Bleacher Report - Articles by Thrashard 340

San Francisco 49ers 2009 Offseason Review

Thrashard 340 — Sat, 09 May 2009 20:39:50 -0400

When Coach Mike Nolan was hired in 2005, it was supposed to signal an end to the Donahue era and its losing ways. The hiring of Nolan also marked the second time in three years that the 49ers were tasked with rebuilding. The Nolan era was dotted with many turbulent highs and lows.

Nolan used the No. 1 overall pick in 2005 on Utah QB Alex Smith. From Nolan’s perspective, Smith was to be the franchise QB of which to build the team around. Smith’s ride through his first four years in the NFL has been bumpy as well.

Saddled with four offensive coordinators in four years mixed in with some injuries, Smith never developed into the franchise QB that the team and its fans projected him to be. But the 2005 draft did bring some good fortune.

Frank Gore was plucked in the third round of what may be considered the best steal of the 2005 draft.

Throughout the years, Nolan mixed his erratic drafts with his erratic free agent signings. Some free agent signings were more exciting than others.

In 2005, Nolan threw a hefty contract at LT Jonas Jennings to protect Smith’s blind side. Jennings proved to be ineffective in that role as injuries kept him off the field for much of the past four years.

2006 brought CB Walt Harristo the team. Harris is aging, but continues to play at a high level as proven by the only Pro Bowl appearance in his career (2006). In the case of the above, Jennings was the signing that brought more excitement over Harris, but Harris proved to be more productive over the past three years.

So what was the result of Nolan’s efforts the past 3 1/2 years?

2005 – 4-12; first year of rebuilding.

2006 – 7-9; progress with Norv Turner as offensive coordinator.

2007 – 5-11; regressed with the loss of Turner.

2008 – 2-5; fired after week 7.

We now head into the Scot McCloughan/Mike Singletary era. So one might ask “Wasn’t McCloughan the GM for Nolan as well?”

The answer is “yes” and “no”. McCloughan was acting GM, but he never had the authority of a traditional GM. Nolan had final say on all personnel matters. Did McCloughan have input? Sure.

But McCloughan had to fight really hard to convince Nolan that a certain player should be had. The most popular example is LB Patrick Willis. McCloughan really had to sell Willis to Nolan.

Had it not been for the persistence of McCloughan, Willis may not have been a 49er today. But give Nolan some credit. The current regime of McCloughan and Singletary were brought together by Nolan.

The combo of McCloughan and Singletary ushers in a new era. But this one does not require a roster overhaul from top to bottom.

The biggest news for the 49ers this offseason was signing new Head Coach Mike Singletary to a four-year extension. Let’s back up for a minute.

Almost halfway through the 2008 season, Nolan was fired and Singletary assumed status of Interim Head Coach. After the season, Jed York (son of John and Denise), was promoted to President, therefore overseeing entire football operations.

There are good things happening here.

First off, we must be careful not to lump young Jed into the same category as his father. John spent many years growing up while enjoying the presence of his uncle, Eddie DeBartolo. Jed shares a passion for football in the same way that DeBartolo does, unlike father John.

Some question that Singletary is responsible for the 49ers turnaround. Well, let’s view it this way: the 49ers started 2-5 under Nolan and finished 5-4 under Singletary.

Singletary’s first loss should be credited to a Nolan-esque game plan, which remained in place when Nolan was fired mid-week. So the personnel remains unchanged and Singletary prepares the game plans for the last 8 games where his record is really 5-3 in those games.

Nolan’s defense ranked No. 23. It was an improvement of 9 spots over the course of 3 1/2 years. Singletary raised it 10 spots to No. 13 in only nine games. Singletary brought discipline back to the team. I would strongly suggest that “yes”, coaching had a lot to do with the turnaround.

This offseason is the first offseason that GM Scot McCloughan gets to place his personal stamp on the team. There is no Nolan to look over his shoulder.

McCloughan now fits the mold of a more traditional GM and not a lame-duck puppet under a head coach with full authority. McCloughan’s general message for 2009 was to keep the core of a roster that won 4 out of the last 5 games intact.

McCloughan did mention that he would make upgrades as long as he didn’t have to overspend or reach on a player. This makes sense since the team is not in full rebuild mode. Now let’s not confuse this for being cheap as McCloughan has stated that the Yorks have been very generous with their pocketbook.

If the right player came along, I’m confident that McCloughan would spend the money.

The 49ers spent the early part of free agency, and the time leading up to it, re-signing their own players. After the team re-signed ILB Takeo Spikes, and KR Allen Rossum, there were only a few glaring needs.

Singletary had stated from the beginning that he wanted “more sacks”. That was open for interpretation. The other “sore” spots from last season were RT and FS. Also for a team looking to take the next step, they needed to bolster depth.

Free Agent Losses

Of the more notable names, DB Keith Lewis, LB Tully Banta-Cain, TE Billy Bajema, DT Ronald Fields, RB DeShaun Foster, OT Jonas Jennings, WR Bryant Johnson, QB J.T. O’Sullivan and CB Donald Stricklandwere either released or not asked to return.

Most were picked up by other teams. Jennings was the biggest cut, but it was expected due to injuries and lack of contribution. Singletary expressed his pleasure with Strickland and Bajema was a fan favorite as a dedicated blocker.

But both were made better offers from other teams. Out of the above, Johnson and Fields are the only players to land a starting job somewhere else. Ironically enough for Fields, it is with Denver, where Nolan is now running the defense.

Many of the above players were mainly role players for the team. Jennings was oft-injured and Johnson never challenged for a starting spot.

I penalized the 49ers for not making a stronger effort to re-sign Field, Strickland or Bajema. For the losses, I give the 49ers a B+.

Free Agent Additions

The most notable free agent additions were DE Demetric Evans, QB Damon Huard, WR Brandon Jones, FB Moran Norris and OT Marvel Smith. McCloughan had set the expectation that there wasn’t going to be a free agent “splash” signing with the 49ers.

That changed with the last minute signing of Smith only one week before the NFL draft. Smith will assume the RT job. His health will determine his success at the position. But for years, Smith was a dominating OT for the Steelers.

Norris will assume the starting FB gig. It’s a much needed homecoming for him and the team. The rest of the additions will play valuable roles but are not expected to start. Jones was brought in to add a vertical threat to the passing game.

Evans was one of the better free agent defensive linemen in free agency. He will rotate in as 3-4 DE and as a DT against multiple receiver sets. Huard is not a threat to either Alex Smith or Shaun Hill.

Marvel and Norris are upgrades at their respective positions. I penalized the 49ers for signing an injury risk in Smith. I give the 49ers a B- for the additions.

Returning Players

WR Isaac Bruce, QB Alex Smith, ILB Takeo Spikes, OLB Parys Haralsonand KR Allen Rossum are the most notable names. Smith was in danger of being cut but restructured to stay with the team.

The fans are tired of hearing it, but Smith may still be our QB of the future. If he doesn’t make something out of this year, then it will be his last. Haralson developed into the team’s top pass rusher. Spikes re-signed for two more years and will hold down the Ted LB spot next to Willis.

Rossum gave the 49ers their most electrifying runner in years. All three re-signings were good for the team. Bruce contemplated retirement but eventually decided to return. His solid play and veteran leadership (along with Spikes) is an unquantifiable value-add.

I penalized the 49ers for not re-signing the players in the losses section. I give the 49ers a B here.

2009 NFL Draft

With the above changes made, the 49ers entered the draft with no immediate needs. The draft would be used for long-term assets. The strategy that McCloughan implied was to take the best player available and not reach for a position of need.

Since there were no immediate needs, this strategy would be easy to accomplish. The 49ers stuck true to their word and took the best players available. Texas Tech WR Michael Crabtree, Pittsburgh LB Scott McKillop, Ball State QB Nate Davisand LSU DT Ricky Jean-Francois were steals where they were drafted. Fresno State TE Bear Pascoeand LSU FS Curtis Taylor were taken with good value.

The only questionable pick is RB Glen Coffee because he was projected to be a third or fourth round selection. The 49ers took Coffee with their third pick after trading away their second and fourth picks the day before.

In exchange, the 49ers will receive the Panthers’ 2010 first round pick. Coffee has quite a college resume and fits the 49ers style of running, so ultimately, this was a good pick for the team.

The move to acquire an additional first round pick next year is a good one since this year’s draft is not as strong. I penalized the 49ers for Coffee. There were other comparable backs here. I give the 49ers a B+.

Rookie Free Agent Signings

The most notable signings here were Ohio State OT Alex Boone and Purdue RB Kory Sheets. Both Boone and Sheets come with good potential. But they also come with high character concerns.

Rookie free agents are low-risk and aren’t expected to make the team. But Boone and Sheets were considered mid-round picks. They are solid developmental players that have the upside to become starters.

I penalized the 49ers for taking player with high character risks here. It was a good move for the team and I give them a B here.

Overall, the 2009 offseason brings a sigh of relief from the tense moments of the Nolan era. Free agency and the draft were played wisely by McCloughan. The foundation is solid on both lines.

There are no glaring weaknesses. Crabtree elevates the WR position. Coffee will spell Gore and the running game should be more effective.

The defense remains virtually intact from last year and should benefit from the stability it enjoyed in the last half of the season.

If the 49ers win 10 or more games this year, than McCloughan will have done more than save his job. He will be regarded as solid talent evaluator and gain some respect as a GM. However, if the team takes another step back, McCloughan will be under fire.

2009 NFL Mock Draft

Thrashard 340 — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 00:48:11 -0400

Will Matthew Stafford be the No. 1 overall pick this year?

I generally like to wait a couple of weeks into free agency before attempting a mock. The greatest challenge is trying not to necessarily pick the fan favorites, but to step into the front office's shoes of that team and try to figure out what they're thinking.

Unfortunately, I do not have the greatest of resources other than what I am able to read on the internet.

I spent hours scouring the net researching individual teams and also visited various forums to gain insight on the fans' perspective on their teams. There are some surprises. Thanks and enjoy!

1st Round

1) Detroit Lions - Jason Smith, OT, Baylor

Matt Stafford was considered here but this is the safest pick…low risk, high reward. It’s just what the team needs after the high risk, low reward drafts of the Millen era. New GM Martin Mayhew can’t afford to make those same mistakes.

Given the statistical failures on QB’s entering the draft after their junior year can’t make Mayhew feel any better. Fortifying both lines will help new coach Schwartz build a physical team on both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball where a QB could be plugged in a year or two later.

Daunte Culpepper buys the team another year at the QB position.

Current LT Jeff Backus could be moved back to RT or RG to make room for Smith. Some consider Aaron Curry the safest pick. But the safest pick is not going to be a guy that could potentially be off the field on third down.

Smith will play every offensive snap while Curry may be out in nickel or dime situations.

2) St. Louis Rams- Aaron Curry, OLB, Wake Forest

The recent departure of former franchise LT Orlando Pace is disturbing, but needed to be done given his recent injury history and high salary cap figure.

But without Pace, the o-line is bad…but not that bad. The defense is worse.

The defense will need impact defenders to make new coach Steve Spagnuolo’s scheme successful. Aaron Curry is not only arguably the best defender in this year’s draft, but perhaps the best player. Spag’s will run an aggressive, blitzing style of defense and Curry will help spearhead the assault.

3) Kansas City Chiefs- B.J. Raji, DT

Surprised? This is what Pioli does. Look at how the Patriotsbuilt their team over the last 10 years.

When they had early picks, they chose to take the best DT prospects in the draft. Pioli was part of a Patriots franchise that took players such as Roland Seymour, Ty Warrenand Vince Wilfork in the first rounds of their respective drafts. That philosophy should carry over to the Chiefs.

Defense was clearly an issue. The team showed that it could move the ball and score points last year with Tyler Thigpen at QB only to be let down by a defense that gave up over 158 ypg in rushing defense.

Pioli has already started the house cleaning, but more help is needed. Impact NT's are harder to find than impact LBs. Raji is a top 5 talent that will take pressure off of last year's No. 5 overall pick Glenn Dorsey.

4) Seattle Seahawks - Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia

Michael Crabtree is enticing here but the signing of T.J. Houshmanzadeh bought the Seahawks some time at the receiver position. LT Walter Jones is not getting any younger and Monroe is his future replacement.

Monroe can step in and play RT immediately. Or an extreme case could see Walter Jones follow in Orlando Pace’s recent footsteps.

5) Cleveland Browns- Brian Orakpo, DE/OLB, Texas

The Browns get the award last year for the team that regressed the most. The Browns finished 10-6 in 2007 only to follow up with a 4-12 finish in 2008.

There needs to be improvement on both sides of the ball. A lot of the offensive failures could be attributed to the health of their QB’s and Braylon Edward’s case of the dropsies.

Those issues will need to be addressed but defensive talent could stand to use an improvement. Orakpo has 3-4 versatility.

He will need to work on standing pass rush but should do the other things well (coverage, rushing defense). Mangini hopes to get better results out of Orakpo over what he received last year from Vernon Gholston.

6) Cincinatti Bengals - Andre Smith, OT, Alabama

The Bengals’ defense played well in second half to finish a respectable #12 overall in yards allowed. The team needs O-line help most.

Palmer seems to get more fragile as the years pass by and protecting him will be the key to making the offense run smoothly.

The Bengals want the “other” Smith, but the Lions snagged him at No. 1. Smith’s fall from grace at the combine do not overshadow his obvious talents on game day.

The team also entertained the idea of Jeremy Maclin but the signing of Coles eliminates that possibility.

7) Oakland Raiders- Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech

The Raiders get lucky two years in a row. Last year it was Darren McFadden, this year it’s Crabtree. Al Davis has a habit of drafting flashy skill players over need in other areas. This year will be no different.

Crabtree's drop will be contributed in part form his recent surgery and his inability to post triangle numbers in the draft.

Crabtree doesn’t have the combine numbers to impress, but like Andre Smith, the game footage is too much to ignore. Now if only the Raiders could get lucky and win a few more games.

8) Jacksonville Jaguars - Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia

Tra Thomaswas signed, shoring up a need at LT left open by Khalif Barnes. The Jaguars may have overpayed for current starter David Garrard and Matt Stafford is the best player available here.

The Jaguars have taken chances on QB’s here in the past and still remain competitive. The drafting of Stafford would put the Jaguars in a similar position that the Browns are in with Derek Andersonand Brady Quinn.

Like the Browns with Anderson, it’s time to shop Garrard.

9) Green Bay Packers- Everette Brown, DE/OLB, Florida State

The Packers are moving to a 3-4 defense this year. They need an edge rusher to pressure the QB. Brown can bring speed off the edge in stand up or a three-point stance.

He was moved around in college to create mismatches. That versatility should help at the next level making the Packers' new 3-4 zone blitzing more effective.

10) San Franciso 49ers- Michael Oher, OT, Mississippi

Contrary to popular belief, the 49ers will not go with a QB or WR here. QB was addressed after Alex Smith's contract was restructured and Damon Huard was signed.

The team is confident that their is still a future with Smith and he will be given a chance to win back the starting job in camp. The team had a need for a vertical threat WR but the signing of Brandon Jones eliminates the need to draft a WR here.

FS could also use an upgrade, but Malcolm Jenkins has already stated that he doesn't want to play safety. There are greater needs for a pass rusher and RT.

The 49ers have their eye on Andre Smith but the Bengals snagged him at No. 6. Oher probably has the highest potential over any OT in this year’s draft. Oher is projected to be a future franchise left tackle but can step in early and play RG or RT and stay at either position.

Oher is a solid athlete but can he learn the playbook? Sure, it's not Martz's offense anymore.

11) Buffalo Bills- Aaron Maybin, DE/OLB

The Bills need a TE. But more importantly, they need more than 24 sacks to go along with their No. 13 ranked pass defense. Injuries didn’t help the team last year but Aaron Maybin can help bring pressure off the edge.

Maybin would bring heat on passing downs as well as provide quality depth. The recent signing of Terrell Owensreduces the emphasis on drafting an impact playmaker on offense here.

12) Denver Broncos- Rey Maualuga, ILB, Southern California

The offense has talented playmakers and can move the ball at will. The defense needs the most help here.

They finished a sad, sad No. 29 in years allowed and No. 30 in points allowed. New coach Mike Nolan has been tasked to improve on these numbers. He is installing a 3-4 defense and Maualuga will be the centerpiece. Maualuga should be the impact MLB that Nolan had in San Francisco with Patrick Willis.

13) Washington Redskins- Brian Cushing, OLB, Southern California

D-line still needs help with Jason Taylor and Demetric Evans gone but Albert Haynesworthmakes this line look better.

Cushing fills need at OLB with Marcus Washington’s release. Cushing is perhaps the best athlete in this year’s draft with regards to the LB position and probably the BPA here.

The Redskins also need to address OT but there are none worth reaching for here.

14) New Orleans Saints– Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois

Mike McKenzieis injured and aging. Davis is the BPA here and will make a nice tandem with Tracy Porter in the future. Coach Payton has been impressed with Davis (younger brother of 49ers TE Vernon Davis). There would be no pressure to start, but Davis can compete for playing time immediately with diminutive Jason David.

15) Houston Texans – Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio State

You can never have enough corners in the AFC South where you have to play against Peyton Manningtwice a year. Jenkins is a surprise drop here, but poor combine numbers and interviews can do you in like that. Jenkins also provides insurance for Dunta Robinson doesn’t return next year.

16) San Diego Chargers- Tyson Jackson, DE/DT, Louisiana State

Igor Olshansky was not welcomed back. Jackson can play DT in a 4-3 or DE in a 3-4. The versatility allows Jackson to step in as 3-4 DE where Olshansky left off. Shawn Merriman should return next year allowing the team to wreak the havoc on defense like it did in 2007.

17) New York Jets- Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri

The Jet’s allowed Lavernues Coles to leave. Coles speed will need to be replaced. Maclin was a blazing play maker in college.

He should be able to carry that ability over. Mark Sanchez and Darius Heyward-Bey were considered, but Maclin is too good to pass up. Maclin will be used to test the current QB's on the roster.

He needs to work on routes but can provide immediate deep speed to compliment Jerricho Cotchery. If Maclin can’t make the current QB’s look better, then the team will need to make changes in 2010. Maclin also provides an added return threat.

18) Chicago Bears- Eben Britton, OT, Arizona

Britton is a bit of a reach here, but Tait retired so the team needs immediate help. Given the run on OT’s in recent drafts, reaching on Britton is not a bad move.

Britton can help immediately in the passing game, but will need to improve as a run blocker. QB Kyle Ortoncould use that kind of security and Matt Forte is already a stud running the ball.

The bears will need to address a pass defense that ranked No. 30 in the later rounds. There aren’t any DB’s worth reaching for here.

19) Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Peria Jerry, DT, Mississippi

Nobody really knows what going on with the QB position but anyone that watched the Bucs play the run in the second half of the season knows that there are serious problems with this unit.

Jerry can be an impact player as part of the D-line rotation. He can slice into the backfield and stop plays before they begin. He can handle double teams as well.

Jerry needs to work on some techniques but should find a way to contribute immediately.

20) Detroit Lions (from Dallas Cowboys) - Evander “Ziggy” Hood, DT, Missouri

The Lions were able to make some progress moving the ball last year. They were capable in scoring some points on offense building around a young core that includes Calvin Johnsonand Kevin Smith.

However, the defense was horrid. The lions get a chance to improve both lines in the first round.

The recent acquiring of Julian Peterson reduces the need for Aaron Curry but shipping out Cory Reddingleaves a hole at DT. Hood climbs the charts. This is the highest you will probably see him go.

Lions grab him knowing that he won't be available at start of 2nd round. Hood probably won’t push the pocket but will help hold the point of attack.

21) Philadelphia Eagles- Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State

The Eagles decided to move forward without L.J Smith. Smith had talent, but had trouble staying healthy. Pettigrew will infuse some youth into the position. He is the best TE in this year’s draft.

West Coast offense needs a difference maker at TE and Pettigrew is that type of player.

22) Minnesota Vikings - Alex Mack, C, California

The Vikings can use another stud WR opposite Bernard Berrian. But Maclin is gone. The Vikings also just lost Pro Bowl center Matt Birk. The O-line is strength and must stay that way.

Can John Sullivan step in without dropoff? Maybe.

If not, Mack can. Mack is hands down the best center in the draft. Regardless, both Mack and Sullivan can fill at guard, which improves depth on the line.

23) New Endgland Patriots - Larry English, OLB, Northern Illinois

Mike Vrabel is gone. There is a hole at OLB that needs attention.

Bill Belichick said some nice things about English. Belichick will also rely more on game tape versus triangle numbers. Belichick could be bluffing. But he is a defensive genius. Need I say more?

24) Atlanta Falcons, Connor Barwin, OLB, Cincinnati

Falcons were definitely a surprise for 2008. They need a DT, CB and S. There are none worth reaching for here.

OLB is the next greatest need after OLB’s Michael Boley and Keith Brooking were allowed to leave. Barwin has shot up the charts and the Falcons take notice. He should perform well covering passes and defending run as a 4-3 OLB.

25) Miami Dolphins- Clay Matthews, OLB, Southern California

The Dolphins can use help at OLB, CB and WR. Matthews is a Parcells type of guy. He will be the blue collar LB that Parcells is looking for. Matthews will be more of a Carl Banks than a Lawrence Taylor.

Matthews is also a good athlete and has good bloodlines.

26) Baltimore Ravens- Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland

Fast, fast and fast! DHB has blazing speed. He is the fastest player in this year’s draft. He could’ve gone as high as No. 17 to the Jets. Adds vertical threat for Flacco.

Ravens need to start looking for corners too but DHB is good value here. DHB needs to work on short routes but should help immediately deep.

27) Indianapolis Colts- Percy Harvin, WR, Florida

The Colts have a need to DT and ILB. But I think Polian helps Manning reload.

There are no DT’s worth reaching for here. James Lauriaitis is a possibility but Polian historically has done well with receivers in this range (Reggie Wayne and Anthony Gonzales). Harvin is almost similar to recently departed Harrison…at least in stature and like Gonzalez, won't be forced to start

28) Philadelphia Eagles (from Panthers) - Chris Wells, RB, Ohio State

Star RB Brian Westbrook may no longer be able to carry a full load. Westbrook is an explosive weapon but it may be best served to keep him fresh in that capacity.

Wells is a big back that can grind out yards while Westbrook continues making his big plays. "Beanie" will be the "thunder" to Westbrook's "lightning"

29) New York Giants- Hakeem Nicks, WR, North Carolina

Giants really want Plax back? Yeah right.

Plax may spending time with cell mate Bubba Sunshine in the state pen. Without Plax, Eli didn’t have another consistent receiver to throw to.

Giants have burners but do not have another solid all around receiving option outside of Burress. Nicks has good hands and is a solid route runner. Nicks is also a model citizen…something Plax was not.

30) Tennessee Titans - Alphonso Smith, CB, Wake Forest

Albert Haynesworth is irreplaceable. There isn’t anyone in this year’s draft conceivable of replacing him. The Titans could use additional corners.

Like the Texans, the Titans have the unfortunate task of facing Peyton twice a year. Smith is a physical receiver and not afraid of contact. He is a proven playmaker.

He may be short, but has the other characteristics that Fisher can appreciate. Smith will compete for time opposite of Cortland Finnegan. At the minimum, he should garner attention in nickel situations.

31) Arizona Cardinals- Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia

This spells the end for Edge. Edge was not happy towards the end of last season and made everyone well aware that he wanted out of Arizona. Moreno is arguably the best RB next to Wells in this year’s draft.

Moreno is teamed with Hightower to make a nice tandem. Moreno’s shiftiness will make a nice compliment to Hightower’s bruising style. Kurt Warner can breathe a sigh of relief.

32) Pittsburgh Steelers- Jamon Meredith, OT, South Carolina

Another mercurial riser on the charts. Many will question if Meredith will have moved into the first round. But he won’t be around past the middle of the second round.

The Steelers historically have done well drafting linemen. He is intelligent and a good athlete. Meredith gives the Steelers a versatile lineman that can play both tackle positions and provide some depth at guard.

With the Steelers, Meredith’s success at the NFL level will be realized.

Addition by Subtraction: T.O. vs. Kurt Warner

Thrashard 340 — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 21:27:02 -0500

So most of us have heard this term before.

The term "addition by subtraction," as used in sports, is often referred to cutting a player to make the team better. The most recent example is Terrell Owens.

The idea is that by cutting T.O., you are ridding yourself of distractions in and out of the locker room. It's no secret that T.O. gets a lot of press coverage. Everybody wants to hear what he's going to say next.

While I don't agree with most of the things that come out of T.O.'s mouth, I can comfortably say that some of his conversations have been misconstrued by the press and blown way out of proportion. Still, right or wrong, he's a distraction.

So by cutting him, the Cowboys feel that they move on without the circus act distractions that go along with him. Many analysts feel that this was the wrong decision...that the Cowboys will now suffer without their star receiver. I disagree.

The Cowboys have a solid foundation in place. We've seen T.O. cause disaster to the 49ers. So much so that the team went 2-14 the following year. But this was a team with an assortment of issues (ranging from ownership on down). So the dropoff in performance cannot be directed at the loss of T.O.

In contrast, we saw the same disaster happen with the Eagles when T.O. tried to hold out and eventually was shown the the door. The Eagles bounced back from a 6-10 record during a T.O. "distraction" year to 10-6 the following season.

It should also be noted that the Eagles had the No. 2 offense the year after T.O. was released. So life goes on without T.O.

The Eagles had a solid foundation in place. They had a franchise QB (McNabb), a playmaking RB (Westbrook) and a "not so stellar, but respectable" defense. The 49ers didn't have any of this after T.O. left.

The Cowboys have a franchise QB (Romo...still learning, but can make some impressive throws), a solid RB duo (led by Barber), a stud TE (Witten) and a solid defense. The Cowboys will play better as a team for 2009...and that's with or without Roy Williams (receiver).

The reason why I started this article was to talk about Kurt Warner. You're asking yourself "How does this apply to T.O.? Warner is still with the Cardinals and he's not a distraction." Good question. I merely wanted to show the two faces of "addition by subtraction".

This past week, we saw a spectacle of a show which started with Kurt Warner not signing the Cardinals original offer, and then sending his agent to San Francisco which led to a visit by Warner himself and ultimately the power of God telling Warner to get up 45 minutes into Coach Singletary's speech and fly back to Arizona.

Well everything is happy-land back in Arizona but the whole episode caused a scene here in San Francisco. Local radio shows and newspapers criticize the 49ers for creating speculation on Warner and sending mixed messages to the current QB's and fans.

There were several questions asked. Why bring Warner in and let him walk away without a deal? Where does Warner fit?

I'm with the rest of the general populace in believing that this was a leveraging tactic by Warner's agent. From start to finish, I never suspected Warner would sign with the 49ers. I also firmly believe the 49ers felt the same way. So why bring him in?

In my opinion, this was a calculated risk. What if you knew that you could potentially cripple your division rival by taking away their greatest asset. Would you do it? I would. That would be two easier wins during the season. And we all know that professional sports is all about winning nowadays.

Let's be realistic here. The Cardinals aren't the same team without Warner. Leinart has already shown that he can't make the same decisions and throws that Warner can.

So by signing Warner away from the Cardinals, you harm the team in a way that can't be resolved through this year's free agency or the draft.

But what if Warner did sign with the 49ers?

Simple. Shaun Hill has not been guaranteed the starting job. There will be competition. Let's say Warner came in and had a stellar camp and preseason. So he starts.

Two things can happen afterwards. 1) Warner performs horribly the first two or three games and Hill is inserted and capable of managing the offense through the rest of the season. 2) Warner performs stellar and keeps the starting gig the rest of the way. It's really a win-win.

We already know Hill can win games in the current system, so Warner failing doesn't hurt the team. The 49ers are cap-healthy. So even if Warner rides the pine for two years, it wouldn't have a considerable negative impact on the team.

But the Cardinals would be without Warner for two years. It was a calculated risk, and it didn't work. The 49ers are not worse off now than before the Warner speculation started.

But if it did work, the Cardinals wouldn't be the same team for 2009.

...addition by subtraction...the other way.

Vernon Davis: The Sixth Lineman

Thrashard 340 — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 02:56:25 -0500

With the sixth pick in the first round of the 2006 draft, the San Francisco 49ers select...TE Vernon Davis. What?! NFL tight ends usually aren't drafted this early. So Davis better be damn good, right?

In three seasons, Davis has only averaged 34 catches, 377 yards and three TDs per year. For a guy that measures in at 6'3", 250lbs, and runs a 4.38 40-yard dash, this guy should be putting up Antonio Gates-type numbers. So what gives?

For starters, Davis has been saddled by erratic play at QB. Alex Smith never turned into the franchise QB that could make all the necessary throws...Including the ones that should go to his top receivers. Watching Smith play was agonizing for the most part. Outside of 2006 where Norv Turner was the offensive coordinator. Smith was mainly injured or flat out unproductive. Inconsistency at QB never allowed Davis to develop rapport with the person throwing him the ball.

Secondly, the 49ers offensive line never played well enough for downfield receiving option to develop forcing many underneath throws. Ironically, some of Davis' more impressive plays consisted of underneath crossing routes. But the idea of having an athlete like Davis is to stretch the field.

Thirdly, Davis has been plagued with the case of the dropsies. Now, I don't know what the official statline is, but I do know that Davis dropped balls in key situations more than once this year. Solid coaching can turn this around. But if Davis caught the balls he was supposed to catch, then I wouldn't be writing this article right now.

Now, the fourth and main point of this article is that Davis has spent a great deal of time as a blocker. As mentioned above, the offensive line never played up to par. The line play steadily improved this season, but early on, Davis was being utilized as an extra blocker for Mike Martz's high-octane offense (an offense that never really took off). Also, Martz's offense was never known to utilize the TE.

Now this fourth and final point really stands out to me. It begs the question: Is Vernon Davis really a bust? Singletary has tabbed Davis as one of the best blockers he has ever seen. It is under this capacity that I had to rethink what would justify Davis as a bust. Davis receives many compliments about his blocking.

Davis himself admits that he is a capable blocker and once stated that if the coaches asked him to gain 50 lbs and play OT, then he would do it. So how is this different than an offensive lineman drafted sixth overall?

We draft offensive tackles in the top 10 to protect our QB. I have yet to see Davis miss a blocking assignment. He consistently shuts down the opposing teams' pass rushers. Back in week 15, Joey Porter didn't have one sack against Davis. Porter's lone sack came against RT Barry Sims when Davis was off the field. So if we view Davis as a blocker, then he's done well for himself.

Everybody wants to tag Davis as a bust because his measurable stats don't add up. But Davis' greatest contributions is not listed on the stat sheet. Given Davis' skills as a blocker and his flexibility to run patterns and catch passes, I would say that Davis is quite an asset. He may very well be the most valuable sixth lineman on the team.

So there you have it. Vernon Davis...the sixth lineman.

49er Team Needs: Addressing The Draft and Free Agency

Thrashard 340 — Sat, 10 Jan 2009 00:51:24 -0500

Coach Singletary has mentioned that he wants a better pass rush and that there will be competition at QB. The obvious needs are RT and Safety. Should the 49ers draft Taylor Mays? Should they try to acquire Terrell Suggs? Let's break this down further.

The following is based on current knowledge of pending free agents. When free agency begins and teams make their cuts, there may be other prospects as well. Given Coach Sing's current push for physicality, you can probably expect to see physical prospects at RT and RB.

Much of my insight is based on what I've been hearing locally and my formulated opinion based on that. Feel free to comment and most importantly, have fun with this.

Needs - what the team is most likely to address

RT - Jonas Jennings can't stay healthy. He will be in the final year of his deal and I think the Niners will probably just cut him. Backup Barry Sims was a revolving door and most likely won't be back. Adam Snyder played well, but was not dominant. Snyder is most valuable as the swingman that can backup every position on the line except center.

Free agency will be deep with linemen. Jordan Gross, Stacy Andrews, Vernon Carey, Marvel Smith, Mark Tauscher are some of free agent tackles that will be available. This is by far the deepest position in free agency. There will most likely be a top five tackle available when we draft too.

But other team needs will be hard to address in free agency. So my hope is that the Niners take advantage of the availability of free agent tackles and use their first round pick to address another need. Depth could be addressed in later rounds.

S - Mark Roman is the weakest link in the secondary. I haven't heard Sing mention any upgrades here but it's clearly obvious that Roman did not play well. There will be no quality safeties in this year's crop of free agents.

My suggestion would be to draft Taylor Mays with the 10th overall pick. At this time, he is slated to fall to 10. After the combine, that may change.

Pass rusher/OLB - This could be a 3-4 OLB or a 4-3 DE. Singletary was very vocal about upgrading this area. He may actually perceive this as the team's greatest need. There are only a couple of big names out there but Terrell Suggs would be the best fit. Suggs plays in a similar read and react hybrid 3-4/4-3 defense in Baltimore. Sing's connections with the Ravens makes this a real possibility that we may make a hard run for Suggs.

If we fail to connect with Suggs, Brian Orapko would be a possibility with the 10th pick too. But Orapko most likely will be drafted before then. Suggs will most likely be franchised. The Ravens can deal him after he signs the one year tender. Sings' history with the Ravens may open the door for a deal.

QB - This is really anyone's guess. Singletary went out of his way to say that Hill is NOT guaranteed the starting job. Sing wants competition at the QB position.

We do not know if this means that competition will be brought in, or if Alex Smith is still in the picture. The team has not been very specific about this. IMO, Hill should be starter and make it his job to lose.

RB - Nobody has really talked about this. But last year's signing of DeShaun Foster was a sign that the team wants quality depth to share carries with Gore. Foster didn't play well, so he will most likely be gone.

There will be some second tier free agents out there. This year's RB draft class will not be very deep. But it is a possibility that the Niners take someone in the second or third round. LaMont Jordan, Derrick Ward, Rudi Johnson are some of the "bigger" RBs in free agency.

Debunking the myths - what the team is least likely to pursue

ILB - There are rumors of Maualuga, Laurinitis or even Ray Lewis. I am doubting these scenarios. Takeo Spikes has indicated that he wants to resign with the Niners and I think he will make it easy for the team to do so.

Spikes is not the gamechanger he once was but still plays at an above average level. He showed this after Singletary became coach and I think Spikes enjoys playing for him.

NT - I personally think that this area should be upgraded. But I don't think the team feels the same way. Singletary did not address the D-line in any way. I think he is happy with Ray McDonald, Aubrayo Franklin, Justin Smith and rotating Isaac Sopoaga & Kentwan Balmer into the fold.

Plus, the NT position will be very weak in free agency and the draft. There are people out there that talk about Albert Haynesworth, but I don't think the Niners will go after him. I think the Niners will spend the money on Suggs. Supposedly, the Titans have currently resumed talks with Haynesworth about an extension.

WR - T.J. Houshmanzadeh is probably the biggest name out there. But the team feels that the combo of Bruce, Battle, Morgan and Hill will carry them through next season. So a top free agent or draftee is unlikely.

CB - There has been a lot of talk about finding Walt Harris' future replacement. Some are saying Malcolm Jenkins. It's not entirely out of the question.

But Tarell Brown played well filling in for Nate Clements and the truth is, Walt Harris didn't play that bad. The Niners have done well targeting CBs in the middle rounds of the draft (Spencer and Brown). They also still have Reggie Smith from last year who could be converted to safety.

What I would like to see is the Niners target RT and Suggs in free agency. I hope they draft Taylor Mays in the draft. They also use the later rounds of the draft to address depth for O-line, RB, CB and/or even WR.

Cut/Sign - list of guys that probably will or will not be brought back. I excluded lesser known guys.

TE Billy Bajema - Valuable blocker. Provides depth. Veteran special teams player. Would not cost and arm and a leg to resign. I hope the team resigns him.

DL Ronald Fields- Didn't do anything to distinguish himself from Sopoaga, Franklin or even Balmer. Let him walk.

RB DeShaun Foster - Didn't do enough. He only rushed for three y/a. We need better production from the running back position who is going to split carries with Gore. Let him walk.

LB Roderick Green - Situational pass rusher. Not an every down player. Show up in a few games, disappeared in most for 2008. Sing wants an upgrade making Green expendable. Let him walk.

WR Bryant Johnson - Hobbled by injury. But one of the biggest receivers we have on the team. When healthy, he can be productive. May lack free agent draw after this year and could come back at a bargain. I hope the team resigns him.

QB - J.T. O'Sullivan- The JTO experiment is over. Martz is gone. Turnover prone. JTO never had the type of respect from his teammates as much as Shaun Hill did. Nevertheless, Sing wants competition so JTO is out. Let him walk.

RS Allen Rossum - Return extraordinaire. Missed a couple of games but when was the last time the Niners had such an explosive return game? I hope the team brings him back.

TE Sean Ryan- Like Bajema, more of a blocking specialist. Likely to be gone when Keasey returns. Let him walk.

LB Takeo Spikes - Picked up play after Sing took over as coach. I am buying more into his veteran leadership in the locker room. He wants to stay so he could come with good value. I hope the team resigns him.

CB Donald Strickland - I was never impressed with him. I think he was burned too many times. But he was not used correctly either. Sing likes him. He may get another shot with the Niners. I say let him walk.

List of free agents pulled from the Niners website.

http://www.49ers.com/pressbox/news_detail.php?PRKey=5078