Uniforms Won't Be the Only Throwback in '09: The Return of Rathman

In an offseason that has been defined by changes throughout the organization, one that may have the most impact on the San Francisco 49ers in 2009 and beyond could be flying well under the radar of the younger or casual fan.

But for those who have bled 49er Red and Gold since Eddie Debartolo ran the show and his franchise was the class of the NFL, the return of former fullback Tom Rathman, a jack of all trades staple in Bill Walsh's West Coast offense for eight seasons in San Francisco, is a reminder of what once was—and could be.

A third round draft pick out of his home state Nebraska, Rathman proved to be among the most versatile of the many stars of the 49ers from the mid-'80s through the early '90s, back when it was hard for anyone, much less a primarily blocking back, to grab a piece of the 49er spotlight.

While fulfilling the normal duties of a standard NFL fullback, Rathman paved the way some of San Francisco's top running backs ever, names like Ricky Watters and before him the legendary Roger Craig, and now the former number 44 looks to guide the way from the sidelines for the next great 49er back.

Its a source of excitement for Niner fans desperate for a return of the kind of offensive production Rathman helped create as a player, both rushing and receiving, like when he led all running backs in the NFL in receptions in the Super Bowl championship season of 1989.

And along with the reputation Rathman earned with each season and every down he smashed his way up and down the field for the 49ers, he's also had marked success in the coaching ranks for multiple teams—including the 49ers in the past.

At each NFL stop Coach Rathman has made, he's guided at least one rusher to the 1,000 yard mark, and that counts stints with some of the worst teams talent wise in the NFL over the last decade, including Oakland and Detroit.

While across the bay the last few seasons, Rathman coached Justin Fargas to his first 1,000 yard season, and last year the Raiders ranked tenth league wide in rushing despite having one of the more inept overall offenses in recent memory.

Earlier this decade, former 49er backs Garrison Hearst and Charlie Garner broke out with Pro Bowl seasons under Rathman's tutelage.

No doubt, Rathman's first rate work ethic and devotion to the sport have carried over from his playing days to his current coaching duties, but the intangible he brings to the 49ers that might prove most valuable is his history as a flat out winner.

Coach Singletary's booming mantra is plastered all over Bay Area billboards and echoing throughout local sports radio airways—"I want winners"—and he's got one coaching the position Singletary and offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye plan to revolve the offense around.

With Jed York assuming control of the day-to-day operations and aspiring to recreate the model franchise his uncle Eddie built, bringing back a figure that represents the most successful period in 49er history could prove to essential to his vision.

Not only does Rathman command the kind of respect Singletary has based on his playing days, but he also sets the example to players of what a winner and a champion is.

Perhaps most importantly, Rathman can preside over a history class of sorts; reminding the new crop of 49ers of the history behind the five Super Bowl trophies on display at team headquarters, and filling them in on what it took to earn them.

Ultimately, with a Hall of Famer calling the shots on the sidelines and a Super Bowl champion coaching alongside him, this team won't have to look far for that winning example.