SAN FRANCISCO – Here are my grades for the 49ers 35-3 preseason victory over the San Diego Chargers, who may or may not have shown up to play.
Alex Smith: P. Smith gets a “Pass” even though he didn’t pass the ball once. He played five snaps and handed off five times, and he looked good doing it. Smith may be the finest hander-offer this side of the Mississippi.
Colin Kaepernick: A. Kaepernick dominated the Chargers’ first- and second-string defense, completing 12 of 18 passes for 158 yards and 2 TDs (131.2 QB rating). He may be one of the best quarterbacks in the league right now at throwing on the run, especially while rolling away from his throwing arm. In the pocket he’s still a work in progress – his release is longer and he telegraphs his throws sometimes. He threw a pass right to Chargers’ linebacker Takeo Spikes, who should have intercepted it but dropped it. On the other hand, Kaepernick made two beautiful throws from the pocket – one to Garrett Celek for a 37-yard gain and one to Brett Swain which would have been a 30-yard gain, but Swain dropped it. Kaepernick looks very close to a finished product.
Josh Johnson: A. Johnson probably won the No.3 QB job in this game. Playing against second- and third-stringers, Johnson put up the best stats of the game – 9-of-14 for 125 yards and 2 TDs, plus 5 rushes for 50 yards. He was the game’s leading passer (132.4 QB rating) and second leading rusher. He had been a bit inaccurate in the previous preseason games, overthrowing a couple deep passes. It seemed like he was pressing, but in this game he was relaxed and on point. When he’s relaxed, he looks like the total package.
Scott Tolzien: D+. Tolzien struggled in his third-straight preseason game. He completed just 3 of 8 passes, and he threw an interception to a defensive lineman who will probably get cut this afternoon. Tolzien did make one of the best passes of the night – a 12-yard strike to Chris Owusu on third-and-9, but Owusu dropped it. Harbaugh had Tolzien and Johnson switch off in the second half, putting enormous pressure on the two QBs to battle for the No.3 job. You love to see competition like that. Johnson stepped up and Tolzien didn’t, but I still Tolzien will be a good quarterback because he’s smart, decisive and bold.
Offensive line: A-. They helped the running backs average 5.9 yards per carry, and they only allowed one real sack – Tolzien took it in the fourth quarter. Kaepernick and Johnson got pressured a few times, but they could bail out the offensive line by scrambling. Al Netter looked perfect on all his assignments, and he even made a few blocks downfield, too. Hollywood is making a movie based those blocks, and they’re calling it Netter In Space. Netter is a dark horse to make the team this afternoon – he outperformed backup left tackle Mike Person all offseason.
Running backs: A. The only guy in this group who didn’t have a great game was Rock Cartwright – 2 carries for 5 yards. Everyone else averaged more than 4.5 yards per carry. LaMichael James averaged 5.4 yards per carry – his best performance of the offseason. He even caught 2 passes for 26 yards. Bruce Miller made one of the best catches of the night, hands extended way out from his body.
Wide receivers: B-. The top-five receivers (Michael Crabtree, Randy Moss, Mario Manningham, Kyle Williams and Ted Ginn Jr.) did not play. A.J. Jenkins played most of the game and played well – he beat the Chargers’ backups 4 times for 59 yards and a touchdown. The other wide receivers did not play so well. Nathan Palmer let two passes bounce of his chest, although he did turn a screen pass into a 51-yard touchdown, so his night wasn’t all bad. Chris Owusu dropped two passes, as well. Both guys will probably get cut, clear waivers and join the 49ers’ practice squad.
Tight ends: A. If Vernon Davis played a single snap, I missed it. Delanie Walker got most of the first-team reps, and caught a touchdown. Konrad Reuland caught 4 passes, and Garrett Celek caught 3.
Here are my grades for the defense. Keep in mind, all 11 starters sat out for this game. The backups pitched a shutout against the Chargers’ starters.
Defensive line: A-. They couldn’t contain Ronnie Brown early in the game, but they handled the rest of the Chargers’ running backs. Matthew Masifilo played particularly well, recording 4 tackles and 2 QB hits. Ian Williams also recorded 4 tackles.
Linebackers: A. Tavares Gooden was the defensive MVP, leading the team in tackles (6), including 1 for a loss. He also got 1 sack and 2 QB hits. He’s a stud on special teams, but I’ve never seen him play that well at linebacker. Ikaika Alama-Francis played most of the game at outside linebacker and recorded a half a sack and 2 QB hits. If the Niners carry a fourth outside linebacker on their roster, he’ll probably be the guy.
Secondary: A-. They struggled initially with Philip Rivers, who completed his first seven passes before a goofy left-handed incompletion. Then Darcel McBath picked him off at the goal line, and that was it for Rivers’ night. McBath played a strong game – defending a pass and making a tackle. Tramaine Brock bounced back from his dismal performance last week. He didn’t give up a single reception as far as I could tell.
Special teams: C-. David Akers missed the one field goal he attempted, and LaMichael James couldn’t catch a punt. He bobbled three, but the Chargers never got the ball from him.
49ers RSS feed
Loading ...
He also delivered a nice ball deep to Swain from the pocket that should have been caught, and delivered a nice on target pass on a crossing route to Jenkins that allowed him to pick up the first down with YAC.
LOL. Kaep is nowhere near a “finished” product Grant but you can certainly say he looks ready to become a full time NFL starting QB.
Don’t too ahead of yourselves..
GC said: “Smith may be the finest hander-offer this side of the Mississippi.”
Isn’t your shovel getting dull with all the digs?
Lighten up.
Interesting that coffee asks that we do.
That’s what I was thinking.
Grant & DSL, sitting in a tree…
Sorry Grant but you might in the future note your sarcasm when you say stuff like that with a grade of “P” as your segway into the article.
Because we know your predilection for knocking Smith. You really can’t blame anyone for taking it as written and not as sarcasm.
It’s not like Smith called those plays right? Roman called them and while Smith MAY have the ability to change the play to the look the Defense is presenting on the field, this IS Preseason and players will more often than not run the play as sent in to the QB.
Right?
I’m not knocking you but you gotta ease into this sarcasm/joke commentary where slandered players are concerned.
I’d say this whether it was 11 or 15. ;)
Oooh neato, a new guy to pick on!
Coffee, for last night AS was that exactly. No fumbles and he didn’t fall down. lol
Even you too Grant, thought you could at least take a joke. There’s so much animosity on this blog that everyone runs around on edge and defensive to the point that one stupid little remark and everyone gets their panties in a bunch.
You all must be just a barrel of laughs to hang out with.
Everyone’s been making up this morning. It warms my heart.
coffee
I am one of the most sarcastic bloggers here. But you need to build on your real opinion for awhile before you start the sarcasm bid.
You don’t give any indication (lol or :- )actuallyally writing “sarcasm” of when you being sarcastic.
Once we all know how you think and your opinion on stuff, then you can have fun with sarcasm. For instance, right after the NO game, I wrote a sarcastic post about the failings of AS in that game. Because everybody knows I am a staunch supporter of AS, nobody took it seriously.
Had I not been established though, the post could have come off very differently. Sarcasm on a blog is a hard thing to do unlike in real life. You need to establish yourself more, then when you are being sarcastic, we’ll all know it and have fun with it and reply accordingly.
“Isn’t your shovel getting dull with all the digs?”
Actually, he’s down to the rivets and handle. lol
C4c is known around Chronicle parts. If you don’t frequent their blogs then you wouldn’t know him. ;)
The offense that will debut in the Santa Clara Stadium in 2014 is going to be silly fast, athletic, and GOOD: Kaep, Hunter/James, Jenkins/Owusu/Palmer, Vernon/Delanie….. Good things ahead.
So *both* MC and AS are gone? lol
Do you really think MC is going to extend here after 2013 season? I doubt that. I’m not sure Alex is “gone” but Kaep will be the starter.
that would be awesome
Owusu didn’t even make the team. -_-
“his release is longer and he telegraphs his throws sometimes.”
You statement is true, but mainly from the pocket. His throws on the run are outstanding and his release seems to be quicker when throwing on the run.
“A.J. Jenkins played most of the game and played well”
Yes he did. In most instances, the defender was 5 yds away. Very good game and expect to see more from him. TB and staff may have the steal of the draft. TBD.
That’s what I meant – his release is longer from the pocket.
Keep in mind, re: Jenkins, the Rams’ Jenkins is starting and has been reported to be one of the best players on the team already.
Watch the game back. His release is almost exactly like Philip Rivers. Rivers hasn’t done too badly over his career.
Good point. I don’t think Kaep’s release will hold him back.
The Rams Jenkins plays for the Rams. He wouldn’t be one of the best players on the 49ers and he wouldn’t be starting for the 49ers. AJ Jenkins would be one of the best players on the Rams as well.
Janoris Jenkins is a stud and the Niners secondary hasn’t played well this preseason. They may regret passing on him.
Or, Janoris Jenkins could *very easily* get popped by the man with a pound or ten of reefer, and end up suspended or even on the Folsom Prison Developmental Squad.
It’s a little early to be evaluating 2012 draft picks. Wake me in 2016 and we’ll talk.
You’re right – it’s too early.
A.J. Jenkins led the Niners receivers in preseason with 122 yards receiving (eight catches). What a bust ,huh Grant ? lol
We saw the future last night at QB !!! Finally !
Glen Coffee led the NFL in preseason rushing a few years ago. So Did Thomas Clatyon.
Now GC, does that include what CK has done in preseason? If we dismiss AJJ and his play, must we also dismiss CK’s play as well?
I’m not praising Kaepernick because of his stats. He’s done unique, impressive things.
For instance – his TD pass to Jenkins. He had to drill it. I don’t know if any other QB on the team could have made it.
Jenkins hasn’t had a “wow” moment like that. He’s played a lot of snaps and caught some passes and dropped some as well.
“his TD pass to Jenkins.”
Beautiful throw and he laser(ed) it in there.
The throw Sunday to Reuland on a line may have been more impressive because he was rolling to his left.
I agree. That’s his signature throw.
He did that consistently in college as well. That’s a nice trick to have in your bag.
Meanwhile, Philip Rivers left-handed attempt died two yards in front him. The worst throw I’ve seen in a while.
Grant, you cant compare WRs to RBs in this regard, and you are playing dirty to try to win this one. Just because you said AJ Jenkins is no good doesn’t make it true, and you have to admit that he’s looked better than pretty much every other 2012 WR 1st round pick, except for Blackmon. Kendall Wright looks about as good as Jenkins. Steven Hill looks terrible, and your hybrid WR/TE Fleener has been unremarkable. The best so far? Blackmon, Sanu, Jenkins/Wright…
Meanwhile, Griff Whalen is setting the league on fire…
Preseason stat leaders are irrelevant.
Stats lie, you are correct. But Jenkins certainly doesn’t look overmatched or overwhelmed, and he has definitely taken to the coaching at 4949. On the other hand, your boy looks completely lost in every game I’ve seen him play this pre-season (3 of 4).
Jenkins hasn’t beaten a starting cornerback yet, and his drop last week was a bad one.
On the other hand, Fleener’s going to start in the regular season. Jenkins isn’t going to play.
Clayton was a 6th-round draft choice who’s lived up to his preseason promise just by dint of the fact he defied the odds and is still in the league five years later. Coffee isn’t only because he felt a religious calling, but Niners clearly had plans for him.
Whatever you read into Jenkins’ preseason stats, it’s hard to deny the ability he’s shown to create separation, something the Niners badly could have used in last year’s NFC championship game. I expect Jenkins will get better at making contested catches in traffic as he gets stronger in coming years, but as long as he creates separation and catches the ball, I’m not sure how physical a receiver he needs to be. A guy by the name of Rice did ok without being that type of receiver.
He hasn’t created separation against starters, and Jerry Rice was not soft.
GC said: “Fleener’s going to start in the regular season”
Fleener is a TE on a team that has no legitimate starting TE to challenge him, who else would they start? Jenkins came to a team with established veterans already vying for spots, not exactly the same situation and hardly a fair comparison.
I’m also pretty certain the Luck/Fleener connection probably had a little something to do with it as well. Did Smith and Jenkins play together and college and have the opportunity to bring that chemistry with them to the pros? Narp.
That’s why the Colts got an “A” for drafting Fleener. It made sense on all levels. The Jenkins pick only made sense if you believe the Niners have no needs anywhere on their roster and they could afford to draft 2-3 year projects in every round. That’s probably going to bite them this year. The other Super Bowl contenders will get contributions from their rookies right away and in the future. Nick Perry will be a factor. Rueben Randle will be, too.
Jerry Rice is definitely NOT soft, but Randy Moss is. But Randy Moss has more talent than Rice ever did, which is why he was capable of producing such gaudy numbers despite showing inconsistent dedication through the years. What makes a WR great? It might be the hardest position in the sport to accurately forecast in terms of prospective success. That Grant, or anybody else, tries to say with any certainty that any but the most obviously pedigreed studs will excel in the NFL is dishonest.
Randy Moss can catch a contested jump ball. Jenkins has never done that.
Having solid games against mostly Vanilla Preseason 2nd 3rd and 4th team Defenses is neither unique nor impressive Grant.
Don’t get me wrong, I like the upside to Kappy. Just think that you’re overstating it just a wee bit. ;)
Can you absolutely say without doubt that he’d start over Davis and Walker if we had drafted him?
No, I never said he would start over Vernon Davis. I do think he would be a big upgrade over Delanie Walker right away. Fleener would have given the Niners a potent two-tight end offense from the start. But I’m not arguing that Fleener was the only good pick for the Niners. Janoris Jenkins would have been a good pick. Adam Schefter thinks he’s a future Pro Bowler.
The Niners secondary hugely benefits from the front seven. They needed a talent like Janoris back there.
OK check that. Can you say for certain that he would have started over Walker?
And jT…
Wasn’t Rice known for his ability to avoid the punishing brutal hits from the likes of Alstot and other punishing tacklers? I’m not suggesting that Rice was “Soft” but not getting Punished while making the play doesn’t mean a Receiver is soft. AJJ is not soft by any means. I never saw him try to avoid a hit by going OB.
In fact I would have to say that he’ll likely be our leading YAC Receiver this season if he sees the field consistently. AJJ made Swain expendable. Williams might be on the way out too but I wouldn’t say that AJJ made him expendable. Williams would be lost due to the numbers if he’s waived.
*ALWORTH… sorry my brain said Alworth my fingers typed Alstot. Two ENTIRELY different positions. *D’OH! O_o
TIM,
Just a few days ago you were kicking yourself for coming here, yet you keep finding your way back. BTW, Jenkins was never called a bust by Grant.
if Grant didn’t call Jenkins a Bust, remind me what term he did use…
Bad first round pick by Baalke, not a bad player. He would have been a good second or third round pick.
He wouldn’t have been around in the 2nd round, nor would they have gotten LaM if they had done as you suggest here. You still like Stephen Hill?
You don’t know if he wouldn’t have been around in the second round, and you don’t know if James wouldn’t have been around in the third.
I never liked Stephen Hill that much. I just thought he’d get drafted higher because of his height/weight/speed. I was wrong. He could still turn out good in a couple years. He’s a project.
@ Jt, Grant:
http://www.stltoday.com/sports/football/professional/rams-miss-out-on-wr-jenkins/article_02ddc12d-b649-5ef0-84f4-02f6487fb11d.html
Believe that if you want. I think they would have drafted Quick and Janoris even if A.J. was available.
But even if that is true, so what? The Rams liked him so he’s going to be good? Who are the Rams? They’re authorities on talent?
None of us knew a GD thing about AJ Jenkins, truth be told, and I liked the idea of Fleener/Hill/PhysicalFreak at #30 as much as you did. But you freaked out on draft day, and it still affects your objectivity, it seems. Maybe not. Maybe you are more self-aware than it appears to your MANY readers who ask you why you continue to harp on Jenkins. Alas it is of no importance. There were teams at 33-38 that openly said they were looking at Jenkins. Maybe the Niners should have drafted David Wilson at #30 and AJ Jenkins or whomever else they could have gotten at the spot they picked up LaM.
I knew about Jenkins, and I didn’t freak out. I gave the appropriate grade. If the Rams had drafted Jenkins with the 33rd pick, that would have been a bad pick, too.
The most optimistic Jenkins prognosticators see Torry Holt. But Jenkins is way softer than Holt, who was a soft receiver and top-10 pick.
I don’t think Jenkins has made a jumping, contested catch in his life, and he goes down immediately in traffic.
@ Grant:
Believe that if you want.
Doubt it if you want. Denial is a powerful drug.
And even if that is true, so what? The Rams liked him so he’s going to be good?
If it is true, then he would not have been available for the 49ers to select in the 2d round, which was Jt_oSnowlovan’s point.
The fact that Baalke and Harbaugh liked Jenkins is what gives me confidence that he will be good. I haven’t yet watched last night’s game, but the reports I have read suggest that he played well. I wouldn’t be so quick to conclude that Jenkins won’t contribute this season.
Your faith is strong.
Your faith is strong
In Baalke and Harbaugh? You bet.
It’s been one season. Mariucci had a 13-3 rookie season, too.
Grant
The Mooch reference is a little weak, imo: Mooch, like Geroge Seifert, inherited excellent teams for their rookie years; JH? Not so much; he got some talented guys, some of whom were underperforming……
Harbaugh inhereted an excellent team as well (especially after the Aldon Smith pick). It only looked subpar because Singletary had been blowing it.
Halfway through last season it was clear the Niners’ roster was top-10 in talent.
Torry Holt is the best WR in the history of the Rams organization… not even close. If Jenkins approaches Holt I will be overjoyed.
Jenkins is not in Holt’s class. Holt could go up and get a ball on the sideline or in the end zone. I’ve never, ever seen Jenkins do that. Not once.
Do you have a flux capacitor? Because I’d rather not do the see-saw for the next 16 games (nevermind 16 years).
I do, actually. And a Delorean. Let’s fire it up to 88…
Why do you insist on making such strong conclusory statements so prematurely? Do you really think that you have sufficient data to reach such an absolute, final conclusion?
I’ve watched a lot of Jenkins. I’m not one to hedge my opinions. If I’m wrong I’ll own up to it.
It’s not about hedging your opinion. It’s about waiting until you have sufficient information before forming an opinion.
I feel I’ve seen enough. I’m putting myself out there. Isn’t it more fun that way? If I’m wrong you guys can shred me to pieces.
@ Grant:
I don’t know that it makes anything more fun, but it certainly stimulates debate, which I guess is good for you in the short term because it likely increases page hits.
The risk is that you may lose credibility if you do it too much. If less credibility means fewer visits to the site in the long term, then it’s not so good for you.
If I didn’t feel confident in my assessment I wouldn’t put myself out there. I understand the risk.
And remember – I never declared Jenkins a bust. I said it was a bad pick because I believe 10-30 players who were drafted after Jenkins will end up having better careers – Janoris Jenkins, Rueben Randle and Coby Fleener, to name three right now.
Grant
If all those other guys you mention end up having a career that on a scale of 1-10 end up as a 10, and AJ ends up as a 9, how poor of a pick was it?
@ Grant:
If I didn’t feel confident in my assessment I wouldn’t put myself out there.
That’s the point Grant. You don’t know enough to be so confident. Neither Jenkins nor the other receivers you mentioned have played a single down in a regular season NFL game, and you already know, with absolute certainty, how their careers will turn out.
Claude,
It’s about having an opinion. Isn’t that what this board is all about? Having an opinion, and hopefully backing it up with facts.
There is nothing more lame than someone who comes on here and just says, “whatever Harbaugh and Co do I am behind it” or “training camp determines all.”
@Jack:
Not all opinions are equally valid. Not all opinions offered on this blog are supported by sufficient facts. Many aren’t even consistent with the facts.
Moreover, it’s one thing to offer an opinion. It’s quite another to act like it is unquestionably correct.
What’s lame is when someone combines the two and offers a strong, absolutist opinion that has no real factual basis or an insufficient factual basis.
Note: the foregoing are general statements in response to Jack’s general statements about the exchange of opinions on a board. They are not directed at Jack, Grant or anyone in particular.
Claude,
I understand that “Not all opinions offered on this blog are supported by sufficient facts.” which is why I said hopefully.
@Jack:
which is why I said hopefully.
I am impressed with how well you have dealt with having your hopes dashed repeatedly.
If I was an emoticon kind of guy, I would have put one of those smiley face things at the end of the preceding sentence.
Which one was the future, JJ or CK?
Grant let’s back this argument/truck up and revisit “The Colts got an A for drafting Fleener”
The only reason it makes sense imho, is that doing so gives Luck the security blanket that Smith enjoys with Davis because Fleener knows Luck and was one of the reasons that Luck was so successful in College. I guarantee that the 9ers front office would NOT have received the same grade had they drafted Fleener even though Harbaugh coached the kid. We got OUR grade because Baalke snapped up some of the most coveted UDFA players in recent history. ;)
I seriously doubt that the Colts would have received an A grade had they drafted another less promising player. Like say… AJ Jenkins?
And remember Aldon Smith was on NOBODY’S 1st round board and look how that worked out for Baalke. It’s too early/late to speculate on whether drafting AJJ over Fleener was a mistake. ;)
AJJ over a lot of players, not just Fleener, was a mistake.
That remains to be seen Grant. Too early to make a call like that.
You’re right. Call it a prediction.
You’ve made enough predictions about JJ and Fleener to start your own 1-800 service
In the epic battle of backups and scrubs, the Niners prevailed…had to build this up somehow.
Kap just keeps getting better and better. Each time he plays you see improvement in his throwing and awareness out there. He was on the money with practically every throw and escaped pocket pressure with ease. He clearly distanced himself from the other 2 QB’s over the course of the preseason.
If this was a final test between JJ and Tolzien to see who stepped up and won the 3rd QB job, then JJ is your man. He’s so athletic with the ball in his hands and a natural runner once he breaks the pocket. If they base it on the 4 games as a whole, it gets a little more muddled. Both QB’s had good and bad moments, but JJ clearly outplayed Tolzien last night and Tolzien in fact looked a little tight and didn’t complete some easy throws he had earlier in TC. This is going to be a hard decision for the Coaching staff no doubt about it. I read somewhere that they could keep all 4 but that would be an incredible waste of roster space. You have to let one of them go and accept it.
Dixon may have won the final RB/ST’s job the past two weeks at the expense of Cartwright. The guy stepped up and played well. LMJ did a nice job catching the ball out of the backfield and showing some of the shake and bake he has. Nice to see him back after the scary ankle injury, but I don’t think he is going to be returning punts in the regular season for a few years yet. Hunter looks like the best RB on this roster right now. He is playing with a ton of confidence and seems to make a positive play everytime he touches the ball. Love what I’ve seen from him.
Delanie Walker made a beautiful catch and run for a TD for his first real action of the preseason. Looks like he’s ready to go. Reuland will be on the bubble because I’m not sure they will keep a 3rd true TE, but if they do he’s the guy. Celek had a couple of good catches but also dropped another. He maybe a PS candidate but more likely that spot will go to Reuland.
It was bottom of the roster night at WR and AJ Jenkins showed why he was picked as high as he was. Caught everything that came his way, got open and also showed some of that great speed he has. Napalm was up and down, taking a quick hitch throw and racing down the sideline for a TD, but also dropped a couple. Owusu had an off night also dropping throws one of them on a 3rd down that would have resulted in a 1st.
The Oline did a nice job overall but were bailed out by Kap and JJ a few times. Nothing really to comment on as they did a yeomans job.
Ian Williams stood out to me again. He has a nose for the ball and is disruptive. I think they keep him but you never know. Cam Johnson saw his first action and didn’t stand out which is to be expected when you haven’t played in a month, but he’ll probably be a PS guy that they’ll continue to develop.
Decent bounce back game for Brock, but if they see somebody on the waiver wire that has a little experience, I could see Brock being dropped. McBath had a nice pick, but for the most part has been invisible so I’m guessing they keep the rook (TRob) over him.
GB in ten days…
Great job. I love your write ups.
Thanks Grant. Much appreciated.
+1
Rocket,
I like Reuland. On a team that has players that occasionally drop passes, that guy catches EVERYTHING!
dropped a pass last night
+2. Spot on with Rueland who was cut today.
Just had this thought – I don’t think Rock Cartwright will make the team. I think the 49ers will carry 6 rbs (Gore, Hunter, Jacobs, Dixon, James, Miller) and 5 safeties (Goldson, Whitner, Spillman, Robinson, McBath).
I think this scenario is possible Grant, but I still think Seely may demand they keep Jones for ST’s over McBath.
GC, you are probably right – let’s see how this plays out. I thought ADix would make the team and I still think CJones makes it as one of BSeely’s guys. He had 8 ST tackles last year and was getting better. He’s not the gunner but has the speed (4.3) to make up ground and get to the PR/KR. TBD.
Jones had a poor offseason, and he missed a point-blank tackle on a punt return last night. McBath is more talented.
How many QBs? 2, 3, 0r 4? Would you keep Mcbath or say JJ/Tolzien?
I think the’ll cut Tolzien, he’ll clear waivers and take a spot on the practice squad.
They won’t keep 4 QBs on the roster. A ST player has more value.
Tolzien might be better than either of those disasters playing QB in Arizona. Considering the ineptitude of the Cardinals’ front office maybe the 49ers can trade Tolzien for Peterson.
Heck, the Jets gave up a 4th for the Lord of Slaughtered Gophers; maybe the 49ers could get a 3rd for Tolzien?
No way in hell Tolzien clears waivers. That’s not happening. If he gets cut I wish him well wherever he lands.
@ceadderman
Well, not too well. lol
Was thinking that last night too while rewatching the game.
Good call before it happened!
A.D. going back in the game late in the 4th Quarter tells me what i have thought since Roman/Baalke uncharacteristically spoke out about A.D. making the team earlier this week: He is getting traded before the GB game. They were showcasing him last night. If he makes the 53, he would not be carrying so late in a worthless game. They will not cut him today to show teams if you want him you need to trade for him.
Actually I think they were giving him more of a look see to make sure they weren’t going to cut a guy deserving at a Roster spot. It was an open competition between him and Cartwright.
With Cartwright being cut I have no doubts that this was the goal for running both of them so much last night with James. Cartwright really only gave them 2 options. Dixon gave them 4. Makes sense to keep the Jack of all Trades and cut the specialist.
Grant – Brett Hundley looked a lot like Kaepernick last night. Looks like a version of the Oregon offense has made its way to Westwood.
He certainly did. And Franklin was unstoppable. They could be a factor in the Pac 12.
That would be fun for a change. I have been yearning for relevance since the MJD/Olson days. I think Mora Jr. is the right man for the job.
Noel Mazzone, too. He’s the real deal.
Yes he is. When I heard Tebow, Philip Rivers, and Christian Ponder all worked with him at UCLA in the off season I realized he is the REAL deal. I’m guess NFL teams are VERY picky about who they let their franchise QB’s work with when away from the facilities.
Grant, are you fielding questions to ask at the next presser? If so, I have a question.
Are the QB’s all generally running the same plays? If so, is it up to them to make their own decision as to which read is open?
It seems like both Kaepernick and JJ attack long more frequently, followed by Smith and then Tolzien. Are the plays different or are the QB’s playing to their strengths?
Always. I’ll ask Roman and the quarterbacks. Harbaugh would duck it because it’s “scheme.”
Harbaugh would ignore it because you’re a “Cohn.”
What’s his excuse for ducking everyone else’s questions?
Did you see Adam Schein threw you and the other Bay Area reporters a bone when he suggested Harbaugh stop acting like a jerk towards you guys on his NFL.com article?
Didn’t see that. That was noble of him.
He doesn’t duck Tom Tolbert. He doesn’t duck questions that are wide open questions without the insertion of “a characterization [he] wouldn’t agree with.” As much as journalism is commonly a subjective endeavor driven by those asking the questions, when it is at its best, it is an apparently objective question that demands the answer to a question everyone was considering. Do less of the former and more of the latter and you will get more out of him.
KNBR is business partners with the 49ers.
Harbaugh ducks every pointed question. You give it a shot.
Also, if you do less of the “antagonizing his players” thing and replace it with more of the “challenging him to his face” thing, he will respect you more and probably deal with you more forthrightly. I have a PhD in Psychology and an MA in Journalism, btw…
Then come on down to the media tent. Clearly we need you.
I didn’t say Tom Tolbert does the latter, but Harbaugh doesn’t duck his questions, and Tolbert does ask him some tougher questions. Harbaugh is the classic man, and Tolbert’s physicality, much taller and much bigger than Harbaugh, demands Harbaugh’s respect, even if Harbaugh isn’t aware of it. He’ll never look at people like you or your dad or me and think, “I owe that guy my total respect” because we all look like the people he never really had to deal with, physically unimposing, intellectually stimulated… Not saying Harbaugh’s not smart, because he is incredibly smart and incredibly adept and handling people, making them react to him rather than react to them, but he is not an intellectual, and the intellectuals do not charm him as they charm Cohn Sr. and yourself. Ratto is “one charming mf pig,” but I’m sure that escapes Harbaugh. Dig?
Ha ha ha ha. Funniest deconstruction of Harbaugh I’ve ever read. Way to flash that PhD.
I would love to make it to the tent one day. But in the meantime, use your own sly wit to outsmart Harbaugh and get him to start working on your wavelength, rather than you working on his.
There is not one person in the entire world who is on Harbaugh’s wavelength. Maybe a Dolphin is.
the Beard?
Not to wade into a private touchy feely conversation between you two, but I for one have noticed that at the Pressers Harbs responds to cut and dry questions and not the ones where a question is elaborated upon by the person asking it. He’s not stupid, in fact I’d have to say he’s borderline Savant.
I’d be willing to bet that the reason he doesn’t give out much is because he’s mildly offended that anyone would feel the need to clarify a question that 1)Was just asked and 2) Before he had a chance to really answer it.
Also I think there are only so many ways of asking the same question before it becomes tedious and gets the “Next Question” treatment.
That’s how I see it anyway. I have to say that it’s difficult enough to hear the question but having participated in team Sports all of my life til I graduated High School, I think I can reasonably hold my own in this field. The man is a Jock. Jocks do well when other Jocks are asking the questions because the Jock knows what not to ask and what is fair game.
THIS is why Harbs answers Tolberts questions. Notice that when Ralph is asking the Question, Harbs isn’t as forthcoming? It’s cause Ralph has to clarify it. As he ALWAYS does. Harbs is just a little more polite about it and just gives the “Yup” answer for the most part. Seriously listen to them both question the guy and you tell me if I’m on the money or not.
The Golden Rule of Reporting used to be Who What Why When and Where and rarely an opinion eked it’s way in there. Give the information to the reader and all the facts you have at your disposal and let the Reader formulate their own opinion. Now the public is spoon fed opinion on a daily basis and even College Grads have the attention span of a gnat imho, not meant as an insult but more commentary on the state of the American Society as a whole.
Harbs doesn’t respond favorably with impatient people and personally I don’t blame the man.
Grant
AS is on the same wavelength as JH. I don’t see JH doing what he did last year bringing AS back if the 2 aren’t pretty similar wavelength wise.
Grant,
Which Dolphin?
I do know that Grant mentioned that Harbaugh got on CK earlier in the summer about checking down instead of looking for the deeper pass during practice. His mobility definitely provides a little more time for the receivers to get down field, which is nice.
I wouldn’t judge the preseason at all on the 49ers. When AS is out there, they’re holding things back. They dont want GB seeing anything. Wait for a couple real games and see what JH has in store for the starters.
Buy my nephew’s album. In stores this month!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O4X4lxT2Ri0&feature=plcp
Now, back to football…
Lol! That is totally something I would do, you already know that. There is nothing wrong with a shameless plug for “Sippin on some Milk.”
Sippin it up, po’in it up, dranking it up…
I think you should drop the album on the twenty fif do’.
I should, sho’ nuff.
Do you ever shave? You’re as bad as my son. :-D
I shaved last night, just for you!
Yup, he went out got the cat put milk on his face and the cat made it smooooooove. :D
Apparently Grant needs to lighten up too…
Looked like the Safeties heard the Godfather loud and clear. The defense overall played very well irrespective of the fact they were backups. Opening day at Green Bay will be a relevation as to what this defense is capable of.
Will Harbaugh have any interest in Evan Moore?
Wouldnt surpise me if the Niners kept all 4 QBs for a few days. The 53 man squad we see today will probably be a little different then the one we see on opening day. It always seems to go that way, waiting for all players to be waived and we pick someone up. Who knows. Glad I am not in Harbaughs shoes having to face those 22 young men who surely have talent, and tell them sorry cant use you.
Pre season or not it was nice to see a qb throw for touchdowns instead of 3 and outs, field goals and check downs. It was entertaining to watch the niners offense for once.
Agree that Masifilo played well. I saw Tuk pass rush from NG spot on one snap and looked quick & agile; he blew up a guy with a lead block too.
The team intensity that was missing in Denver seemed to show up.
According to Inman of the Mercury the Niners are not going to release the names till after 6 tonight.
@undercenter:
I am sure that Harbaugh believes releasing the names one minute earlier than he has to would provide opponents with a competitive advantage.
or one of these idiots might get injured on a motorcycle at 5:36pm…
Your right Claude that is most certainly Harbaughs way. I loved the way he coaches, he is so into it.
Not due until Sunday, I think.
Deadline is 6pm tonight.
jacky vato…..wrong about reuland…told you so vato….
We were both wrong Latino. I was wrong on Reuland and you were wrong on Cooley.
Who’s better: Cam Newton or Colin Kaepernick?
please, discuss…
I like CK plenty, but I’d have to answer that question with Cam cuz he’s done it under live fire with DCs game-planning against him and only fair talent around him. That being said, CK has some impressive raw talent that matches some of Cam’s.
I’d guess Kap is faster and more elusive while Cam is stronger. They both have powerful arms but so far Cam has shown more touch. The guys seem to believe in CK, but Cam has excellent leadership skills, at this point I’d give Cam the edge there too; just cuz he’s good, no strike on CK
On second thought, San Diego did actually game plan against Kap (esp. the read option), but only for that one game as opposed to Cam’s body of work from 2011.
Your analysis is sound. Kaep is faster and has a stronger arm, but Cam has a thicker build and his leadership is already proven in the NFL. If you look at how players reacted to Kaep at Nevada, how he was able to turn games around, how he rose to the challenge during multiple games against Boise, it would be hard to question Kaep’s leadership skills.
The only question you failed to consider is: who has better coaching? And while this is not within either player’s control, it is certainly a relevant consideration in the balancing.
I’d agree Brotha – Cam has done it against live defenses.
Of course my 49ers bias forces me to point out that Cam wasn’t as effective in the 2nd half of the season after teams had film on him.
Just read a tweet from Eric Branch saying Colin Jones is being traded to the Panthers. No terms were released, however.
Followed up by saying it’s for a 7th. Hopefully conditional )
Do the 49ers have the entire 7th round yet? ;-)
yes
RE: jenkins how well a draftee plays his rookie yr is meaningless IE: jerry rices rookie yr. how well he plays the next 10 yrs is important and what i saw out of aj in college and the last couple of preseason games leads me to believe he is going to be a very strong receiver in the nfl. in regards to ck i hope harbaugh does’nt rush him. i would like to see him pick his spots this yr kind of like walsh with montana and then turn him loose next yr. if smith has a solid yr this yr and kap is ready next yr it could lead to a really nice draft day trade
Jerry Rice caught 49 passes his rookie year and averaged 18.9 yards per catch. If Jenkins does that, I’ll admit I was as wrong as wrong could be.
is that with Joe Montana or Alex Smith passing him the ball?
or, um, CK7?
Half of Rice’s yards were YAC. He would have dominated if Tolzien had been throwing him the ball.
Got it. Montana = Tolzien
You don’t got it.
Or did I miss your inflection?
he also dropped approx 15 balls
How many has Jenkins dropped in four preseason games? 5? 6?
hallfallujah
Cartwright is gone
Branch is on it today!
Eric Branch @Eric_Branch
RT @Rockgotti25: Wanna thank the 49ers for the opportunity. << #49ers cut Rock Cartwright, it appears.
Expected but still a bit of a bummer. Cartwright seems to be a class act. Tough to make it in the NFL as a 32 year old running back.
49ers Trade Colin Jones to Carolina
for a 7th round pick
ninersrock says:
August 31, 2012 at 12:17 pm
Just read a tweet from Eric Branch saying Colin Jones is being traded to the Panthers. No terms were released, however.
Thanks for the link Cluade … I liked C. Jones, but it looked like the team was going to cut him. So it’s better to get something in return.
@Nick:
With Cartwright and Jones gone, who are the players being kept for their special teams play?
Darcel McBath, C.J. Spillman, Trenton Robinson.
A. Dixon
RC was a class act but age was a factor. At least they got some value for CJones. Other trades on the horizon?
@Grant, Nick:
Timing is everything. Sando chart showing primary special teamers in 2011
Cam Johnson might make the 53. Or Bahktiari, but Johnson probably has more upside
CJones only played in 13 games and had 8 ST tackles. They’ll miss him.
I’m surprised they got a pick for CJ but good on ‘em for doing so if they had decided he wasn’t going to make the final cutdown. Dixon’s play the past two weeks pretty much forced Cartwright off the team.
League source has confirmed Cartwright’s release per MB.
I am so excited to see the new 2012 team. It’s like christmas morning waiting for mom and dad to get up…I am a huge Tolzien Fan, but I’m a 49er fan most of all. They could field Santa Claus for all I care. If Rudolph took us to the superbowl, I’d sport a red nose.
That’s how I feel about the cuts. I think if the team keeps JJ, its trade value. He won’t see the field behind Smith and Kaepernick. Keeping 4 qbs doesn’t make much sense long term because the 3rd stringer runs the scout team so a 4th stringer wouldn’t even get a snap.
I agree with Grant though that the more pressing issue was CB and I think they got teh wrong Jenkins. Now I can’t wait to see the cut list. Anticipation is killing me!
The Patriots released their center Dan Koppen and WR Deion Branch. They also released Brian Hoyer which makes the QB that SF releases more likely to make a PS if they go that route.
I’m expecting Branch to be resigned after week 1.
There are some established Vets in the cut lines. It appears like more teams are willing to go young long term rather than the win now syndrome.
I hope the organization doesn’t take a Madden 08 mentality and try to pick up old cut veterans, but instead invest in their young backups and let some of the older guys go.
The vet minimums are close to $1 million now and the entire year is guaranteed if they are on the roster in week 1. We could see some of these guys picked up after week 1 as injury replacements.
@ msclemons67 Great point Sir! I get caught up in who is cut rather than the reasons. Thank you
Grant,
Are you concerned that you will lose 4 or 5 Smithers on your blog, when Kaep or Johnson take over the number 1 for Sir Alex Smith by game 6 of the season?
Which posters do you think would leave the blog altogether if Smith lost his job?
Onewhiner, prime, would leave immediately. Hofer and DS would stick around but their post volume would go down about 65%.
……I was here before you both, am sure I will be here when you are done…..
…..were you here before Alex Smith joined the team…..?
Bay, I’ll be here 100% of the time playing your current role (heel vs face). Good times. lol
Grant – 23J is the answer. His supply of blood to his heart muscle would stop due to laughing hysterically. So technically he would have left us.
Grant,
As Nick said you probably have a good idea, I believe a few of the Smithers are AS fans first then Niner fans second. I remember like yesterday, when many of us were excited to hear about the possibility of Manning coming to the Niners, the Smithers disappeared for a while. The Smithers are a very very sensitive group, Prime, Latino Heat, Hof, DS, FDM, Ribico are a few. However DS has got to be the biggest AS fan in the world, next to AS mother. She has compared Alex Smith to Joe Montana, she has also said that she would rather have Smith then Rodgers, which is crazy and the knock out punch is she does not think Marino and Fouts are elite QB’s.
DS is by far the most sensitive, but I am not sure if she would leave because this site is 99% of her social life, but I can’t wait until Harbaugh lets his golf caddy go. This place will turn into a blog riot for a while, now that would be fun, past the end of the Smith era and now the chance to win some Super Bowls. If we played New England last year, we would of lost that game because Smith is just so limited. Time will tell.
Crab, 23J has left here so many times via bets his nickname should be turnstile. Is there an avatar available? lol
Ahhhh..How sweet.
You guys are thinking about me.
Do us all a favor and don’t.
Thanks.
>>The Smithers are a very very sensitive group, Prime, Latino Heat, Hof, DS, FDM, Ribico are a few.
Yes, *we* are the ones who have vowed to leave if x happens. I think you have us mistaken for Bay and 23J who actually have said that. 23J came back with his welcher tail between his legs. Will see if Bay has nore honor.
>>…..were you here before Alex Smith joined the team…..?
Was there a “here” before Alex Smith joined the team?
Grant,
Just put it this way. I’m sure you noticed the difference in volumne when Tolzein didnt play well last night. I couldn’t find anyone here. However, if Smith gets benched, you’re gonna have to find us some company. We wll be missing.
Hofer
DS
Claude
OneNiner
Latino Heat
FDM
Ribico
Prime Time
Any other Smithers I’ve left out please forgive me. I mean no disrespect with this list. This is the same group that was on suicide watch the week that it was reported that the Niners were players for Peyton Manning. It was a glorious week. Remember, no disrespect, just truth.
Jordan, the only person who’s name is anywhere in that posting who has promised to leave is … care to tell us?
@23welcher:
You wouldn’t know the truth if it smacked you in the face.
I think J23 named some of the the people. I know for sure Onelame would be gone. He left when T Smith and Hill were starting. THATS FACT! And then he got booted because he lost his mind from the beating me and telecat gave him. THATS FACT!
In fact can ANYONE show me a positive comment about JJ or CK from ds, or onelame? Id love to see just 1 positive comment. JUST 1
@Ninermd:
In fact can ANYONE show me a positive comment about JJ or CK from ds, or onelame? Id love to see just 1 positive comment. JUST 1
Here you go:
http://49ers.pressdemocrat.com/2012/08/inside-the-49ers/live-blog-49ers-vs-chargers-2/#comment-254866
Now, will you please drop these silly feuds and just talk football?
…..anyone ever noticed Clowns make the funniest faces when you taser them?…….
DS94everXev says:
August 30, 2012 at 10:43 pm
Nick
JJ had great protection on a deep pass he missed. Nobody near him. Keep in mind he is a vet playing against the scrubs of scrubs. He should look this good.
AS considering how little he played did make some nice roll out passes this preseason. Ratio wise, more than CK/JJ did. And when AS missed, he was closer all preseason long than CK/JJ were with their misses.
Don’t think for a second either of them are at AS’s level yet. The RB’s are really helping tonight as well. JJ’s 2nd TD was such an easy pass because the LB had just been embaressed the previous play and lost track of the WR. If the RB’s aren’t looking very good, that throw is a lot harder.
It all adds up together. Bad RB play, and the QB has a lot harder time
——————————————————
Claude I really appreciate the attempt. But stating the obvious isnt necessarily positive. Ill stick with comments like this. Raining on the parade of another 49er player in defense of Alex Smith. Its sad. And I cant consider people like this being a 49er fan. Why $*it on another players good day? Answer me that Claude. You know this wasnt right.
Notice how there isnt atleast an attempt for Onelame? Hmmmmmmmmmm
Is that md’s first post on this blog? So errily similar to hi first post on yesterdays blog. Hate, hate, insult.
That is 2 straight days if you’re counting ex where md can’t help but think of me. Even though some poor girl is with him, he fantasizes about me That would be horrible for her.
md Can you go a day and not bring me up?
Ds you whine about me hating you like its not well known. Yes I hate you. How else should I put it? And my sexy a** wife would never worry about a jobless pig with no life on a blog. What I fantasize about with you is meeting you someday in a dark alley.
What are you mad because I reposted you downing our OTHER Qb’s??? And Im the hater? Not of my team. CHECKMATE 8EOTCH!!!!
md
What I ask of you, a dog can do.
Have a pleasant evening.
Come on Grant, I’m sure you know the answer to that question
Troll Wagon picking up passengers now. Free rides. LOL
>>when Kaep or Johnson take over the number 1 for Sir Alex Smith by game 6 of the season?
You are cracking me up, dude. Inform Harbough immediately of this Niners near future.
But if Kaep or Johnson led the team to a 13-3 record, NFCCG we’d all be one happy family. Just like now, right?
Rib,
It is going to happen and it going to happen this season, because AS does not have the pocket presence the trigger, and the secondary and third reads ability. He can’t just dink and dunk forever, or get crushed in the pocket, he will be gone soon, count on it, book it, the future is now and AS will not be starting that much longer. This guy would not even be the third sting QB in the hey day of the Niners. Steve Bono is a better QB than AS will ever be. Drink the Kool Aid ribby.
Neal,
Since Harbaugh has named Smith the starter we need to support him and hope he does well. If Smith is replaced for any reason other than injury it is not a good thing.
Jack, haters would rather see the team go down the tubes than AS succeed. You are perceptive, should know that by now.
Rib,
You have such a talent that you can read people’s minds, your amazing.
The hypocrisy on here is amazing, lol
Especially when what’s on their minds comes pouring out of their keyboards.
Follow the logic, Neal, it’s not hard. If the Niners make your dream change to the their starting QB during the season, there is only one reason for it – the team is… get ready for this…losing. Team is winning, no change to the starting QB.
You want a QB change so bad, you’ll pull for the team to lose. There, is that so hard to follow?
Rib,
It could also be an injury, but I didn’t want to go there.
Me either Jack, but that’s not where Neal is either. Kittycat was pulling for AS’s career-ender to get the change, the only way Neal gets his wish is the team tanking.
@ Jack:
If Smith is replaced for any reason other than injury it is not a good thing.
Uhh, I don’t think it would be a good thing if he is replaced for injury.
Finally! I was wondering why this thread was taking so long to turn into an Alex Smith debate.
How about we all just agree that whoever gives us the best chance to win is the guy we will support no matter who it is?
Deal? No didn’t think so. Carry on.
How many times have we seen where the starting QB, gets a big fat contract, ( except Smith kind of like Supply and Dmand) the QB get’s hurt and the second stringer becomes the Starter and the first stringer is kick to the curbed, it’s going to happen my Smithers and it’s going to be sooner than later.
Claude,
You missed my point on this one but that’s ok. Hopefully we don’t have to replace him for any reason.
The only Kool-aid I’m drinking is that served from the coaching staff. Care to tell me what Harbaugh has said of your fantasy? Oh thats right, nothing.
Shhh, I hear if you look at a monitor and say his name 3 times out loud he’ll appear and ruin the conversation.
Woah, this didn’t end up where it was supposed to be… how odd.
Sorry this was supposed to be under MD’s comment of:
Notice how there isnt atleast an attempt for Onelame? Hmmmmmmmmmm
Today’s ‘cut’ list will include Tolzien, Cartwright, Owusu, Rueland, Palmer (I know he played well, but its a numbers game), and Robinson.
Owusu and Palmer will most likely clear waivers, but it’s clear that the team will sign both to the P Squad
* will not sign both
If forced to choose I’d rather have Palmer, you can fix dropsies but there’s nothing you can do to prevent someone especially on punt returns from getting concussions. The Lions are learning that lesson with Best.
Nick I disagree. I think Robinson will be kept for special teams. I also think Rueland makes the team for the same reason. Just my opinion though.
I am sort of hoping that the team will cut a veteran receiver (Moss) and keep Palmer.
Why Palmer? So we can watch more balls bang off his chest?
LOL @Jack, Phrasing.
I believe there is more upside long term with Palmer over the next 5 years than Moss can bring this season.
Medic,
That’s why they drafted a project WR this year.
Medic,
Palmer is green. He won’t help this team this year. He’s a prospect they may choose to keep on the PS and develop but that’s about it.
Rocket,
I can always count on you to express my views in a much more friendly manner : )
Initial reports R. Cartwright is cut. Colin Jones to Panthers for a #7 pick next year.
Pet M.Maiocco
Swain is gone.
Eric Branch @Eric_Branch
RT @caplannfl: #49ers waived WR Brett Swain, per source.
AES says:
August 31, 2012 at 1:11 pm
Initial reports R. Cartwright is cut. Colin Jones to Panthers for a #7 pick next year.
Pet M.Maiocco
http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f257/4evrnyt/repost-doc-marty.jpg
Just having some fun.
Hahaha! Kinda cute coffee.
Grant,
What is your thoughts on the miners stock piling picks, with Colin jones going to the panthers for a seventh, that gives them a lot for next year, their roster has a lot of young talent, will they try to play it like the patriots?
That seventh rounder is expected to be in 2014.
Wow, ok, thank you.
better then the no rounder we were going to receive when we cut him.
Maiocco says Mosley has been cut
@ Grant
We have to get you some breaking news so you can break it here first Grant. Let’s go with something outlandish like Randy Moss is Cut. No other beat writer is going to think of that. You’ll get extra hits to the pressdemocrat site. If you’re right, ESPN is going to be beating down the doors to get you on their squad. (That hat would look pretty awesome in one of their back office commericals.)
It’s all upside. You can site an annonymous source. If it doesn’t happen, we can blame Goodell’s fact finding posey.
…..Grant breaking any news about the niners would be breaking news itself……
Joe Holland too
Brett Swain is gone too
scroll up a pinch
I completely missed that post. Thank you.
The Cardinals named John Skelton their starter.
I’m curious to see what if any fall out Kolb and Flynn have on the back up QB market going forward.
Less value for Kaepernick when Harbaalke cuts him because Alex is the team’s QB of the future.
No shock performance wise there. Though I thought they stated Kolb would be. Especially since they gave him a huge bonus just this year.
Yea, hopefully for the G.M’s sake the owner signed off on giving Kolb that roster bonus otherwise he could end up being part of the cuts today ;)
the G.M. that is, not Kolb. Although…
Well coffee…if the Cards are run like the Raiders with no GM, who is to be fired? Judging by the contract the Cards gave him, the owner should fire himself.
Has that ever happened?
:- )
The Raiders GM is Reggie McKenzie, hired from the Packers organization.
Hey the cards could pick up Mike Kafka to start this season.
This points to a need for a quick story about the damage Harbaugh interest in Manning did to the rest of the Division. Case in point, they didn’t have to pay Kolb the roster bonus if they could have signed Manning. Before 49er interest broke, Cards were the only other team Manning was interested in outside of Denver.
Even with Hoyer, Kafka, Wallace and others yet to be mentioned available I still don’t think it’s a safe bet that Tolzien makes it to the p/s. The Chargers desperate for some kind of vindication could claim him out of spite. OK not really but they would still likely take him over the first three mentioned simply because he’s already familiar with the system.
Grant – Did you ask the blog master that question yet?
I have not. I promise I will this weekend.
Thanks Grant.
Maiocco pointed out something; with the release of Cartwright we’re still looking for Blake Costanzo’s replacement.
Boobie is that guy now.
but Boobie was Boobie last year
Boobie was the 3rd RB last year, now he is the 5th. His situation is different now.
That’s right. We had a Blake+Booby on Special Teams. Now we just have a Booby.
I prefer the Boobie…
Gooden? or Spillman maybe
So does Barkley play for Arizona, Minnesota or Cleveland next year?
Whoever wants to trade the Dolphins for the top pick.
Left them off because they just used a high first round pick on a QB. Figured they give him at least a year. Wheeden went at #22 but Tannehill already looks better then him and the Browns have a new owner next year who will likely want a new QB.
*Figured they’d give him at least a couple years.*
Depends on if they think Tannehill’s better than Barkley and how much they can get back for either.
I hope the Browns new owner lets Holmgren do his thing. Constant turnover is not good for a franchise.
Coffee
He’ll be playing for Miami next year
Jack Hammer says:
August 31, 2012 at 1:48 pm
“Why Palmer? So we can watch more balls bang off his chest?”
@Hammer
I was becoming a Napalm fan upon hearing about his good work in TC. But after watching him drop an easy deep pass from Tolz a couple of weeks ago it gave me pause.
I’ve also noticed a pattern of dropsies over the middle that causes me to believe that he is fearful of the NFL contact.
Owasu may be a better fit for this offense because of his speed and size, but he will need to claimed off waivers and placed on the PS.
Looks like the NFL is shutting down the players tweeting. They don’t want that info out, they want it saved for NFL network.
The NFL is getting to be hubris on a stick. Lockout players, lockout refs, strong arm TV networks, and now de-tweeting the poor players. Talk about total information control.
We must stand up to these bullies and fight for the right of Free-Tweet.
Seriously, I’m not a tweeter but I do like checking out the tweeting athletes website for hints on the health and mindset of players.
Forget a winning record. I’d like to see an All Tree team instead. Cliff Branch, Ryan Leaf, Otis Sis-trunk, Warren Sapp, Brandon Flowers, Jake Grove, a coach that can bark orders and a crowd rooting for the team.
Baalke needs to keep an eye on the waiver wire, make whatever trades and cuts he has to and get er done!
Nice; you might also include Glen Coffee and Randy Moss on that list
Reuland is gone
Matt Maiocco @MaioccoCSN
Source: 49ers release TE Konrad Reuland. He’s practice-squad eligible.
I know we’re stacked but with Walker’s contract coming up does the team take a peak at Evan Moore? He’s a Harbaugh player.
So, does this mean 5 safeties, 4 QBs, or what?
Claude,
I think the release of Reuland means either 5 safeties or 9 OL.
@Jack:
I already was tentatively assuming 9 OL.
Claude,
How many DL do you see them carrying? I am still at 7.
Same here.
Does anybody think Celek has a chance?
Reuland is cut
RT @mattbarrows Eric Bakhtiari was released, per a league source. He is not practice-squad eligible.
Looking forward to GB, this may be the year to pick on Charles Woodson. He will be 36 years old in October. You can’t play that good forever.
Matt Maiocco @MaioccoCSN
RT @davidcanter @MichaelWilhoite has been informed he will be released and resigned to the @49ers practice squad if he is not claimed
@Cfc:
Many thanks for scouring the beat writers’ tweets and sharing the information with us.
So are we about halfway there?
I don’t think so. They have to cut/trade 21 or 22 players. I think we only know about 7.
8
The only “surprises” so far are Cartwright and Reuland. Until we get down to ST/JJ, most of these are pretty academic at this point.
…14 to go……currently at 67
OneLatina
It’s good to know that you can count higher than ONE.
I didnt see either Cartright or Reuland a surprise. What would surprise me if we didnt sign Reuland to the PS.
Under, I didn’t think those two were a surprise either. I wouldn’t be surprised with more trades either.
Under,
That’s why I used quotation marks. Going into today there were only a few spots in question. Those moves answered a couple of those is what I meant.
No problem Jack we are all in this togeather.
Jack, you seemed adamant regarding RC and KR making the team and stated so in some of your earlier comments . What are your thoughts now regarding RB and TE?
Hofer – Those are my only 2 misses so far, and not shocked by either. I like Boobie and think he will help the special teams. As for TE, I think they will pickup someone after the cuts, Peelle is available again and Moore from Cleveland is intriguing, but Harbaugh seems to shy away from Stanford guys. Let’s see how it shakes out…
Fair enough. I got those two right and missed on CJones, but the ST/JJ chose will be very close.
*choice*
Hofer, It is funny how the 3rd QB choice is being watched so closely don’t you think?
Jack, you asked and answered your own question. lol
So far this is what I got so far.
Colin Jones traded
released
OLB Eric Bakhtiari
RB Rock Cartwright
LB Joe Holland
CB Anthony Mosley
TE Konrad Reuland
WR Brett Swain
LB Michael Wilhoite
I think there’s something to what Tim Ryan said last night. We have 15 picks and maybe 16 now or something like that. Those picks will NOT make a 2013 team so… we’re going to make a trade soon? His contention was OLB.
I was also wondering if Baalke might not try to keep four QBs and then trade one.
Adam, good read. I can see a few trades coming down the pike. Stay tuned…lol
I’m not sure how they work it though. Tolz had three good games and yesterday’s flub. JJ was average for three and had one really good one yesterday.
Who has the most value? If they waive Tolz, does he clear? Barrows was saying a while back that they (Niners) are pretty high on Tolz.
Always interesting this time of year. I thought Bakhtiari might have had a shot. My only real surprise. Owusu and Napalm to the P-Squad, I figure.
Rocket I was thinking the same thing about the 4 QBs for a few days anyhow and muster up some sort of trade. Depth is a great thing to have. you can leverage that out in draft picks for years to come.
Adam, please cite Tolziens stats from these 3 good games. I missed 2 of them. His 1st game was great. The next 3 were not. Look at Josh’s numbers in those same 3 games before last night. His rating was higher than Tolziens and he had more yardage. C’mon man. Keep it real!
How real do you want it? Tolzien made the roster.
I gotta say again after watching the full game now. I feel very secure about CK now if Smith went down. I think we all saw this kid coming into his own last night. As far as ST I was really wanting him to succeed and find his way on this team. He didnt look the part for the past 3 games. And JJ I think he played alright lastnight but I truly wasnt that impressed with his play. Call me crazy but I still think Id take ST over JJ right now. ST has everything you could want in a qb, as far as Pocket awarness, field vision, accuracy, and quick release with command of the huddle. However I still think he needs some seasoning before filling in. JJ doesnt seem to have all of these skills. Great runner pretty good passer, but thats all I see. Its good to have some depth at qb for once. Im soo ready for next Sunday. NIIIIIIIIIINERS!!!!!!!
Md
I would also go with ST for the reasons you cited. He had a lot of dropped balls, cant hold that against him. Yes he didnt look to sharp last nite but we all have off days.
True, I think the “seasoning” would help with the jitters he seemed to have lastnight. I dont think he will make the cut however. I think they wanted to see a solid game with the pressure he faced. Thats the one thing I didnt like about his performance last night.
ST is the perfect #3. He is a development guy that would relish that role and try to get better. I’m not so sure JJ would want to be a #3 especially after 4 years in the league. There will be teams that could use JJ as a #2. Possibly more 9er trades for draft picks?
Hof – good points we are getting real close to finding out.
Hofer,
With all due respect, I think the writing is on the wall. If Smith is not lights out this year. If this offense struggles with these weapons. If we don’t get shot plays from this offense, Smith wOnt be here next year and Josh will be the #2 behind Kap. That’s just my opinion. We will see this year how Smith performs with all the new toys!
…your opinion stinks more than it smells….
Md,
So we finally disagree about something. The question I have for you is what didnt you see from Josh. Pocket awareness, vision downfield, escapability, touch and accuracy. Speed and a strong arm. You fell asleep on that game bro. Josh was the best player on the field last night. Kap was on fire. Kap played against the 1′s so props to him. Tolzein doesn’t have the arm strength t0 me. Those 20 yard throws, he isn’t as accurate because he has to reach a little deeper. Josh balled last night. Our o line lends to us needing a mobile QB that keeps his head up while scrambling. Kap has it, josh has it. Alex and Tolzein don’t. Tolzein is sharp and composed. That pick was not good though, to a 3rd string d lineman. Not good bro. JOsh needs reps with that deep ball and he’s ready to go. That’s my opinion bro.
I want west coast offense not run and gun. Just saying.
..JJ plays a preseason game = he has it…
….Alex wins a playoff game = he does not have it……
….dude you are the best!!!!
Adam,
Wasn’t it you last year that listed those stats showing how bad out offensive protection was? If its the same this year, and that’s a real possibility, escapability and a desire to make a play is very important. We can’t have Alex escaping a pass rush and throwing the ball out of bounds. Our QB need to be able to move around in the pocket and still try to make a play down field.
The pressure was on to perform well last night. Someone stepped up, somebody didn’t. Level playing field, same defense, equal opportunities. Tolzein scored 0 points and had 1 turnover. A pick to a D lineman. Josh Balled! Those are the facts!
0neniner,
Alex has one great game in his entire career in what, 80 starts? I appreciate the playoff win. What its about now is 2012. Let’s see if he gets it done. We will see.
Its sad that this franchise’ newest “fans” gloat and make the world of a playoff win. Garcia anyone??? Last I checked Superbowls are what count.
J23…….I know you like JJ and I do to, but I just see ST having a better career than JJ. Thats just my read on it. I like ST toughness and his command of the offense. Yes JJhas the other things i mentioned with ST but maybe its these two things I didnt see from JJ. As far as CK………He is FAR ahead of the other two. Think about what Harbaugh has done with him so far. In only 2 years and 1 wasnt even a full one. CK came from a run and shoot “pistol” offense had NOOO pocket awareness, NOOO work with his footwork, and his release was very long. Harbaugh has transformed him into an NFL QB. I truly believe right now he could come in and do as well if not better than Smith did last season. Which is why I think Smith will light it up this season. One word, one name. Harbaugh. He made super strides with Alex last season and NO offseason to work with. Its there for Alex to take. But 1 thing is clear, if Smith comtinues to play it safe he will lose his job. I doubt Harbaugh wants to see the same offense he saw last season. You dont go after a gun slinger in Manning and you dont go get speed on the outside like they did to play it safe. They may be a run first team, but I KNOW they want the Homerun balls this season. This is going to be a great year. WHEEEEEEEEEW NIIIIIIIIINERS.
Oh BTW are you going to the Home opener?
Adam
I want to win. If Grant can do it I’m all good with that. That said AS won 14 games last year the moment he got what so many knew he needed for years. Does that mean other QB’s needed that? Nope. But most great QB’s can have differing styles/strengths/etc. And they get what they need. Not a single great QB became great without getting what they needed.
DS,
“AS won 14 games last year”,yea he did it by himself. David Akers didnot matter, the defense and the special teams didnot matter, you are as thick as it gets.
I’d take Tolz because he’s different than the others style-wise. JJ is a fantastic athlete and showed last night that he can get it together when needed (although San Diego looked like they were mailing it in to me) but to me he’s essentially the same kind of player CK is.
I actually worry about these types of QBs. Michael Vick is a count-to-two-and-run guy and he tends to get hurt.
Seems to me we have a cautious, efficient starter in Smith, a more athletic backup who may eventually overtake Smith and a third guy who is more of a pure WCO type guy who could (with a bit more experience and coaching) be the best of the three. Might be better to have the diversity of the three different types of QBs.
With all due respect Adam, don’t we want a QB that has command of the system. Someone that can make plays when this inconsistent offensive line has its issues with the blitz. Those 2 QB’s are Kap and Josh. Tolzein can’t help us in those areas, you have to admit that.
Why are you arguing over the 3rd string QB?
…@welcher…I think I am starting to get u……you want a scrambling QB……from T.Smith, S.Hill, JJ, CK…..your preference in a starting QB is one that scrambles alot more than the usual…..
…”when this inconsistent offensive line”…….further prove that you do believe our O-Line is not that great……
your normal small thinking leads you to disregard improving the o-line instead get a QB that can play without an o-line…….
……you do understand a scrambling QB makes it tougher for an o-line to play better together
…..but then again when was the last time that kind of QB won the SB…?
Oneniner,
I’ve called you a lot of names, but from this point, I’m going to call you by your name. If you choose to continue with the insults, that’s on you. My apologies for disrespecting you dude. I’ve got no more of that. I’m simply going to state my opinion. You do as you choose. Have a good day.
Oneniner,
We can debate if we can keep it respectful. I will show respect, if you can do the same. If you’d prefer to keep it trashy, like we’ve done in the past, I’ll have no part of that.
To answer your question, we have an o line full of #1 picks. Somehow they still aren’t gelling. Alex has not learned to master the protections for that zone overload blitz. Look at the cowboy, raven, Bengal, lion games of last year. It’s his responsibility to identify that blitz and assign his linemen and backs. Hes not good at that yet. Zone overload blitz from the 3-4 defense baffles Smith. Sorry, it’s true.
Textree49,
It’s called a debate. Noore arguing and disrespect, name calling for me. Have a great evening.
LMAO!!!! Good luck with that one Jordan. First comment about Smith and this clown will bring the circus. I applaud you for realizing your mistakes, but this would be a damn miracle. HA HA HAAAAAAA
Eric Branch @Eric_Branch
The #49ers have released WR Chris Owusu, per a league source. He would seem to be a practice-squad possibility.
I was hopeing for Owusu to make the team, but knew that was a long shot. This wasn’t a big surprise. Owusu, however, will be a productive NFL WR someday. Hopefully, he can be retained on the P Squad.
*hoping
Michael Thomas
Kenny Rowe
Cam Johnson
Tony Jerod Eddie
Masifilo
Person
Ikaika Alama Francis
Hall
Wiggins
Nelson
Celek
Owusu
Palmer
Tolzein
These are the likely next set of cuts right?
I agree with most of these except for Person and possibly Cam Johnson. I’m not sure if they will keep him or McBath as one of the end of roster guys. Person I think has played his way on the team the past two weeks. The Tolzien/JJ decision is going to be tough for them as well.
Very seldom do you see a vet as a #3 guy, but anything is possible.
Hofer,
Josh should get cut because he shouldn’t be a #3 because he’s a 4 year vet? C’mon man. Make some sense. So you cut him even though he’s shown that he is better under the pressure of the lights? We are trying to win a super bowl right? We do want the best players on the team right? Players get hurt right? There’s a good possibility Alex will right? Kap could too right? Remember T.J. Yates? So we want a developmental QB to lead us to a super bowl if our 1 and get hurt. You are killing me man. You are killing me!
hofer
Not that rare. You may have the veteran who is essentially a coach. With the huge advantage of receiving a vet player salary over that of an assistant or non HC/coordinator job.
I have a feeling that Ikaika Alama Francis will make the team. Robinson will most likely get cut. The Tolzien/JJ decision is an easy one. JJ gets the nod – more athletic, better down field passer, i.e. stronger arm, more familiarity with JH and his system.
Tolz made the cut according to Barrows. For how long is now the question. I still suspect they’ll try to keep all four. Some sort of trade?
Less then 90 minutes to go; will the 49ers cut to 3 QB’s today?
Pop got this one right !!!
http://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/20120830/sports/120839927?p=1&tc=pg
lol. the headline is funny
A. Dixon has been released!!
by the Eagles
Adam Caplan @caplannfl
Oh, wow. Thought they might be able to trade him. RT @EaglesInsider: The final roster move: DT Antonio Dixon released.
haha! Dammit – you had me for a second.
dime to a nickel they keep 4 qb’s
There is a league wide trend of keeping only two quarterback. I’m not sure if the Niners will burn a roster spot for a fourth QB.
they will my sources tell me
Let’s see what happens but if they keep 4 QBs it will certainly be a surprise
I think the 9ers are sick yet i think the Hawks will win the division and i wrote all about hwo to bet on this right here! come check it out and make some coin! http://nfllatestnews.com/is-there-a-sleeper-team-lurking-in-the-nfc-west/
Cant win with an oompa loompa for a QB. Figure out a way to keep him in the pocket and we’ll quickly see Flynn time.
Which will lead to TJ time. :D lol
Flynn essentially played a pre-season game in the season finale. That Detroit defense was horrible by that time. The Saints saw it firsthand. DB had 5-10 seconds to throw the ball. So the Flynn so many experts are excited about didn’t go up against a real D. If he’s a starter when we play them, he’ll learn really quickly how he isn’t as good as he thought.
Is Ginn on the bubble?
Bubble screen.
I hope not KW and james are not the answer.
they should have you return kicks…maybe knock some sense into that cement brain……..vato…..
Amini Silatolu was cut by the Panthers. Wasnt he suppose to be an animal with a mean streak?
Wow…yea, he moved up from late 2 Round into the 1st?..I think.
Wow, now that’s a surprise
Yes that surprises me too, I got to go double check that info.
What little Panthers’ news I read had glowing reports about Silatolu. I wonder if he got hurt and is being waived so he can be put on IR? The IR rules are wonky in preseason.
Matt Maiocco @MaioccoCSN
Scott Tolzien has been told he’s on the 49ers’ initial 53-man roster. Still awaiting word on Josh Johnson.
Any meaning behind “initial”?
Still 13 to deal with to get down to 53 + PS.
An acknowledgement he wouldn’t last on the PS? Maybe a post-cut trade?
ST isn’t ready for number 2. He has some development to do to get their. How will the staff manipulate the roster?
*get there*
hof
JH announced CK the #2 awhile back. That ship has sailed until likely next year at the earliest.
DS, the point is who would trade for a #3 and ST is not ready for a #2 role.
hof
I don’t think JJ is either. That is why CK is #2.
DS, follow me…I’m talking about a trade. They will trade for JJ as a number 2 for teams that need a number 2. Quite a few out there. ST would be the 9ers number 3 in development. So if we are talking trade with one of the QBs, chances are it isn’t ST and may be JJ. TBD. Are you with me?
There’s a spot for JJ now that Reuland and Person have been cut.
He can’t be please with a #3 when he was #2 in TB? I guess a role is a role?
#3 on a Super Bowl contender or #2 on a nowhere franchise?
hof
Everybody thinks you can trade for a lot of guys. Rarely happens. I know we got 1 trade. But seems unlikely we’ll get another. If we do the 2013 draft should be titled “Niners 2013 draft.” How many freaking picks will we have?
grant vato…did you say palmer, netter, and reuland would make the team…..
Look it up, and don’t call me that.
did you say they would or not vato…….
He already answered you pinche
coffee chill vato….why so hostile……
Matt Barrows @mattbarrows
The #49ers have released rookie S Michael Thomas and plan to sign him to the practice squad if he’s not claimed off waivers.
Expand
Reply Retweet Favorite
Matt Maiocco @MaioccoCSN
The 49ers have done all they need to do, but they will not release all the moves until all of the players have been notified.
Barrows thinks Robinson will be the 4th safety.
Matt Barrows @mattbarrows
Source: WR Nathan Palmer also was released. He’s a good bet to make the practice squad tomorrow.
Eric Branch @Eric_Branch
The #49ers have released G Al Netter, per league source.
That’s disappointing. I thought Netter played good enough to make ut
@Nick Same here. With Person and Netter both gone who is backup at OT?
Kyle Bonagura @KyleBonagura
The #49ers have released OL Mike Person, according to a league source.
OL Mike Person was told the 49ers would bring him back to the practice squad if he clears waivers.
Matt Maiocco @MaioccoCSN
Source: 49ers release OLB Cam Johnson, a seventh-round draft pick.
Looks like Wragge got cut by the Ravens. Too bad, always thought he was a good guy.
Eric Branch @Eric_Branch
RT @KyleBonagura: Confirmed: Darcel McBath will be on initial 53-man roster. #49ers
Adam Caplan @caplannfl
Wow. I was wrong: Brent Celek’s younger brother, Garrett, made the #49ers 53-man roster, per source.
That’s a surprise
Celek over Reuland? Interesting. I like both guys but I thought Reuland had the edge.
Celek is more of a blocking TE, who made some nice grabs last night.
That makes sense – Vernon and Delanie already provide two receiving threats.
Well, we knew there would be some tough cuts. Nothing shocking so far. I won’t be surprised to see 3 or 4 guys make another team’s 53.
Matt Maiocco @MaioccoCSN
Looks as if the 49ers will cut to three OLBs as part of their initial cuts to 53. Source: Ikaika Alama-Francis was released.
And that is 53
Here we go:Eric Branch @Eric_Branch
RT @JosinaAnderson: Source: #49ers release QB Josh Johnson
this should be interesting to see….the blog will implode in 3…2…1….
Well, I’m surprised! I really thought he played himself onto the team last night.
Tick, Tick, BOOM
Wow, that’s the surprise of the day
has grant broke a story, signing or cut ever…….since taken over from branch…………..nope……
Somewhat surprising. He played well last night.
Are any of the other beats confirming this?
Josina Anderson is solid – haven’t seen her wrong on this sort of thing before.
Yeah, other sites have it now. So long JJ, we hardly knew you. Remember, once a Niner, always a Niner.
Condolences to J23.
From MM
Gone for now
Colin Jones
Ikaika Alama-Francis
Eric Bakhtiari
Rock Cartwright
Derek Hall
Joe Holland
Cam Johnson
Anthony Mosley
Al Netter
Chris Owusu
Nathan Palmer
Mike Person
Konrad Reuland
Brett Swain
Michael Thomas
Michael Wilhoite
OK, time to go make some supper.
I said in the beginning JJ wouldn’t make this team! Ha
Final Cuts for the Niners per NFL.com
Ikaika Alama-Francis
LB Eric Bakhtiari
RB Rock Cartwright
T Derek Hall
LB Joe Holland
DT Tony Jerod-Eddie
LB Cam Johnson
QB Josh Johnson
DT Matthew Masifilo
CB Anthony Mosley
TE Kyle Nelson
T Al Netter
WR Chris Owusu
WR Nathan Palmer
T Mike Person
TE Konrad Reuland
LB Kenny Rowe
WR Brett Swain
S Michael Thomas
T Kenny Wiggins
LB Michael Wilhoite
I hope someone picks up Bakhtiari. The guy worked his butt off and looked good enough for the NFL to me. I don’t believe he has any PS eligibility remaining.
He does not.
Of course add Colin Jones via trade
Wow no one saw Celek making the team. Showed in pre season that he can create space and get open. Interesting he was taken over Rueland. I guess coaches see more upside in ST than JJ, which wasnt very evident in pre season. Sucks Netter didnt make it
Have to agree with you on Celek. I kind of doubt this is the final 53 so who knows.
Good Luck Josh. Keep your head up. Now let’s get ready for Green Bay. Go Niners.
I hate to see Josh go, but I would of hated to see ST go, I liked all of our QBs. Too bad one had to go.
Maybe the Chargers pick him up. He had an impressive showing against them, we took their guy who had impressive showing against us last year. Synchronicity?
ST over JJ decision was probably made prior to Game 4. Harbaugh did JJ a favor bringing him in, getting him some work and showcasing his talents in Game 4 – should be picked up as #2 or #3 by another team
No big surprise about JJ. Although he did have a good game last night, I always felt that as a seasoned veteran he should have dominated when inserted, especially against lesser talent.
CK7 and JJ are almost similar in their playing styles. But while CK is obviously on the upswing of his career, JJ looks like he has reached his ceiling. Tolz IMO deserves the opportunity to develop under the QB guru that is J.Harbaugh. We may have the best QB corps in the league with these 3 young guns!
Weird question, but does anyone know or can find out if Cooper Helfet made Seattle’s team. I searched via google but could not find anything. Thanks
Why should we care?
How long do teams have to claim players off waivers?
You guys see Will Tukuafu playing fullback? That dude was just blasting people out of the hole….