3 San Francisco 49ers Players in Line for New Deal Before Start of 2015 Season

With the NBA playoffs taking center notice, this is the only time of the year when the NFL goes somewhat silent. Of course, the Tom Brady and Deflategate situation is interesting, but I'm sure fans are already tired of hearing about this story. 

In result, I've gone ahead and shifted focus to player contracts. Specifically, let's focus on potential extensions for a few talented 49ers.

Yes, the Colin Kaepernick deal is done. Don't forget Anthony Davis, NaVorro Bowman, Tramaine Brock and few others that have already signed long-term deals with the 49ers. However, there are a few players still looking for that elusive extension.  

Let's get started! 

Aldon Smith—OLB

If we based this purely on talent, general manager Trent Baalke would have quickly locked up Aldon Smith to a contract extension. As we all know, Smith's off-the-field issues have held up extension talks. 

I've said this before; Smith should be on his best behavior in 2015. Smith understands that another strike on his resume will certainly give NFL commissioner Roger Goodell a strong reason to suspend Smith for a full season or more. 

The 49ers have protected themselves in case of another incident. Baalke was able to convince Smith and his agent to give up almost all of the guaranteed money remaining on the contract for this upcoming season. Smith will make the same amount of money, but the restructuring gave the 49ers some cap relief, while also protecting them against any potential mishaps. 

Smith is likely in line for an extension after the 2015 season, but I wouldn't be surprised if Baalke was able to come up with a deal before the season starts that would benefit both sides. 

Michael Wilhoite—ILB

Now, I love what Michael Wilhoite has done in lieu of a healthy Patrick Willis and NaVorro Bowman. With Willis and Borland retiring, and Bowman slowly returning, the 49ers need Wilhoite more than ever. 

Marcio Jose Sanchez/Associated Press

The question will come down to price. 

In my honest opinion, Wilhoite isn't the long-term answer at inside linebacker. Wilhoite is deserving of an extension, but as long as the price meets the value he brings to this team. As a stopgap, Wilhoite should be a solid option for the next two years. 

Baalke has already stated his intentions on striking a deal with the three-year veteran, so an extension should arise in the near the future. We'll see what the final numbers look like at the end of the negotiations. 

Doubtful Extensions: Vernon Davis—TE and Alex Boone—OG 

As much as Vernon Davis is beloved in San Francisco, there's no way Baalke is shelling out big bucks for a 31-year-old tight end. I'm sure the 49ers front office would love to resign Davis on the cheap so he can finish out his career in the Bay area; however, it's more likely he plays out his final year with the team. 

The same can be said about Alex Boone. 

Boone won't show up for voluntary activities, but the mauling guard should be ready for all mandatory duties. If Boone will lower his asking price, the 49ers would love to resign the 28-year-old offensive lineman.  

However, like Mike Iupati, Boone is probably asking for more than the 49ers can allow salary wise. The 49ers also don't seem to value the guard position, which hurts Boone's chances. 

Again, I'm not saying that an extension is impossible prior to the start of the 2015 season, but just unlikely.  

Surprise Extension: Eric Reid—FS

The 49ers could pull a Willis and try to sign Reid to an extension with two years left on his deal. Reid isn't a cornerstone player like Willis, but he has the potential to be a dominant safety. 

Why not try to sign him to an extension before he blows up?

The only knock against Reid is his injury issues. Reid has a concerning history with concussions, which explains the Jaquiski Tartt selection in this year's draft. Though, Tartt is more of a replacement for veteran safety Antoine Bethea. 

This would be a surprise extension, but Reid is worth the gamble.