive tackle Barry Sims may not stir up as many waves as recent additions like Justin Smith and Nate Clements, but fans shouldn’t underestimate what Sims brings to the fold.Sims is perhaps best remembered for his false start fiascoes in Oakland (he actually led all NFL offensive linemen in that category last year), but judging him simply on that standard would be quite unfair. Sims has started 118 games in the last nine years, demonstrating both durability and a high enough level of play to remain in Oakland's weekly lineup. That's not to say he is a Pro Bowler at the position, but Sims is certainly a capable player at the right tackle spot, which is, coincidentally, a huge area of concern for the 49ers.Besides the obvious -- veteran leadership -- what does Sims add to the 49ers? Examining the signing in a worst-case scenario, Sims simply brings some quality depth along an offensive line which sorely needs it. The 49ers should field a line of Joe Staley, David Baas or Chilo Rachal, Eric Heitmann, Adam Snyder and Jonas Jennings (assuming he's healthy). Sims fits neatly as the primary backup at tackle and allows the 49ers to move several players around to their natural positions.

Is Hall too full for BY?

Matt Barrows, Sac Bee, June 13, 2008

Holy smokes - the Hall of Fame class for 2013 is shaping up to be one of the best ever. Brett Favre is a can't-miss first ballot guy as is Jonathan Ogden. You have to think that Michael Strahan, who is fifth on the all-time sack list and holds the season-single record in that category won't have to wait beyond 2013. (Given their dive-and-sack routine in 2001, maybe Favre should be Strahan's presenter. Buzz-zing!). In addition, Warren Sapp, Junior Seau and Orlando Pace (if he retires) are all strong possibilities. The question is whether two 49ers - Bryant Young and Larry Allen - will go into the Hall at the same time.

BY has three things going against him.
First, he played on a lot of crappy teams. Sure, his 49ers career began with a Super Bowl title, and from 1994 to 2002 Young and the 49ers made the playoffs seven times. But during the last five years of his career, the time when players like Young finally get the recognition and national attention they deserve, he was playing in meaningless games on dreadful teams. Second, his statistics are rock-solid but not mind-blowing. I know, I know. Young mostly played a position that called for him to do a lot of dirty work and to make sacrifices so that others could get the glory. And while teammates and opponents respect that, HOF voters will look to stats. BY's 89.5 career sacks are outstanding, but they're not as good as Strahan's (141.5) or Sapp's (96.5).
And finally, Young never called attention to himself. That modest business-like demeanor won him the admiration of coaches, teammates, opponents, the local fans and local media. But the ugly reality is that self-aggrandizement attracts attention and that attention sometimes gets you into the Hall. Just look at the Michael Irvin-vs.-Art Monk dynamic. Monk had better numbers than Irvin yet the flamboyant Irvin beat him into the Hall. As disgusting as this sounds, if Young had had some silly sack dance and had made outrageous comments, I bet he'd have a better chance of being a first-ballot guy. Then again, sometimes respect and dignity are more important than a yellow blazer.
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Keena Turner - vice president of football affairs

Tom FitzGerald, San Francisco Chronicle

Former 49ers linebacker Keena Turner, a link to the team's glory days, has been named their vice president of football affairs. In his new role, according to Jed York, the vice president of strategic planning, Turner "will be in charge of all programs related to player well-being and success including counseling, faith-based and player-development programs."

Turner, 49, who helped the 49ers win four Super Bowls, will serve as an adviser to the coaching staff and head the club's alumni program. Since he retired in 1990 after an 11-year career, all of it with the 49ers, he has represented the team at public events and assisted in player development. He has also done TV commentary on preseason games.
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Niner Notes

Matt Barrows, Sacramento Bee, May 29, 2008

Quarterback race is more like a marathon

In a perfect world, the 49ers will emerge from OTAs on June 20 with a distinct pecking order at quarterback. The player at the top of that order will head into training camp July 24 as the No. 1 quarterback. He'll get most of the first-team reps, he'll look fantastic in preseason games and he'll enter the season as the unquestioned leader of the team. "At this point I'm hopeful," Mike Nolan said of having a clear-cut No. 1 on June 20. "But I won't hold myself to it." Nolan knows the reality will be messier. The question is whether we're talking Barack-vs.-Hillary messy. The 49ers quarterback competition certainly has the potential to drag on and on and on like the Democratic nomination process.

Consider this not farfetched scenario. I figure Alex Smith will take the early lead in the coaches' minds. After all, he looks great on a practice field. He's tall. He can scramble. And he has the best arm in the 49ers' quarterback stable. Nolan already has commented that Smith added seven pounds of muscle following the 2007 season and looked as physically impressive as he has seen the young passer.

Shaun Hill, meanwhile, is not going to win many best-body competitions. He doesn't have Smith's arm strength, and he has a funny throwing motion. (Though, not as funny as Mariah Carey's). That's why up until last season, Hill has been a career No. 3 quarterback. He simply hasn't been an impressive enough practice player to warrant a closer look.

A Closer Look At the Newest 49ers

As coaches and GMs love to say on cutdown day, it's a numbers game. There are only 53 roster spots available per team at the start of the regular season. The 49ers added six draft picks. Some draftees - Kentwan Balmer, Chilo Rachal, Reggie Smith and Cody Wallace - are virtually assured roster spots. Josh Morgan and Larry Grant have work to do to stick on the final roster.
Here is the breakdown of what each new addition means to the team:

Defensive lineman Kentwan Balmer
What it means for him: Chosen in the first round, Balmer must make an immediate contribution. The 49ers are keeping an open mind. They plan to use him at nose tackle and left end before settling on a spot for him. Either way, he figures to get a lot of playing time as a rookie.
What it means for others: Aubrayo Franklin enters the second year of a three-year, $6.1 million contract. Isaac Sopoaga, who was Franklin's back up last season, recently signed a five-year, $20 million deal. Sopoaga will make twice as much as Franklin, which might be a clue which player's starting job is the most tenuous. The plan is to move Sopoaga to left end. Justin Smith, Sopoaga, Balmer, Franklin, Ronald Fields and Ray McDonald figure to be on the team. Guys such as Joe Cohen, Atiyyah Ellison and Melvin Oliver have to battle to stick around.

Guard Chilo Rachal
What it means for him: When minicamp opens on Friday, Tony Wragge will line up at right guard with the first-team offense. But the door will be open in training camp for Rachal (second-round pick) to get in there. If he shows he can handle the move up to the NFL, Rachal has a good chance to be an opening-week starter.
What it means for others: David Baas will miss a portion of training camp. It's a lot like his rookie season. He was projected as a starter as a rookie, but a hamstring injury kept him sidelined most of camp. He could not recover from missing so much time in training camp. Baas did not move into the starting lineup until injuries forced the issue late his rookie season. Again, he was scheduled to be a starter. Now, he has a long road in front of him to get back on the field after sustaining a torn pectoral muscle last week. After being cleared, he still has to regain his upper-body strength and win his way back into the starting lineup.

Defensive back Reggie Smith
What it means for him: Some view the third-round pick as a Cover 2 corrner. Others see him as a safety. The 49ers envision Smith as a physical, in-your-face cornerback. Because Nate Clements takes the opponents' best receiver and does not get much help, the 49ers want the corner on the other side to be physical at the line of scrimmage. The other corner generally has safety help over the top. If, over a period of time, Smith proves he can't cover NFL receivers, the 49ers have the option to move him to free safety.
What it means for others: Walt Harris is a 13-year vet who eventually must be replaced. The 49ers want to make sure they have some candidates ready to take over. Shawntae Spencer signed a reasonable contract extension in 2006 and has a deal in place through 2012. He has experienced difficulty staying healthy. When healthy, Spencer has not been the most consistent performer, either. Tarell Brown, whom many believed was a second-round value found in the fifth round, is not fully recovered from a partially torn ACL from the final game of the season. The injury did not require surgery. The club expects him to be ready for the start of training camp. After 2005, when the 49ers were picking up free-agent corners off the street and sticking them in the starting lineup, the club has at least built some depth at this spot. A decent player will probably be let go after camp. Marcus Hudson and Donald Strickland, along with Smith, Brown and Spencer will duke it out for backup spots.

Center Cody Wallace
What it means for him: The fourth-round selection comes to the 49ers as a backup to Eric Heitmann. It would be very difficult for a rookie to win a starting job at center over a guy who has been around like Heitmann. So much of the center position is having a grasp for the team's protections and a concept of what the defense is doing.
What it means for others: Heitmann is scheduled to be a free agent at the end of the season. Perhaps, they're lining up their contingency plan. Or, Nolan mentioned that Heitmann is capable of moving to guard, too. With Wallace on the team, obviously the 49ers are not projecting Baas as the next center. This is a big season for Baas, who is signed through 2009. If he has yet to establish himself as a starter, the club might decide he does not fit into their future plans. The 49ers want Adam Snyder to play guard, but I can't help but think the 49ers have the makings of a good long-term offensive line with Joe Staley and Snyder at the tackles, Baas and Rachal at the guards and Wallace at center.

Receiver Josh Morgan
What it means for him: There is not a bona fide No. 1 receiver on the team, so the door is wide open for this sixth-rounder to prove he can be of value to the 49ers. Playing time will be difficult to find as a rookie. He'll have to adjust to Mike Martz's offense and Jerry Sullivan's detailed coaching. He will have to battle through the frustration of learning things that are completely new to him. But Morgan definitely has a chance to stick around. If he takes advantage of some chances, he could work into a significant role. He better come to training camp in great shape. Rookies have never worked like they will during their first NFL training camp. And rookie receivers, in particular, are susceptible to leg injuries.
What it means for others: Jason Hill and Ashley Lelie must get off to a great starts to work their way into positions to get more practice reps. Isaac Bruce, Bryant Johnson and Arnaz Battle don't seem to be going anywhere. Morgan, conceivably, could push Hill or Lelie back a notch.

Linebacker Larry Grant
What it means for him: The good news for this seventh-round pick is that he projects at a position where the starting job is up for grabs. He'll have an opportunity to compete for the starting "ted' linebacker job. Although it's unlikely he'll win the starting job, Grant can still make a major impact on special teams as a rookie. But the 49ers might keep only four inside linebackers, which means that while he has an outside chance to win a starting job, he is also fighting for a roster spot.
What it means for others: If the 49ers had grabbed Curtis Lofton in the first round, Dontarrious Thomas would have been replaced as a starter before ever starting a game. Grant's acquisition appears to mean that Brandon Moore is, again, pushed to the background. Nolan said Thomas, Jeff Ulbrich and Grant would line up and compete at the "ted," while Brandon Moore will be Patrick Willis' backup at the "mike." The "ted" is the strong inside linebacker position. The team is obviously not convinced Moore has the ability to get off blocks effectively enough to play on the strong side. The door remains open for the 49ers to pursue veteran Takeo Spikes, who is returning from season-ending surgery on his rotator cuff. The Eagles released him (failed physical) earlier this offseason. Because Spikes would play the strong inside position, he would be taking on more blockers, thus exposing himself to more collisions.
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Nolan's Final Draft: A Master Piece of Wasted Opportunities

The 49ers totally screwed the pooch again on the most crucial day of Mike Nolan and Scot McCloughan's careers respectively. Draft day. If Nolan doesn't get the Niners off to a good start this season, he will undoubtedly be given his pink slip and McCloughan, Nolan's former assistant and now his "boss", (yeah, right, you really laid down the law, Dr. York) will be shown the door with him....and they did nothing this weekend to help keep that from being a reality.

Draft Day 1 Recap

The 49ers went for might instead of flight on the first day of the NFL draft, opting for linemen on both sides of the ball instead of a wide receiver to run down the field and catch it. With their first pick in the draft, 29th overall, the 49ers tabbed Kentwan Balmer, a versatile 6-foot-5, 300-pound defensive lineman from North Carolina who can play either nose tackle or end. The club seems more inclined to play Balmer at nose tackle but he could also end up replacing the retired Bryant Young at left end.

It was an ecstatic Balmer who spoke to reporters Saturday in a conference call as he mentioned how his father, Charles Balmer, was an avid 49ers fan in the 1990s. No mention if dad is still as enthused now that the team is struggling.Ten picks later, at the eighth spot in the second round, San Francisco went for something of a surprise in guard Chilo Rachal of USC, who was picked higher than most people expected, including the player himself.Rachal, 6-4 and 319 pounds, is expected to compete for a job and could end up taking over for Larry Allen at left guard.Balmer's brawny presence on the defensive line, especially at nose tackle, will occupy blockers and allow Pro Bowl inside linebacker Patrick Willis, that tackling machine, to get to the ballcarrier. Rachal beefs up an offensive line that was responsible for 55 sacks in 2007, including the one that led to quarterback Alex Smith's shoulder injury and a ruined season.

The 49ers go into the second day of the draft with four picks, one each in the third, fourth, sixth and seventh rounds. With his first two picks, Nolan also considered Clemson defensive end Phillip Merling and Oklahoma inside linebacker Curtis Lofton.In going for linemen on both sides of the line of scrimmage, Nolan passed up an opportunity to select one of several wide receivers available at 29 and 39, in particular DeSean Jackson of Cal, Malcolm Kelly of Oklahoma, James Hardy of Indiana and Limas Sweed of Texas.

The coach said it's possible the 49ers will pick a wide receiver with one of today's picks but the fact he did not choose one on Saturday indicates he didn't believe any wideout deserving of late-first- or early-second-round status.

Day 2 Recap .... and opinion of picks on Sunday Night.
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49er 1st round selections, 1998-2007. Hope for the Willis Trend to Continue

Just hours before things kick off at Radio City Music Hall for the annual NFL "Selection Meeting" AKA the draft, lets look back at the last 10 years of 49er 1st round picks, and hope....like heck that the trend started only last year, continues on an upswing.

49er 1st round selections, 1998-2007

1998
R.W. McQuarters CB ,Oklahoma State
A bust during two seasons in S.F., he reemerged as a useful special teams player and helped the N.Y. Giants win a Super Bowl last season.

1999
Reggie McGrew DT ,Florida
Arguably the team's worst top pick ever, his not-so-illustrious career consisted of nine tackles and zero starts.

2000
Julian Peterson OLB ,Michigan State (right)
Terrific and versatile linebacker has made four Pro Bowls, including past two for Seattle Seahawks.
2001
Andre Carter DE ,Cal Bears
Faded in S.F. after a 12 1/2-sack season in '02, but has perked up again for Washington Redskins.
2002
Mike Rumph CB ,Miami
Proved to be a poor one-on-one cover man and managed only three career interceptions.
2003
Kwame Harris T ,Stanford
Failed to demonstrate adequate pass-protection skills at left tackle; will try to reinvent himself with Raiders.
2004
Rashaun Woods WR ,Oklahoma
Another contender for worst 49ers pick ever, managed seven career catches and helped doom G.M. Terry Donahue.

2005
Alex Smith QB ,Utah
Jury remains out because of injury trouble and poor supporting cast, but early returns aren't favorable.
2006
Vernon Davis TE ,Maryland
Still better known for his weight room prowess than his on-field production (774 yards, seven TDs in two years).
2007
Patrick Willis ILB ,Mississippi
NFL defensive rookie of the year became the first S.F. rookie to make the Pro Bowl since Ronnie Lott.

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49ers 2008 Schedule

From the Press Democrat

49ers' 2008 schedule
(All times are Pacific)
Sunday, Sept. 7, vs. Cardinals. 1:15 p.m. (Fox): Bryant Johnson, who was the No. 3 man in Arizona behind Anquan Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald, has a chance to be the featured wideout with his new team. For the third year in a row, the 49ers open the season against the Cardinals.

Sunday, Sept. 14, at Seahawks, 1:05 p.m. (Fox): It was the win in Seattle late in the 2006 season that stands as the highlight of the Mike Nolan/Alex Smith era with the 49ers. They might need another one in '08 to get another chance in '09.

Sunday, Sept. 21, Vs. Lions, 1:05 p.m. (Fox): New offensive coordinator Mike Martz was available to the 49ers after he was fired. Let's see if he was correct when he said the 49ers' talent is much better than he inherited in Detroit.

Sunday, Sept. 28, At Saints, 10 a.m. (Fox): The old NFC West broke up after the 2001 season. Still, the way the schedule has fallen, this will be the 49ers' fourth trip to New Orleans in seven seasons. The 49ers have not beaten the Saints in four matchups since they're no longer division foes.

Sunday, Oct. 5, Vs. Patriots, 1:15 p.m. (CBS): Bill Belichick and Scott Pioli will be hammered with questions all week about how they let Joe Staley get away. And all they got out of it was a No. 7 overall draft pick.

Sunday, Oct. 12, Vs. Eagles, 1:15 p.m. (Fox): This is certainly a big season in Philadelphia, where Donovan McNabb is looking to bounce back strong from an 8-8 season. Second-year quarterback Kevin Kolb was drafted last year to eventually take over.

Sunday, Oct. 19, At Giants, 10 a.m. (CBS): Alex Smith was asked recently whether Eli Manning's quick turnaround from "bust" to Super Bowl hero serves as inspiration. "I guess you just realize what a short memory this game has and that's the exciting thing, as long as you've got the year ahead of you, that's such a great opportunity," Smith said. "If you look at Eli two years ago and what was being said and what was going on there in New York, and if you look at it now, a lot has changed in that time. That's the exciting thing about this game, you have a chance to do that and erase last year."

Sunday, Oct. 26, Vs. Seahawks, 1:15 p.m. (CBS): It'll probably be the last visit to San Francisco as a member of the Seahawks for Mike Holmgren, as Jim Mora set to take over as head coach in 2009. Holmgren-to-49ers speculation will be unbridled this week.

Sunday, Nov. 2, BYE WEEK

Monday, Nov. 10, at Cardinals, 5:30 p.m. (ESPN): What? A Monday night game? Against the Cardinals? This is the second year in a row the 49ers have played against the Cardinals on Monday night. It worked out pretty well for the 49ers last season.

Sunday, Nov. 16, Vs. Rams, 1:05 p.m. (#-Fox): No matter what turns are in store for this season, we all can agree this is the most winnable game on the schedule. Too bad for the 49ers it comes on a short week.

Sunday, Nov. 23, At Cowboys, 10 a.m. (#-Fox): Ah, another reunion with Terrell Owens. It's probably a good thing few players on this team were around when he was with the 49ers. This will be the 49ers' final trip to Texas Stadium, as the Cowboys are scheduled to move into their new stadium in 2009.

Sunday, Nov. 30, At Bills, 10 a.m. (#-Fox): They're serving Buffalo wings at the Anchor Bar, the place that invented the delicacy. Any idea what the weather's like in Buffalo this time of year?

Sunday, Dec. 7, Vs. Jets, 1:05 p.m. (#-CBS): The Jets are coming off a 4-12 season. Who will be their quarterback at this stage in the season, Chad Pennington or Kellen Clemens . . . or Matt Ryan?

Sunday, Dec. 14, At Dolphins, 10 a.m. (#-Fox): Niners make their first trip to Miami since 1995. In that game, Elvis Grbac, subbing for an injured Steve Young, leads team to a 44-20 victory in a Monday night game. I can't think of any other NFL city I'd rather visit in mid-December.

Sunday, Dec. 21, At Rams, 10 a.m. (#-Fox): Cheers of "Bruuuuuuuuuce" will unquestionably greet the 49ers' receiver, as he is still one of the more popular football players in town.

Sunday, Dec. 28, Vs. Redskins, 1:15 p.m. (#-Fox): Former 49ers defensive end Andre Carter plays against his former teammates for the first time. Carter, by the way, is the only 49ers player since 2000 to record at least 10 sacks in a season. He did that in 2002 when he piled up 12.5 sacks. Will the 49ers have finally found a pass-rusher this season?
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Mock Draft #1 - 10

Here is my predictions and analysis for the first 10 picks of the 2008 Draft.Based on needs addressed in free agency and those still remaining, and of course, the most glaring areas of concern for each team.

1. Miami Dolphins – Chris Long, DE, Virginia
If the Dolphins stay at this position there would be only three players I feel as value here: Darren McFadden, Glenn Dorsey, and Chris Long. With Ronnie Brown as your franchise back and needs elsewhere, McFadden is out, and that comes down to the defensive lineman. For the Dolphins, a team that will utilize a 3-4 defensive scheme, Chris Long is perfect. Glenn Dorsey is a beast in the inside, but his transition to a nose in a 3-4 is questionable. Actually, I see Sedrick Ellis as more of a possibility than Dorsey. But, if the Dolphins do stay at #1, which I know they will try to trade out, Long should be the pick. Long was dominant as an end in a 3-4, which is an extremely difficult position to succeed at. 3-4 defensive schemes need three talented men up front to be successful, and Long is certainly a strong start.

2. St. Louis Rams – Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio State
First off, my buddy Walter Cherepinsky has been saying for months that the Rams would select Gholston. I was a little hesitant because of the Rams' struggles at offensive line, but with the signing of G Jacob Bell and hopefully a fully healthy Orlando Pace back, the Rams will be able to help a struggling defensive line. Leonard Little is going to be 34, and James Hall was released. Gholston would be an immediate upgrade, and if Jim Haslett does indeed switch the defense to a 3-4, Gholston can play OLB. The depth at offensive tackle, also allows the Rams to pursue one in the second round.

3. Atlanta Falcons – Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU
This pick should have Matt Ryan's name all over it, but with the likeliness of Brian Brohm, Joe Flacco, or Andre Woodson sitting atop round two, the Falcons can instead get the big and athletic Dorsey, who many draft experts consider the top prospect in the draft. Atlanta owns three 2nd round picks and could easily move back in the 2nd round to get its quarterback if it so wishes. Dorsey is too good to pass up. The Falcons have signed some free agent DTs this offseason, but far from starting/big name material. As long as Dorsey has fully recovered from his injury, I think this pick makes better sense than drafting Ryan. Ryan is a solid quarterback, but many scouts believe really has yet to differentiate himself from the other quarterbacks in the draft. Dorsey is the top DT in years. OT Jake Long would also make sense, but the talent at the offensive tackle affords the Falcons to find one later in the draft.

4. Oakland Raiders – Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas
Defensive tackle may be more of a pressing need and with Sedrick Ellis still available it would make sense, but Al Davis' moves don't always make sense. Plus, Davis gave starting DT Tommy Kelly an outrageous salary already. Davis loves speed and McFadden certainly has it. Even though, they resigned Justin Fargas, Davis is not shy of drafting the BPA. McFadden and JaMarcus Russell would create a nice offensive backfield. When you are picking #4, you are far more than just one player than the playoffs, and Al Davis knows that, so why not invest in a guy that will bring fans to the game and make for an exciting offense.

5. Kansas City Chiefs – Jake Long, OT, Michigan
I don't think the Chiefs would ever think of a situation where both Jake Long and Matt Ryan are available at #5, but that is the case. With Brodie Croyle as the quarterback of the future for now, and the Chiefs desperately needing offensive tackle help and Jake Long available, this pick is a no brainer and a dream pick for the Chiefs.

6. New York Jets – Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy
With Vernon Gholston and Darren McFadden off the board, the Jets instead find a cornerback to go opposite last year's first round pick Darrelle Revis Besides Revis, the Jets really lack depth at the CB position. Justin Miller is better suited as a special teamer than a starting cornerback and is still coming back from a knee injury. The Jets were interested in Asante Samuel (as one everyone else), so they want another cornerback. Sedrick Ellis is another possibility to add depth at NT, but McKelvin would create a nice tandem with Revis.

7. New England Patriots (from SF) – Derrick Harvey, DE/OLB, Florida
Asante Samuel is now filthy rich in Philadelphia and with that cornerback is one of a few positions where the Pats could possibly have a need to fill. However, with the depth at cornerback and the Pats now infamous for not giving big paydays to cornerback, I believe the Pats go with plan B if Vernon Gholston is unavailable and go with Harvey, a very similar player who will take the position vacated by released OLB Roosevelt Colvin. The Pats are usually known for not drafting young LBs, but have shown interested in Harvey whose stock is rising.

8. Baltimore Ravens – Matt Ryan, QB, Boston
The quarterback position is in disarray and with Matt Ryan still on the board (highly possible if the Falcons pass on him) then I think this pick is a no brainer. Coach Harbaugh would immediately have his franchise quarterback, a position the Ravens have lacked. If Ryan is off the board, look for the Ravens to go after a cornerback, such as Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, where its two corners are aging and both coming off injuries.

9. Cincinnati Bengals – Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC
Well the Bengals thought they had their big DT with the Shaun Rodgers trade and then the Dewayne Robertson trade however both trades backfired and the Bengals are still looking for that DT. If Ellis drops to #9 the Bengals won't hesitate to take him. Not only does he fill a need, but at #9 his value is way too good to pass up. With the signing of Antwan Odom, DE is no longer a need, and if Ellis is off the board, look for the Bengals to take OLB Keith Rivers.

10. New Orleans Saints – Keith Rivers, OLB, USC
The biggest weakness for the Saints is obviously the cornerback, but the Saints just signed free agent Randall Gay and the top 2 CBs are already off the board. The Saints just traded for Jonathan Vilma and the addition of of Rivers would be a huge upgrade to its linebacking corps. Aqib Talib and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie are tempting, but with the depth at CB, the Saints can get one in the 2nd round. Rivers is the best LB in the draft and after him and Dan Connor there is a drop off.
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Gore-less future spells trouble for Martz's offense

Having sought strength in numbers by acquiring a small army of targets for Alex Smith's sometimes errant passes, 49ers general manager Scot McCloughan must now turn his attention back to the running game in light of reports that Frank Gore, the team's most dangerous offensive weapon, will be sidelined indefinitely with a degenerative condition in his right hip. Although team doctors have yet to determine the severity of Gore's medical woes, the news is devastating to a young team in the midst of a rebuilding process. Initially diagnosed as an inflamed bursa sac in his right hip, the condition is eerily similar to that which abbreviated the career of baseball star Albert Belle, and though immediate treatment may help to prolong Gore's young career, his days as an elite NFL running back appear to be numbered. For his part, Gore remains cautiously optimistic.

Time is a healer for Alex Smith

S.F. QB is overcoming injury, conflict
By Matthew Barrows - The Sacramento Bee

SANTA CLARA – When we last left Alex Smith, the 49ers quarterback was a broken man. It was mid-December, and Smith was on his way to Alabama for a surgical procedure few NFL quarterbacks had undergone.His relationship with his head coach was in tatters. His throwing shoulder was mangled so badly that he heard clicking noises whenever he threw. He was weary, said he felt burned by the media and was stuck on the sideline as third-stringer Shaun Hill led the 49ers on a late-season revival.

Fast forward three and a half months, and, well, everything appears to be on the mend. The shoulder surgery was a success. Smith is out of the sling he wore for six weeks, and he is throwing 40-yard passes as he continues his rehabilitation.He also has spoken with coach Mike Nolan several times and says their 2007 feud, which revolved around Smith's shoulder injury, has been smoothed over. "That wasn't a reflection of either of us," Smith said Thursday in his first group interview since last season. "We're both better than that, and I think we're looking forward to obviously erasing that and proving not only to the people in this building, but everywhere, that we're going to move on and we're going to do better than that and we expect better." The coach-quarterback relationship deteriorated last year when a struggling Smith said he felt Nolan was minimizing his shoulder injury. Nolan, in turn, grew frustrated with Smith for taking his problems to the media. At the time, both men acknowledged a communication gap.

"We've talked and continue to talk about it, kind of understanding what happened last year, and (we're) moving on," Smith said. "I think we both understand each other, and there are definitely things I look back at and wish I could do over again. You learn from it and don't want to let it happen again." Smith said he hopes offensive problems that plagued the 49ers last season also are being fixed. He said he already has begun learning the new offense from coordinator Mike Martz – learning plays and working on drop-backs – and that he was excited to get on the field with new wide receivers Isaac Bruce and Bryant Johnson. Just as Martz is Smith's fourth offensive coordinator in four seasons, Bruce is his fourth No. 1 receiver over the same span."It's more competition, like I said, and I think it's something that's going to help this team," Smith said. "The better players you have in here that push each other, we're all going to get better from it. You talk about a guy like Isaac Bruce coming in with that much experience, not only in the NFL, but with coach Martz's system. I'm excited to have a guy like that in here."

Another difference is that Smith will not begin the offseason atop the team's depth chart at quarterback. Coaches have promised an open competition at the spot, and that battle will begin in early May with the team's first minicamp. Smith said he expects to be close to 100 percent when it begins. He said his right shoulder is almost at full strength and that his weight-room routine is back to normal save for a few over-the-head exercises.

As for throwing a football, Smith said trainers are regulating how much he throws each day as if he were a major-league pitcher. He recently has been throwing three times a week, starting with light tosses and gradually building to 40-yard throws.

Smith said a typical session includes 60 to 80 passes.

"They're decent," Smith said of the zip. "I'm definitely not out here gunning these things. But to throw the ball 40 yards, you've got to be throwing it decent."
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March Mock Draft # 11 - 21

Here is my predictions and analysis for the middle third of the 2008 Draft.Based on needs addressed in free agency and those still remaining, and of course, the most glaring areas of concern for each team. Next time will be picks 1 - 10.

11. Buffalo Bills – Domique Rodgers-Cromartie, CB, Tennessee St.
For the first time since around December, I don't have Malcolm Kelly in this slot. Kelly's stock has tumbled due to his inability to workout and questions about his speed. DeSean Jackson would be intriguing, but he is too similar to Lee Evans, and the Bills like its return man in Roscoe Parrish. The Bills instead go after another position of need and draft its shutdown cornerback. At 6-2, Rodgers-Cromartie has the size to match any receiver, but also 4.33 speed to hang with any receiver. His knack has always been his small school status, but with strong workouts and a great Senior Bowl, he has proved his ability.

12. Denver Broncos – Ryan Clady, OT, Boise St.
With the retirement of Matt Lepsis, the left tackle position now seems vulnerable, and with Ryan Clady still on the board, this pick makes sense. At 6-6, 320 lbs, Clady is the ideal LT, and actually has a higher ceiling than Jake Long. Jake Long is more NFL ready, but I see Clady as having the better NFL career down the road. DT Kentwan Balmer or even WR DeSean Jackson is a possibility, but Clady is better value here if he even lasts to #12.

13. Carolina Panthers – Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt
Both tackles were resigned by the Panthers, but with the departure of guard Mike Wahle, the Panthers may move Travelle Wharton inside creating a vacancy at the tackle position. Williams' stock has climbed up the draft boards, and now looks to be the third tackle off the board. DE Phillip Merling is also a possibility, but after last season, Jake Delhomme's health has to be priority #1.

14. Chicago Bears – Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh
Grossman is out of Chicago, actually he just signed a one year deal. But, I don’t see the Bears wanting to draft another first round quarterback. I think the Bears will focus on protecting that quarterback, and the massive Otah (6-6. 340) is a great way to do that. DeSean Jackson is tempting with the departure of Bernard Berrian, but no receiver can get a ball if the quarterback doesn't have time to throw it to him.

15. Detroit Lions – Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois
The Lions in the last week have gotten CBs Leigh Bodden and Brian Kelly. Neither CB is going to fool you for the shutdown cornerback that each team covets, but both are solid and allow the Lions to pursue other positions. The Lions were finalist in the Julius Jones' sweepstakes, but lost out to Seattle, and the lost may be a blessing in disguise with the chance to get Mendenhall. There is no hiding that Matt Millen likes to draft offensive playmakers, well that is Mendenhall, only he uses his skills with his feet than his hands.


16. Arizona Cardinals ­– Aqib Talib, CB, Kanas
With the Cardinals moving Antrel Rolle to safety there is now a hole at the CB position. With Edgerrin James' best years behind him, drafting Jonathan Stewart would make sense, but the Cards can get a solid RB in the 2nd round. Aqib Talib may lack explosive speed, but makes up with his size and playmaking ability. Always a threat to make an interception and go the other way.

17. Minnesota Vikings – Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson
The Vikings already had a need at defensive end before the news broke that Kenechi Udeze had cancer, but now that need is much greater. Our prayers are with Udeze and his family. Merling brings speed, size, and athleticism where he could be the premier sackmaster the Vikings have yet to find. Merling seems to be surpassing Derrick Harvey as the third best DE in the draft. Even without Udeze's cancer, the defensive end need was still there.

18. Houston Texans – Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon
Houston just signed RB Chris Brown, which actually makes this pick that much more possible. Stewart just had surgery and with his timetable set for around July, the Texans have insurance with Brown. The Texans still need that stud RB to complement Schaub and Andre Johnson. Stewart has the great combination of size and speed the Texans are looking for. With a solid back, the Texans should be able to improve after a successful season. CB Mike Jenkins is another option.

19. Philadelphia Eagles – DeSean Jackson, WR, California
Well the Eagles got its stud CB in free agency with Asante Samuel and helped with its DE rotation by signing Chris Clemons to a five year contract. With that, the Eagles are able to help its offense and draft the athletic playmaker in Jackson. He may be only 5'9, but if you watch any game film, you know the talent this guy has. The Eagles have decent receivers in Reggie Brown and Kevin Curtis, but lacks the deep threat that Jackson can be.

20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Malcolm Kelly, WR, Oklahoma
Joey Galloway seems to have found the fountain of youth and never ages, but the Buccaneers lack a young playmaker on the otherside and eventually become the #1. Michael Clayton was suppose to be that guy, but the only thing good about Michael Clayton lately has been the movie. Malcolm Kelly's stock has slipped recently, but with a strong workout April 9, Kelly should improve his stock. His 6'4 frame is very enticing.

March Mock Draft #21 - 32

Here is my predictions and analysis for the bottom third of the 2008 Draft.Based on needs addressed in free agency and those still remaining, and of course, the most glaring areas of concern for each team. Next time will be picks 11 - 20.

21. Washington Redskins ­– Limas Sweed, WR, Texas
Defensive end is the major weakness on this team, but with both Harvey and Merling off the board, new head doach Jim Zorn goes with the massive 6-4 Sweed who will be the tall receiver the Skins want in its new West Coast Offense. DEs Lawrence Jackson and Quentin Groves are possibilities, but Zorn is an offensive guy and the Redskins have been trying to find that tall receiver to complement its speedster. Sweed's stock drops this far due to a wrist injury his senior season.

22. Dallas Cowboys (from CLE) – Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida
The Cowboys are said to be interested in troubled cornerback Pacman Jones, but nothing yet has happened. The Cowboys three main needs are CB, WR, and RB. With Jenkins falling to Dallas at #22, his value is way too good to pass up. Jenkins would be opposite Terence Newman, and would immediately bolster Dallas' defensive backfield as one of the best in the league. Felix Jones is tempting, but with the Seahawks recent signing of Julius Jones, the Cowboys believe he will fall right into their laps at #28.

23. Pittsburgh Steelers – Branden Albert, G, Virginia
With Alan Faneca now in New York, the Steelers have a major void to fill and Albert is by far the best guard in the draft. At 6-6, 310 lbs, Albert may be able to transition to tackle a few years down the road. Tackle is another option, but with the top 4 off the board, Albert is far better value and should immediately come in and start.

24. Tennessee Titans – Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan
Vince Young has had a great start to a very promising career. Amazing he has done this with very little help and talent from his wide receivers. It s not like Justin Gage and Roydell Williams scared many defenses last season. The Titans did get a "major" pickup in former Titan Justin McCareins, but he was released by the Jets, who actually needed a #3 receiver. Devin Thomas' stock has soared recently and for good reason, he has the size and playmaking ability to be a #1 and to be Vince Young's new best friend. The Titans could look at Lawrence Jackson or Kentwan Balmer with recent free agent losses of DEs Antwan Odom, Travis LaBoy, and DT Randy Stark.

25. Seattle Seahawks – Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina
With the recent signings and of TJ Duckett and Julius Jones, the Seahawks no longer have a need at RB. The Seahawks now could add that receiving threat tight end in Fred Davis or Martellus Bennett, but they are more second round value. The interior of the defensive line struggled in the playoffs, and Marcus Tubbs is coming off an injury and return is questionable. Brandon Mebane did a decent job as his replacement, but an upgrade can be made.

26. Jacksonville Jaguars – Lawrence Jackson, DE, USC
The Jags have some issues at its defensive end position and usually like their DEs big, which is the reason they bypass Quentin Groves. Calais Campbell had a disappointing combine and stock is on the decline. Jackson may not be the sexy pick, but fills a major need for the Jags and fits well in their defensive scheme.

27. San Diego Chargers – Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College
The past few months I have had the Chargers picking up safety Kenny Phillips who would make a nice combo with Eric Weddle, but after looking at the Chargers' depth chart the one position that stands out is right tackle. The Chargers released starting RT Shane Olivea, and with that only has Jeromey Clary at that position. Cherilus actually may be the best pure right tackle in this draft and would come in immediatley as the starter. Cherilus would be a nice tackle mate with star in the making Marcus McNeil.

28. Dallas Cowboys – Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas
Jerry Jones is going to make sure he doesn't miss out on one of the stud RBs and take his fellow Razorback in Felix Jones. Of course the Cowboys may try to use both first round draft picks to move up and draft the other Razorback in Darren McFadden. With Julius Jones now in Seattle, the Cowboys are looking for a complement to Marion Barber. The Cowboys are infamous for trading down with this pick to teams trying to get into the first round to grab a QB, so that could very well happen.

29. San Francisco 49ers (from IND) – Quentin Groves, DE/OLB, Auburn
The 49ers are investing in their 3-4 defense after another major signing (Justin Smith). Groves, as expected, had a great combine and looks to be a perfect fit for the Niners' defense. With 4.5 speed, Groves should be the pass rusher on the outside the Niners' defense needs. A wide receiver such as James Hardy is a possibility, but Groves' is such a perfect fit in their system. Plus the 49ers just signed WR Bryant Johnson and can get a solid receiver at #39, but Groves would probably be gone.

30. Green Bay Packers – Antoine Cason, CB/S, Arizona
The Packers need depth behind Al Harris and Charles Woodson, both getting up there in years. Cason is a very interesting prospect because he has the playmaking/cover skills to be a first round pick, but lacks the ideal speed for an NFL CB. Last season, Arizona considered moving Cason to the safety position, but didn't. I believe if Cason is drafted at 30, he seems to be ideal to the Packers as a safety rather than a cornerback. After having a sub 4.5 40, Cason looks to be a first rounder. CB/S Reggie Smith is a possibility too.

31. New England Patriots - Forfeited pick

32. New York Giants – Kenny Phillips, S, Miami
Well LBs Kawika Mitchell, Reggie Torber and FS Gibril Wilson are gone and the fact that Dan Connor and Kenny Phillips are still on the board makes this an enticing pick for the Champs whichever route they go. With Phillips as the elite FS in this draft, and still available at #31, I say the Giants go with him. Phillips, I believe is better value and fills a major void. However, if Phillips is gone, Dan Connor would be a solid pick.

Start with Rice No. 1, Moss No. 2 in best WR debate

By Mike Sando, ESPN.com

Niners forfeit draft pick for tampering with Bears Lance Briggs

NEW YORK (AP) - The San Francisco 49ers forfeited their fifth-round pick in next month's NFL draft after commissioner Roger Goodell said they tampered with Chicago linebacker Lance Briggs.

Spikes Not Spiked Yet

Kevin Lynch, San Francisco Chronicle

Niners Have Dropped The Ball In Desperate Quest For Wideouts

Matt Maiacco, The Press Democrat


The 49ers continue to search for answers at wide receiver. It is one area of the 49ers' roster in which Scot McCloughan and Mike Nolan have really struggled since coming on board in 2005.
With their release of Darrell Jackson today, the 49ers officially admitted their failure in giving up a fourth-round draft pick to acquire his services a year ago. Jackson was inconsistent last season. He had several critical dropped passes, including one in the end zone against the Rams that could've won a game. Jackson did not fare well for much of the season, as the 49ers received all-around lousy play the passing game. Still, just last week, McCloughan said he expected Jackson and Isaac Bruce to be the starting receivers. In the meantime, the 49ers added receiver Bryant Johnson. Based on what McCloughan said, that means Jackson was no worse than the No. 3 receiver on the team.

Nolan last night called Jackson to inform him he was released. The 49ers aren't doing much talking to the local media these days, so we can only assume why this move was made now.
Perhaps, they figured Jackson was not worth $4 million in salary. That's a reasonable assessment.

The 49ers have no salary-cap issues, but the basic economics of the game dictate that you can't pay a guy that kind of money if you believe his production will not justify his salary. After all, Bryant Johnson is scheduled to make $2 million on his one-year contract. If he was going to be starting ahead of Jackson, that wouldn't have made sense. A year ago, the 49ers traded for Jackson. They coughed up a fourth-round draft pick to the division-rival Seahawks. Obviously, the Seahawks got the better end of that deal. The Seahawks, who have ruled the NFC West for a while, knew what they were doing.

Here are some of the other things that have gone wrong for the 49ers at the wideout spots since 2005:
--Brandon Lloyd was the 49ers' leading receiver in 2005, but he was universally disliked. He made incredible catches but was terrified to go across the middle or block. Any mention of Lloyd has to be regarded as this regime's best move when it comes to wideouts. After all, the 49ers traded him the Redskins in 2006 for two draft picks.
--Rasheed Marshall was selected in the fifth round of the 2005 draft. The 49ers tried to convert the former West Virginia quarterback to wide receiver/return man. He didn't fare well in either duty. His 49ers career consisted on one reception for negative-1 yard.
--Johnnie Morton was at the end of his career when the 49ers signed him in 2005. He caught 21 passes, and was generally a non-factor. The 49ers released him following the season, and he went on to get his butt kicked as an ultimate fighter.
--Brandon Williams was selected with the 84th overall pick. The 49ers envisioned him as a slot receiver/return specialist. He never caught a pass and was ultra-boring as a return man. After just three games of his second season, the 49ers released him to bring in ancient returnman Michael Lewis.
--Antonio Bryant is the most talented receiver the 49ers have had since the departure of Terrell Owens, but his off-the-field issues resulted in a four-game suspension at the end of the 2006 season. This came after Nolan met individually with an unsigned Bryant and felt assured that he had matured enough to be given a chance to join the 49ers. But after Bryant's suspension, the 49ers arrived at the conclusion that he could not be counted on. He was dumped after one season.
--Taylor Jacobs was acquired in a trade with the Redskins for Mike Rumph. There was nothing wrong with that trade because Rumph was going to get cut, anyway. Jacobs had a great offseason last year but never carried it over to the games. He began last season as the No. 3 receiver, but he had a few drops and ran a wrong route against the Steelers that resulted in an interception return for a touchdown.
--Bryan Gilmore is a favorite of receivers coach Jerry Sullivan, who fought hard for him to make the team out of camp last summer. Gilmore was cut. But after Jacobs faltered, the 49ers re-signed Gilmore for the fifth game of the season. Despite being out of work for the first month of the season, Gilmore immediately stepped in to become the No. 3 receiver. Gilmore played 26 games with the 49ers mostly as the No. 3 receiver (he also started three games), yet he caught only 15 passes.
--Ashley Lelie was signed a year ago to a two-year, $4.2 million contract. Lelie was signed as a deep threat. Yet, he rarely got on the practice field during training camp and had zero impact during the season. After a loss to the Ravens, Mike Nolan admitted he had a conversation with opposing defensive coordinator Rex Ryan, who said the Ravens were prepared to double-team Lelie because of his speed. However, Lelie rarely got on the field that game. Lelie finished the season with 10 catches for 115 yards.
--Jason McAddley was another player Sullivan really liked after coaching him with the Cardinals. McAddley caught seven passes in 2005 and never played another down for the club.
--LeRon McCoy stole 10 game checks from the 49ers, who placed him on their 53-man roster after five games. He never suited up for a game. And when the 49ers released him prior to the final game of the season to make room for QB Drew Olson, he left the organization for good.
--Jason Hill was a third-round draft pick with a lot of potential. He was hampered by injuries as a rookie. When he was healthy, he was never really given a chance to show what he could do. Hill saw action in just five games and caught just one pass.
--Marcus Maxwell was worth a seventh-round draft pick. Big and fast, Maxwell was seen as a guy who had a chance to develop. He spent just four games on the 49ers' active roster his first two seasons. (He was kept on the practice squad most of that time.) He tore it up in NFL Europe, but did not get much of a chance last year in 49ers training camp. The club released him and he's now with the Bengals.
* * *
It should also be noted, on the positive side, that the current regime renegotiated Arnaz Battle's contract in March 2007. He is signed through 2009 at a very reasonable price. I wouldn't at all be surprised if Battle were the most reliable wideout on the team again this season.
* * *
So that brings us to the moves the 49ers have made this offseason. The club has signed Johnson and Bruce.

The 49ers were not at all interested in Johnson at the start of free agency because they figured he would get more money than he's worth. As it turns out, there were no takers. Johnson fell into the 49ers' lap at $2 million for one year. That's not a bad price for a one-year test drive.
Bruce is near the end of his career, but he has one thing going for him: He's the only receiver on the roster who knows Mike Martz's offense. The 49ers signed him to a two-year, $6 million contract.

You gotta believe these moves will work out better than the other moves the 49ers have made in recent seasons. But, seriously, how could they turn out worse?
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After Disappointing Year, 49ers' Jackson Is Waived

Matt Barrows, Sacramento Bee