Look, this is how I read what’s going on with Alex Smith. I’m trying to dope out the situation and these are my hypotheses:
Alex Smith is waiting for Peyton Manning to sign before he does anything. His agent has implored Smith to wait until he is the No. 1 QB left on the market before he signs a contract, just to see what happens when he’s in a relative position of power. As long as Manning is a free agent, Alex Smith is an afterthought.
Manning works out today at Duke. The Broncos front office is flying across the country to watch. Afterwards, Manning flies to Tennessee to work out for the Titans this weekend. So, Manning might not make up his mind until next week.
Which means we’re going to be waiting on Alex Smith for a while. That’s how I read it.
As long as we’re being speculative, an unconfirmed rumor had Alex Smith eating an onion bagel with lox, cream cheese and capers at Montclair Noah’s.
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Grant, love the bagel updates. Any word on Josh Johnson’s FA activity / interest?
Makes perfect sense considering he and Peyton are both Tom Condon’s clients. I’d think Condon, who’s very busy with Peyton’s negotiations, is telling Smith that there’s no hurry – and without any word that SF is sniffing QB’s, there isn’t. Don’t you just love the hurry up and wait?
Man, that bagel sounds good right now.
I could go for a spicy tuna roll, too.
Damn. Now I’m hungry.
Yes, that has to be what it is. Manning and Smith have the same agent and most of the time the big dog sets the market anyway. Once Manning is done we’ll see what happens to Flynn and if Kolb is released, and whatever other guys show up on the radar, etc., etc.
It’s ridiculous that were letting Alex hold us up so he can wait to price himself.. sign the deal or get out so we can move on with our plans. Balke needs to put the word out that were looking at Josh Johnson in order to force the Smith camp to do something
Who is he holding up? Did OTAs start?
It’s not ridiculous at all. It’s his right as a FA. Just as it’s the 49ers right to not budge off of their offer. What’s so hard to understand about this?
It’s a function of the 49ers not having any good options to replace Smith. We’ll see if anyone is interested in Smith shortly after Manning and Flynn sign, should he remain unsigned.
I respectfully disagree with the opinion that the 49ers do not have any good options to replace Smith.
I believe the team can function quite well with just about any mobile QB in the pocket. I did not see Alex Smith do anything that was beyond belief. He quite simply was incharge of not turning the ball over by forcing it into places. Aside from that, it was his responsibility to make 3-7 yard throws and allow the receivers to do the rest.
I believe this is the sort of QB the organization is looking for and what they have in Tolzien (3 year contract) and Kaepernick.
my god it must be horrible to be a niner blogger/beat writer right now. there is absolutley nothing to write about. i think that we will start getting grants favorite recipes pretty soon
Grant, doing a hell of a job, keep it up.
If Alex was waiting for a position of power, why the hell would he have come out and said he was happy with the offer that was on the table? He lost leverage right there.
I see Alex signing a deal with Miami, Houston, or Cleveland. 3 years and a few million more than the 49ers will offer. All of which, I would be happy about. Time to move on. I think the 49ers are doing the right thing – offer a 3 year deal that’s financially beneficial to the Niners if they want to make a QB change mid-stream.
Uhh… Seriously?
@Adam
For some here the AS debate is over.
For others, it is not.
Sad really. It’s like some crazed out fan waiting to watch their favorite TV show which was cancelled. Ignoring the fact that it won’t come back on anymore.
The debate was over at 13-3.
Lame. Must be new.
>>Sad really. It’s like some crazed out fan waiting to watch their favorite TV show which was cancelled. Ignoring the fact that it won’t come back on anymore.
Unless that crazed TV fan is me, and that TV show is Arrested Development. And it *is* coming back!
@Adam
Quite a few ‘new’ bloggers make fun of me when I show them the record. They think the other 51 guys pulled the 1 guy besides the Center who has the ball on every offensive play.
@ribico
Dude. They have DVD and Netflix.
It’s not Manning that impacts Smith. It’s Flynn. But by extension Manning’s signing effects Flynn and therefore effects Smith. But I think at this point the teams that have targeted Flynn have separated themselves from the Manning market. I believe Miami has moved on from Manning and is targeting Flynn and so are the Seahawks. Of those two teams the Seahawks might draw the most interest in Smith as Free Agent QB Plan B which would drive up Smith’s market value.
One thing that would give the Niners more leverage on Smith is by signing Josh Johnson. Even if they don’t intend to start him over or even compete with Smith, it sends a clear message that they are willing to consider alternatives at QB along with Kaepernick.
J Johnson, lol … Dream on..
he’s just waiting for the other free agents to sign so that he can work his contract around theirs. he’s just playing the team guy role now. i’m not worried in the least.
Agreed.
Agreed
Your posts and hypothesis have been sounding like average idiot fan posts on a 9ers forum or in comments underneath stories/posts like these.
Yet you continue to read them. This blog is as much about talking with other fans as it is about the host. Grant does a great job.
Speaking of average idiot fans….
Maybe Smith is bitter about falling for the old “Caddying for the coach Jedi mind trick.”
I think its pretty obvious they are waiting for Matt Flynn to sign, not Payton. No way Condon or Smith want to sign for less than Flynn. They want to see what he gets and set Alex’s value higher. I don’t think this has ANYTHING to do with Manning but thanks for entertaining the thought.
It’s all just speculation, but Mike in SF #2′s speculation makes sense. My guess (and it’s just a guess) is that Condon will use the Sanchez extension and the Flynn contract (wherever he signs) as baselines/comparisons for a counteroffer to the 49ers’ last offer.
Moreover, I wouldn’t be surprised if Condon has communicated his intentions to Baalke/Marathe/York (actually, I would expect that he has done so), and that the team has indicated that it is willing to wait for the counteroffer (not agree to it, but wait for it). Such a scenario would be consistent with Jed’s “the ball is in Alex’s court” comment, consistent with the patience and complete absence of acrimony demonstrated by both sides thus far, and consistent with both sides’ repeated insistence that the deal will get done.
The Manning saga is relevant in that Manning’s contract will be Condon’s top priority until it is signed. Given that there is no urgent need for the 49ers and Smith to sign a contract right now, I doubt Smith or the 49ers object.
I agree with Mike’s scenario as well. I just don’t think Alex has any leverage. I think the 49ers are prepared to move forward without Alex should he attempt to play hard ball…..
Claude,
You’re right about all of this being speculation, but your analysis seems pretty logical.
Bay,
Smith may not have any leverage, or it may be that Condon has put other teams on hold to see if the 49ers and Smith can reach an agreement, once the QB FA field has been cleared.
Should Smith get a good offer from another team, I believe he would have leverage at that point. That’s not to say the 49ers don’t have leverage, too. Smith is no dummy, and certainly is aware that the 49ers offer him his best chance for success next year.
It will be interesting to see how things play out.
@bay:
1. Define “hard ball.”
2. Smith has leverage in the sense that he already has a year in the system (yes, it works both ways). The 49ers have an informed expectation of how good Smith can be in his second year in the system. In addition, Harbaugh likely has plans to “grow” the offense by building on what he installed last year. Other than Peyton Manning, there isn’t a QB available that the team is certain can step in, start from scratch and do better. It’s all speculation at that point. Given how close the team came last year, why would they want to blow up the offense and start over? It doesn’t strike me as rational.
So the question for the 49ers becomes “at what point do Smith’s monetary demands outstrip the value we place on his familiarity with the scheme, his expected improvement in his second year in the scheme and our ability to build on what we installed last year?”
I know you, jordan, bigP, NickRow and Neal are all certain that any one of a dozen or more available QBs could step in and do as well as Smith, but I don’t think you have reflected for more than a second on what that would involve. I think you let your animus towards Smith cloud your judgment.
You guys are fans, not informed experts. There is a reason that none of you have ever worked as an NFL coach or executive. Let the professionals do their jobs.
@Jsand3030 Finally, a post that makes sense. I like Alex, but he’s behaving like he’s actually EARNED big money, which he hasn’t. I understand that he’s waiting and squeezing some extra cash into his eventual contract, and that the amount won’t be anywhere near what Peyton wil get. But, still…Alex?
Alex Smith is behaving like the well represented free agent that he is. I think Grant’s theory makes sense. Teams who know they won’t land Manning will then put a higher premium on second tier free agents. You’re already seeing that with Miami’s interest in Flynn now that they have been ruled out by Manning. Other teams may have more focus and interest in Smith after Manning is signed, just like the Niners might feel a little more pressure now to sign a Manningham at WR after they couldn’t land first tier guys they wanted. I think will ultimately sign with the Niners for more than is on the table right now, whatever that amount is, because he’ll get plausible interest from another team when Manning is gone. I personally think the Niner should pay him and build on last year. He pretty much delivered. He still has some upside with continuity. Him and CK combined salary will still be less than one Manning.
Good point ! Not you grant..
so we’re all agreed that nobody knows what the hell is going on….
We can agree that AS will make more money than all of us combined next year.
It’s possible that he’s waiting to see if AZ drops Kolb too since that is a possible landing spot for Smith. That decision should come shortly given they have to decide whether or not to pay the man his bonus…
9ers brass waiting to sign other Free agents and Work in Alex’s contract. Have a feeling they want Alex’s contract front Loaded a little bit because he won’t be our starting QB after this year. This way they can cut him year 2 or year 3 of the deal.
hahahahahahahaha! What a comedian…
Smith’s value won’t be set by Manning, it will be set by what another team is willing to pay for him. Manning can sell jersey’s and season tickets just by showing up. I read somewhere that that was worth $10mil per year to some teams. Smith can’t do that. No one is in a hurry and no one is panicking. It will get done when they are ready.
No. But his floor will be set by Matt Flynn.
No, it won’t. That’s like saying his floor will be based on Kevin Kolb. They won’t overpay.
From everything I’m reading (which is about as useful 1930′s german propaganda by the way), it seems only 2 clubs are in the hunt for Manning (Titans and Bronco’s). So therefore, wouldn’t that lead us to believe that other clubs looking for a quarterback have crossed him off their list of options? I was thinking the same thing but that would mean that the clubs are putting Alex Smith in the same tier as Peyton Manning (disclaimer: I neither rabidly love nor hate Alex Smith) which I find very doubtful. I would think Smith would be more in the tier of Matt Flynn, so I think he may be looking to see what happens with Matt Flynn OR he is waiting to see what kind of recievers the 49ers bring in OR there is some wild conspiracy the 49ers are putting on in which they Alex not to sign the contract yet that will bring them some unknown advantage.
I have said all along that I believe there are more than 2 teams in the hunt for Manning. I believe that the team he is going to sign with is not even on the radar yet. General managers have a vested interest in keeping their intentions close to the vest. Once you see who you are competing against, the price tag can just escalate.
I believe he will stay in the AFC as to not have to play against Eli and I do not believe that AFC team will be an outdoor team. That being said, I think that eliminates both Tenn. and Denver.
I would not be surprised if he landed in Atlanta. Matt Ryan has two years left on his contract and that team has the most cap room of any team in the league. Its Ownership is amazing by player standards, and the pieces are there at receiver.
These “updates” regarding Smith are truly pointless and becoming unprofessional. Let’s just wait until there is actually something to report because none of this speculation is necessarily splitting the atom with it’s originality.
Agree – The little jabs at Smith by Grant and the jokes about what he’s doing and eating are unacceptable from a professional sportswriter. There is a fine line between being a fan and a formal reporter. Does Grant want to make it so that when he tries to interview Smith next year (for the 49ers or any other team), Smith won’t want to speak to him? And we wonder why coaches like Harbaugh and Belichick don’t like speaking to the media.
Also, I understand that some still question Smith’s ability and can’t get his history out of their head when looking forward. Please, go ahead and debate his strengths and shortcomings all you want, but the man hasn’t done anything to deserve the amount of disrespect he gets here. While he’s had more moments of being terrible than being good, he’s always been professional, respectful, and a hard working, stand-up guy. He deserves more respectful treatment than he gets.
Agree, you have a logical point.. Can believe this fools riding on Grant’s post..lol
You don’t give your 28yr old starting QB a 3year deal if you truly believe he is ur long term QB. You would want to lock him up for at least 5-7 years
That is correct. IF, you believe he is your long term QB. Even Alex’s most loyal supporters can’t argue the message being sent by a three year contract that possibly has only 2 years guaranteed….
How did you know genius, did you actually see it on your own eyes? Honestly.. lol
It’s clear the 49ers want the option to move on to CK in two or three years, if they judge him to be a better option at that point. It seems like smart business.
Smart teams give rich, long term contracts players who have already prefored at a commensurate level. Smith isn’t there, yet. And, if he’s to sign with the 49ers, he’ll get a contract that reflects where he’s at in his development. That of an young, improving QB, who has some parts of his game that need improving.
Alex who? O the Caddie.
You might think hes playing caddy for harbaugh, but the millions he has you’ll never see it on your life time troll…lol
I’m really hoping that if Alex is holding out based on your rationale, which makes sense, and feels as though he can drive his price up, the 49ers will hold their ground. As they have demonstrated time and time again, they have a value placed on everyone and won’t get into a bidding war over their services. If Alex leaves, so long. I’m more interested in seeing what Kaepernick can and will do. We know what we’re getting with Alex, and after 7 seasons, I’m highly unimpressed.
A quote from Profootballtalk on Peyton Manning: “Though there’s no reason to think another team will make a similar move now, it makes sense to at least be aware of the possibility that, say, the 49ers will finally realize that Peyton would push them over the top.
Until Manning or Alex Smith sign a contract, it can’t be completely ruled out.”
Makes you wonder? Good stuff on the interaction with the readers Grant!
There’s an actual video on youtube of Alex eating that bagel. Upon exiting the restaurant there was a homeless guy asking for money. Alex dug into his pocket and pulled out a fifty cent piece. The homeless man stuck his hands out in anticipation of receiving the coin. Alex flicked his wrist and threw the money to the man. It landed far short of the homeless man and skipped in at his feet.
After viewing this video it was evident to me that with a few more tries Alex would have accurately thrown the money to the bum. He just needed to build more chemistry with him. You see there was another homeless man across the street with a VD t-shirt on that Alex throws money to on occasion and the money he throws to that gentleman always hits its target.
Update: The Smittie camp has aggressively criticized the homeless man for not diving for the coin.
When contacted about the homeless man and why Alex was not able to connect with him, Harbaugh said, “I can’t talk about that – it’s scheme.”
Heck ya he should have ate pavement for that 50C. He must not be a team player. Did he have #15 on? lol
When asked about upsetting the homeless man when making an apology on Smith’s behalf, Harbaugh said “I shook his hand too hard. I mean, I really went in and it was a strong kind of a slap, grab handshake. … So, that was on me.”
Waterman I didn’t like your comment. You’ve been traded to the Sac Bee and will not play for Matt Barrows….
BigP,
Harbaugh walked home only to realize the bum had pick pocketed him.
Later that night there were five bums sitting around a fire that had been lit in a trash can. They were eating McDonalds and drinking beer concealed in a brown bag. On this night they ate like kings. On the ground lay Harbaughs now empty wallet. After a few rounds of brews the drunk bums yelled, “who’s got it better than us?”
Bay,
Don’t talk about BS’s home like that.
Really Grant? And you’re the professional here? And you and your dad wonder why some players and coaches don’t like speaking to the media. What has Smith ever done to you to deserve this kind of disrespect?
You playing along with this kind of drivel (although funny and entertaining) will only bring the level of discourse on this blog down. You should be the example of professional reporting.
Calistoga,
It’s a joke. Lol, are you really that upset about it? It was funny and humor helps grease the skids during this time of year. If you have some breaking news, I’m sure everybody would be interested.
Come on Calistoga,
you really aren’t that old and uptight are you? Lighten up. Maybe you should switch to a nice Chateau Montelena Chardonnay for a while….
Sorry BigP and Bay, you hold our OB to a higher standard (think Montana and Young) and are ticked off that AS isn’t that. I hold our reporters to a higher standard. I don’t mind if you guys kick stuff around like this, you did notice I said it was funny and entertaining, right? (yes I called it drivel, but one of my favorite books is “Pure Drivel” by Steve Martin). But to have Grant jump in is unprofessional if he’s wanting to play the role of a reporter. Now if he’s just being paid to be a blogger (opinion) and not be a reporter (facts), there would be a difference.
Grant, I met A. Smith in Los Gatos at the Califoenia cafe we had some good conversation with hes wife.. Alex is a down to earth person, I believe that there are lots of people that arn’t favoring Alex Smith.
Honestly, this guy is genuine person inside and he deserve tobe treated with the outmost respect as he does towards others.
Like I said to you last time grant, A. Smith makes stories for you.. Every haters of A. Smith can’t hardly wait for you post another article about Alex.. I applaude you Grant, great job..
Ricky you retired?
The hater camp is imploring that Niners sign homeless guy as alternative to Smith, everyone can see he’s a “baller”.
I told you already ribico.
They want “guy off the street” over the guy who lead them to the title game.
DSL,
if the Niners truly believed Smith was a big part of why they were in the title game, the contract offer would spell that out……
Now back to your Xbox games X-ilicious….
Ridiculous comment Bay: if they didn’t think that way at all they wouldn’t have offered a contract in the first place. They did offer a contract, hence they want him. It’s just a matter of price they want to pay. Do they think he’s the next Manning or Brady? No, so they’re not going to break the bank, but they do respect and want him.
I think it boils down to the fact that one good year doesn’t completely drown out the years before, but they’re willing to go forward with him under their terms.
Bay,
The contract the 49ers are offering Smith reflects the fact that Smith showed improvement in a year in which he had to learn a new system on the fly, but isn’t performing to a level that makes them feel comfortable locking him up for the long term.
Nothing more, and nothing less.
I cannot see one thing occurring that would increase his leverage and/or worth to the Niners. It is what it is across the board.
Exactly. He should sign a one year deal and play like a Pro-Bowler if he wants to increase his value.
Amen brother…
Big P and Bay,
Would you do that in his case? Pass up tons of dough to show everyone how much you believe in yourself?
Harbaugh and Baalke have asked him to wait. Alex is waiting until they are finished with free agency. He and the niners have made this plan together so that they can make his contract as cap friendly as possible depending on how much room they have left this season and in seasons to come. Alex is doing this for the good of the team.
exactly
Fact is, nobody here, including Grant, has ANY IDEA of what’s going on behind the scenes (hence, all the nonsense “bagel” posts). All the speculation is nothing more than that…idle speculation. But this idea (Alex cooperating with the FO to get the best possible team on the field) does seem to fit with his overall character, his demonstrated commitment to the team… and man, wouldn’t it be nice to have a story like that to tell, in these days of the “It’s all about ME!” athletes?
And what a pathetic market that will be when that happens.
LET ALEX WALK!
or hes waiting for the team to sign all our FAs. so he can structure his deal to fit into our cap as best for the team as possible. pretty sure thats been said. his deal is there. flyyn an manning have little to no affect on him. alex wants to be a niner alex has wanted to be a niner, hes working with the team to make things work best an get us to that SB that much faster. alex is one of those guys…hes trustworthy, hel take less money for success, an hes a 49er. great guy big arm or not i love him as our QB he started changin plays up at the line alot towards the end of the year, what do u think its gonna be like his first season with the same playbook an an offseason. even better
Amen, brother! The FIRST TIME in his career that he’s had the same offensive scheme two years in a row. NOW we’re going to be able to evaluate him.
I think the parameters of the deal are all worked out. Both sides are waiting until later in free agency to cap-structure the deal, to make it the most favorable to sign whatever other free agents that are needed.
I think no one has a clue what is actually happening so all the speculation is actually quite amusing.
That’s probably a good guess. Baalke had more pressing needs, trying to keep Rogers, getting the Moss thing figured out and all that. It’s probably been a done deal for a while now. Smith said he’s fine with the 3-year contract.
They’re probably just trying to get the higher priority stuff ironed out. Maybe they’re trying for Wallace or Manningham or who knows and it’s sucking a lot of brain power. :P
Wallace, Wallace, Wallace!
Manningham will cost a fortune and has not proven himself as long as Wallace has.
If you are going to spend a lot, spend it on the guy who is the best. I loved JM, but no way was he worth $6 million a year. If it takes about twice that to get Wallace, it is worth it.
Spot on, that is the best ‘procedure’ to max out the TEAM. I have thought that was the case from day one. That is why nobody is mentioning AS as being a ‘free’ agent, not all that nonsense being slung around.
That fits perfectly of how Balke, and Alex, for that matter have done business in the past.
I kind of think of A.Smith the same way the Thai father thinks of Stu in hangover part 2 “Luke warm rice and water” but nice guy and all.
This is how I read what’s going on: NONE of the other 31 teams have shown a hint of interest in Alex Smith, even as a back up, (tells you something), and so the 49ers are waiting for Smith to come to the realization that he has only ONE viable job opportunity in the NFL, and then sign the contract that they have on the table.
Obviously, if the 49ers TRULY BELIEVED that AS is the long term solution at QB, then he would have already been signed to a long term deal or franchised a la Drew Brees.
we dont know if no ones showed interest it just hasnt hit the media. just cuz the media hasnt announced doesnt mean it hasnt happend
So true. None of the sports networks even mention Smith as being a free agent.
Totally agree with this. It’s obvious Alex’s success this year was due to the Harbaugh system (play it safe on offense, great D and STs). No other team wants Mr. Ineedatleast2yearswiththesameOCtolearnanoffense Smith
John Johnson , come on in !
Maybe we’ll get lucky and Alex will sign with Miami. This will clear the way for a guy who can actually reach our new receivers. The day of Colin Kaepernick is about to arrive
I think you are wrong. I think he is waiting with agreement of the Niner’s to see who they may be able to pick up in FA and then what may be left before signing him . That is just the way this guy work. Team before Alex !
@scott
+1
Why are we even having this discussion. Alex Smith is not the long term solution at QB. He has been there for 7 years and only had 1 good 1. Everyone will say but, he’s had 7 different Off. Coordinators but I say SO WHAT!.. You should still be able to command an offense and move the ball hence Jason Campbell. He’s no Drew Brees but he wasnt a #1 pick either. Get a real QB and stop playing with the High schooler!
Let’s get YOU a different boss 7 years in a row. Each of them uses different language. Each has a different mind set on how to be successful. Each has a different plan for you to execute. Each has a totally different personality, which you’re expected to relate to and mesh with. And during a couple of those years, you can’t even come to work, because you’re injured too badly.
How are YOU gonna look after that seven years? I’m pretty sure my head would be spinning…
What QB who has ever had a stellar career had that many coordinators? Hell, he hasn’t even had any real receivers. The 49ers were 8th in footbal in dropped passes with 30. He ad 6 4th quarter comebacks in 7 attmepts last year. That kind of play doesn’t just happen by itself, otherwise Kolb, Hasselback, Carson Palmer and all of the other guys who everybody wanted last year would have done it.
We want car we want car we want t smith, we want JJ we want Davis we want MH we want…….. the backup qb on any team but ours. Not!
If Smith walks its CK time. I can get excited for that. I’m good with Smith starting this year too.
Grant,
Stop stalking Alex to monitor his food habits and feed us some meaningful analysis instead. Here’s one from Andy Benoit on how NFL’s perception of receivers has changed
“As the elite teams have shown, the N.F.L. is now about creating mismatches with three-and four-receiver formations. If you want to build a truly successful offense around the outdated No. 1-2-3 formula, your No. 1 receiver needs to be insanely talented. As the film shows and the market verifies, only three receivers currently fit this bill: Andre Johnson, who became football’s highest-paid receiver in 2010; Larry Fitzgerald, who became football’s highest-paid receiver in 2011; and Calvin Johnson, who became football’s highest-paid receiver earlier this week.”
http://fifthdown.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/03/16/why-receivers-have-ruled-free-agency/
It seems that the Niners have a similar “system” (variation of WCO) with QBs-as-extension-of-Harbaugh throwing to a varied set of pass catchers with no fixed #1 or #2 or #3 receiver. Niners’ most productive receiver last season was the TE. Niners’ offense is doing what Green Bay is does — looking for mismatches, with no intended focus on a single receiver. Hence it makes sense to find receivers in FA that fit the system at low cost.
Evan Silva just tweeted: “ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports #49ers have been in contact with Peyton Manning. Had him take a physical. Are “clearly 1 of the 3 finalists.”
The Smitties now formally request that you go back to the food jokes.
Hey, I’m a Smith supporter, but if Manning can come in here (and stay healthy) I’m ALL IN.
Calistoga,
I hear that.
Cali,
Me too. In Harbaugh and Baalke I trust.
I just hope we can trust the doctors who looked PM over for the 49ers.
Don’t think JY will give PM a percentage of the team like BAdams is offering – a lifetime contract – the 9er austerity program can’t compete with that. lol
Hofer,
he’s rich. Doesn’t need the money. He is a competitor and wants to win. Having said that, I do think it’s a ploy to get Alex to sign and it WILL work.
Money is one thing, team ownership is another.
This is just to get Smith to sign…. Like what they did with Rogers.. Good move Balke
They flew to North Carolina to watch Manning to get Smith to sign?
I wrote that before i read that they actually went to see him.. Some part of that news being released still helps with their leverage
BREAKING NEWS 49ers are the mystery team in the Peyton Manning sweepstakes!!!
Clearly Alex has been low-balled and feels so. After all, just 4 months ago his coach was saying he was an elite QB and should have received Pro Bowl cosinderation, and then you offer him a 3 year deal? That seems kind of cheap. 4 years should have been the jump off point. They don’t have to pay him 15 mill a year, but he should be paid. I am thinking 4 years 45 mil with say, 32 guaranteed. Otherwise, they were blowing smoke up is rear, and that would be bad. All that being said, I still think they will get a deal done.
its a difference between a pro bowler and an all-pro slash hof’er slash living legend!!!
Time to add some more fuel to the fire:
http://twitter.com/#!/Edras_19/statuses/180716839930830850
“Filed to ESPN: Third team in Manning race that has emerged is 49ers – Manning worked out for Harbaugh & took physical this week #NFL32″
Oh, now this is getting interesting. If Harbaugh has seen him throw and is fine with Peyton, then they should consider it then. Probably means less chance to sign a FA WR, but that is what you get going after a QB.
Mort update:
http://twitter.com/#!/mortreport/status/180717235290112001
“So, barring a surprise, once Manning throws for Titans, it looks like Broncos, Titans & 49ers as finalists. He’s NOT visited 49ers facility”
Wait, Mortenson said he hasn’t visited the facilities yet, so has Harbaugh actually been able to see him throw yet? I think that is the most important thing to consider if they really go after Manning.
They flew to Durham yesterday to watch Manning. Preempted Denver.
YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Schefter said they worked him out and he took a physical.
Oh wow, I’m still worried on some areas with Manning, but if Harbaugh is fine with going with Manning, then I’m fine with it too.
@Grant:
That’s also what Schefter says:
http://twitter.com/#!/adamschefter
What runs faster than an illegal from a group of armed border agents?
ALEX TO SIGN THE CONTRACT NOW THAT HE KNOWS THERE IS INTEREST IN MANNING.
CK will become trade bait a la TTebow if that is the case. Stay tuned. Hmm.
@bay:
If Harbaugh saw enough to satisfy himself that Manning is healthy and can play, I suspect that offer may be withdrawn/put on hold.
I also believe that Pete Carroll and Ken Whisenhunt need a change of pants after reading about this.
Nah,
if Manning signs Hofer then Alex is gone. You think the Niners will keep a $5million plus backup? Dream over Hofer.
Upon signing Manning Jed should send Pete Carol a box of depends….
Bay, I’ll take (a) PM if AS is going elsewhere. Seems to me they don’t think highly of CK. PM will want to play for at least 3-4 years. Where does that leave CK?
CK could actually learn something from Manning while backing him up. They have a prior relationship from the Manning passing academies. Peyton was said to be in awe of Kaepernick’s physical tools.
If they sign PM, trade CK per GC’s suggestion yesterday and they have two 1st picks this year. They can keep ST and a FA QB as backup.
Hofe,
It also might mean the 49ers are pleased with CK’s progress.
If PM signs with the 49ers, they would need to feel CK is close [or close enough] to being ready. In the case of PM getting hurt, they’d want a good backup QB.
Should the 49ers bring in JJ, or another verteran to backup PM, then you can say they probably don’t like what they see in CK.
Ex,
Hofer is bitter that is why he is talking about CK departing if Manning comes in.
Give a talent like CK a chance to sit and learn for 3 years and he will be unstoppable.
Hofer give it a break man. I know you don’t like what’s going on but be sensible. How could they be unhappy with CK when we knew he was a one or two year project when we signed him.
Plus CK plays behind Manning for a couple years and we will be set at QB for the next 10 years
That’s the best part….
Now there is no reason for anyone in the room to argue. This will be a move that improves our team and unites the room…. I think everyone will be on board except DS and Oneniner….. Hofer will join us eventually…
I trust Harbaugh in developing CK, but lets not rush in saying we are completely set on CK to be a star QB for us just yet. You just never know with QBs. Lets just say if we get Manning, we should be secure for the short term.
And don’t assume Manning is gonna teach CK anything. He’d be here to win a superbowl not tutor the future QB. CK better learn by watching.
Aaron Rodgers learned by watching.
if we dont get Peyton i hope this doesnt alienate AS!!!
Here’s what’s going on, guys. Wait and see. Remember how Harbaugh gave Smith the playbook and had him set up Camp Alex when he wasn’t even signed up yet? There’s a trust between the two of them that’s unusual in professional football. So the agreement has already been reached. Alex is not trying to maximize his salary. What’s at play is that the structure of Alex’s contract will depend on who else gets signed. My guess is that the 49ers are going to make a big play for Wallace. If they are able to sign him, then Alex’s contract will be such that Alex’s cap hit is lower this year, so the 49ers stay under the cap. If they can’t sign Wallace (or some other high-priced player), then Alex’s cap hit this season will be maximized, so that in future years they’ll have a little more room to play. Just watch.
Meanwhile, the 49ers are watching Peyton Manning’s workout in N.C. Lol.
Maybe Alex will sign after watching Sportscenter. Interesting to hear that Harbaugh, Roman flew out Tuesday to watch Manning workout and they sent out doctors on Wednesday. IDK how on earth that stayed so under the radar
Trent and Harbs play it close to the vest Y’all. They owe it to the team to check out Manning. If he’s healthy he’s lightyears ahead of Alex.
lol at everyone who thought the niners were to stupid to go after peyton manning.
Oh the rumors, the rumors…. earlier these reports said the 49ers had Brandon Lloyd come in as purely a favor to his agent, Tom Condon, so as to sweeten the pot Lloyd would get from the Patriots. So, isn’t it within the realm of possibility that the 49ers are “entering the sweepstakes” now as a favor to Tom Condon to sweeten the pot for Peyton’s offers from the Titans and Broncos? Hey, if you believe the first rumor then you have to believe the second one as well, right?
Everyone’s getting played. But most of all, us bloggers.
I think feigning interest happens alot, especially if a division rival is interested in the same player. It puts other teams in more cap pressure.
The risk is that if a team fakes interest too much, players around the league will think genuine interest is just a ploy.
I felt the same way… The team getting played the most was Arizona! See you twice this year Kevin Kolb!
Report by ESPN (Mortensen) indicates 49ers worked out Payton Manning this week.
here’s what Sando has to say about it.
http://espn.go.com/blog/nfcwest/post/_/id/61096/on-the-49ers-interest-in-peyton-manning
Peyton Manning on the 49ers? I assumed there would never be interest because Manning runs a customized version of “chuck and duck” offense, and the 49ers run a totally different system designed around balance and power.
Either Manning learns a completely different offense, or the 49ers chuck the Harbaugh/Roman/Stanford power offense, and several players drafted very highly to play in it.
The 49ers have invested huge draft capital in offensive personnel talented in a power offense but not quite nimble enough for a passing offense. I just don’t see how it would work.
Manning would have to learn a whole new offense, and give up the “on the field coordinator” role that was such a huge success for him.
Manning is great, but he’s not a good fit for the 49ers offense. I don’t see him signing on the 49ers at all.
Maybe Manning wants to change his style to stay healthy. A good defense and running game would extend his career.
Not a bad thought but BAdams is offering a percentage of the team and Denv has $50M in cap money to work with. PM ain’t playing for free! Hmmm.
They don’t have to change the offense at all. Just give Manning the freedom to change plays at the line how he sees fit. Alex had to learn a whole new offense last year and did what he did. Why couldn’t Manning?
The cap space isn’t a worry imo unless Manning really is just playing for money. The 49ers are the better choice if he wants to win. Most of the best FA’s are already signed, so the Bronco’s cap space isn’t that much of a factor anymore.
Hofer,
Manning wants to win. The Titans and the Broncos remind me of fat girls trying to keep their guy from leaving them by doing “extra”.
Poor example I know but it’s true. Manning wants to win. The Niners are the most complete TEAM in the NFL right now with the most devastating defense and now Moss who still runs a sub 4.40 40. Are you kidding me? It’s all over. And the ones who would benefit the most? Hunter and Gore…. No more stacked box. And anyone that questioned Crabs? Forgetaboutit, he’s a guaranteed 1100 yard plus receiver now….
This is one of the factors I was wondering about when looking at Manning. Are both Harbaugh and Manning willing to both give up some control so they can work together for the best of the team. If they are willing to do it, then it can work. If they figure out they aren’t willing to do that, then go back to Smith.
I believe the hypothesis Wilson exposited is the most likely to be true. By a long shot.
Alex, Flynn, Manning, whoever it is, I welcome you with open arms as long as you can win a superbowl and whatever is best long term, in Harbaugh I trust!
I just heard a report on ESPN radio that Manning worked out for the Niners earlier this week!!! Any updates or truth to this?!
It’s true.
It’s fodder. We know the 9ers austerity program and we know JH offense. Will they change both plans/programs just for PM??!
They flew all the way across the country to watch him work out for a smokescreen?
Yes, it’s against their plan plus there is no way they can compete with the other teams dollar wise. But PM would need to make that decision. Once he’s in the building at 4949, then we’re talking.
There’s no guarantee Manning ever wins a Super Bowl with the Broncos or the Titans. Those teams are flawed.
I dont think the niners are going to offer him “60 million over five years, with $30 million guaranteed.” like the Broncos are offering.
GC, come on there’s *no absolutes*! Do you want to bet your salary the 9ers win with PM this year. He’s only won *one* SB to date with all of that great body of work. Let’s not overreact!!
If I were Manning, I’d say my chances of winning Super Bowls with the Niners were much, much greater than my chances with the Broncos or the Titans.
@Hoferfan67
Hes never had a complete team like he might have with the niners
There’s a reason PM agreed to work out for the 49ers. If he didn’t have some interest in the 49ers, PM wouldn’t have thrown for them.
A top QB is a difference maker. Everybody in football knows this. If they would change they’re spending plans for anybody it’s Peyton, not some flash in the pan receiver.
Ex,
you are right. Now let me ask another question. Sports agents are paid on commision. Who do you think this agent is more loyal to? A person like Alex who has no value to other teams and is not worth more than $7 million per on the open market, or Manning who will probably get closer to $15 million per with incentives? Condum is loyal to the money.
Now the big question is, was Manning stalling this whole time? Visiting teams knowing they were all backup choices to the 49ers? Did Condum feed Manning info that Alex would not sign by the 13th because Condum directed him not to? Did Condum guide Alex in that direction knowing Baalke would shop if the contract wasn’t signed by that date?
I know a lot of conspiracy talk but what if??????????
Manning worked out for the 49ers on Tuesday night at Duke in Durham, N.C., with coach Jim Harbaugh and offensive coordinator Greg Roman witnessing a passing session that was described by a source as “very impressive.”
It was impressive enough that the 49ers sent a doctor to Durham to administer a physical exam to Manning on Wednesday.
http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/7696945/san-francisco-49ers-worked-peyton-manning-week-sources-say
why were the 9ers so cheap at the WR position? Because Manning will cost 20mil to play a full season.
@bay:
What you are proposing likely would get Condon sued. He owes a fiduciary duty to each of his clients, not just the ones with the most earning potential. I have o doubt, he is working this to get the most for both players.
If PM is making his decision based mostly on money [nothing wrong with that, btw], he won’t be coming to the 49ers.
Bay,
I didn’t see your question until now.
The opportunity is definintely there for shenanigans, that’s for sure, but I’m guessing Condon is a good agent, based on his client list. So, no, I don’t think there’s any machinations on his part, at least not between Manning’s and Smith’s interests. At the most basic level he’d be risking his career if he tried crap like that.
That’s not to say that Condon isn’t whispering in Smith’s ear, if the 49ers are PM’s preferred choice.
I heard on good authority Payton Manning to said to York “I’ll play your your team, but only if that pass blocking phenom Chilo Rachal is a starter.”
Seriously, I have a hard time visualizing Manning playing behind the 49ers line. Alex Smith took a beating last year. Some of that was Smith hanging on to the ball, but alot was on the line too.
Peyton is so good at reading defenses and getting to the right play/protection scheme that he’ll make the line look 1000x better.
I agree with your assessment, but its one thing to have great communication and reading skills and another to be using those skills in an entirely new language. The playbook is going to be a rough transition for anyone, I suspect he is looking for a team with an established line, a mediocre schedule while he learns the language, and who is a contender. All of which point to ATL.
GC, why does ASchefter always get this info. What happened to the 9er beat writers??
It’s all about the agents. Even if Grant did scoop it, ESPN would just say “according to our sources” when referencing the news. They cannibalize each other, hence the term “ESPN on ESPN crime.”
Relax Hofe, this recent revelation really has you reeling (lol).
This team is a ‘perfect fit’ for Manning. His window of opportunity is shrinking and this is his best chance at a Superbowl.
I said last summer that although I root for all 49ers, that i’m not attached to any of them. Point: If in this case, PM gives us the best chance at a ring over Alex, i’m all in!
I don’t agree with “perfect fit.” However, Manning would certainly be considered an upgrade at the position, if he’s healthy and can actually play.
AES, just love how these *so-called supporters of all of the teams moves* are NOW wetting themselves over a small tidbit of info. When he gets to 4949 then start talking. BTW, I’m enjoying every minute of this and in the process, GC gets his site hits. lol
DS usually has 175 posts an hour. Oddly I haven’t seen a post from X-ilicious since the Manning news broke….
Kind of like you and Jordo when AS signed for one year and started working with JH. LMAO!
Hofer,
officially you are bitter. Why name yourself Hofer if you are not for the 49ers first?
I actually was behind the AS one year signing because he was the best option available. This year there are other options and PM is a much better one especially for instant gratification.
I’ve watched you and your crew all season work very hard to make league low production look good. No more excuses if Payton signs.
Bay, I applaud you. Let’s see how this plays out…LMAO!
>>I’ve watched you and your crew all season work very hard to make league low production look good
Yeah bay, because it was soooo hard for us to piss on a 14-4 season.
>>No more excuses if Payton signs.
A LOT of people here are going to have to get familiar with the correct spelling of his name if he does sign.
He/She is undergoing shock therapy
Hopefully the trend continues :-)
I don’t want PM if we have to pay him a bunch of guaranteed money. When he is injured I don’t want the niners set back with no cap room. Please dont give him a boatload of G money.
This is simply too good to be true,getting PM and possibly getting to face Alex twice a year in Seattle!
When the smoke clears PM will be in Tenn and Alex will be our starter and Flynn will be the starter in Seattle. But it was a nice sweet dream to have until the inevitable dog barks or phone rings to wake us all up.
But …who knows, sometimes dreams come true. After all,someone does actually win the lottery.
Or, no PM after he signs with Tenn and AS signs with Sea. Then CK can lead the 9ers to the promise land.
…Besides, I have heard all along that PM wants to stay in the AFC. But if he wants a SB more than to be in his comfort zone and more than he wants the most money then maybe he does come here? But I doubt it really happens.
Alex will be our QB for the next 20 years and by then he will finally be above average, if he keeps working hard every year !
Just checked in and saw the news about Peyton. Hallelujah!! With a healthy PM, we’ll be Super Bowl favorites.
I’ve been saying that we have a 2-3 year window (with our D, specials teams, etc) to win big. Bringing PM would almost guaranty a SB win.
Coach Harbaugh, whether or not we land Manning, you are one “Mighty Mighty Man!” Thank you for your superb cleverness and your strong desire to win the Super Bowl NOW!
If anyone thinks exploring Peyton Manning is a bad idea than Grant should ban you from this blog for life! Leave no stone unturned!
In Harbaugh I trust!
Whatever happens we NOW all must finally admit 2things…That last year Jh and TB would have rather had Hasselbeck and this year ,even after Alex had his breakout year when he finally got up to mediocre playing status,they still are trying to upgrade and are still desperate to replace Alex,even if it means they might have to breal the bank on the remaining salary cap. NOBODY,NOBODY,can ever be under the delusion any longer that JH actually meant all those wonderful things he kept saying about Alex that were only meant to build up his fragile confidence.
Wow, you are pathetic. There is absolutely no logic in what you just wrote.
By the way, you outed yourself earlier.
+1, Claude
Tim,
That is an breathtakingly boken chain of logic. There are mmay more plausible scenarios, the most obvious being that the 49ers like Smith, but they like a healthy PM more.
Claude, exactly! All Timisms!! lol
Careful what you *wish* for…to date, PM hasn’t been in the 9er building
They may still get Hasselbeck if Peyton chooses the Titans!
The only way Hasselbeck gets signed, is if neither PM, nor Smith, sign with the 49ers.
In the words of Denzel Washingtion, “If that happens God help us, God help us all.”
What a load of crap.
Every team wants to improve on the previous year. I remember one team having Joe Montana and trading him away so Steve Young would start instead. An Alex Smith for Player XYZ switch is just business trying to improve. The tangible white elephant in the room in this scenario is the four neck injuries and possible salary cap hell to be faced. It’s like the passing analogy: three things could happen and two of the outcomes are bad. Same thing with signing Peyton.
@open
Hey. I just used that analogy.
: – )
Who are you talking to Claude? What you wrote certainly doesnt in any way aply to me.
Everything I have written in this thread has been truthful and logical and actually quite moderate in tone. As usual I am the voice of reason between the so called haters ang the so called smithers. Calm down Claude,As I stated before it is most probable that A lex will still be our starter when the smoke clears. And whoever is the starter I will be wildly cheering for him, can you say the same??? I hope and believe you can !
In dozens, if not hundreds, of comments, you have spewed on and on about how much you like Alex and wish the best for him, but gee whiz, … blah, blah, blah …
Today, as soon as you think the 49ers might sign Manning, you write:
This is simply too good to be true,getting PM and possibly getting to face Alex twice a year in Seattle!
You slipped up, worm.
So how do you think Alex will reconcile being back with the team and your loopy hypothesis that “JH actually meant all those wonderful things he kept saying about Alex” were untrue. Did you flunk out of pysch 101?
I agree, manning at 12M=Yes but at 18M=No imo
How the hell did Harbaugh and Greg Roman secretly board a flight to North Carolina to see Manning without Maiocco seeing them?
They paid Mindi Bach to wear a low cut blouse to 49ers HQ that day?
All eyes were on Peyton’s travel arrangements. They stopped following Harbaugh after he signed with the Niners last year, lol!
The 49ers are just doing Tom Condon a favor. They already have a deal worked out with Alex Smith and they are allowing him to use them as leverage to up Peyton’s price and at the same screwing Arizona by forcing them to commit $7 million to Kolb. Ha got to love it! The front office is finally screwing folks instead of getting screwed! Leak a few stories to Adam Schefter and boom Peyton gets his $60 million from Denver! Alex will be back, if not who ever they bring in will get the job done be it Peyton, Alex Smith, Josh Johnson, or Hasselback (if Titans sign Peyton)!
Maiocco on ESPN sportscenter right now.
Matt was asked on ESPN if Peyton Manning goes somewhere else (other than Niners) what does that mean?
Matt said “It means the 49ers certainly were not as sold on Alex Smith as they led everybody to believe.”
Funny,the moderates usually get attacked by both sides.But today it seems the so called smithers are coming unglued. Calm down guys. We are all fans of the same TEAM,not of one player on that TEAM. I have always said we should upgrade any position when the opportunity presents itself,and obviously TB and JH agree i. the PM case over Alex. As they both agreed in the Hasselbeck case over Alex last year.
Same with upgrading Chilo this year or upgrading to Miller at FB last year etc. Dont take it personally that it is now even more crystal clear that the team agrees they want an upgrade over Alex too. But relax, if you only love Alex and not the TEAM first, then you will most likely get your way and Alex will return as your starter (our starter !). Dont panic,this is a no lose situation for the real Niners fans who are also “smithers” ,because either you get an upgrade at qb or you get to keep your guy. If you love TEAM first you cant lose !
No, the haters are the ones peeing their pants. And you are the one with your BS opining about what JH really meant.
The rest of us are somewhat perplexed by this turn of events as it breaks with everything done by the FO in deed and by the coaching staff in word. But we wait and see how it turns out.
You guys are funny. I never once ever said I like Alex as my QB on the field, NEVER. What I always say is that I like Alex as a person very much and want the best for him(if that best doesnt conflict with what is best for the TEAM). Alex starting in Seattle would be best for him since it one of the few places he might actually be offered that position. But without JH protecting Alex it would probably guarantee us 2 wins a year over a mediocre team with a mediocre performer at QB . No conflict at all with what I have always said about Alex and our need to upgrade. You are simply wrong once again Claude and it was sad you felt the need to call me a childish name. Careful,Grant frowns on rule breakers and I would hate to lose you.
…Besides Claude and Hof etc, I have been saying that Alex will return as OUR starter, so you should be happy with my TEAM first posts in support of that outcome .
Tim, you are a piece of work. I’m taking your last few posts as your “true” thoughts on the subject. No more bait and switch! You’ve been outed! Go 9ers.
I personally will be cheering wildly for Alex or PM or Hasselbeck or Kaep or Flynn or Jj or whoever is starting for MY team. I hope you all can say the same since deep down under your so called smither exteriors I think you all are TEAM first fans…at least I hope that is true .Go Niners !!!
Your a funny/ strange guy Hof, but I like you!
I have been consistent all along , you just ignor that when you read my posts and only dwell on a part of whst I write. You only read and retain the parts you feel you can atack me over,while if you read the whole pists you would have to fairly judge that I am very consistent in what I write about Alex. Stop hating guys and be fair,like I always am about Alex,etc.
… Maybe a class in reading comprehension ?
…Or maybe I just compose my posts so poorly that they cant be comprehended ?Maybe that is why you always seem to be so off base when replying to me ? Possible I guess. I will try to give you guys thebenifit of he doubt on that and try to not think unkindly of your hate speech.
Grant:
Have you been digging into this story to get us the scoop?What do you think are the odds PM signs with us ? I think it is about 20% or so.
I would be speculating on wheather PM and JH could even agree on one of them changing their offense to fit the other or wheather JH would even consider changing offenses at ,etc.this stage of Kaeps progression etc. But since I sually think things that are too good to be true usually are not true,I will wait to ask those kinds of questions when and if the time really comes when Manning signs with us. But there will be sooo many interesting questions like those to be asked and hopefully answered if he does come here.
At what point does having a QB who hasn’t played in over a year guarantee a super bowl appearance or win? Yeah, he’s a sure fire hall of famer but some of you are coming unglued. What happens if the Niners got the PM who threw 11 interceptions in a 3 game stretch the last time he even played? The eagles fans probably have some parade supplies they bought last year and didn’t end up needing.
Before some of you jump all over me, whatever the Niners end up doing I’m gonna support it 100%, I’m just trying to keep and even keel about the whole situation.
Good for you Sean! I get the feeling a few of the regulars here might become Seahawks fans if Alex were to go there .But the vast majority are fans of the TEAM !!! ,not just one player.
Grant stop doping it’s affecting your sports writing abilities. Alex has nothing to do with this conspiracy that he thinks he’s worth more, or being a Diva. Manning will not be a 9er, because Harbaugh doesn’t need him. I’ll support whomever coach puts in, but most of the comments that there’s some sort of secret dealings is plain ridiculous. As I’ve said before Alex will sign whatever his agent puts in front of him, when he tells him to sign it. There’s no rush, once they lock up FAs Condon will fiddle with the contract knowing what the team has left in the bank to play with. It’s called incentives, probably performance based. Don’t ask me how I know all these things, I’ll never tell, but even if I did you probably wouldn’t believe me.