***San Francisco 49ers 2007 Offseason*** (1 Viewer)

[derek19]

49ers Name Hostler as Coordinator

The San Francisco 49ers announced on Wednesday that head coach Mike Nolan has committed to his goal of retaining the offensive structure by promoting Jim Hostler from quarterbacks coach to offensive coordinator.

Hostler spent the last two seasons as quarterbacks coach for the 49ers.

“Hostler has his roots in the offensive system that we ran last year," said head coach Mike Nolan. "I stated that it was my intent to keep the system intact. Jim was instrumental in the implementation of our offense last season. He is a disciplined teacher, which is extremely important to any coach who is on our staff.”

Hostler was originally named the 49ers quarterbacks coach on February 1, 2005. He served as the primary tutor to 2005 first overall pick QB Alex Smith.

Hostler joined San Francisco after spending two seasons with the New York Jets as the team’s wide receivers coach (2004) and quarterbacks coach (2003). He joined the Jets after serving as an offensive assistant/quality control coach and assistant wide receivers coach (2001-02) for the New Orleans Saints. Hostler began his NFL coaching career with the Kansas City Chiefs as an offensive assistant/quality control coach (2000).

Over his eight-year NFL run, Hostler has helped tutor a lineage of talents including QB Chad Pennington, QB Vinny Testaverde, WR Santana Moss, WR Wayne Chrebet and WR Justin McCareins with the Jets. He also coached 2002 first-round draft selection WR Donte Stallworth as a member of the Saints coaching staff.

Hostler cut his coaching teeth at his alma mater Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP). He spent nine seasons at IUP and helped the Indians qualify for the NCAA Division II playoffs five times, including one trip to the National Championship game (1990). As a member of the IUP coaching staff, Hostler served in a number of capacities, including time as the offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach (1999), linebackers coach (1997-98) and running backs coach (1990-92, 1994-96). Hostler also spent the 1993 campaign as the offensive coordinator at Juniata (Pa.) College.

A four-year standout at IUP (1986-89), Hostler was a four-year letter winner and two-time all conference selection at cornerback. He also helped the Indians capture two Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference titles and three trips to the Division II playoffs while compiling a 38-9 record.

Hostler and his wife Jen have two sons, Clint and Grant, and a daughter Attie.

http://www.49ers.com/pressbox/news_detail....ction=PR%20News

 

[derek19]

Interesting quote:

"That doesn't mean we are going to bypass good offensive players," McCloughan said. "It's not as if we are going to sign one guy and think he's going to make us that much better. I think we'd like to add four or five and then we can get the rest out of the draft. On defense, the worst-case scenario would be getting five new starters, but the best-case is to get seven."

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/columns/stor...&id=2783108

 

[thecatch]

I'm glad to hear they are bringing someone in that Smith should feel comfortable with. Hopefully he has some talent as a play caller too...

 

[derek19]

Read News Article

49ers hire coordinator; Bryant to be rel...Published Wed Feb 28 4:54:00 p.m. ET 2007

(Rotoworld) 49ers hired QB coach Jim Hostler, 40, to be their offensive coordinator.

Impact: This should help smooth the transition for Alex Smith. In other 49ers news Wednesday the Santa Rosa Press Democrat blog expects Antonio Bryant to be released, which won't make Smith's life any easier. Bryant will be suspended for the first two games of the 2007 season for violating the substace abuse policy.

Donte Stallworth anyone??

 

[NinerDownUnder]

Read News Article49ers hire coordinator; Bryant to be rel...Published Wed Feb 28 4:54:00 p.m. ET 2007(Rotoworld) 49ers hired QB coach Jim Hostler, 40, to be their offensive coordinator.Impact: This should help smooth the transition for Alex Smith. In other 49ers news Wednesday the Santa Rosa Press Democrat blog expects Antonio Bryant to be released, which won't make Smith's life any easier. Bryant will be suspended for the first two games of the 2007 season for violating the substace abuse policy.Donte Stallworth anyone??

Looks like it's Ashley Lelie.Not sure if I am happy or not about that

 

[silvergold]

Lelie is a bum. They need to pick up someone with hands that can run the short crossing route or smith is going to be in for a very long year...

 

[toxicbees]

Lelie is a bum. They need to pick up someone with hands that can run the short crossing route or smith is going to be in for a very long year...

The good news is that they picked him up for a very reasonable contract. I actually think he's an upgrade on Bryant, considering the suspension Bryant will need to serve this year and his attitude.I still think the niners pick up a WR in the second round. I would love to see Bowe as a Niner.

 

[silvergold]

I am also happy they didn't overpay for Lelie but you hear that a lot from 49ers homers. Who cares if we didn't overpay, the 49ers recieving corp is borderline a joke. Lelie isn't worth any money, especially on this team without a real starting wr. He's a 3rd wr at best to stretch the field and catch the occassional bomb (which smith has a terribly hard time throwing). At this point, we need someone who can come across the middle and make a great catch because smith's accuracy isn't there yet.

 

[Trap Play]

It isn't so much that we didn't overpay, which is good, but what position was signed to play. If Lelie was signed to be the WR3 instead of the WR1 than I am on-board with this signing. If the 49ers truly think he can be a WR1, then they're

 

[thecatch]

I am also happy they didn't overpay for Lelie but you hear that a lot from 49ers homers. Who cares if we didn't overpay, the 49ers recieving corp is borderline a joke. Lelie isn't worth any money, especially on this team without a real starting wr. He's a 3rd wr at best to stretch the field and catch the occassional bomb (which smith has a terribly hard time throwing). At this point, we need someone who can come across the middle and make a great catch because smith's accuracy isn't there yet.

Really? He seemed to be pretty money hitting Bryant on those last year. He's got a great arm.... Hopefully more accuracy will come in time.

 

[silvergold]

Really? He seemed to be pretty money hitting Bryant on those last year. He's got a great arm

The funny thing is you contradicted yourself in that sentence. First you say he looked pretty accurate and then you hope for more accuracy in the future.That being said, his deep balls were terrible all year long. He probably hit on 10% of them and a fair number were badly thrown (as in not even close). Bryant probably would have had a really good season last year with a competent qb. He seemed opened on quite a few plays where smith badly missed him. Hopefully he gets better, but if I had to put my money on it I think the 49ers are using a 2nd-3rd round pick on a qb in next years draft (i.e. 2008)

 

[commisholio]

Really? He seemed to be pretty money hitting Bryant on those last year. He's got a great arm

The funny thing is you contradicted yourself in that sentence. First you say he looked pretty accurate and then you hope for more accuracy in the future.That being said, his deep balls were terrible all year long. He probably hit on 10% of them and a fair number were badly thrown (as in not even close). Bryant probably would have had a really good season last year with a competent qb. He seemed opened on quite a few plays where smith badly missed him. Hopefully he gets better, but if I had to put my money on it I think the 49ers are using a 2nd-3rd round pick on a qb in next years draft (i.e. 2008)

Smith was 22 years old last year, younger than Leinart. He made tremendous strides from his 1st to 2nd year, and I think there's every reason to expect him to continue to improve. Give him time, I think he's going to be a solid starter in the NFL for years.

 

[thecatch]

Really? He seemed to be pretty money hitting Bryant on those last year. He's got a great arm

The funny thing is you contradicted yourself in that sentence. First you say he looked pretty accurate and then you hope for more accuracy in the future.

Its not really that funny... from what I saw he threw a pretty nice deep ball, but I think anybody could tell you from looking at the numbers there is lots of room for improvement. Of course, he's got the strongest arm in a 49ers QB since.... well I've never seen a 49ers QB with great arm strength, so I'm not really an expert.And betting the Niners draft a QB high next year is a pretty dumb move, even if Smith had another medicore year, they aren't going to give up on a 23 year old they draft #1.

 

[CalBear]

Of course, he's got the strongest arm in a 49ers QB since....

Jim Druckenmiller?

 

[hacman]

Hey guys, it’s everyone’s favorite wet blanket, CalBear.

True enough, the franchise that gave you back-to-back Hall of Famers at Quarterback (then followed that up with a Pro Bowler) gave us Jim Druckenmiller.

Be sure to give us your State of the 49ers address since you are stopping by-

 

[Otis]

Anyone who has watched the Niners this season knows that the Niners need a lot of help on Defense. The biggest need is a monster LB...

Is Julian Peterson available? Oh, wait...

Still waiting for one of Calbear's calls on the 49ers to be correct. Third offseason has to be the charm, eh?

You mean you're glad you got rid of a Pro Bowl linebacker when your defense wound up last in the league?

God you hate the Niners. Didn't you take enough of a beating on the Frank Gore/Barlow debate offseason? If I kick my dog enough times, he'll eventually go away...

 

[drummer]

Anyone who has watched the Niners this season knows that the Niners need a lot of help on Defense. The biggest need is a monster LB...

Is Julian Peterson available? Oh, wait...

Still waiting for one of Calbear's calls on the 49ers to be correct. Third offseason has to be the charm, eh?

You mean you're glad you got rid of a Pro Bowl linebacker when your defense wound up last in the league?

God you hate the Niners. Didn't you take enough of a beating on the Frank Gore/Barlow debate offseason? If I kick my dog enough times, he'll eventually go away...

KalBear would do better if he knew what he was talking about. I guess the Bay Area doesn't cover the Raiders either. But, yeah, usually when you kick a chihuahua from nipping at the ankles, they eventually go away. Let's see how long KalBear takes a few kickings.

 

[thecatch]

Of course, he's got the strongest arm in a 49ers QB since....

Jim Druckenmiller?

I hate to say that about a Calbears post, but Druckenmiller probably had the strongest arm of any QB the Niners have had in a long time before Smith.

 

[CalBear]

Of course, he's got the strongest arm in a 49ers QB since....

Jim Druckenmiller?

I hate to say that about a Calbears post, but Druckenmiller probably had the strongest arm of any QB the Niners have had in a long time before Smith.

(My point being, "strong arm" does not equate with "good QB").We now return you to your Ninuhrs love-fest.

 

[drummer]

Of course, he's got the strongest arm in a 49ers QB since....

Jim Druckenmiller?

I hate to say that about a Calbears post, but Druckenmiller probably had the strongest arm of any QB the Niners have had in a long time before Smith.

(My point being, "strong arm" does not equate with "good QB").We now return you to your Ninuhrs love-fest.

Wow, that's like a really epic take you have there. Absolute genius. I dunno if this is a 49er lovefest, but it is turning into a KalBore turd fest, which, given the subject, you know he would chime in on, wrong on cue. Gotta love the bitter ankle biters.

 

[hacman]

Of course, he's got the strongest arm in a 49ers QB since....

Jim Druckenmiller?

I hate to say that about a Calbears post, but Druckenmiller probably had the strongest arm of any QB the Niners have had in a long time before Smith.

(My point being, "strong arm" does not equate with "good QB").We now return you to your Ninuhrs love-fest.

My point is don’t take a leak in here. This is coming from someone who has defended your presence in the Niner threads. Most of the time you can back your arguments with statistics, in which case you’re welcome here anytime (at least by me.) Unfortunately, you like to bait, which drags the content down in here. Also, you would give yourself some more credibility if you were more than just a one-trick pony- when you say things like “Nolan is moron” it makes it appear like it’s personal with you. Whether you care to admit it or not, the general view around the NFL is that the team is on the rise. Not that you have to subscribe to that, but the onus is now on you to explain why the Niners are an inept franchise and whatever else is on your agenda.You’ll find that most of the 49er fans in here can acknowledge the shortcomings of the team, so I wouldn’t call it a love fest around here.

 

[thecatch]

Of course, he's got the strongest arm in a 49ers QB since....

Jim Druckenmiller?

I hate to say that about a Calbears post, but Druckenmiller probably had the strongest arm of any QB the Niners have had in a long time before Smith.

(My point being, "strong arm" does not equate with "good QB").We now return you to your Ninuhrs love-fest.

You're great

 

[toxicbees]

http://www.sf49ers.com/pressbox/news_detai...ction=PR%20News

49ers Sign LB Bockwoldt

 

[derek19]

Lelie Gets Up to Speed with 49ers print

Scott Kegley

Though you won't be seeing Alex Smith connect on any official touchdown passes to Ashley Lelie until September, Lelie is busy working to ensure that scoring connection begins early and often. With the off-season workout program now a week underway, the talented wide receiver has finally gotten a chance to soak in the ambience at team headquarters.

"Everybody has the same attitude to get better and win," said Lelie. "You just walk around and you get the sense of tradition. When you see the pictures on the wall you get the chills. Everybody's attitude towards me has been very positive."

Lelie hasn't had the chance to meet all of his new teammates. Still in the midst of moving and setting up shop in the Bay Area, Lelie has been in one of the later workout groups when most of the team comes in early.

"Every night it seems like I have to go to Best Buy or Target and get everything unpacked," said Lelie. "When I go to bed it's around 12:00 or 1:00 in the morning and I just can't bring myself to set an alarm."

While he may not be a morning person, Lelie hasn't missed a workout. With smaller groups later in the day, Lelie has gotten to know one of his fellow wide receivers as they've discussed some of the difficulties of living in the Bay Area.

"I met Bryan Gilmore and he's been very helpful," said Lelie. "We were just talking about the real estate out here and how it just kills everybody. He seems like a pretty cool guy."

While the cost of living in Silicon Valley might be hard to deal with, the climate is not. With hardly a cloud in the sky, workouts couldn't have come with a better setting.

"This is the first time in my career that I've been this close to the water and I'm going to try to take advantage of it as much as I can," said Lelie. "The weather's nice. I like the breeze and the ocean."

Another thing that has the former Hawaii Warrior excited is the chance to work with wide receivers coach Jerry Sullivan, who always expects the very best out of his position group.

"I'm very excited to work with him, especially at this turning point in my career," said Lelie. "Anybody who can help me get me better out there on the field, I'm glad to work with. I haven't really had someone in my career to show me all the technical things I need to do to improve. Coach Sullivan can show me what to do, but after that it's on me."

Lelie's success this season will depend largely on his ability to establish chemistry between himself and third-year quarterback Alex Smith. Last year in Atlanta, Lelie arrived late to camp and never felt comfortable with quarterback Michael Vick. With a full off-season in front of him and passing drills scheduled to begin next week, there should be ample time for Lelie to get acquainted with his new gunslinger.

"That's very important to get that timing down, especially at our positions of receiver and quarterback," said Lelie. "When you get that extra time together, you can start reading each other's body language. Chemistry is everything between a receiver and quarterback."

Before those passing drills begin, Lelie has focused entirely on performing well in the workouts with strength and conditioning coaches Johnny Parker and Duane Carlisle, who have high expectations for the off-season program.

"They're cool people," said Lelie. "They're down to earth. They're not your typical weight room coaches. It seems like they know what they're talking about. From what the players have been telling me, it works."

With each stride under Parker and Carlisle's watch, Lelie takes one step closer to a promising season with the 49ers. Interestingly enough, the speedy receiver's biggest concern is that he's too boring.

"I'm not too flashy," said Lelie. "I'm very low key. You won't see many end zone dances, so I hope the fans don't get bored with me."

Once they establish good chemistry in the off-season, Smith to Lelie touchdown connections will be anything but boring.

 

[hacman]

Niners receive two compensatory picks

The 49ers will receive compensatory picks at the ends of the third and fourth rounds, the league announced Monday.

Teams are awarded compensatory picks based on net losses during free agency from the previous year. Teams are not allowed to trade compensatory picks.

The NFL does not make the formula for determining compensatory selections readily available, though according to the league, it is based on salary, playing time and postseason honors. The 49ers obviously have a pretty good handle on the procedure. During the season, the 49ers expected to receive compensatory picks at the ends of the third and fourth rounds.

The 49ers got a third-round compensatory pick for losing linebacker Julian Peterson as a free agent to the Seahawks. It is the No. 34 pick in the round, No. 97 overall.

The club also received a fourth-round compensatory pick for defensive Andre Carter leaving for the Redskins. It is the 36th pick in the round, No. 135 overall.

The 49ers' only free-agent signing of receiver Antonio Bryant was canceled out because of the team's loss of tackle Anthony Clement, who started all 16 games last season for the Jets at right tackle.

The signings of Larry Allen and Walt Harris did not count toward the 49ers' net gains and losses because both of those players were released by their former teams.

Now, the 49ers have 10 picks in the draft, including eight in the first four rounds. Here's how the 49ers' draft picks break down (the draft selection overall is unofficial):

First round: 1 pick (No. 11 overall).

Second round: 1 pick (No. 42 overall).

Third round: 2 picks (No. 76 overall; and compensatory pick for Peterson, No. 97 overall.

Fourth round: 4 picks (one from the Redskins from the Brandon Lloyd trade, No. 104 overall; their own, No. 110 overall; one from the Jets from the Kevan Barlow trade, No. 124 overall; and one compensatory pick for Carter, No. 135 overall).

Fifth round: 1 pick (No. 147 overall).

Sixth round: 1 pick (No. 186 overall).

Seventh round: 0 picks (pick given up, along with Ken Dorsey, in trade for Trent Dilfer).

link

 

[toxicbees]

The niners get what looks like a pretty soft schedule. Also includes 4 prime time games!! Finally some respect!

 

[toxicbees]

49ers have first-round shopping list

Team identifies 20 players as worthy of top round; last year they got 2 of 17

By MATT MAIOCCO

THE PRESS DEMOCRAT

SANTA CLARA -- The 49ers have rated 20 players in the upcoming NFL draft worthy of being chosen in the first round.

Although their first two scheduled selections are at Nos. 11 and 42, the 49ers hope to get two of those players they deem as legitimate first-rounders next Saturday, on the first day of the draft.

The 49ers conceivably could stand pat and pick one of those players at No. 42. Or they could guarantee their chances of landing two of the top 20 players on their wish list by trading up to gain a second pick in the first round.

The 49ers have plenty of draft picks to trade, as they have eight selections in the first four rounds of the draft -- and 10 scheduled picks overall. Compensatory picks at the ends of the third and fourth rounds cannot be traded.

A year ago, the 49ers had 17 players ranked as first-round talents. After taking tight end Vernon Davis at No. 6, the 49ers used the 22nd overall pick to select linebacker Manny Lawson, whom they rated in their top 17.

The 49ers pulled a trade with the Denver Broncos more than a week before the draft last year to acquire a second first-round selection. The club will be involved in similar talks again this year, 49ers coach Mike Nolan said Thursday.

"There (are) always discussions leading into the draft," Nolan said. "Last year we decided to pull the trigger early enough with Denver because we felt it was good for us, as well as they felt it was good for them. It could happen in the next days, if it were to happen. It could also happen the day of the draft. Those are always things you talk about."

Scot McCloughan, the team's vice president of player personnel, said he typically has 20 players rated as first-round talents. The board is set for the 49ers' preferences, so other teams with different ideals might have a number of other players ranked higher.

"We'd love to have 32 guys (rated) in the first round, but I've never seen it before," McCloughan said. "You can trade back in the second (round) and pick up two or three first-round picks in your opinion. That would be great."

LOCAL PRO DAY

Approximately 50 local draft-eligible players will take part in the 49 ers' pro day workout today at the team's practice facility in Santa Clara.

Cal running back Marshawn Lynch is scheduled to attend but is not expected to work out. Stanford quarterback Trent Edwards will throw passes.

Among the other notable locals who have accepted invitations are cornerback Eric Wright of UNLV and receiver Jason Hill of Washington State -- both of whom are expected to be drafted within the first two rounds. Both played at San Francisco high schools. Wright attended Riordan, whil e Hill went to Sacred Heart.

EXTRA POINTS

The 49ers are at the mercy of the 10 teams picking ahead of them when it comes to making the No. 11 overall pick. If offensive tackle Levi Brown (Penn State) is available, the 49ers would be expected to take him. In their mock drafts, many publications have the 49ers selecting defensive linemen Alan Branch (Michigan) or Adam Carriker (Nebraska). But the 49ers could go with linebacker Patrick Willis (Mississippi), whom they coached at the Senior Bowl.

The 49ers have held discussions aimed at signing offensive linemen Justin Smiley and Kwame Harris to long-term contracts, but those talks have slowed as the team and their agents have gotten preoccupied with draft preparations. Both players are scheduled for unrestricted free agency at the end of the seas on. If the 49ers do not believe they can re-sign them, they might look to beef up their line in the draft and dangle Smiley and/or Harris as trade bait.

"They are two guys we like on our football team, but everybody has a cost," Nolan said. "So we'll see where that goes."

Restricted free agent running back Maurice Hicks has until today to sign an offer sheet with another team. There appears to be reluctance for another team to go after Hicks because the 49ers have $13.5 million under the cap and would have no problem matching an offer to retain his services.

 

[hacman]

Nice analysis below by Matt Maiocco of the Santa Rosa Press Democrat on the most critical piece of the puzzle for the success of the team the next couple of years:

What's going to make or break Alex Smith

How does Alex Smith look?

It's the question that is probably the most pressing for the 49ers, even during a three-day minicamp. Coach Mike Nolan can say - and mean it - that no one player is going to take the 49ers' to the Promised Land. But the fact remains, the 49ers need good play from their quarterback to reach that next level.

During minicamp, Smith missed some deep throws. He made some nice passes. But he continues to look the part of an NFL quarterback in every imaginable way.

"As I said all along, Alex is the real deal," Nolan said. "He is going to be real good. He is the same guy every day. As he gets better individually and the surrounding cast gets better, he will continue to be a good quarterback. There is nothing since I have been with Alex to lead me to believe he is not."

Today is Alex Smith's 23rd birthday, as a reader pointed out. The NFL chews up and spits out young quarterbacks, and Smith is still a very young quarterback. But it's not too early to size up his game.

* * *

There are a lot of reasons a first-round pick does not succeed as a quarterback in the NFL. Let's try to hit on them and see how they pertain to Smith:

TALENT - He was drafted as the No. 1 pick. He can make all the throws and we know he's athletic enough. Talent will not stand in the way of him becoming a good quarterback.

But let's break up this category into some sub-groups: 1) Arm strength: I don't see this as being a problem. He has the arm strength to make all the throws. 2) Accuracy: He's not perfect, but again I don't see this area being a huge issue. He has average touch on his short throws, and he throws his intermediate routes pretty well. Perhaps he doesn't throw the deep ball with great accuracy, but those throws are called "low-percentage" passes for a reason. 3) Mobility: Absolutely no issues. He is very athletic.

PASSION - He is a hard-worker, and it appears as if the game means a lot to him. He is going to do whatever it takes to give himself the opportunity to be a very good player in the league. I don't believe he will have any off-the-field distractions or fail to put in the time necessary to maximize his potential.

LEADERSHIP - In order for a quarterback to win games for a team, he has to win the team over. He has already done that. When the 49ers were mulling the pros and cons of keeping Antonio Bryant around for another season, there was an interesting thought being tossed around inside the building. The thinking was that at some point, Smith would explode at Bryant in a team meeting and tell him, in essence, where to shove it. This, quite possibly, could have led to the entire locker room rallying around Smith. But because Smith already had developed that respect among his teammates after two seasons, the organization felt Smith did not need a watershed moment such as that to win over his teammates.

UPSTAIRS: He is very intelligent. He also seems to have an ability keep his emotions in check. He doesn't get too down after a mistake, which then leads to another and another mess-up. Also, his decision-making is pretty good. Once he got more comfortable last season, you didn't see him making poor decisions, such as unnecessarily forcing passes into coverage.

CONFIDENCE: You could see Smith's confidence continue to grow last season as he became more and more sure of what was being asked of him. As a rookie, it looked as if the game might be too big for him. But Smith is one of those players who needs to know exactly what he's doing on every play. Then, he can allow his raw skills to take over and just play the game without thinking too much. Confidence is also gained through experience, and going through situations enough to anticipate what might happen next.

* * *

And that leads into the other areas that are, for the most part, out of Smith's control.

INJURIES - Smith keeps himself in good physical condition, but there is no predicting what might happen in this area.

SUPPORTING CAST - This is the area that is the most fluid. This includes the players and coaches who surround Smith. The team made a dramatic upgrade on the offensive line and with skill players from Year 1 to Year 2. This season, the supporting players should be even better around Smith.

However, we don't know about the coaching. This is no knock on offensive coordinator Jim Hostler and quarterbacks coach Frank Cignetti. But the fact of the matter is we just don't know. This will be the third coordinator in three NFL seasons for Smith. I'm sure if Mike McCarthy had stuck around, Smith would have been better off. I'm also equally sure if Norv Turner had lasted more than one year, Smith would be better off.

A lot rests on Hostler's ability to put Smith and the offense in positions to succeed. Also, we all know that Turner had an incredible ability to call a game, setting up plays that will work. We simply don't know if Hostler will develop that same ability to accentuate Smith's strong points and call a game in a fashion that benefits Smith and the passing game.

* * *

So look at every quarterback who hasn't succeeded and you can blame it on one or more those factors I outlined above. Heck, Steve Young had everything except a supporting cast with the Buccaneers and he would have been viewed as an abject failure. But as soon as he got that supporting cast with the 49ers, he thrived and is now in the Hall of Fame.

* * *

The thing that could hurt Smith the most is the whole specter of three offensive coordinators in his first three seasons. The 49ers need some continuity in that position. Right now, I see "supporting cast" being the biggest obstacle in Smith's taking the next step to become an elite quarterback.

Link

 

[derek19]

Kind of an old article but still a good read...

April 29, 2007

BRUCETON, Tenn. -- Mere seconds after the San Francisco 49ers changed Patrick Willis' life by selecting him with the 11th pick of the NFL Draft, Chris Finley disappeared into a back room at his family's home here on Carroll Street. He emerged with a red 49ers hat, which looked broken in from years of use, and for good reason. It once belonged to the team's head coach, Mike Nolan.

When Willis, the former Ole Miss linebacker, was preparing to play in the Senior Bowl last January, Chris and Julie Finley, his legal guardians, happened to be roaming through a hotel lobby in Mobile, Ala., when Nolan walked past. The Finleys, who were wearing Ole Miss jerseys, did not know Nolan, and Nolan did not know them. But for whatever reason, Nolan chose that moment to remove his baseball cap and flip it to Chris Finley.

"Is that a sign or what?" Julie Finley yelped Saturday as she tossed the hat to Willis. He tugged it low on his forehead, a perfect fit.

If the course of Willis' remarkable life has been hindered by bad breaks -- a broken home and the more recent death of a younger brother, to name two -- perhaps all of its richness was distilled into one afternoon, when he sat on a couch and, surrounded by friends and family, watched the NFL Draft unfold.

"Good things happen to good people," said Buddy Smothers, one of Willis' former teachers at Bruceton Central High School.

Willis, a two-time Southeastern Conference Defensive Player of the Year, averaged 11.4 tackles per game as a senior and became the 17th Ole Miss player to be selected in the first round of the draft. In San Francisco, he expects to learn from Mike Singletary, the 49ers' linebackers coach and a Hall of Famer.

"It's time for him to go be on his own," Chris Finley said.

Finley knows the date: May 12, 2002. That was the day Willis and his siblings sought refuge from a dire family situation -- an absent mother, an undependable father -- by accepting an invitation to move into the Finley's home. Finley was coaching Willis' high school basketball team, and he and his wife soon became family.

Nearly five years have passed, five years full of achievement. (Yes, that was, in fact, the Butkus Award trophy, awarded each year to the country's top college linebacker, sitting on the Finleys' kitchen counter.)

"There's no way we expected anything like this," Julie Finley said. "We just wanted them to get an education."

But the past five years also were pockmarked by hardship. Willis' 17-year-old brother, Detris, drowned last summer while swimming with friends in a gravel pit off Birdsong Road. Willis kept him close during the draft. He wore a necklace that featured Detris' picture on a pendant: IN LOVING MEMORY. Willis has often said he is living his life for both of them. Once upon a time, Willis said, he guided his younger brother, correcting his mistakes and pushing him to excel. Now, he said, Detris watches over him.

"Me and Detris," Willis said, "we're going to do it together."

On US-70, the main drag through this quiet city about 70 miles northwest of Jackson, local businesses devoted their prime storefront signage to Willis this weekend. Good luck, Patrick! Congratulations! Friday was Patrick Willis Day. He received the key to the city.

But that night, the tedious process of the past two months caught up with him -- the scouting combines, the cross-country trips to visit team executives, the draftnik projections. He played Ping-Pong and video games with two friends from college, Carlos Garcia and Abby Furr, before finally falling asleep at 4 a.m. He awoke less than four hours later.

"I was real anxious," he said.

On Saturday morning, Willis kept himself occupied by playing a game of Madden '07 with Garcia. He also checked out his new Under Armour commercial, which debuted during ESPN's draft coverage. The ad featured at least a dozen players, and Julie Finley thought she saw Willis flicker past at one point, driving his body into a blocking dummy.

"That wasn't me," Willis said. "That was Kenny Irons. I watched him do it about a thousand times."

Immediately before the 10th pick, which belonged to the Houston Texans, Willis took a phone call from his agent, Ben Dogra, who informed him that the Buffalo Bills had been trying to move up from their spot at No. 12 to pluck him. But their trade proposals had fallen through. Willis sighed. The living room went quiet.

The suspense did not last much longer. Fifteen minutes later, Willis took another call. This one came from the 49ers' front office. Willis would say later that he had no idea who, exactly, was on the other end -- just someone important. He tried to keep a straight face, but it was futile. Still holding the cell phone to his ear, he celebrated in stages. He smiled. He clutched Chris Finley's outstretched hand. He hugged his sister, Ernicka. He grabbed the top of his head, as if he were afraid it would float away. Then he stood up.

"Yes sir," he said into the phone. "Yes sir. ... Yes sir. ... All right. ... Yes sir. ... Thank you. ... Yes sir."

Willis grabbed the back of his right leg. He has always prided himself on controlling his emotions. But this, he realized, was one of those rare occasions when the gravity of the moment was too significant, too special, too overwhelming.

"My leg won't stop shaking," he said.

Chris Finley drifted into the backyard to meditate with his cats. He needed a minute to himself, he said. He appeared to be choking back tears.

Jay Cutler, the 11th pick of last year's draft, signed a six-year, $47.9 million contract with the Denver Broncos. Cutler's deal was inflated because he is a quarterback, but Willis will shortly and irrevocably come into a boatload of money. He said he has no plans to buy a fancy car. He has other priorities.

Last week, he shopped for a brand new doublewide with his grandmother, Louise Blankenship. A nice one runs about $90,000, but the expense was of little concern.

"If I can do this for Grandma now, I'll take a bus to work," Finley recalled Willis telling him last week.

As late-afternoon shadows crept across the front yard, Willis stood in the driveway and tried to make travel arrangements. He might as well have superglued his cell phone to his right ear. It rang non-stop. Eventually, the 49ers' PR department booked his flight to San Francisco out of Memphis, scheduled for early this morning.

Willis said he understands that certain aspects of his life will change. But he emphasized that the important stuff -- namely, his relationship with the Finleys -- will not change.

"This doesn't mean we stop being a family," Willis said.

His parents sat nearby on their front steps and enjoyed the sunshine.

http://www.commercialappeal.com/mca/footba...5511372,00.html

 

[toxicbees]

It sounds like Brandon Williams has been impressive at the OTAs.

http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=214137

http://www.realfootball365.com/nfl/article...iams110507.html

With Darrell Jackson (trade), Ashley Lelie (free agent) and Jason Hill (draft) joining incumbent Arnaz Battle, the 49ers were already expecting a spirited battle at wide receiver in training camp. Now Brandon Williams also is in the mix. Williams, who returned kicks and punts as a rookie last season but did not have a reception, turned heads at the team's minicamp, where he ran good routes and caught a lot of passes.

 

[derek19]

http://49ers.pressdemocrat.com/default.asp?item=610871

CB Tarell Brown signs four-year deal:

Cornerback Tarell Brown, a fifth-round pick from Texas, signed a four-year contract today with the 49ers. He is the third of the 49ers' nine draft picks to sign a contract. Linebacker Jay Moore and defensive tackle Joe Cohen signed four-year deals last week.

Brown was the No. 147 overall selection. Terms of the deal were not immediately known, but last year's No. 147 overall pick was Eagles receiver Jeremy Bloom, who signed a four-year, $1.782 million contract with a $172,000 signing bonus.

Brown was a three-year starter for the Longhorns who saw his draft stock plummet because of some highly publicized run-ins with the law and the subsequent questions about his character. Coach Mike Nolan met face-to-face with Brown leading up to the draft and decided to take a chance on him.

"Coach Nolan is big on character and I feel that we're going to have a great relationship," Brown said when he was drafted. "Everything else will take care of itself. It won't be a problem."

Brown (5-11, 194) did not allow any touchdown catches and his main pass coverage assignments had just three catches for more than 20 yards last season. Brown's opponents managed just 29 receptions for 348 yards on 70 passes thrown into his area.

He saw action in 47 career games with 35 starts at Texas and was a member of the 2005 national championship team. Brown recorded 122 of his 169 career tackles and 16 of his 20 career passes defensed during his final two seasons. He also had three interceptions, two forced fumbles, one sack and one fumble recovery during his career.

"I'm a physical player," Brown said. "I like to get up in the guys' faces and I feel like they'll let you do that at San Francisco. They already have two or three great corners and safeties, as well. I just want to go out there and gel and just try to fit in the best way that I can, and just do whatever I can do to help the team."

When asked if he has more motivation because he was a fifth-round pick, Brown said, "I always have motivation regardless of where I was going to go. I always have something to prove. As a rookie, you always feel like you have to prove yourself, especially in the NFL. There are a lot of guys already established. Every time I step onto the field, I have something to prove."

 

[toxicbees]

http://www.sf49ers.com/pressbox/news_detai...ction=PR%20News

Nolan's Notebook: OTAs Start

RE: Opening Statement

“Good first day of OTAs. We’ve had an outstanding attendance thus far in the off-season program, mini camp was strong and today was a good first day of the OTAs. We’ll go the next three weeks, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Every day will be the same schedule with the Monday two weeks from now finishing earlier because we have a diversity meeting we need to do inside. One player will not be in attendance for the OTAs and that’s Larry Allen. He’s been excused by me. Everyone else is here and it’s my anticipation that they’ll be here throughout.”

RE: if Allen’s absence is just due to his veteran status

“Personal reasons. We’ve spoken, we continue to speak. He is working out, staying in shape and all of that. I’m not concerned too much about that right now.”

RE: if he has seen Allen

“I haven’t seen him, but I have spoken to him. I saw him at the mini camp but I haven’t seen him since then.”

RE: if Allen is considering retirement

“I don’t think so. Right now, no. That hasn’t been the discussion. That’s not what our discussions have been about.”

RE: if Allen has been working out with the team

“No. Larry has a $60,000 setup at his own house so he didn’t want to waste it, so he’s using that and he’s been doing a good job.

RE: injuries

“On the injury front, Kwame Harris came off early. He had some back spasms. This time of year you don’t have probable, doubtful and all of that stuff so he’ll be probable for our first game I’ll say that. Practice tomorrow, he’ll probably be stiff and sore and won’t be out there. I don’t think it was anything extensive. Ashley Lelie had some tightness in his quad. As you know, he pulled it in the mini camp so we took him out of some of the drills, but he was fine. He didn’t re- injure it. Players who were kept out were Darrell Jackson, Jonas Jennings, Justin Smiley, and Shawntae Spencer. Guys with limited work were Eric Heitmann and TE Delanie Walker.

RE: if the Allen situation is related to his contract

“No, it’s just ‘we’ll see you at training camp.’”

RE: Michael Robinson’s role increasing this year

“Well, competition will decide how that is but I would hope that Michael would make the next step as a running back. Last year was his first year fulltime at the position, along with getting used to a new offense and all of that. I would hope, someone asked me today as a matter of fact who would be one of the guys I’d be most pleased to make some real progress, and it would be Michael. Just because when we took him, we knew it would be a position change. The kind of person he is, he’s a 49ers. He’s what you are looking for as far as the athletic things, the character things, the toughness, all of those things. I’d like to see that he would show some progress playing that position.”

RE: Ray McDonald and how he’s holding up with his knee

“He’s doing fine. No issues there. He certainly doesn’t make any bones about it.”

RE: if they thought McDonald would need surgery when they took him

“There was some talk of it, prior to drafting him. Once we drafted him, we decided he was going to play. That’s what the player wanted to do as well, and he played last year with it. It isn’t recent. It didn’t happen since last year.”

RE: if Alex Smith has had much time throwing with Ashley Lelie or Darrell Jackson

”No, they haven’t been able to do much at all. Darrell, none. He’s here, he’s working out and rehabbing but he won’t take reps until training camp. Darrell is much more accomplished than those other guys as far as an NFL receiver, even Lelie. He’s more accomplished than him. Not that I’m not concerned about it, because body language and chemistry between a quarterback and a receiver is so important, but at the same time, I think Darrell will catch up and make up the ground quicker than the others.”

RE how many touches he expects Frank Gore to get this year

“We’d like to have him get 20-25 touches a game. I’d hope we’d add some more playmakers on offense to take some of that off of him, but at the same time, you want to have your best players carrying the ball. Each individual game dictates that. If he touches the ball 25 times a game, I think that’s good for us. That leaves some for the tight end, the other wide receivers and whoever else.”

RE: if Nate Clements will actually field punts this year

“I have reservations, but I’m letting him work at it. We’ll see. Deion (Sanders)did it one time and he was awfully explosive, but at the same time I understand (the risks). He’s got an entirely different running style than Deion, but a lot of times what I see with returners is just if they are smart about it. In other words, there are times when the extra yards matter and then there’s times where catch it and just get out of bounds. The guys who try to get every inch they can and if he’s a guy who is really a key part of an offense or defense, I’m a little skeptical. I love that about him, but…”

RE: if Jason Hill and Thomas Clayton will return kicks

“I hope so, as well as Tarell Brown. Some of them will do punts, some will do kicks. I was going to ask them (special teams coaches) because I only saw Brandon Williams, Nate Clements and Arnaz Battle today. I know the answer I’m going to get is because those other guys were part of the punt protection. Guys like Jason Hill and Brown are both gunners so they weren’t back. Brown was a kickoff returner until last year and he was very good. He did a good job. I’m not sure what Hill did.”

RE: Jason Hill’s performance

“He did a better job today than he did in the mini camp, but that’s to be expected as far as knowing where to line up, the routes, and just finishing.”

RE: Vernon Davis requiring some polish

”A little bit, but he’s still (learning). He’s got an awful lot of talent. He doesn’t have a little bit, he’s got a lot and he just needs to continue to hone his skills as a football player. He works very hard and he’s very committed and very dedicated. Vernon is a good kid. He does a good job. Everything looks bright ahead of him, as long as he just keeps working like he is. I’ve got a lot of confidence that he’s just going to get better all of the time, but he does have a lot of talent and the more he learns how to use that as a tight end, he’ll just get better and better.”

 

[toxicbees]

http://www.49ersparadise.com/cgi-bin/news/...y&num=12760

Hill makes a good first impression

Rookie wide receiver shows playmaking ability in organized practice

SANTA CLARA -- Making a couple nice catches and runs at Monday's first organized practice was all part of the plan for 49ers rookie wide receiver Jason Hill.

What he didn't expect was to be singled out by veteran quarterback Trent Dilfer, the 14-year NFL veteran quarterback and backup to Alex Smith.

"He told me, 'Keep it up, youngster. Keep making plays like that, and we'll throw you the ball,'" Hill said. "My eyes lit up when Trent told me that. As a young guy, that's what you work hard for. I got a little bit of a confidence boost today."

Hill figures to get more than his share of practice time in the coming days because Ashley Lelie left practice early after tweaking the quad muscle that kept him out of the team's May minicamp. Wide receiver Darrell Jackson also remains sidelined with a toe injury.

A native of San Francisco who starred at Washington State, Hill could be in the mix with Lelie and Bryan Gilmore to start at split end.

Coach Mike Nolan said Hill seemed more comfortable and had a better handle of the offense now than he did a month ago. But he also said he didn't want to read too much into that because the true test won't come until players don pads in training camp.

 

[Fullback Fro]

http://www.sacbee.com/sf49ers/story/209396.html

Injury likely ends Oliver's season

By Matthew Barrows - Bee Staff Writer

Last Updated 12:27 am PDT Thursday, June 7, 2007

Story appeared in SPORTS section, Page C3

Print | E-Mail | Comments (0)| Digg it | del.icio.us

SANTA CLARA -- One of the 49ers' pleasant surprises of the 2006 season, defensive end Melvin Oliver, likely will miss the 2007 campaign with a torn anterior cruciate ligament.

Oliver, who started 14 games as a rookie last year, tore the ligament in his right knee early in Tuesday's practice when he turned to chase down a pass play.

Oliver had been one of several players backing up veteran Bryant Young at left defensive end in the 49ers' new 3-4 defense.

One player who likely will take his spot is former Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Sam Rayburn.

Rayburn agreed Tuesday to a one-year deal with the 49ers and is expected to join the team Sunday.

An undrafted free agent out of Tulsa in 2003, Rayburn was mostly a backup in four seasons with the Eagles, making 60 tackles and nine sacks. Though he played defensive tackle in the Eagles' 4-3 system, his run-stopping ability should make him a good fit in San Francisco's 3-4 scheme.

Third-year player Ronald Fields also has been lining up at left defensive end behind Young.

Oliver finished his rookie season with 35 tackles and a sack.

 

[toxicbees]

http://49ers.pressdemocrat.com/default.asp?item=618716

Mike Nolan has said he wants to limit Frank Gore's carries to fewer than 300. Last season, Gore carried 312 times, which is a franchise record. He also made it through a season without a significant injury for the first time since his senior year of high school.

With Gore signed through 2011, it only seems reasonable that the 49ers would want to limit his touches. But Nolan mentioned this week that Gore could touch the ball 20 to 25 times a game.

"I'm going for quality, not quantity, so we'll see," Nolan said.

 

[toxicbees]

http://www.49erswebzone.com/content/news/view.php?id=9888

SCOUTING REPORT: Michael Robinson looks more comfortable heading into his second season at running back after primarily playing quarterback in college. Robinson is showing more decisiveness in reading his running lanes and is hitting the hole with force and speed. He's running lower to the ground as well, giving him a better chance to break a tackle. He has good hands and remains a threat as a receiver out of the backfield. Robinson is in competition with Maurice Hicks and rookie Thomas Clayton to back up Frank Gore.

 

[My Hope Street Alias]

Anybody care to comment on the impact of the recent injuries to Oliver and Tucker?

 

[mcd]

Anybody care to comment on the impact of the recent injuries to Oliver and Tucker?

Oliver would have been in the rotation, but not a big part of the defensive line. I don't think Tucker would have even made the team. I don't expect any drop off from them being lost for the year.

 

[My Hope Street Alias]

Anybody care to comment on the impact of the recent injuries to Oliver and Tucker?

Oliver would have been in the rotation, but not a big part of the defensive line. I don't think Tucker would have even made the team. I don't expect any drop off from them being lost for the year.

Thanks for the info. Oliver was no longer a starter then?

 

[derek19]

Anybody care to comment on the impact of the recent injuries to Oliver and Tucker?

Oliver would have been in the rotation, but not a big part of the defensive line. I don't think Tucker would have even made the team. I don't expect any drop off from them being lost for the year.

Thanks for the info. Oliver was no longer a starter then?

No. Since they are going to the 3-4, he'll be in rotation with Bryant Young. He should be the start next year.

 

[derek19]

Supplemental draft

Team director of college scouting, David McCloughan, will be in Lincoln, Neb., Monday for offensive tackle Chris Patrick's workout. The junior is available for the supplemental draft on July 12.

At 6-4 nearly 300 pounds, the former Cornhusker could be an intriguing player. Patrick, according to Omaha World Herald, is still on the team. But a source with the 49ers said off-field problems are an issue, but wouldn't say what they are.

Another supplemental draft prospect is Georgia cornerback Paul Oliver, who enters the draft after being declared academically ineligible last month. Oliver, a junior, said he would stay at Georgia for his senior season, where he was expected to be one of the SEC's top cover corners.

Oliver works out Wednesday for NFL teams on University of Georgia campus. The 49ers aren't sure the 6-0 205-pounder is fast enough for their purposes. On the Pro Draft Scout web site, Oliver's listed low time in the 40-yard dash is 4.38, and his high is 4.52. The team will send a scout to his workout.

The supplemental draft is for players who are ineligible for the NFL draft because of academic problems or off-field issues. If the 49ers were to use a fourth-round pick on Patrick for example, they wouldn't have that pick for next year's draft.

In last year supplemental draft, the team was interested in University of Virginia linebacker Ahmad Brooks, who some scouts said was as talented as Packers linebacker A.J. Hawk. However, injuries, testing positive for pot and getting booted from school dropped Brooks out of the NFL draft. Brooks was also out of shape during his pro day.

Nevertheless, the 49ers were willing to use a fourth-round choice on him, but the Bengals used a third-round pick for him and he had a wildly inconsistent year. In five games he didn't play at all, in three he didn't make a tackle and in one he started against Tampa Bay and recorded 11 stops.

OTA Friday: This day was devoted to wide receivers. A few made stirring catches including Bryan Gilmore and Arnaz Battle. But the bigger news was that Darrell Jackson ran on Tuesday on his recovering turf toe and felt good. Nolan said Jackson ran "zig-zags" and that the toe responded well. The team will keep him out of practice during next week's OTA's, but Jackson should be ready for training camp July 29. ... An MRI revealed that cornerback B.J. Tucker did tear his pectoral muscle. Nolan said he would miss the season. He'll join defensive end Melvin Oliver, who last week tore the ACL in his right knee, on injured reserve. ... Safety Mark Roman was excused Friday for personal reasons. ... Jackson will miss the last two days of OTA's next week because of a prior commitment.

http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/sfgate/det...;entry_id=17679

 

[mcd]

Anybody care to comment on the impact of the recent injuries to Oliver and Tucker?

Oliver would have been in the rotation, but not a big part of the defensive line. I don't think Tucker would have even made the team. I don't expect any drop off from them being lost for the year.

Thanks for the info. Oliver was no longer a starter then?

No. Since they are going to the 3-4, he'll be in rotation with Bryant Young. He should be the start next year.

The 49ers also added Ray McDonald in the draft. He's listed at DE/DT & imo, is probably a more talented player than Oliver. Olivers injury will hurt if we get more guys dinged up, but as far as front line talent, I'm not sure he was looked at as the answer. I wouldn't be suprised to see another DL drafted early in next years draft.

 

[derek19]

With one day remaining in the 49ers' organized team activities, there seems to be a dramatically different attitude at the team's Santa Clara practice facility.

In the final 11-on-11 teamwork portion of practice today, the play was much more competitive than you'd expect to see this time of year. There weren't any flaring tempers, only some very spirited non-contact practice.

"Guys are competing in a very good way - an uplifting and encouraging way," said 49ers sage Bryant Young. "We were really competing. That's the type of atmosphere that makes this whole thing fun. It was positive energy."

Coach Mike Nolan pinpointed the additions of Nate Clements and Tully Banta-Cain as reasons the practices are more lively.

"They like to talk; it's all in good spirit," Nolan said. "The offensive guys haven't been given much of that the last two years.

"Tully talks a little bit and so does Nate. It's kind of funny. Nate's more funny than the other one. Nate is very innocent. He just laughs. Tully is trying to inspire everybody."

* * *

In a red-zone situation, Alex Smith rolled right and lofted a pass to Vernon Davis, who made the grab in the end zone against the defense of Brandon Moore and Michael Lewis. Then, Nolan told the offensive players, "After a touchdown, celebrate all you want."

What?

Nolan said it was his way to get the players thinking about the new rule. Players can spike the ball in the end zone after a touchdown, but they will be penalized for spiking the ball in the field of play this year.

Nolan also used this forum recently to instruct tight end Delanie Walker. In a red-zone play, Walker left the field of play and came back into catch a pass.

"Every time you get a chance to explain a rule, I try to take advantage of that," Nolan said.

* * *

The MVP of OTAs has probably been Vernon Davis. After practice today, quarterback Alex Smith and Trent Dilfer both expressed how much the tight end has improved since his rookie season.

"He's learning to play faster and becoming more instinctive," Dilfer said. "He's better using his abilities. Physically, he's so gifted, but when you're playing unsure you don't capitalize on those abilities. You're starting to see his talent come out."

Dilfer agreed with the observation that Davis' hands look better than a year ago.

"He's catching the ball a lot better," Dilfer said. "As he becomes more instinctive and there's less thinking, you're going to see his ability come out. He's been real impressive."

* * *

Nolan does not place a lot of emphasis on how a player looks in shorts. He said the true test is when the pads come on during training camp and the exhibition season. He said it can work both ways. Sometimes a player looks good in shorts, but it doesn't translate when the pads come on. Also, a player might not look like much until he has a chance to hit and show his physical nature.

That is why Nolan said he has been impressed with rookie safety Dashon Goldson. He is a physical player who figured to make his mark when he was able to hit and tackle. But he has looked perhaps even better than expected during OTAs.

"Some of the guys you know are good football players," Nolan said. "Goldson is known to be a physical player. It's nice to see all the stuff we do in shorts, he does that well. I expect him to do the other things because he's been a good pads player."

* * *

Ronald Fields, who left practice Tuesday with a hyperextended elbow, returned to practice. Joe Cohen and Brandon Williams did not attend the workout for personal reasons.

The 49ers' final practice of OTAs is scheduled for Thursday. Nolan decided to change the schedule to end workouts a day early. Originally, the team was scheduled to have Wednesday off and practice Friday. But after practicing today, they will not hit the field on Friday.

 

[derek19]

CAM INMAN: TIMES COLUMNIST

No news is good news for Gore

Contra Costa Times

Article Launched: 06/21/2007 04:15:06 AM PDT

SANTA CLARA -- Frank Gore snatched the ball and quickly burst down field with the type of passion and purpose reminiscent of Jerry Rice's days on the 49ers practice field.

'Twas a sight for sore eyes.

Too bad you, Mr. and Mrs. NFL Fan, couldn't see the 49ers' offseason workouts, which conclude today.

Instead, you've been bombarded with dire news about concussions, dog fighting, strip-club escapades, roadway accidents and other off-field fumbles.

Here's a revelation easy on the eyes: Gore, the 49ers' current-and-future franchise player, has had an exemplary offseason.

It didn't start until after he started for the NFC in the Pro Bowl, a worthy reward for his 1,695-yard, franchise-record rushing output.

Then, he got rich, agreeing to a four-year, $28 million contract extension three months ago. Again, 'twas a worthy reward, and it swiftly extinguished any thoughts of a training-camp holdout that arose once he retained agent Drew Rosenhaus.

Since then, Gore hasn't been on a spending spree as much as he's just plain been on a spree. He's been running, and running, and running, so he can get faster, and faster, and faster.

He wants to run longer, "so when I break out with long runs, I can score," Gore said.

He had an NFL-best 16 runs that covered 20 yards or more last season, but only two ended in the end zone. Longer runs this year certainly will help him with his bold goal: rushing for a league-record 2,200 yards.

"Go get 'em," 49ers coach Mike Nolan said Wednesday of Gore's idealistic yard total. "I'm all for it."

Six months after unveiling his goal, does Gore still think about it?

"Sometimes, sometimes," replied Gore, who ran for 2,953 yards in 11 games as a senior in 2000 at Coral Gables (Fla.) High School. "Everyone's trying to do better than the year before."

Yes, everyone. He knows he can't go at it alone. Perhaps he's caught on to how poorly that strategy's played out with San Francisco's other team -- Barry Bonds and the Hitless Horsemen.

Nolan counts Gore as one of a select few players capable of reading the pulse of his teammates. "He's always been a team guy," Nolan said. "He's not shy in coming up and saying, 'That guy's a baller.' Or he'll, say, 'Coach,' and shake his head (from side to side)."

What's Gore going to do before reporting back to the Santa Clara practice field in five weeks?

"I'm going to be even quicker when I come back to training camp," Gore said. "I'm not going to worry about partying. Just strictly training, training, training, training, training and training."

You read that right, he didn't slip "dog fighting" or "motorcycling" once in that Jerry Maguire-esque mission statement.

"Frank's got pretty lofty goals," Nolan added, "and if he's to attain them, he's got to keep working."

This is the time of year you don't want your franchise player making headlines for the wrong reasons.

You'd rather hear teammates rave about your star, just as new cornerback Nate Clements did Wednesday. Clements' first impression of Gore: "He's young, built like a bowling ball, compact and a hard-nosed runner. He's fast and knows how to read the holes."

Gore also apparently knows how to keep in line off the field and comply with the NFL's stricter wishes.

Gore, a South Florida native, said, "I didn't grow up in the best neighborhood, so my mom said you've always got to watch what crowd you're hanging with, watch when you go out."

Is that hard to do?

"Not for me."

That's great news not just for the 49ers but also for the NFL and iron-fisted commissioner Roger Goodell, who hasn't wasted time making a strong impression, kind of like Gore in 2006.

Last August, Gore got his big break. The 49ers traded incumbent starter Kevan Barlow to the New York Jets, doing so before an exhibition game in Oakland against the Raiders.

After the game, I rushed into the 49ers locker room and quickly quizzed Gore about whether he -- the 5-foot-9, 215-pound wonder boy with two surgically repaired knees -- was ready to assume the title of 49ers starting running back.

I remember the conversation vividly. Gore does, too. I asked him to recall what he said back then.

"I'll be ready," Gore replied, almost verbatim to the "Yes sir, I'm ready" quote he gave after that 23-7 exhibition loss to the Raiders.

He also remembers being "shocked" that the 49ers traded Barlow. But what happened in the ensuing months weren't so shocking to him.

"I wasn't surprised," Gore said. "I started off kind of slowly by fumbling the ball (four times in his first four games). But I had to get relaxed, and I started to play ball."

He looks ready to play again. So relax, Mr. and Mrs. NFL Fan. Thanks to Gore, this offseason wasn't a complete eyesore.

Contact Cam Inman at cinman@cctimes.com.

 

[toxicbees]

http://49ers.pressdemocrat.com/default.asp?item=636866

49ers position-by-position: Tight ends

This is the fourth installment of breaking down the 2007 San Francisco 49ers position-by-position. Today, we look at the tight ends.

* * *

There was the play in the opener against the Cardinals. There was also the play against the Packers. In both instances, tight end Vernon Davis showed his rare combination of size and speed to get into the end zone after catching short passes.

But it didn't always look so easy for Davis as a rookie. He missed eight starts with a broken leg; he dropped a few passes; he wasn't a big factor during long stretches; and he had a memorable unsportsmanlike penalty that nearly proved costly in a game the 49ers ultimately won in Seattle.

Through it all, the most consistent part of Davis' game was the area that a lot of self-appointed analysts questioned after he decided to declare for the '06 NFL draft. Davis proved to be a willing and very effective blocker.

* * *

As I recently wrote, Davis was the MVP of the OTAs. He looked like a much-improved player throughout the recently completed offseason program.

A year ago, he was never much of a factor even on the practice field. But during the OTAs, there were times when Alex Smith and Davis would hook up on several passes in succession.

One of the priorities for new offensive coordinator Jim Hostler is to find ways to get the ball in Davis' hands. Watching the club go through these non-contact practices, you can tell it is a point of emphasis. The 49ers must find a way to regularly utilize Davis' extraordinary talents.

The difference from a year ago was stark. Last year, he did not catch the ball naturally. It looked as if he had meat hooks for hands. This year, he seems to be catching the ball with more ease.

* * *

Davis plays with a chip on his shoulder. Coach Mike Nolan had a couple talks with him last season about his on-field comportment. There were little issues throughout the season, but his worst infraction was a penalty for using a pylon as a prop during a TD celebration against the Seahawks. As a result, the 49ers kicked off from the 15-yard line. Davis seems to be a team player and well-liked in the locker room, but it's fair to wonder how he will handle success.

* * *

Delanie Walker should get more of an opportunity to make an impact this season. He played well in the second half of some exhibition games a year ago. Like Davis, he is tough to bring down once he gets the ball in his hands. But he sustained a right shoulder separation in the final tuneup game. That knocked him out for a while, and he ultimately required offseason surgery.

Walker got on the field for just 23 plays the entire season, catching two passes for 30 yards. Certainly, the presence of Walker gives Hostler some options. Like last season, the 49ers have two tight ends who can be legitimate offensive threats. But, a year ago, that never really materialized, as Davis and Eric Johnson were rarely used together. (Johnson has since moved on to play for the Saints.)

Both Walker and Davis are versatile. They can line up just about anywhere, including the backfield, slot and wide.

* * *

Walker did not get a lot of work in the offseason program because he spent a good portion of the offseason recovering from shoulder surgery. He should be ready to go without any restrictions when training camp opens late next month.

* * *

Billy Bajema is a blocking specialist. He played 25 percent of the offensive snaps for the 49ers last season, but he saw only one pass attempt come his way (it fell incomplete). Bajema was a big part of the success the 49ers enjoyed in the run game last season. He has proved his worth to the club. A year ago, the 49ers kept four tight ends. They'll keep only three tight ends this season, and Bajema will be one of them.

* * *

Undrafted rookie Zach Herold should get plenty of opportunities to show the 49ers his stuff in training camp and the exhibition season. If he shows enough, he can win a spot on the practice squad.

* * *

Next up, defensive backs.

 

[derek19]

Adam Caplan, reporting for Scout.com, reports the San Francisco 49ers have agreed to terms with sixth-round draft pick RB Thomas Clayton on a four-year contract. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Clayton was selected with the 186th overall selection out of Kansas State.

The following is current status of the 49ers' draft selections so far.

SIGNED:

1. (28) OT Joe Staley, Central Michigan

4. (104) DE Jay Moore, Nebraska

4. (135) DT Joe Cohen, Florida

5. (147) CB Tarell Brown, Texas

6. (186) RB Thomas Claytona , Kansas St.

UNSIGNED:

1. (11) LB Patrick Willis, Mississippi

3. (76) WR Jason Hill, Washington State

3. (97) DE Ray McDonald, Florida

4. (126) S Dashon Goldson, Washington

 

[derek19]

Willis signed, sealed, delivered

Each of the 49ers' nine draft picks is under contract and will be available to practice when training camp opens Sunday in Santa Clara.

The 49ers signed linebacker Patrick Willis just prior to midnight, a 49ers team spokesman said. Willis was the 49ers' top selection in the draft, the No. 11 overall pick. He will be on the field when the 49ers open training camp.

Financial terms of the deal were not immediately available. Willis' agent is Ben Dogra, who is based out of CAA Football's St. Louis office.

Willis' contract agreement was expected after the players selected immediately before and after him signed their contracts in recent days. In fact, the three players chosen ahead of Willis and the two players drafted after him were in their respective training camps Saturday.

Defensive tackle Amobi Okoye, the No. 10, picks agreed to a six-year deal with the Texans that voids to five years. He reportedly received $12.785 million guaranteed as part of a contract that maxes out at $17.6 million.

Running back Marshawn Lynch, chosen by the Bills at No. 12, reportedly signed a five-year, $18.935 million deal with $10.285 million guaranteed.

Willis, a product of Ole Miss, is scheduled to compete with veteran Derek Smith for the starting job at the weak inside linebacker position, known as the "mike" position. Willis is already slated to be play in the team's nickel defense.

Willis is the final 49ers draft pick to sign with the club. Third-round selection Ray McDonald signed on Friday. The other draft picks under contract are tackle Joe Staley, receiver Jason Hill, linebacker Jay Moore, safety Dashon Goldson, nose tackle Joe Cohen, cornerback Tarell Brown and running back Thomas Clayton.

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