NFL Free Agency: San Francisco an Immediate Contender If It Signs Mike Wallace

Now that the San Francisco 49ers and Alex Smith have agreed on a deal, they can focus on building around the young quarterback, and the signing of wide receiver Mike Wallace would make them one of the real contenders this upcoming season.

As of late there have been reports of the 49ers' interest in Wallace, with the latest news coming from The Sacramento Bee that he wants a contract larger than Larry Fitzgerald's eight-year, $120 million deal. Although his asking price may be a little much, San Francisco should do whatever it takes to sign Wallace.

Recently San Francisco agreed on a two-year deal with one of the best receivers in the NFL, Mario Manningham. Just the combination of Smith, Manningham and Michael Crabtree is really unfair. Just imagine what Wallace could bring to this team not only at the wideout position, but also on special teams.

Last year the 49ers had one of the best defenses in the league while their offense continued to improve and evolve throughout the season. They have already taken a step in the right direction by pairing Smith with one of the elite receivers in the game. Pairing him with two would make the 49ers simply deadly—the NFL version of Matt Barkley, Robert Woods and Marquise Lee. Who needs a run game when your attack through the air has the potential to be deadly?

Oh, but let's not forget, the 49ers have that, too.

San Francisco has all the makings of a contender right now. The signing would just put the team over the top and make it the favorite to win it all. Wallace likely recognizes this, and although he's trying to get paid, his ultimate goal is to win. With the 49ers he has the opportunity to do both.

San Francisco must do whatever it takes to pry him away from the cold hands of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Wouldn't you much rather cheer for him than chase after him?