Keeping tabs on the first full day of free agency

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8:35 a.m. -- I have received additional confirmation early this morning that Bengals DE Justin Smith will be visiting the 49ers. Smith is also reportedly visiting the Vikings today. We shall see.

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If I learn it, I'll report it. Just like last year when this avenue for informing the fans was a great success, I'll keep a minute-by-minute update on what's going on today in free agency, particularly with the 49ers. I can save you all a lot of angst. You don't need to ask: "Hey, have the 49ers signed so-and-so?" If I learn it, I'll report it. "Are they interested in so-and-so?" Again, if I know it, I'll report it.

And as we start the day, this is what I reported last night: LB Dontarrious Thomas, QB J.T. O'Sullivan, RB DeShaun Foster, RS Allen Rossum have agreed to terms. There is a report saying that the report that they have signed is premature. I agree. I reported they agreed to terms, and have not signed deals (at least in the cases of Thomas and O'Sullivan anyway.) I've received additional information this morning that although it's a virtual certainty O'Sullivan will end up with the 49ers, he has not officially accepted the deal, yet.

G Justin Smiley has agreed to terms with the Dolphins (5 years, $25 million, $9 million to sign); OT Kwame Harris appears heading toward the Raiders.

Also, I'm hearing WR Bernard Berrian, LB Calvin Pace and LB Lance Briggs are off the 49ers' radar screen. The 49ers are very interested in adding WR Isaac Bruce. I haven't heard anything about G Alan Faneca, but I'd be shocked if the 49ers paid him the kind of money that's been talked about.

OK, that's the rundown as we start the day. I have to drop the kids off at school. Check back here for constant updates.

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9:41 a.m.: I asked (via text message) Justin Smith's agent, Jim Steiner, if his client will visit the Vikings after meeting with the 49ers today. His answer: "That's our intent!"

10:58 a.m.: This has nothing to do with free agency, but the 49ers have announced that Candlestick Park will be Candlestick Park once again in June after the naming-rights contract with Monster runs out. Did anyone really call it Monster, anyway?

10:59 a.m.: The 49ers' first official signing is in the books. The club has signed return specialist Allen Rossum, whom the Steelers cut eight days ago. Rossum's deal is one year for the veteran minimum.

11:36 a.m.: I've heard the 49ers have started serious talks with recently released Rams receiver Isaac Bruce. Mike Martz, understandably, really wants him.

11:52 a.m.: OK, I arrived at the 49ers' team complex in Santa Clara a few minutes ago after my hour-plus drive from home. It's my understanding that Justin Smith has not yet arrived. The 49ers obviously do not want Smith to leave today without a contract. But how high are they willing to go to sign him. I've been told the club is prepared to spend in the neighborhood of $8 million annually.

12:12 p.m.: Don't hold your breath waiting for an Alan Faneca signing with the 49ers. Although it's true that the 49ers made initial contact, it does not appear they are real serious players. The word is that Faneca is going to the Jets for $20 million guaranteed, which is what was reported here on Wednesday.

12:17 p.m.: Frankly, I'm surprised the talk of Faneca has gotten this far. That's a heck of a lot of money to pay at a position that GM Scot McCloughan is on record as saying should not get big, big bucks. Right now, the 49ers have David Baas, Adam Snyder and Tony Wragge as potential starting guards. Also, you can be sure they'll add another couple players -- think second tier free agent and/or the draft.

12:20 p.m.: If the early reports about Kwame Harris are true (five years, $27.5 million with $10 million to sign from the Raiders), it makes that Joe Staley acquisition look really, really good. After all, Harris was Staley's backup. If Harris can command that kind of money, how much is Staley worth right now?

12:35 p.m.: Just another confirmation of a confirmation. LB Dontarrious Thomas, I'm told,"It's a done deal."

12:59 a.m.: While there's a lull, I thought I'd pass along a link to the latest Cohn vs. Cohn, in which they relive the experience of Steve Young meeting the young Cohn a few years back.

1:11 p.m.: To my knowledge, Isaac Bruce is the only receiver the 49ers are pursuing. McCloughan said yesterday that there are a dearth of No. 1 receivers in free agency, and that is a position that is not a lot of value for the buck. Martz's offense is complex, especially for receivers. Bruce would be the only receiver with prior knowledge of the system. This draft got a lot deeper with the influx of junior WRs. Martz has been darn good about finding guys to fit his system in the draft.

1:21 p.m.: There is a report Lance Briggs will visit with the Buccaneers. I can't confirm that. But, for the 1,000th time, I can say that the 49ers aren't in the mix.

1:45 p.m.: Still waiting to confirm the presence of Justin Smith and Isaac Bruce in the building. Hopefully, official word will be coming shortly.

1:49 p.m.: The 49ers have locked the back gate, just outside the media trailer. Apparently, the entrance/exit to be used is through the back. I can't get back there now. There is also word that the club does not plan to let the media have any contact with any free agent(s) who might be in the building.

1:52 p.m. Justin Smith is HERE. It's been confirmed.

2:30 p.m.: The waiting game continues . . . in the meantime, some have wondered about the end of NFL Europe. Just ran into Fitz Ollison, who formerly worked for the 49ers. He is joining the All American Football League, which kicks off April 14 in college towns. It is seen as a league that will cater to a bunch of the players who might have found themselves on NFL Europe rosters in the past. Teams are located in Texas, Arkansas, Alabama, Florida, Tennessee and Michigan.

2:42 p.m.: The NFL Network is on in the background. They're running old stuff from the combine. They're showing the linebacker drills and, man, Jason Tarver is getting some major face time on TV. Tarver is on the 49ers' coaching staff as defensive assistant/outside linebackers.

3:14 p.m.: Isaac Bruce is not here. (Never was here today.) And Justin Smith has left the building (without being detected.

3:15 p.m.: I can only presume at this point that Smith has left without a contract agreement and his free-agency tour continues. As for Bruce, I believe there is still a strong possibility that he ends up in a 49ers uniform this season.

3:24 p.m.: The guys at the Star Tribune write that Smith is tentatively scheduled to visit the Vikings on Saturday. Earlier today when I communicated with Smith's agent, he said it was their "intent" to visit the Vikings. He hasn't returned my text messages or calls since.

3:54 p.m.: OK, it's official but not official. QB J.T. O'Sullivan has agreed to terms with the 49ers, said his agent Steve Baker. The contract will be signed in the coming days.

3:58 p.m.: Here comes word from Jim Steiner, Justin Smith's agent: "Nothing to report (with the 49ers). He is scheduled to go to (Minnesota) tomorrow."

4:13 p.m.: Don't think the 49ers are going to over-extend on Smith. They're willing to pay him a very nice contract, but I'm told their ceiling is about $8 million a year.

4:25 p.m.: OK, so let's take a look at the 49ers' own free agents. Obviously, the O'Sullivan agreement closes the door on Trent Dilfer's return; the additions of Rossum and Foster mean Maurice Hicks won't be back; the attention Kwame Harris is receiving means there is no way he'll be returning to the 49ers. (Word last night was that Harris was going to get a lucrative deal with the Raiders, but he will make additional visits.) The 49ers remain interested in Marques Douglas, but unless he settles for something around $2 million a year, he'll be playing elsewhere. (The Buccaneers are a possibility.)

4:35 p.m.: Is it still Friday?

4:38 p.m.: Saw Jed York through the fence a little while ago. I asked if his team has signed Isaac Bruce, yet. He just smiled and said he'd be reading this blog to find out. Nice.

4:44 p.m.: When Alex Smith and Trent Dilfer were struggling, and before Shaun Hill became Shaun Hill, I thought the 49ers might be tempted to go after free-agent QB Billy Volek. Today, he re-upped with the Chargers.

4:59 p.m.: Just received word that Isaac Bruce has not agreed to terms with the 49ers, but the sides are pretty darn close. They're trying to find a dollar amount on a two-year deal that works for both sides. The deal is expected to be agreed upon tonight or tomorrow.

5:06 p.m.: Little-known fact about Isaac Bruce: He ranks No. 3 all time in NFL receiving yards behind Jerry Rice and Tim Brown.

5:09 p.m.: An hour-and-a-half ago, I was on with the Razor and Mr. T. Click here and then scroll down to hear our little chat.

5:12 p.m.: So, right now, the only free agents I'm aware of the 49ers pursuing are Justin Smith and Isaac Bruce. I'd be a little surprised if they're still involved in the Alan Faneca race. Smith left the building without a contract and appears to be on his way to Minnesota. Bruce is very close to a deal with the 49ers -- just a few dollars apart on an expected two-year deal.

5:44 p.m.: My apologies for not answering any questions over the past two days. I've been a little busy. I think I've covered most of the questions somewhere here during the minute-by-minute recap.

5:46 p.m.: I might have jumped the gun last night when I reported O'Sullivan agreed to a deal. Later, I was told that although O'Sullivan's joining the 49ers has been a safe bet for more than a month (since Martz was hired), he did not officially agree to terms until today. The same goes for the report of Bruce's signing. There is little doubt Bruce will sign with the 49ers, but it is a tiny bit premature at this point. They're still a few dollars apart. It certainly won't be a deal-breaker.

5:56 p.m.: Finally, a little news: Justin Smith is still in the Bay Area. He took a helicopter tour of the South Bay this afternoon with Mike Nolan. He will have dinner tonight with Nolan and, perhaps, a few coaches. I just spoke with Smith's agent, Jim Steiner, who confirmed the helicopter ride and dinner tonight. He said he was not sure who would be joining Smith and Nolan for dinner. Steiner said Smith is still "scheduled" to go to Minnesota tomorrow. But it's pretty clear the 49ers are going to pull out all the stops to sign Smith before he has a chance to leave the Bay Area.

6:19 p.m.: The NFL Network report has now been confirmed. Isaac Bruce agrees to a two-year, $6 million deal.

8:16 p.m.: Nothing new to report, other than the fact that Scot McCloughan's car is no longer in his "Reserved for Wichita State Shockers" parking spot.

8:49 p.m.: In case you're wondering, I still have to write my article for tomorrow's paper. I'm working on that now.

9:21 p.m.: Word is that the 49ers will not aggressively pursue Javon Walker, whom the Broncos released on Friday. That is, if they pursue him at all.

9:29 p.m.: And with that . . . I'm calling it a night.

Have a great remainder of your evening.

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Posted February 29, 2008 5:34:24 AM

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Comments | Add Comment

Posted By: Graham (01/03/2008 11:37:36 AM)
Comment: shobbrob, our problem was that we had no insurance policy in case Smith went down. Smith played pretty well when he was uninjured, but when he went down we were left flailing, and stumbled upon Hill late in the season. Any way you slice it, we're better off at QB this year, meaning we're not facing enormous pressure to get a backup through the draft this year.

Posted By: 9erbill (01/03/2008 9:52:42 AM)
Comment: Matt, you are AWESOME. Thank you

Posted By: Lasse (01/03/2008 7:15:30 AM)
Comment: no... last :-)

Posted By: NinerKing (01/03/2008 7:09:24 AM)
Comment: Okay we get it....we signed Smith....anyone else wanna post about it?

Posted By: Lasse (01/03/2008 7:02:59 AM)
Comment: First ---- ESPN - The San Franciso 49ers and defensive end Justin Smith agreed to a six-year, $45 million contract that included $20 million in guarantees. http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3271999

Posted By: Jake (01/03/2008 6:35:23 AM)
Comment: I hope Bruce does ask Rice permission to wear #80 just like Rice did of Largent in Seattle. I believe Rice was Bruce's Idol when he came into the league so it would be pretty cool of Rice to let Bruce run around Candlestick in #80!

Posted By: steve (01/03/2008 6:14:11 AM)
Comment: Looks like the niners got smith, per ESPN. 6 year 45 mil

Posted By: shobbrobb (01/03/2008 6:11:00 AM)
Comment: Graham,our problem wasnt with the backup QB its the starter who sucked badly,But the other signings were good.Javon Walker is an oft-injured diva who i hope doesnt come here and now we can look forward to the draft offensive line receiver and QB should be the focus

Posted By: steveh (01/03/2008 6:08:16 AM)
Comment: matt just heared you interview on knbr yesterday. Justin smith has already said that if he goes to a 3-4 team he will be open to playing OLB. so look forward to seeing him this year getting 10 to 12 sacks.

Posted By: NinerKing (01/03/2008 6:00:20 AM)
Comment: I wonder how much cap space we have left with all these signings. I cant imagine that we paid out more than 10-15 mil (against this years cap) from what I've seen but it should be interesting to see.

Posted By: Graham (01/03/2008 5:58:00 AM)
Comment: Not flashy, but an extremely solid FA period. We addressed WR, DL, and backup QB. These were three of our most pressing needs. Now we're free to take the best player in the draft, rather than having our hand forced by the exigencies of the moment. It might be premature to say so, but it's looking like McNolan has laid the foundation for another extremely solid offseason.

Posted By: mike in MD (01/03/2008 5:54:47 AM)
Comment: YESSSS...per MSmith ESPN Justin Smith has agreed to terms. http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3271999 Awesome job to our new GM Scotty & also some credit to Nolan. Keeping a young Sopoaga was BIG, now if we can get lucky w/MDouglas sticking around that's something to keep us intact & continue to build on. Love getting Isaac Bruce. His sure hands should rub off on DJax & a great example/teacher of Martz's offense. AWESOME work Matt as ALWAYS. Over 500 responses are you kidding me?? Best blog in the business! Are we really out of the Berrian race?

Posted By: mayo63 (01/03/2008 5:48:04 AM)
Comment: Good, now we don't concentrate on other areas in the draft. I'm excited.

Posted By: Koach (01/03/2008 5:40:30 AM)
Comment: ESPN is reporting that the Niners have agreed to terms with Justin Smith. Good news.

Posted By: 49ers fan from Thailand (01/03/2008 5:38:36 AM)
Comment: ESPN just report 49ers lock up smith with 6 years $45 million deal

Posted By: Houston 9er (01/03/2008 4:24:55 AM)
Comment: Nice job Matt

Posted By: UG (01/03/2008 4:23:06 AM)
Comment: It is nice to know there are other Vikings fans that follow the greatest NFL blog, Matt.

Posted By: Marc - NJ49er (01/03/2008 2:02:26 AM)
Comment: Well Matt, another job well done, work on getting that skeleton key now and let's work that Ninja Mojo, security might have the weekend off.......

Posted By: Marc - NJ49er (01/03/2008 1:39:32 AM)
Comment: I've spent 2+ hours catching up on all the posts and must admit, there are dozens of names I haven't seen before today? Where have all of you been hiding? My take on all this JSmith stuff? We're taking a shot at a targeted guy before moving on to Plan B. If JSmith's agent is doing his job properly, he'll work the market for the best deal. Look at Miami, tons of cap room, Tuna, a proven commodity for building winners, and topless South Beach as a selling point. SF, something short of a fading superpower, lame duck HC, and an owner who made his millions testing body fluids. It's a TOUGH sell people. But hey, a free helicopter ride might do it? Tour of Alcatraz? Throw that in too....

Posted By: Dave (29/02/2008 11:39:59 PM)
Comment: Matt, thanks for all the hard work and your devotion to the niners and their fans :)

Posted By: Medford (29/02/2008 11:32:20 PM)
Comment: Matt I just wanted to say thank you for your work today. It was fun reading all the updates all day long. I was watching a movie from netflix.com on one page and had urs on the other. P.S. That picture of the locked gate is pretty funny. Thanks again!!!

Posted By: oneniner (29/02/2008 11:18:28 PM)
Comment: Detroit's finally off and runningby: Jeremy Green posted: 11/7/07 ......"I went inside the film room earlier this week to look at this Detroit football team and let me tell you, their 6-2 start to the 2007 season is no fluke. Mike Martz is an excellent offensive coordinator. He is known for his creativity in the passing game, but he has had a few nice wrinkles in the run game as well."

Posted By: Darren (29/02/2008 10:22:04 PM)
Comment: where are the big signings already? It seems like we only signed guppies on the team. Is Bruce a lot better then drop the ball Jackson? I hope so. Did we drop the ball on Justin Smith already? We need a defense in the worse way and we let Justin Smith get away! I hope the 49ers realize that if they do bad again, they will lose the santa Clara deal. I don't see John York staying in SF so this is due or die for SF in the worse way. Plus Nolan will be fired if the 49ers flounder again. I hate free agency when we keep doing terrible at it.

Posted By: josh (29/02/2008 8:58:53 PM)
Comment: Working on your article huh? LOL, great work Matt, eat some dinner while your at it...

Posted By: Powell (29/02/2008 8:54:27 PM)
Comment: Isaac Bruce should wear #800.. for either his age or for the amount of total yards he'll have with us after he's gone in 2010.

Posted By: oneniner (29/02/2008 8:52:41 PM)
Comment: Didn't we retire the number 80?......i don't think he should wear it.

Posted By: ninerfaninjapan (29/02/2008 8:51:30 PM)
Comment: Why a helicopter tour of the South Bay? Hmm, let's think about what's down there. 1. Evergreen Valley with multi-million dollar homes. 2. 5 to 6 Golf Courses 3. The homes of other Niners. 4. San Jose Airport for when you need to escape. 5. Great America Theme Park where in a couple of years, Justin will only have a 15 minute drive to work.

Posted By: MontecitoNiner (29/02/2008 8:49:45 PM)
Comment: I challenge anyone to find a better NFL blog out there. Who needs the NFL network when you have the 4949 Centennial Insider? Great work Mr. Maiocco.

Posted By: Indiana JIm (29/02/2008 8:49:02 PM)
Comment: Isaac Bruce should wear #79. That would be cool.

Posted By: Jose (29/02/2008 8:39:34 PM)
Comment: Matt, I think it's time for you to go home and get some good deserved rest! Thanks for all your hard work!!! I have been checking your blog all day today!!! Thanks, Jose Oxnard, CA

Posted By: oneniner (29/02/2008 8:24:51 PM)
Comment: Aaron ....i will take Chris Long in a heartbeat.....by the way i didn't write the comment about NE

Posted By: IrishPurple (29/02/2008 8:19:01 PM)
Comment: Brandon I'll repeat a post I left earlier. Just for you.......... Please please please sign Justin Smith. the last thing the people here in Minnesota need is another high priced DE who can only muster 2 sacks in a season. Im begging you California help us out here in Minny, its cold here ya know, all we have is football....

Posted By: Cory (29/02/2008 8:11:58 PM)
Comment: any more updates lately Matt?

Posted By: Dan (29/02/2008 8:10:27 PM)
Comment: EastCostNiner, relax man! IT HAS ONLY BEEN 23 HOURS since FA started... Just because some of the over-priced mediocre players have been signed at ridiculous amounts, doesn't mean that there aren't many quality 2nd tier guys that are quality starters still available. 2nd tier guys will have more value for the money. You think Miami knew who Justin Smiley was before FA? I doubt it... And he will probably be a great starting guard for them for years.

Posted By: BRANDON (29/02/2008 8:10:01 PM)
Comment: you guys shouldn't be mad im a vikings fan here. at least your team has won a superbowl in the past. our team hasn't

Posted By: Crazy 49ers Fan (29/02/2008 8:06:53 PM)
Comment: Helicopter tour of the South Bay? If they want to impress him, show Smith some of the nicer areas! I hope we get this guy, I think our D-Line will be pretty good this year, with the possibility of great if one of the young players steps up!

Posted By: EastCoastNiner (29/02/2008 7:53:22 PM)
Comment: Well if Smith signs with the Vikings and the Niners don't do anything else, I hope they at least use some of this cap room to restructure some deals. I mean, after Smith, I am guessing they don't have anymore free agent targets. Faneca is signing with the Jets. It is unfortunate. I'm not really sure how anyone can say this was a successful free agency period with the signings of Bruce, Foster, Rossum, Thomas and O'Sullivan. Those are okay players-but nothing to write home about. And with a little under 30 million in cap room, I would of expected more from us. Bummer.

Posted By: akita76 (29/02/2008 7:52:54 PM)
Comment: Have a good night Matt, Thank you from all the fans that are not local.

Posted By: Berger (29/02/2008 7:49:59 PM)
Comment: It's time to drink beer and listen to some Pink Floyd, and then maybe some blues. I had fun today everybody. BTW, I was a FA yesterday and got signed by a new company today. Unfortunately, even though I am 6'2" 300lbs, and in pretty good shape, I'm too old for sports anymore. But it is still fun to follow and stay in shape! After all, round is a shape! LOL

Posted By: Aaron (29/02/2008 7:49:11 PM)
Comment: oneniner, the only way I'd want to give up what it would take to get NE's pick is if Chris Long was somehow still available. That guy is a beast, but there's no chance NE would pass on him if he were available even though it means paying him.

Posted By: IrishPurple (29/02/2008 7:43:19 PM)
Comment: Please please please sign Justin Smith. the last thing the people here in Minnesota need is another high priced DE who can only muster 2 sacks in a season. Im begging you California help us out here in Minny, its cold here ya know, all we have is football....

Posted By: Randy in Santa Rosa (29/02/2008 7:42:11 PM)
Comment: ninerfaninjapan- That's hilarious. No matter how we do this year, the Rams will be the doormat again of the NFC West. Same ol' sorry azz Rams =)

Posted By: JJninerFan (29/02/2008 7:39:52 PM)
Comment: In fact 43 D-ends have outside contain or run first, in a 34 outside backers have that job and ends have control then penetrate

Posted By: iowaniner (29/02/2008 7:38:22 PM)
Comment: Where are you Matt? Did you go to bed? Understandable if you did..thanks for the great day of updates!

Posted By: oneniner (29/02/2008 7:38:08 PM)
Comment: i hope J. Smith stays...I agree with you Randy in Santa Rosa on bruce and martz......."nice try loser nobody is responding to ur fake comments"

Posted By: TAMPERING GETS YOU NOWHERE ! ! ! ! ! (29/02/2008 7:38:07 PM)
Comment: WHAT HAPPENED SAN FRAN ? ? ? ? ? COACH NOLAN AND G.M. SCOT McCLOUGHHAN WERE TALKING THE TALK AT THE COMBINE ABOUT THE NINERS HOPES AND DREAMS IN 2008 BUT NONE OF THIS YEAR'S BIG FISH ARE BITING AT THAT SAME OLD BAIT FROM LAST YEAR. HAVE FUN WATCHING OTHER TEAMS SIGN YOUR FREE AGENT TARGETS LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL

Posted By: Dan (29/02/2008 7:37:39 PM)
Comment: ninah fan, how you can you just assume he won't get pressure in a dime package? Just because he only got 2 sacks last year? He still averages 6-7 sacks a year WITH a bad year last year. He has a non-stop motor and a change of scenery might be exactly what same players need to get motivated again.

Posted By: JJninerFan (29/02/2008 7:35:21 PM)
Comment: Why does everyone keep saying that 34 D-Ends don't rush the QB or get sacks... Thats BS, yes their first job is to control the line of scrimage and stop the run...same as in a 43. but in passing situations they have their ears pinned back getting after the QB. Crap Learn some football before you shoot off your mouth.

Posted By: Saturday (29/02/2008 7:31:27 PM)
Comment: Imagine Walker, Bruce, Jackson, Lelie, Battle, Davis, that is an all-star cast.

Posted By: ninerfaninjapan (29/02/2008 7:30:23 PM)
Comment: and one more thing Randy. Watching Deion in Red and Gold was weird. For about 5 minutes and then it was awesome! I think you'll get over this pretty quick. Unless our offense still stinks. In which case, we can simply blame the Rams. This is win-win.

Posted By: ninerfaninjapan (29/02/2008 7:26:24 PM)
Comment: Randy, nice link to the Rams board. I picked this up: "It's almost insulting. It WILL piss me off if the 49er's start shouting that "BRUUUUUUUUUCE" chant!" well then, BRUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUCE!

Posted By: ninah fan (29/02/2008 7:23:16 PM)
Comment: I agree that in a 3-4 de's dont get alot of sacks, how ever on third and long we go nickle and have 4 lineman, smith isnt going to get the pressure. Also he is a little undersized to play DE in a 3-4. I think he is a good player not the cliber of Freeney or Osi, whom he will be making similar money too. And btw

Posted By: 49er fan in Brazil (29/02/2008 7:20:31 PM)
Comment: Matt, any chance we sign Javon Walker, who was recently cut by the Broncos?? I'd say dump D-Jax and bring Walker on board!!

Posted By: ninerfaninjapan (29/02/2008 7:17:11 PM)
Comment: maybe I'm off on a limb here, but I don't think a legit #1 is a necessity in Martz's offense if you have a handful of above-average #2's. Put Bruce, Jackson, Battle, Gore and Davis on the field at the same time and somebody is bound to be mismatched. The QB just has to find the open guy before the line collapses and not make a piss-poor throw...

Posted By: Randy in Santa Rosa (29/02/2008 7:16:24 PM)
Comment: It's gonna be weird watching Martz & Bruce wear red & gold. I HATED those guys as Rams. Lamb fans are pissed! http://www.ramsrule.com/theoriginalherd/dcboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=101&topic_id=86443&mesg_id=86443&page=

Posted By: oneniner (29/02/2008 7:15:37 PM)
Comment: Niners **HAVE TO BE IN PLAY** for New England's First Round Pick!!! Come on, NE is offering it. Gholston and Willis in the same linebacker corps for years to come??? GET REAL. You have to do this!!!

Posted By: mayo63 (29/02/2008 7:14:16 PM)
Comment: If we sign Smith then we can concentrate on a WR, OLB, and OT with our first 3 picks in the draft. I'm really pulling for this to happen tonight.

Posted By: Jesse (29/02/2008 7:14:01 PM)
Comment: Not a big need but what about 26yr old Lito? He probably can be had for a 3rd rounder, because the Eagles got Asante. Totally worth it!!! Its like Brandon WIlliams for Lito and his contract is manageable. (Sheppard is under contract for four more seasons, with base salaries of $2 million in 2008, $3 million in 2009, $3.7 million in 2010, and $4.25 million in 2011.)

Posted By: tgflynn (29/02/2008 7:11:02 PM)
Comment: Losing Smiley, Allen and Harris no free agent Oline in sight, your talking a major rebuilding project especially with the current staffs reluctance to play newbies. The front seven on D, losing Smith,Young and Douglas and again with replacements pretty iffy, Barrows is now saying Thomas isn't even a TED style linebacker. Why be 30 mill under the cap and not use it.

Posted By: Dan (29/02/2008 7:08:20 PM)
Comment: ninah fan, why does it matter how many sacks Smith had last year? We're most likely going to put him at DE in a 3-4... In case you weren't sure how football works, sacks should come from our OLB position, not a DE like the 4-3. He will be there to eat up blockers to free up our LBs, and stop the run. We didn't sign him to get 8 sacks... He won't be a 4-3 DE anymore...

Posted By: SATURDAY (29/02/2008 7:05:53 PM)
Comment: What about Walker or Stallworth. Mainly Walker but Stallworth would be nice too. Are we even tring to talk to a legit #1 reciever. We need as much help and competion at receiver as possible. We need a proven guy to help our QBs.

Posted By: ninerfaninjapan (29/02/2008 7:05:18 PM)
Comment: how can anyone not be on the Smith bandwagon? Averages over 6 sacks a year. Plus he has started every game for 6 straight seasons. One down year in a single statistical category is all it takes to jump off? Bottom line, for the money, we're getting some of the best FAs out there and we still have the draft coming.

Posted By: Dan (29/02/2008 7:05:03 PM)
Comment: B Reign, Why would it be a mistake to sign Smith? He would be a huge upgrade over anyone else. He clearly makes our D better. If you're worried about the money, relax! Since we didn't sign any other big names, we have PLENTY of money still. We will probably front load his contract and pay him big money his 1st year, and the remainder of his years will be lower... It's the same thing we did with Nate Clements... We gave him $10M his first year, and then now he's making $5.5M in his 2nd year...

Posted By: Pat (29/02/2008 7:04:11 PM)
Comment: The key in my opinion is improved OLB play from the Banta Cain position. That would make everyone more productive.

Posted By: Randy in Santa Rosa (29/02/2008 7:01:08 PM)
Comment: Chris- I'm not gonna spew a bunch of junk on Matt's blog, other than to say fans have already called you an idiot and I tend to agree. I'm a die hard fan of 28 years who goes to plenty of games. I'm tired of fickle fans who give us the label of whiners. You're just another one. Where do you get the idea that I'm a huge A. Smith supporter? I've already gone on record saying Hill will most likely be the starter this season, and I'm fine with that. Martz will do more than you think for this offense. Our D and ST are already pretty good and we play in the NFC West. Nuff said.

Posted By: ninah fan (29/02/2008 7:00:56 PM)
Comment: how many sacks did Smith have last year? 2. What is his career high? 8.5. Those arent franchise numbers, we would be paying him franchise money, and factor in he has never played in a 3-4 before and it seems a lil silly to me. And why wouldnt we bring back Douglas for half the money over less years? His numbers are similar to smith's.

Posted By: K Rock (29/02/2008 6:54:21 PM)
Comment: Do you guys actually think the line of Soap, Franklin, Smith, will be better then last years line of DOuglas, Franklin/Soap, and BY. Not likely, and the odds of it getting better are slim, given the fact all the players have had several years to do something, and havent done much yet.

Posted By: Weary9er (29/02/2008 6:47:48 PM)
Comment: What is all the whining about? these are all good moves if you know anything about the game. We'd be lucky to get Smith and I'd just about guarantee he'd have a great year with a revamped and improved 9er team under Martz.

Posted By: dcsham (29/02/2008 6:46:58 PM)
Comment: Isaac Bruce is an improvement over any of the crap we had a wide receiver last year. Bring him on.

Posted By: ninah fan (29/02/2008 6:45:38 PM)
Comment: Why over pay for just one Smith, when you can over pay for two?

Posted By: Pat (29/02/2008 6:41:29 PM)
Comment: Soap, Bruce, Foster, O'Sullivan, the inside LB, Rossum, and if we do get Smith = so much more flexibility on draft day..!

Posted By: Overreacting Take II (29/02/2008 6:40:01 PM)
Comment: As far as the Justin Smith signing goes, lets just say this. Helicopter ride in March or Ice Fishing in sub zero weather. There better be plenty of zeros from the Vikes to keep him warm or he is as good as ours.

Posted By: B Reign (29/02/2008 6:36:58 PM)
Comment: Bruce signing is brilliant! Bravo!!!

Posted By: B Reign (29/02/2008 6:35:20 PM)
Comment: Mike in SF #2 - I am off the Smith bandwagon, and, quite humbly, I don't think we should sign him. If we do sign him, then so be it. I will still think it is a mistake until I am proven wrong by Justin Smith's play. If we sign J. Smith and he pans out, then I will be very happy we signed him.

Posted By: drew (29/02/2008 6:30:59 PM)
Comment: I said we should read the words carefully "intent" "scheduled"; now, we hear he left for a helicopter tour and dinner tonight with Nolan et al. The agent is "posturing". This is far from done. As far as Smith goes, I'd still favor the 49ers hand over the Vikes.

Posted By: Moss not signing with Patriots (29/02/2008 6:29:01 PM)
Comment: According to Boston.com, signs point to Carolina signing Moss! Bwhahahah Patsies!

Posted By: ninah fan (29/02/2008 6:23:56 PM)
Comment: Yeah Bruce isn't going to kill the season, and if anything will be an improvement. I would rather have given the money we paid him and Lelie to someone like Javon Walker. Then we would have Walker, Jackson, Battle, and Hill. Draft a WR and we are set and some what young.

Posted By: Mike in SF #2 (29/02/2008 6:23:10 PM)
Comment: and just like that we are right back into the thick of signing Justin Smith. Awesome work Matt. Sounds like he is ours to loose, I would put good money on them signing a deal tonight after dinner or first thing in the morning. Curious to see how the "jump off the Justin Smith bandwagon" responds to that latest development.

Posted By: Kolohe (29/02/2008 6:22:01 PM)
Comment: I'm not to happy about the O'Sullivan signing. I think hes just as big a question mark than Shaun Hill was before he started. .....Thanks Matt for the updates!!!

Posted By: JJ Calles (29/02/2008 6:18:01 PM)
Comment: Matt.. why do you hate my life?

Posted By: oneniner (29/02/2008 6:14:23 PM)
Comment: Boston.com is reporting that Patriots may be interested in trading their #7 pick down for more pick. How about the Niners trading up? This year's and next year's firsts. And draft Gholston. That would be what I would do.

Posted By: niner (29/02/2008 6:12:32 PM)
Comment: Eating dinner at Cheesecake close to Santana Row at 6:30pm...aww yeaa

Posted By: Kolohe (29/02/2008 6:06:49 PM)
Comment: Well say hello to our starting receivers in Isaac Bruce and Darrell Jackson---Arnaz Battle to the slot. Gotta post here....Webzone is a bit backed up right now!!!:)

Posted By: ninerfaninjapan (29/02/2008 6:06:00 PM)
Comment: ninah fan, I agree that Bruce isn't at his top form, but check out his statistics. This past year, he started in only 12 games and played in only 14 on a team that did worse than our Niners. Yet, he was still #2 on the Rams with 733 yds, which would place him #1 on the niners ahead of Battle's 600. Granted the 12 GS is a concern, but go back just one more year to 2006. You'll see that Bruce played all 16 games and broke the 1000 yd rec mark. In fact, he has 1000 yards rec every year in which he has had 16 starts. He is a great pickup especially since he can help the other guys learn the new system. If Sabean indeed had his hand in on this, then it's more like us picking up Vizquel a few years ago than say Aurilia last year. Hopefully we'll get a productive year or two and pick up a WR in this year's draft to groom for his replacement.

Posted By: ninerfaninjapan (29/02/2008 6:05:24 PM)
Comment: ninah fan, I agree that Bruce isn't at his top form, but check out his statistics. This past year, he started in only 12 games and played in only 14 on a team that did worse than our Niners. Yet, he was still #2 on the Rams with 733 yds, which would place him #1 on the niners ahead of Battle's 600. Granted the 12 GS is a concern, but go back just one more year to 2006. You'll see that Bruce played all 16 games and broke the 1000 yd rec mark. In fact, he has 1000 yards rec every year in which he has had 16 starts. He is a great pickup especially since he can help the other guys learn the new system. If Sabean indeed had his hand in on this, then it's more like us picking up Vizquel a few years ago than say Aurilia last year. Hopefully we'll get a productive year or two and pick up a WR in this year's draft to groom for his replacement.

Posted By: stephen (29/02/2008 6:04:39 PM)
Comment: yeah def go after javon walker...hed be a number 1

Posted By: Machinegunrap (29/02/2008 6:02:48 PM)
Comment: Rogers is a must!!! No need for Justin Smith. I'm totally with Chris. I've been dying for the Niners to get him. Do it!!

Posted By: kelvin (29/02/2008 6:01:19 PM)
Comment: i think they should go after antwan odom from tennesee. 8 sacks last year. he is 26 yrs old and will be cheaper than justin smith.

Posted By: mayo63 (29/02/2008 6:00:15 PM)
Comment: ESPN is reporting that the Bruce deal is 2 years for 6 Million.

Posted By: Saturday (29/02/2008 5:59:13 PM)
Comment: Denver just released Jevon Walker! We should act fast. He could be the #1 receiver that we need. Young, tall, fast proven, GOOD HANDS! He could be a steal.

Posted By: Chris (29/02/2008 5:41:26 PM)
Comment: Did the Rogers deal fall apart... NINERS get Rogers now, forget J Smith. Rogers is exactly what we need and a BALLER!!!

Posted By: ninah fan (29/02/2008 5:41:16 PM)
Comment: Mike Martz fan is right if we only had Bruce three years ago, but we have him now sadly. I didnt hear that Brian Sabean is working with the 49ers too.

Posted By: bruce (29/02/2008 5:39:40 PM)
Comment: wow...just a couple min late

Posted By: bruce (29/02/2008 5:38:39 PM)
Comment: http://www.profootballtalk.com/rumormill.htm POSTED 8:31 p.m. EST, February 29, 2008 BRUCE LANDS IN SAN FRAN You know, we thought for a second about setting this story up by tapping into certain stereotypes about San Francisco and men named Bruce. But we're now officially above such attempts at obvious and lowbrow humor. Anyway, the 49ers have signed receiver Isaac Bruce to a two-year deal, according to Adam Schefter of NFL Network. The move reunites Bruce with Mike Martz, who was the Rams' offensive coordinator for their only Super Bowl win and thereafter the head coach for six seasons.

Posted By: Stephen (29/02/2008 5:36:08 PM)
Comment: POSTED 8:31 p.m. EST, February 29, 2008 BRUCE LANDS IN SAN FRAN You know, we thought for a second about setting this story up by tapping into certain stereotypes about San Francisco and men named Bruce. But we're now officially above such attempts at obvious and lowbrow humor. Anyway, the 49ers have signed receiver Isaac Bruce to a two-year deal, according to Adam Schefter of NFL Network. The move reunites Bruce with Mike Martz, who was the Rams' offensive coordinator for their only Super Bowl win and thereafter the head coach for six seasons.

Posted By: Matt S (29/02/2008 5:36:04 PM)
Comment: si.com is reporting that Calvin Pace signed with the Dolphins

Posted By: PatMan (29/02/2008 5:34:33 PM)
Comment: Shaun Rogers trade just fell apart still available!

Posted By: kem99 (29/02/2008 5:29:46 PM)
Comment: Overreacting -- I don't know exactly how much the 49ers got better but I don't think they got older or less talented. Rossum is younger than Lewis and had a better year last year. I think most would prefer Foster to Hicks. O'Sullivan obviously is younger than Dilfer and familiar with Martz's offense. Dontarrious Thomas effectively replaces Derek Smith. We don't know if he's better but we do know he's younger and more athletic. Bruce would make them "older" but obviously he knows the Martz offense and likely replaces Brain Gilmore. I can understand after last year why some might be disappointed with the names BUT McCloughan did say leading up to the opening of free agency not to expect the 49ers to be as active. And, of course, its only Day 1. A lot can still happen between now and the draft.

Posted By: PatMan (29/02/2008 5:24:52 PM)
Comment: Hey Matt any word on Calvin Pace?

Posted By: Mike Martz Fan (29/02/2008 5:24:09 PM)
Comment: My, my, my...Isaac Bruce to the 9ers? Like I predicted earlier...It's the '99 Rams again. Mike Martz is the man. What a nice receiving group (Bruce, Jackson, Battle, Lelie, Hill); running back tandem (Gore, Foster); Smith will have everyone thinking twice about all the talk regarding the "great" Shaun Hill. The 9ers should have given Smith this kind of support 3 years ago. All it took was Mr. Martz to show Nolan the way...

Posted By: kelvin (29/02/2008 5:22:14 PM)
Comment: If Smith goes to Minnesota which he will visit them, They are going to throw him A LOT of money. Remember Visanthe Shiancoe last year. 5 year 18.2 Mil w/ 7 Mil guaranteed for a guy that caught 12 passes in '06 with ZERO TDs and a whopping 27 catches on '07 w/ 1TD. Smith had 2 sacks last year. He will get a ridiculous contract!

Posted By: B Reign (29/02/2008 5:18:55 PM)
Comment: It would be awesome to get Stroud. He might be undersized in a 3-4 as a NT, but when they fire Nolan after this year he'll be a great DT. Even in a 3-4, would Stroud be able to play an end??? I wonder...

Posted By: Overreacting! (29/02/2008 5:17:18 PM)
Comment: Is it just me, or did we just spend the day getting OLDER, MORE BANGED UP, AND LESS TALENTED? I do not see how our signings have brought us any closer to "winning the WEST!"

Posted By: iowaniner (29/02/2008 5:16:12 PM)
Comment: Bryan...Were you referring to Bruce? Is he really younger than Harrison? Didn't think so myself. Bruce is 35, I think, and thought Harrison had been in the league about 11 yrs, which would likely make him 33ish. For some reason I never considered Harrison an aging senior reciever....funny what perceptions can exist somethimes....go NINERS. But as someone commented earlier this morning, it is pretty sad how we as niner fans have been reduced to our high points of the season as the free agency and draft days, as it seems to go down from here. I think back to the glory days, this time of year was an afterthougt. Maybe it was just the confidence that what ever Walsh/Siefert did we trusted would be the right thing, so why bother worrying about it.

Posted By: PatMan (29/02/2008 5:12:49 PM)
Comment: I have not heard anything on Calvin Pace. I know he was in Miami but nothing signed. Does this mean we still have a chance?

Posted By: Ben (29/02/2008 5:08:52 PM)
Comment: i would have like to see htem go for stallwoth he would be a good fit for martz's offense

Posted By: 49erJimmy (29/02/2008 5:05:41 PM)
Comment: Matt - Please tell us who else the 'Niners are interested in. What'ya hear?

Posted By: Shawn (29/02/2008 5:04:59 PM)
Comment: Hey matt! love your work! amazing stuff! respect your writing man! i just heard with NFLN that Bruce has Officially Signed with SF on 2yr Contract.. could u verify please? it would be GREATLY appreciated!! Big Shawn

Posted By: Bryan (29/02/2008 5:04:58 PM)
Comment: He's younger than Marvin Harrison with similiar career statistics. He could really look young back in a system where he excelled.

Posted By: iowaniner (29/02/2008 5:04:44 PM)
Comment: Should Jerry Rice be expecting a phone call from Bruuuuuuce, and asking him to use "80". Now that would be weird...and sacrilegious. Many are hatin on Bruce, but he is an all pro, and proven as compared to our recent WR acquisitons, such as "hands" Djax, and "head case" Lelie. Think of how well Rice did for a couple of years in OAK when everyone thought he was washed up. He should give us at least some consistency in the WR corps' for a year or two.

Posted By: Chris (29/02/2008 5:04:18 PM)
Comment: allen49stars that is the best post I have seen on here... That blows my mind, all of the players we should be going after (S. Rogers, K. Jenkins, M.Stroud) we're not going after.. Put Sopoaga at DE and then if we got any of the said DTs they could free up the LBs to shoot the gaps and then - a better pass rush! I would love any of the guys mentioned over Justin Smith. Would have like Berrian too depending on the price but oh yeah we got super old Isaac Bruce... We need starters, we don't have enough good starters to be only looking for depth.

Posted By: Calvn n Hobbs (29/02/2008 5:01:38 PM)
Comment:

Posted By: Joe (29/02/2008 4:57:27 PM)
Comment: Bruce is too old and he is just going to take time away from the younger players who might actually make an impact.

Posted By: NinerFaithful (29/02/2008 4:56:36 PM)
Comment: Chris don't trip. It's pretty sad that you sound like one of the more knowledgable fans I have heard on here and everybody is giving you a hard time that's pathetic. I don't think most of the fans on here have been fans for more than 6-7 years so don't trip. That is pretty funny that people on here don't know that Smiths teamamtes think he sucks, you heard it after damn near everygame. Everybody knows Smith is no good but Smiths Mom and some guys on here.

Posted By: Global Nomad (29/02/2008 4:56:00 PM)
Comment: Matt how does today compare to your day when York was meeting Nolan to see if he would keep him on this year? I know its been a long day. Thanks for the work.

Posted By: Paul (29/02/2008 4:55:32 PM)
Comment: NFL newtork says Bruce signed for 2 years.

Posted By: Nick (29/02/2008 4:55:25 PM)
Comment: Matt, would the 49ers entertain the idea of bringing in Javon Walker (cut) in for a visit? Or is that just asking for trouble?

Posted By: brahdah (29/02/2008 4:55:09 PM)
Comment: Here's my take on the J.Smith and Faneca deal.The Niner's will not over pay Smith so They will try to sign Faneca instead and address D.E. in the draft or resign M. Douglas.

Posted By: brahdah (29/02/2008 4:54:54 PM)
Comment: Here's my take on the J.Smith and Faneca deal.The Niner's will not over pay Smith so They will try to sign Faneca instead and address D.E. in the draft or resign M. Douglas.

Posted By: Erik (29/02/2008 4:54:05 PM)
Comment: Matt- Any chance we make a run at Stroud? God knows we need a pass rusher as well. We haven't had a good one since Haley.

Posted By: AM (29/02/2008 4:53:58 PM)
Comment: EZ I've been thinking the same thing all day. What a waste it would be for a 3-4 D to spend 8 mil or so per year on a DE who is 29.

Posted By: ninah fan (29/02/2008 4:52:14 PM)
Comment: Adam Schefter just said 2 year deal for Isaac Bruce.

Posted By: Bryan (29/02/2008 4:52:11 PM)
Comment: Issac Bruce just signed a 2yr deal (supposedly)

Posted By: GH (29/02/2008 4:52:04 PM)
Comment: NFLN - Adam Schefter just reported that the 49ers have agreed to a 2 year deal with Bruce.

Posted By: iowaniner (29/02/2008 4:51:26 PM)
Comment: Sheffler on NFL Network just made the call that Bruce signed a 2 yr deal with the nines. What's up Matt, with Jed giving you the cold sholder, when he had to know. Well he was right now he can check your blog and see the answer

Posted By: Mac (29/02/2008 4:51:14 PM)
Comment: Bruce is in!

Posted By: Chris (29/02/2008 4:50:44 PM)
Comment: Cerote, you go to the Raiders forum because I am more of a niner fan than you will ever be and I hate the raiders more than most so that's out of the question. Before you judge you should scroll down and hear all of the name calling and "offensive and disrespectful" I had hurled at me so I'm defending myself. If you are a real fan you should get on your team when they make horrible moves or you don't care.

Posted By: Dza (29/02/2008 4:45:49 PM)
Comment: Javon Walker just got released, what to do you think Matt? He could be a good #1.

Posted By: B Reign (29/02/2008 4:45:39 PM)
Comment: Thank you Matt!!!

Posted By: Chris (29/02/2008 4:45:12 PM)
Comment: Trent Dilfer, you suck on the field and in the blog chat... His other teammates did call him that, Trent Dilfer just said that because he is a company man and he tried to diffuse the situation just like he said the whole team supported Jim Hostler and a week later Frank Gore questioned Hostler. If you don't know that Smiths teammates have been critical of him you are the most uninformed fan ever lol... Vernon Davis and Darrell Jackson both critized smith in the press and if you watch the games Vernon Davis yelled at sorry Alex almost as much as Antonio Bryant did the year before... But they decided to get rid of Antonio Bryant the guy that drove drunk and made a bad move off the field and was a baller on the field for Alex Smith who is a boyscout off the field and and absolute garbage on the field... Too bad we are building a football team and not a boyscout troop!

Posted By: EZ (29/02/2008 4:44:34 PM)
Comment: I was hoping Smith would leave without a contract. The Niner's really should be focusing their attention on signing Antwan Odom who is younger, cheaper and a better fit for the 3-4 IMO.

Posted By: Cerote (29/02/2008 4:44:09 PM)
Comment: Chris - I'm sure most other fans here would agree... since you are such an expert in football and we are all "fake and ignorant Niner fans", do yourself and the rest of us a favor and go hit up a Raiders blog instead. Oakland "Haters" fans are typically the rude, offensive, disrespectful, and undesirable types... I think you would fit right in. To everyone else... one luv fellow "Niner Nutts"!

Posted By: Bryan (29/02/2008 4:43:26 PM)
Comment: "Is it still Friday" - Best report so far. Some people are just overreacting way too much to the lack of big signings on the FIRST day.

Posted By: Grateful (29/02/2008 4:42:54 PM)
Comment: Matt, thank you! Just like last year I have been checking your blog all day. Great work. I thought for sure that with Scot having the new GM title that he would prove worthy by making atleast ONE big move, but he hasn't. I would love your thoughts on the Justin Smith nonsigning.

Posted By: Paul (29/02/2008 4:42:01 PM)
Comment: McNolan,what part of unproven rookies don't you get. Your going to rely on rookies that never played in the nfl to fill all are holes?

Posted By: B Reign (29/02/2008 4:41:31 PM)
Comment: Good first day today. We took appropriate meetings and are making appropriate decisions. Looking ofrward to day two. Anyone else agree?

Posted By: Kevin (29/02/2008 4:41:07 PM)
Comment: Hi, Matt, any chance the Niners have interested in the recently released RT Shane Olivea, formally of the Chargers?

Posted By: Joe (29/02/2008 4:36:24 PM)
Comment: P52 - Well in principle he is playing the same position the only difference is that he has a TED linebacker to account for the fullbacks and offensive linemen upfront which would have been the defensive tackles priority in the 43.

Posted By: Chris (29/02/2008 4:34:34 PM)
Comment: Now to another newbie fake niner fan Randy in Santa Rosa.. You say I should root for the Raiders because I expect better things out of a once great franchise and because I am critical of many of the moves made over the past 10 years? Welcome to being a real sports fan, what are u a 9 year old girl that is ok with a 5-11 team and a qb like smith that couldn't hit an accurate pass if his life depended on it as long as you have your pink A Smith Jersey and some Garlic frieds? Hey Randy I have gone to damn near every niner home game the last 10 years and have had season tickets in my family since 1959, I attend niner Charity events and donate money to the 49er Foundation and basically am as hard core a 49er fan that there is, what about you? Ever even been to a niner game? lol Yes I am also aware Smith will compete with Shaun Hill for for the starting job and Hill will win the job easily. Your not kicking any knowledge dummy.

Posted By: Cerote (aka: Bobby in SF) (29/02/2008 4:32:47 PM)
Comment: As always, greatly appreciate your hard work Matt! nate - good call on the O'Sullivan signing. AMy first reaction was WTF?! But realizing the "familiarity with Mad Mike's O" makes a lot of sense, and the "league Minimum" is music to my big ears. Re: Bruce, I think that would be an okay signing, still productive could be a one year mentor... hope we draft a future #1 with our 1st rd pick though. Thomas sounds to be a replacement for "situational down Smith" (no offense Smith... much love). Price seems okay so atleast it allows us to go a different way in the draft. Re: Foster, yesterday I mentioned I would rather the Niners not sign hi, but the more I think about it, the more the move grows on me. Decent #2, relatively young, and price is right... I'll admit my intial reaction may have been off (sigh). I do hope we can nab Smith, would also like to tke a flyer on "The Freak" if we don't re-sign MD and the price is right. Too bad about Asante going to Phili... I was hoping we would nab him and have to lock down corners for the next 5+ years... that's the great things about far fetched day dreams... they're free. LOL! Berger - I agree... sticking it to the "Lams" is always a plus. Jbeezy - Rihght on on the comment to Chris... with fans like that who needs the Haters... I mean the Raiders? Jake - I agree... Build us our new home already! In SF!!!

Posted By: Cerote (aka: Bobby in SF) (29/02/2008 4:32:09 PM)
Comment: As always, greatly appreciate your hard work Matt! nate - good call on the O'Sullivan signing. AMy first reaction was WTF?! But realizing the "familiarity with Mad Mike's O" makes a lot of sense, and the "league Minimum" is music to my big ears. Re: Bruce, I think that would be an okay signing, still productive could be a one year mentor... hope we draft a future #1 with our 1st rd pick though. Thomas sounds to be a replacement for "situational down Smith" (no offense Smith... much love). Price seems okay so atleast it allows us to go a different way in the draft. Re: Foster, yesterday I mentioned I would rather the Niners not sign hi, but the more I think about it, the more the move grows on me. Decent #2, relatively young, and price is right... I'll admit my intial reaction may have been off (sigh). I do hope we can nab Smith, would also like to tke a flyer on "The Freak" if we don't re-sign MD and the price is right. Too bad about Asante going to Phili... I was hoping we would nab him and have to lock down corners for the next 5+ years... that's the great things about far fetched day dreams... they're free. LOL! Berger - I agree... sticking it to the "Lams" is always a plus. Jbeezy - Rihght on on the comment to Chris... with fans like that who needs the Haters... I mean the Raiders? Jake - I agree... Build us our new home already! In SF!!!

Posted By: shobbrobb (29/02/2008 4:29:14 PM)
Comment: Allen49erstars....u are %100 correct,we are being taken for a ride with a regime that has hijacked our beloved franchise and dont have a clue on how to build/rebuild a franchise the 49ers are nothing but guinea pigs to the Yorks (who had no experience)Nolan (who had no head coaching experience) and McCloughan (who had no GM experience).They are failing big time...Just look at what Bill Parcells is doing in Miami, he is strenghtening the offensive /defensive lines and he has the No 1 pick (just like we did)and i guarantee u he will pick a lineman,he knows whats hes doing ...these niner regime doesnt know squat!

Posted By: Chris (29/02/2008 4:28:09 PM)
Comment: We still have a shot at Faneca. NO FANECA DEAL YET? ESPN.com has reported that guard Alan Faneca will sign with the Jets. Tom Rock of Newsday reports that Faneca's agent, Rick Smith, claims that the report is false. Previously, it was reported that Faneca would spend the next two days deciding whether to sign with the Jets, Rams, or 49ers. So, apparently, Faneca is still available.

Posted By: Trent Dilfer (29/02/2008 4:26:12 PM)
Comment: Chris - you do your own homework you FOOL. That is a joking nickname that Trent Dilfer himself gave to Alex in a QB meeting. Dilfer has explained that point multiple times. Its an inside joke between him and Alex

Posted By: drew (29/02/2008 4:24:21 PM)
Comment: I would like the 49ers to sign Justin Smith but not to overpay to do so. I agree with the move. He obviously is interested by coming here first. If Minnesota wants to overpay that is okay too. But something tells me this isn't over. If Matt is quoting "scheduled"; that is an interesting choice of words. It doesn't say he is going - just like the earlier use of "intent". I think they might be trying to milk a little more and Smith is still considering signing with SF and before going to Minnesota.

Posted By: McNolan (29/02/2008 4:24:06 PM)
Comment: Paul - What part of "We are not going to be as active this year in free agency and we are going to build through the draft" didn't you understand? That is the exact words of McNolan on Thursday morning pre-Free agency. What on earth did you expect?

Posted By: Chris (29/02/2008 4:22:13 PM)
Comment: First off Michael, you obviously rode the yellow bus to school because you are an idiot that knows nothing of football. I didn't give Alex Smith the nicname the cowardly lion his teammates did (do your research chump). Your saying he is tough because he played with a seperated shoulder? He played to the detriment of his team because he was garbage (looked the same the first 2 games b4 said injury) and then the little baby started blaming his coach and started making excuses, the doctor cleared him to play, he told nolan he can play and nolan gets flack because smith couldnt speak up. Additionally, Tom Brady and Eli Manning (happened to Eli last season) both played with seperated shoulders, didn't miss one complete game and they PLAYED WELL! If they didn't play well they sure would have been men and not blamed their coach because they couldn't play well hurt, Alex can't play when he is 100% Healthy. You fake niner smith fans can make all the excuses you want, if you have game you are going to show it at some point, and I mean more than one half of football against Seattle in 06 over a 3 year career. Sorry that I have a standard and higher expectations for my once great 5 time superbowl champ niners than you ignorant fans.

Posted By: StonerLab (29/02/2008 4:21:47 PM)
Comment: God what a bunch of cry babies! Mind of McCloughan's right, just because JSmith left without a contract doesn't mean the 49ers aren't going to get him. Yes it would have been nice had he signed today but has anybody seen the kind of dough the Vikings have already shelled out on the 1st day of FA? And they still have Berrian coming in as well as JSmith & some others I might add. No, this is not done just yet, the Vikings can't buy everything.

Posted By: P-52 (29/02/2008 4:20:44 PM)
Comment: Joe - Please please PLEASE educate us all how Willis' college position as a MLB in the 4-3 is the same as the Mike position in the 3-4? Go sell crazy someplace else you IDOIT because that is just being plain STUPID!!!!

Posted By: Paul (29/02/2008 4:19:23 PM)
Comment: pootie tang bite me.

Posted By: pootie tang (29/02/2008 4:16:00 PM)
Comment: paul you are pathetic, it hasn't been 24 hours yet, quit acting like a little girl

Posted By: Joe (29/02/2008 4:11:52 PM)
Comment: P52 - Willis never change positions, he is playing the same Mike position he did back at Ole Miss. Go crawl back in your cave madden dweller.

Posted By: Mind of McCloughan (29/02/2008 4:09:45 PM)
Comment: Just because Justin Smith has left town doesn't mean we still can't get him. Smith is making an important financial/career decision and he may just want to do his due diligence and hear what other teams have to say before making up his mind about where he wants to play.

Posted By: Paul (29/02/2008 4:07:43 PM)
Comment: Danny,were going 3 and 13,because we haven't done jack to improve this team other then signed back ups and some injury ones at that. Were going 3 and 13 because we have the worse head coach in football named Mike Nolan. Where going 3 and 13 because were going to rely on unproven rookies. Do I need to go on?

Posted By: sean (29/02/2008 4:07:18 PM)
Comment: is not going out and getting A players **

Posted By: reality check (29/02/2008 4:07:17 PM)
Comment: Relax everyone, championships are not won in February or March. I live in DC and have watched the redskins sign every free agent with a pulse the past 10 years, how many championships has that won them? Good teams are built through the draft, so lets hope McCloughan has done his homework.

Posted By: allen49stars (29/02/2008 4:03:22 PM)
Comment: This team is unbelievable, they have the worst defensive front line in all of football, and DTs like Kris Jenkins, Corey Williams, Shaun Rogers, and Jason Ferguson were available for some late draft picks. Yet they are acting like J. Smith a guy with 2 sacks last year is going to change everything! Did they just not do the research to find out these guys were available or do they think they will are better off with their 3rd or 5th or 6th round draft pick. They need a guy to take on blockers and clog the middle. Lets go get a bunch of spare washed up, back up players and pretend next year is going to be any better! Nice try on Faneca, man that would have been nice.

Posted By: sean (29/02/2008 4:02:40 PM)
Comment: a niner fan. but common miami is going out and getting A players they are getting backups and B players in starks and wilford. really you cant complain depth is a great thing to have and if you want them to go out and sign someone just to sign someone thats not the way of building a team. when the pats beat the rams in the SB they didnt sign one big name player they signed a bunch of players who gave them some starters and depth..but we all know they won that SB cause of matt walsh anyways haha

Posted By: Danny (29/02/2008 4:02:08 PM)
Comment: Paul, we're going 3-13 because Justin Smith left without a contract? Hate to say it, but no one signed today or in the coming days is going to make that much of a difference...I wish Smith signed, too, but I'm not giving up on the season because we haven't signed any marquee free agents yet...

Posted By: medford (29/02/2008 4:01:06 PM)
Comment: The Dolphins just signed Matt Maiocco

Posted By: Mike (29/02/2008 4:00:38 PM)
Comment: Great. We have signed none to write home about. Matt, do you think we will get any big names by the time free agency is over?

Posted By: Mind of McCloughan (29/02/2008 3:59:27 PM)
Comment: Anyone hear anything about Roosevelt Colvin? He's coming off a foot injury (and his release saved NE 5M in cap space), but if he can come back healthy, he'd be a better acquisition for 2008 than Calvin Pace. He's not a long-term solution (he's 30), but this team needs to post a winning record in 2008 so some short-term guys wouldn't be such a bad thing. He'd be a bargain if we could get him on a short "prove you're healthy" deal. (I'm expecting some snide comments comparing him to TBC. Don't. NE started to look mortal after Colvin's injury; he's been a starting OLB on a championship caliber team for several years. TBC was just a situational guy).

Posted By: Paul (29/02/2008 3:57:38 PM)
Comment: Making a prediction now 49ers finish 3 and 13 and Nolan gets caned. Best we can hope for at this time.

Posted By: kelvin (29/02/2008 3:57:19 PM)
Comment: If Smith left without a deal, he is not coming back. He just traveled halfway across the country. He ain't coming back this way. It's time to focus on other players that can help us. Briggs, Pace, Odom.

Posted By: Chris (29/02/2008 3:56:58 PM)
Comment: reports are the faneca deal is not done and it was a false deal

Posted By: a niner fan (29/02/2008 3:54:22 PM)
Comment: well i guess thats it how dumb the dolphins r getting every one and we sit on r hands. how many years has douglas been with us he has done nothing we were 5 and 11 last season we had the weakest offense in football but we do nothing. wow i cant wait to see all those backups we got in free agency. 4 and 12 next season guaranted

Posted By: Nick (29/02/2008 3:53:46 PM)
Comment: and Faneca is officially gone. Jets 32mil over 4 years.

Posted By: Michael Robinson (29/02/2008 3:53:04 PM)
Comment: Thank you 49ers for locking me up for a couple years. I appreciate your loyalty and I will blast punt returners with my insane tackling abililites. If you allow me to run the ball, I will take it to the house because I am the greatest rb ever Signed, Johnny D

Posted By: PatMan (29/02/2008 3:52:30 PM)
Comment: Could it be that J Smith is just going for a physical.

Posted By: Dave Wilcox (29/02/2008 3:52:23 PM)
Comment: Webzone is in the tank, thank goodness for MM otherwise it would be complete silence. Free Agency is not shaping up well at all for us. SO far all we have signed are a couple of backups. It is very thin crop to begin with and all the top names are coming off the board, we are going to be left with Gabe Wilkins and Antonio Langham at the rate things are going. I am bumming big time..

Posted By: Jason (29/02/2008 3:51:57 PM)
Comment: Just saw that the Raiders signed Gibril Wilson. McCloughan needs to call Al and offer him a 2nd day pick for Michael Huff before this bout of senility expires.

Posted By: Randy in Santa Rosa (29/02/2008 3:50:36 PM)
Comment: Joe- Exactly!

Posted By: Randy needs a voice of reason (29/02/2008 3:49:52 PM)
Comment: Randy...seems you KNOW how things work hunh ? If Smith wanted to hear the Vikings offer before deciding he's gonna do just that no matter what Scott says or offers. He is looking out for his best interest not the 9ers best interest.

Posted By: P 52 (29/02/2008 3:49:48 PM)
Comment: Hey Joe - I know a guy that excelled in the 4-3 as a linebacker and put up great numbers in the 3-4 which he had NEVER played before. His name is Patrick Willis... ever heard of him?

Posted By: Nick (29/02/2008 3:49:46 PM)
Comment: Johnny D, you're ignorant.

Posted By: ERIK (29/02/2008 3:49:19 PM)
Comment: Matts dropping knowledge on those two overhyped bums on KNBR

Posted By: B Reign (29/02/2008 3:48:16 PM)
Comment: Eagles signed Samuel

Posted By: KG (29/02/2008 3:48:07 PM)
Comment: Matt - was Nolan there today? I saw Beerows posted that McCloughan, York and Lal all had their cars at the building but didn't see mention of the Great One?

Posted By: Joe (29/02/2008 3:48:02 PM)
Comment: Smith leaving without a contract is very encouraging. We would be better off re-signing Douglas, moving Soap over to the left defensive end and spending a pick or two on the defensive line.

Posted By: Randy in Santa Rosa (29/02/2008 3:45:38 PM)
Comment: Let the Vikings over-pay for J. Smith. If McCloughan really wanted him that bad, he'd be a Niner by now. I'll take Douglas back if we can swing a decent deal. Don't break the bank!

Posted By: F for free agency? (29/02/2008 3:45:01 PM)
Comment: Free agency isn't a one day affair. Get a grip.

Posted By: BayBossin (29/02/2008 3:44:22 PM)
Comment: Matt on KNBR by the way

Posted By: Aaron (29/02/2008 3:44:15 PM)
Comment: Duder, I agree completely that our WR corps needs a serious upgrade, I just see Bruce as a lateral move and even if he plays well it'll just take snaps from Hill or First Day Pick X. We're not going to win the SB either way, so what's the point? You're right, there's nothing to risk other than playing time.

Posted By: B Raign (29/02/2008 3:43:28 PM)
Comment: How about the Sharks! Picking up Brian Campbell is HUGE don't you think?

Posted By: Candlestick Pete (29/02/2008 3:43:18 PM)
Comment: Trade 4 Fitz or Boldin

Posted By: Joe (29/02/2008 3:40:48 PM)
Comment: The Dude - Anyone fooling themselves into thinking Briggs would fit in the 34 is crazy. Smith is good in containing the run in the 43, no promises if he is going repeat his productivity in the 34. He won't have that extra down lineman in the interior so he will be facing double teams and he simply does not have the size to constantly fend them off. You can parade his stats but let me tell you something, out of the top 10 leading tacklers for defensive lineman only 2 of them played in the 34. The rest are 43 ends, tackles in the 43 don't necessarily translate to the 34.

Posted By: JUSTIN SMITH (29/02/2008 3:39:29 PM)
Comment: Nana Nana Boo Boo.... You can't catch me! Ha Ha Ha Ha.

Posted By: B Reign (29/02/2008 3:39:17 PM)
Comment: Saj - The first thing the truth can do to you is piss you off. The three things I said are some of the highest truths I have found within myself. Quite liberating actually, so liberating that I have no need to smoke to see the light.

Posted By: Typical Bay Area Fans (29/02/2008 3:38:49 PM)
Comment: What part of "We don't want to be a big player in Free Agency this year and we plan on building through the draft" do you morons not understand? That was a direct quote from McNolan on Wednesday the day before FA. Now you all act surprised and pissed off? I'm offended I am a member of such a STUPID fan base here in San Francisco. Half of you need to GROW UP or pay attention to what the heads of this team are saying.

Posted By: GrandpaSeth (29/02/2008 3:38:33 PM)
Comment: Forget Smith!!! We should just wait when Jared Allen is up next year. He has already said he wants to be here. We should trade our first and second pick to move up and get Vernon Gholson!!! Imagine Gholson,SOP, Allen D-line...Giggity!

Posted By: 9er Fanatic (29/02/2008 3:37:00 PM)
Comment: Can we trade for a little known qb across the bay named Andrew Walter.He would be an awesome pickup and really cheap too. Why did we get Sullivan. Walter has a rocket arm.

Posted By: Paul (29/02/2008 3:36:42 PM)
Comment: Robert,the whole front office is anti-player. You have Nolan that throws his players under the bus. I mean I don't blame free agents for not wanting to come here after seeing how Nolan handled the Smith deal. We all make fun of the Raiders,but the 49ers are not far behind them as a laughing stock.

Posted By: Mac (29/02/2008 3:36:14 PM)
Comment: Was Justin's agent with him at the complex? If so, is he still around?

Posted By: Bud San Jose (29/02/2008 3:34:09 PM)
Comment: Ok so if Smith doesnt sign then who else on their radar? (besides Bruce)

Posted By: PigskinMojo (29/02/2008 3:34:05 PM)
Comment: I see where Minnesota's DC was Smith's old DC in Cincy. So it appears the visit to SF was to get bargaining power for the subsequent visit to Minn.

Posted By: Deshaun Foster (29/02/2008 3:33:57 PM)
Comment: I am not a big enough signing for you? I am the big signing you are all looking for. I will do everything in my power to only fumble every other game.

Posted By: Johnny F (29/02/2008 3:33:26 PM)
Comment: Yo Johnny D. What have you been smoking? If M Rob runs like LT or something then he won't be a starter. Unless the Niners are looking to shop Gore or something like that. I like this RB class and was hoping they would draft one but with the signing of Foster, doesn't look likely.

Posted By: Dom (29/02/2008 3:32:51 PM)
Comment: So Matt, do you think we lost him. Or is there still a chance?

Posted By: Robert (29/02/2008 3:32:49 PM)
Comment: They should keep the Yorks away from any potential FA's. The Yorks are the anti-player.

Posted By: Robert (29/02/2008 3:31:22 PM)
Comment: the fans are going to be pretty pissed if their team goes this entire offseason without a big name FA signing. How do you have such an awful season and then not sign any new players despite having 30M in cap room to work with?

Posted By: OLINE HELP PLEASE (29/02/2008 3:31:03 PM)
Comment: We need offensive help. Our d is alright with Lawson coming back. Sign or trade for wrs and olinemen

Posted By: Jdawggy79 (29/02/2008 3:29:57 PM)
Comment: Any word on whether or not the 49ers are interested in Javon Walker? If he were paired with Isaac Bruce or D Jax, that would make a formidable WR tandem.

Posted By: Joe (29/02/2008 3:29:31 PM)
Comment: For the most part on the 1st, 2nd and 3rd down we will be coming out of a 3-4 base, unless the other team spreads out more then 3 wide then we usually switch to a nickel base (4-2-5). If Justin Smith is this defensive nightmare that never leaves the field (as you describe it) and is worth top dollar why doesn't Cincy push harder to re-sign him? Cincy of all teams should try to retain what little defensive talent they have.

Posted By: Johnny D (29/02/2008 3:29:19 PM)
Comment: I am just happy we locked up M-Rob. He is going to be our starting rb in 09.

Posted By: NinerFan (29/02/2008 3:28:47 PM)
Comment: So if Bruce ends up a Niner, what number does he wear? He shouldn't be wearing Rice's

Posted By: The Dude (29/02/2008 3:28:22 PM)
Comment: Lance Briggs would be a good fit in a 3-4. Not at OLB but at ILB. All he would have to do is clean up after P Willie (an easy job really, shouldn't pay him as much as he wants). An OLB in a 3-4 has to get behind the line of scrimmage, which Briggs isn't good at. A 3-4 DE needs to hold the point and contain the run which Smith is good at. Do you have a better argument?

Posted By: Dmoney (29/02/2008 3:27:56 PM)
Comment: Maybe he just left to grab a burger.

Posted By: BayBossin (29/02/2008 3:25:27 PM)
Comment: hahaha, Classic, you two guys are such mental midgets. That was a great post Nicky, made me laugh.

Posted By: 49erJimmy (29/02/2008 3:24:54 PM)
Comment: Matt - What ELSE is up?? Ok, so Smith is gone. Now what? What's the buzz around there? Any other FA's there? Any more FA's on the way. Anyone else close to singning? Thanks.........

Posted By: sandip (29/02/2008 3:24:19 PM)
Comment: Joe- You're right again, but without doing my homework I don't think any of those guys are commanding the type of money Berrian is looking for, nor should they. I doubt he's going to get it anyway.

Posted By: Bryon (29/02/2008 3:24:14 PM)
Comment: Wow. How sad is it that you have to use my name to try to make fun of me. Your posts are pathetic, get over your self.

Posted By: http:// (29/02/2008 3:23:02 PM)
Comment: Well, he's off to Minnesota where he's a better fit and where their going to throw a boat load of money at him. At least we tried. Is Pace still available?

Posted By: Brian from CT (29/02/2008 3:22:20 PM)
Comment: wow, so we did not get a WR or a decent pass rush as of RIGHT NOW. Backups were great for depth, I like that they did that but for winning anytime soon is out the door without a good pass rush! Nolan for his sake better hope Smith decides to sign with the Niner's

Posted By: Idaho Nick (29/02/2008 3:22:18 PM)
Comment: I'm going to say this once, and then go back to being the silent type: I DID tell Bay Bossin off, but I did NOT apologize (someone else stealing my handle). And I'll be silent from here on out. (I think that BayBossin is issuing his own apologies, though.)

Posted By: Bryon (29/02/2008 3:22:13 PM)
Comment: I take that back, I am the idiot. I'm just a bitter closet homosexual. I'm sorry.

Posted By: The Dude (29/02/2008 3:20:58 PM)
Comment: Aaron: I'm tired of the subjuct so I'm just going to repeat this. I'm sure you'll agree that our WR core needs an upgrade right? I dare you to name someone with a lower risk than Bruce. Best case: A good route runner with the best hands on the team. Worst Case: Someone to show the other WR's the in's and out's of a very complicated playbook.

Posted By: Mike - IL (29/02/2008 3:20:35 PM)
Comment: Wow... I really didn't expect Smith to leave SF without a contract...

Posted By: Steve-E (29/02/2008 3:20:22 PM)
Comment: I'm disappointed to hear Justin Smith leaving the facility, but the update is much appreciated, Mr. Maiocco!

Posted By: Paul (29/02/2008 3:18:56 PM)
Comment: 49ers get an F for this free agency. All they signed were back ups.

Posted By: Robert (29/02/2008 3:18:23 PM)
Comment: Matt- So if the 49ers and Smith have agreed on terms of a contract how soon would we know?

Posted By: Aaron (29/02/2008 3:17:52 PM)
Comment: saf4423 that's true, but the Rams do still have cap space available (some but not a ton). Bruce has been so important to the franchise for so long, almost like a BY, it seems logical they would do whatever to keep him if they thought he could still be a major contributor.

Posted By: Bryon (29/02/2008 3:17:15 PM)
Comment: BayBossin- you are an idiot. That is all.

Posted By: saj4423 (29/02/2008 3:17:10 PM)
Comment: Most of the dumb stuff that has been posted today I wouldn't even waste my time with but B Reign that had to be the most retarded thing that I have read in a long time. Maybe if I can go smoke some good stuff tonight I can join you in your world and we all can just be happy. I hope you are joking.

Posted By: Giovanni Carmazzi (29/02/2008 3:16:49 PM)
Comment: Nolan may be considering Justin Smith for OLB to replace TBC. They say he ran a 4.5 40 which would make him fast enough. He'd be a huge OLB.

Posted By: StonerLab (29/02/2008 3:16:43 PM)
Comment: Joe, Your assuming just like most people here. Who says the 49ers are going to play 3-4 exclusively? It's like I need to hammer to make the nay-sayers come to their senses. JSmith will NOT have to leave the field for any reason other than to get a breather. So basically he's going earn his money on very snap.

Posted By: Dom (29/02/2008 3:15:34 PM)
Comment: What are you guys freakin talking about.....lol

Posted By: Nate (29/02/2008 3:15:34 PM)
Comment: To me, it sounds like Issac Bruce will be an assistant wide receivers coach who happens to suit up for games and catch a few passes.

Posted By: Joe (29/02/2008 3:14:43 PM)
Comment: The Dude - You know who else has a lot of tackles and plays the run well? Lance Briggs, does he fit the 3-4? NO. Besides this draft is too talented on the defensive line to be throwing money at Smith.

Posted By: BayBossin (29/02/2008 3:13:51 PM)
Comment: Definately gettin slow when were talkin about me. B Reign, Rock on. Seahawks gettin algae crumpler, that sucks for us.

Posted By: B Reign (29/02/2008 3:11:24 PM)
Comment: Bay Bossin - There is nothing we have to do to be a benefit to the universe. Just by living we are all a benefit and a gift to each other. Yes, even Hitler (and I am a Jew). So always remember: 1. We are all one. 2. There is enough for all of us. 3. There is nothing that we have to do. Maybe this will make you happier.

Posted By: Idaho Nick (29/02/2008 3:09:09 PM)
Comment: Your'e right BayBossin. I'm Sorry man. I am pretty pathetic.

Posted By: The Dude (29/02/2008 3:08:51 PM)
Comment: Joe: My point exactly. Smith since 01 466 tackles 43 sacks. Just an example I'll use Freeny since 02 199 tackles 60 sacks. Smith is a run stuffing DE. Lots of tackles. Good fit for us.

Posted By: saj4423 (29/02/2008 3:07:17 PM)
Comment: Aaron, the reason the Rams let Bruce go was because he wanted to much money. He refused to redo his contract and take less money and because they did not have much money to spend they cut him.

Posted By: Nirav (29/02/2008 3:07:05 PM)
Comment: Dude i click refresh like 30 times in one hour

Posted By: BayBossin (29/02/2008 3:06:23 PM)
Comment: Hey Idaho Nicky, Get a life. Take your pathelic life to some other blog where you can sit your fatass on a chair and count away the seconds that pass you by as you continue to give nothing back to society and simply sulk in your utter loser sorry excuse for an existenee. Rep the BAy sucka

Posted By: GH (29/02/2008 3:05:59 PM)
Comment: Smith is an excellent pass rushing DE in a 4-3 because that's what a DE does in a 4-3. He is IMO undersized for a 3-4 DE and they are not focused on pass rushing, they are there to eat blocks so the LB can stop the run or pressure the QB. If you want to get a better pass rush in a 3-4 you get huge athletic DL's and find strong athletic OLB's to get pressure :cough:Pace:cough:

Posted By: mayo63 (29/02/2008 3:05:15 PM)
Comment: If you were Smith wouldn't you rather be a rushing DE in a 4-3. I don't get why this guy at 275 thinks he can be an effective 3-4 end. I hope their making the right decision on this guy. I'd rather have given the money to Pace instead.

Posted By: Aaron (29/02/2008 3:04:05 PM)
Comment: The Dude, I didn't mean to imply that you should never take players from other teams, just that you should really do your homework and understand why they are no longer wanted. Imagine you are the Rams right now. Your team is terrible, and you have a guy who doesn't want a ton of money and has had a great career spent entirely with your franchise. I would even wager to guess he is the last Ram to have played in LA. Why would you let him go for nothing if you thought he could still contribute? We know the Bengals won't re-sign Justin Smith because they are cheap. We got DJ because Seattle didn't feel his on-field performance was worth his attitude problems (or the drops). My concern is that at a time when we are poised to spend a high level draft pick on a WR, and give him and Hill significant playing time, we bring in someone who could take that time away without giving us a significant talent upgrade. And all because Mike Martz liked him 5 years ago. The Walt Harris example is a good one but he was 32 when they signed him and last season at 33 did not have the same level of impact. Bruce is 35. Speaking of Harris, I'd love to see the Niners draft a CB (DRC?) and shift Harris to a Nickel or Safety role where he can extend his career but I don't see it happening.

Posted By: Joe (29/02/2008 3:00:04 PM)
Comment: The Dude - All his career sacks won't mean a darn thing if he is playing 3-4 end. Putting pressure on the QB isn't a priority for the position he is expected to play.

Posted By: Idaho Nick (29/02/2008 2:57:51 PM)
Comment: Hey, BayBossin: the only second I wasted on Matt's blog today was when I read your comment. I'll never get that second back, either, hotshot. But I will also never make the same mistake again.

Posted By: B Reign (29/02/2008 2:57:47 PM)
Comment: Good Call Cyrus. We can go with either guy. Safety position is important. When we had a great safety, we were winning... Lott, Schulters, Hanks.

Posted By: Joe (29/02/2008 2:56:27 PM)
Comment: Sandip - If Martz can make Kevin Curtis, Mike Furrey and Shaun McDonald (who all have identical size and skill set to Berrian)into halfway decent starting wide outs in this league i have no doubt he could transform Berrian into a terrific receiver as well.

Posted By: B Reign (29/02/2008 2:55:32 PM)
Comment: I agree Dude. The Bengals report on Smith is purley propaganda for their own fans. I still don't like Smith for the niners though.

Posted By: Cyrus (29/02/2008 2:55:04 PM)
Comment: The interest in Wilson makes sense, if true. I read somewhere he wants to play in the Bay Area (I think he's from here) and while Roman's play was impressive last year, he didn't create any turnovers. What is suprising is that Goldson would seem to be a much cheaper option who could develop in the next couple of years.

Posted By: Dom (29/02/2008 2:54:57 PM)
Comment: Everyone is putting too much into 3-4 or 4-3. Who says we aren't building to be a dynamic D that does a little bit of everything. Cut it out already. We don't know what the coaches have in the minds about how they are going to use the guys they get. So stop stressing.

Posted By: GH (29/02/2008 2:54:44 PM)
Comment: RE: Faneca - Looks like 49ersNews.com beat me to it - sorry

Posted By: B Raign (29/02/2008 2:53:30 PM)
Comment: Dexter Cater!!! I think the Niners and the Giants can use you! Think you can run with Golden State? ;)

Posted By: JJ Calle (29/02/2008 2:52:59 PM)
Comment: Thanks niners news.. you're sooo much better than the webzone

Posted By: The Dude (29/02/2008 2:52:54 PM)
Comment: Joe: Have you seen Smiths stats? Hes a great fit for the 3-4

Posted By: GH (29/02/2008 2:52:31 PM)
Comment: Looks like Faneca did sign with the Jets. 4yr 32mil w/ 23 mil in guarantees'- according to ESPN.com Michael Smith

Posted By: Mike in SF #1 (29/02/2008 2:51:50 PM)
Comment: Breaking News regarding Matt's favorite team: The San Francisco Giants put up 8 runs in a split squad game. I didnt think they'd drop 8 in a game all year.

Posted By: The Dude (29/02/2008 2:50:34 PM)
Comment: That post from the Bengals forum is worthless. Their losing a guy so of course they'll bash him. I remember talking smack about JP when he left. Not only that but thier description of him actually sounds like he'll be a good fit in a 3-4

Posted By: B Reign (29/02/2008 2:50:23 PM)
Comment: Bruce would be a great fit! He could even teach our young guys a thing or two (hundred). Bruce is sensible.

Posted By: Joe (29/02/2008 2:50:18 PM)
Comment: Stoner - DE's don't generate the pressure in the 3-4, signing Smith would make sense if we were running a base 43 but getting a pass rush end for the 3-4 is just plain retarded.

Posted By: 49ersNews.com (29/02/2008 2:50:06 PM)
Comment: Scratch Faneca from the list. The New York Jets and guard Alan Faneca have agreed in principle to a four-year, $32 million deal that includes roughly $23 million in guarantees, ESPN.com's Michael Smith reports. Faneca is expected to travel to New York this weekend when the deal will be finalized. The Jets are planning on playing Faneca at left guard.

Posted By: BayBossin (29/02/2008 2:49:42 PM)
Comment: Wow Matt. Such insight! You are such a pro. Maybe you could tell us who is going to be on Ellen. or the Tyra banks show. Just playin, your the best.

Posted By: B Raign (29/02/2008 2:45:37 PM)
Comment: Gibril Wilson would be a FANTASTIC fit!

Posted By: Stephen (29/02/2008 2:45:12 PM)
Comment: Denver cut Javon Walker and Ian Gold we should def go after walker now for a receiver

Posted By: sandip (29/02/2008 2:45:04 PM)
Comment: You're right, Joe. But Berrian has taken a lot of plays off for the Bears this last year, in his contract-year no less. The fans around here are infuriated with him because he lacks the work ethic to be a great receiver. He has flat out quit on a bunch of plays this year, and that's why Bears fans don't really care he's leaving. Add that to the fact that Berrian is a one-dimensional receiver he is not worth burning the money he might command this year because there are no other big FA receivers other than Moss. Stallworth isn't a 1 or 2 receiver either. We all saw who the 2 top receivers in NE really were last year. But your point is taken about the QB position in Chicago. However, don't expect Berrian to be a star player (which is the type of money he is looking to get) even in a good offensive system.

Posted By: Jason (29/02/2008 2:44:45 PM)
Comment: Haters everywhere. The Niners haven't even signed Justin Smith, nor has he played a down, and everybody is bashing him already. I like the Bruce signing. Martz will be busy rebuilding Alex, it will be nice have Bruce to teach the WRs. I do think Stallworth should get a call too.

Posted By: Steve-E (29/02/2008 2:44:38 PM)
Comment: Perhaps Stallworth would just cost too much money, and also he might not want to play here anyway, after the experience last season. I'm not trashing the interest in Bruce, though. It's a great idea amongst the WR uncertainty. I actually would prefer Bruce over Berrian.

Posted By: B Reign (29/02/2008 2:44:17 PM)
Comment: Isn't the term bandwagon generally used in referring to winning teams? I will always be a 9ers fan. I am just a niners fan who is tired of incompetantcy. I don't know what has been worse over the last decade... watching George Bush run this Country into the ground over the past eight years or watching my beloved niners get run into the ground. Actually I take that back, I haven't paid attention much to Bush so the niners is far more excruciating. If you think that any of the overpriced bimbos out there is worth the hit against the salary cap, then I wish you supreme happiness in your belief, at least then we can extract something positive out of it.

Posted By: 49erJimmy (29/02/2008 2:43:43 PM)
Comment: 'Niner Cap Hell' reports that we are interested in Free Safety Gibril Wilson of the world champ Giants. What about this guy? Would he be a good fit on the 'Niners? Don't we have alot of Safeties now?

Posted By: Giovanni Carmazzi (29/02/2008 2:43:14 PM)
Comment: Interesting comments on justin smith from the bengals forum: "He doesn't blow by anyone off the line, he doesn't effectively use his hands to fend off blockers, and his swat, swim, and spin moves are pedestrian at best. Sure, you can argue that smith is a tackling machine, he puts up a high tackle number every year. His pursuit of ball carriers to the far side of the field is normally very impressive and often closes down cut-back lanes for those runners. No one is questioning that smith has a motor. So, we have a DE with a good motor who doesn't really get much penetration at the point of attack and has a predictable set of pass-rush moves. Great. If you look at justin smith the free agent, how can you justify getting the poor-man's patrick kerney locked up at at least $7mm+ for the next several years?? He just doesn't bring enough to the table and he isn't in any way shape or form a difference maker that makes your defense better. The Bengals wasted $8mm+ on him in 2007, let's just hope they don't waste any more time, cap space, or effort with him."

Posted By: The Dude (29/02/2008 2:42:32 PM)
Comment: Aaron: "Whenever someone is cut, released, not re-signed or available via trade the first thing you should do is ask yourself why his old team no longer wants him." Just a snippet from your post but I have to bring this up. If a guy is past his prime he can still come into a good situation and have a very good year. Walt Harris. Cut by Washington, washed up, signed by SF, Pro Bowl. I'm not saying Bruce will have the same impact but it shows that it can happen. I'm sure you'll agree that our WR core needs an upgrade right? I dare you to name someone with a lower risk than Bruce.

Posted By: Global Nomad (29/02/2008 2:41:11 PM)
Comment: Bruce is going to STEAL anything from ANYONE. He will come to camp and compete with younger players. If they have talent they can win a job and start in front of him. Bruce has an advantage of knowing the system. So he should get more PT than the "younger" guys. He will also give us a better chance of winning. I dont see anything wrong with that.

Posted By: BayBossin (29/02/2008 2:40:40 PM)
Comment: Wow great Matt, NFL europe stuff. Thats just great. Just Make something up. 49ers trade a draft pick for Osi umenyora . See Matt easy.

Posted By: PatMan (29/02/2008 2:39:23 PM)
Comment: Pace is asking for Joet Porter money which is 5 yr 35 mil. I say we kick Justin to the curb and call Paces agent and tell him no problem and get him here.

Posted By: B Reign (29/02/2008 2:38:52 PM)
Comment: Obviously nothing has happened in the last couple of hours. Practice patience. We'll need it as 49er fans.

Posted By: Dan (29/02/2008 2:38:38 PM)
Comment: B Reign, feel free to jump off the bandwagon... I hear the raiders need of fans across the bay

Posted By: Dirk 2 (29/02/2008 2:38:35 PM)
Comment: I agree with you Steve-E. I think Stallworth is a better choice than Bruce.

Posted By: Joe (29/02/2008 2:38:18 PM)
Comment: Sandip, you ever think the instability at the Quarterback position in Chicago ever helped his cause? Going through three QB's in the course of one season is going to negatively effect any receiver in this league. If you are going to be slinging the mud at Berrian Grossman, Griese and Orton deserve there fair share too.

Posted By: Dexter Carter (29/02/2008 2:38:07 PM)
Comment: I'm available, you think the niners need me again?

Posted By: StonerLab (29/02/2008 2:37:37 PM)
Comment: Joe, Just read your post. How can you possibly comapare Justin Smith a DE mind you that doesn't leave the field meaning he can sack the QB & well as being stout at the line of scrimmage to TBC who is a bit player at best. We're now all dumber for reading your take.

Posted By: JJ Calle (29/02/2008 2:36:56 PM)
Comment: I'll accept Justin Smith if he grows the beard and the hair out again.. so you can't see his sick double chin

Posted By: B Reign (29/02/2008 2:36:33 PM)
Comment: The 49ers are going to suck again this year. Any big name person we sign will backfire.

Posted By: sandip (29/02/2008 2:36:26 PM)
Comment: The only guy that makes sense in terms of a FA signing from this point forward is Bruce. He's cheap and better than pretty much our entire receiving corpse. The Foster signing was very good as well. There are no big fish this year. Sign solid players on the cheap, then wait for next year.

Posted By: BayBossin (29/02/2008 2:36:15 PM)
Comment: Just curious, does anyone even read those long posts by guys like Aaron. Boring repeptative crap. Who cares, we want a MATT UPDATE!!

Posted By: GH (29/02/2008 2:36:09 PM)
Comment: I think a lot of people are going to be severely disappointed with Smith, especially considering the money they are probably going to spend on him. He just does not fit our scheme IMO. We could have saved some probably and grabbed Pace and moved to get another, larger, D-Lineman.

Posted By: JJ Calle (29/02/2008 2:35:00 PM)
Comment: YEAH! I'm with Jimmy.. wheres the updates? Jake, you're still the man

Posted By: Mr. K (29/02/2008 2:34:15 PM)
Comment: Ron Dayne!?!?! If only we were that lucky Jj...

Posted By: 49erJimmy (29/02/2008 2:33:22 PM)
Comment: C'MON MATT...it's 2:30 - whazzz going-on?? You are our eyes and ears.

Posted By: JJ Calle (29/02/2008 2:32:40 PM)
Comment: If we like fat underachieving guys we should have just skipped over Smith and gone after Ron Dayne

Posted By: sandip (29/02/2008 2:31:45 PM)
Comment: I'm a Niners fan (from San Jose) who is currently living in the Chicago area. Trust me, Berrian is a joke. Chicago fans aren't all that convinced with his inconsistent play either. Remember, Berrian catches an occasional deep ball but most of the time he is just nowhere to be found on gameday. We'll all see what a fraud he really is with his new team next year.

Posted By: EMAC (29/02/2008 2:31:01 PM)
Comment: Just hope we sign Justin Smith. It would also be nice to make a trade for Stroud, Rogers or someone.. maybe Javon Walker or Roy Williams or anyone who will actually do something out there

Posted By: StonerLab (29/02/2008 2:31:01 PM)
Comment: Jake who said anything about Bruce being the #1 guy? OMG! where do people like Jake come from who just throw out these assumptions?

Posted By: Aaron (29/02/2008 2:30:49 PM)
Comment: Mike in SF #1 you were 100% right with your last post about Bruce stealing playing time from younger players who are more important to our future. I see DJ as a very talented WR and perhaps I didn't make that clear. It's just that he has always had problems with drops going back through his entire time in Seattle. He put up big numbers in Seattle despite the drops but they have always been there and at this point in his career I can't see that changing (why do you think they were so happy to get rid of him to a division rival?). Regarding Mike Martz and his incredibly difficult offensive system these guys are getting paid millions and have no responsibilities EXCEPT to learn their playbook. They also have 8 months from the time Martz was hired to the first game of the season, so I really can't understand how you need to bring in a great talent well past his prime just to teach your players a system. If they are unable or unwilling to put in the required time to learn the system perhaps they shouldn't be on the team or in the league in the first place. I'm assuming most everyone posting here attended some amount of college, where you have to process a ton of information in a 3 or 4 month period and then be tested on all of it. Why is it too much for these players to learn a playbook in 8 months? I also understand Jerry Sullivan is a terrible WR coach, but how about instead of bringing in another avg WR to be a coach we get an actual WR coach? How about instead of bringing in a washed up neverwas at QB we hire a QB COACH with some experience at the position and not a former DB? Bottom line is, if you have a good coaching staff you don't need to bring in these glorified player/coaches. Besides, if the Rams ACTUALLY WANTED Bruce, or were worried about him jumping to a division rival, they wouldn't have cut him. Think about it. Whenever someone is cut, released, not re-signed or available via trade the first thing you should do is ask yourself why his old team no longer wants him. Sometimes it's strictly a financial decision but in the case of DJ, Dilfer, and Bruce it was a PERFORMANCE issue.

Posted By: Mr. K (29/02/2008 2:30:32 PM)
Comment: Screw the Niners. They never do anything right. They aren't even MY Niners anymore. They're my sons Niners, not mine.

Posted By: Thomas Santiago, Jr. (29/02/2008 2:30:14 PM)
Comment: Heh-heh! We really pulled the wool over your eyes for Justin Smiley! Parcells 4L.

Posted By: Steve-E (29/02/2008 2:29:58 PM)
Comment: I wish there was any interest in Stallworth. I know many fans wished for him to join the team last offseason, and I don't see why not this time around.

Posted By: Jed (29/02/2008 2:29:48 PM)
Comment: While I welcome any upgrades to 10+ years of trouble on the D-Line, didn't a feeble 49er O-Line (with a 3rd string QB) run through Smith and the Bengals D-Line?

Posted By: JJ Calle (29/02/2008 2:29:11 PM)
Comment: sweet, I hope Justin Smith's spin move is as SIIICK as TBCs

Posted By: BayBossin (29/02/2008 2:29:02 PM)
Comment: HA HA Ha, JJ Calle goes "I agree nasty freak" Thats something that should never be seen on message baords. Funny "shite"

Posted By: sandip (29/02/2008 2:28:12 PM)
Comment: It's not about overpaying a little bit. What makes the most sense is to go for the big fish (Nate C. of last year) or get some value in terms of signing a backup (D. Foster) really cheap, but not overspend on guys that are not going to significantly improve your team. Save the big bucks to give yourself flexibility to land a star-player next year. I know people get caught up in the FA excitement, myself included, but after waking up this morning and thinking really hard about it, do I really think Justin Smith is going to help much? NO. Why not add half of his money into the money you might be able to spend next year on a superstar.

Posted By: Joe (29/02/2008 2:28:11 PM)
Comment: Unfortunately it looks as though we have the Justin Smith sweepstakes locked in. Prepare yourself people Smith will be as effective as TBC was when we inked him. Same thing goes for Bruce, he fits the mold of the super productive receivers that we signed in the past. Like Johnnie Morton or Curtis Conway! Passing up Berrian will end being the biggest mistake of this FA. I'll take the proven commodity who has experience and has the prototypical skill set to play in Martz's system. Still people think we are going to magically draft this no.1 receiver, i don't know if anyone has noticed but in the last few years we haven't been doing a great job drafting a wide out with McNolan in charge. Rasheed Marshall or Brandon Williams ring a bell? Someone needs order an air strike on the santa clara headquarters, we need to stop McNolan and the Yorks from ruining this team further.

Posted By: Cody Kotsopoulos (29/02/2008 2:28:01 PM)
Comment: Yo, JJ Calle, you wanna throw down in a game in madden or what!?

Posted By: StonerLab (29/02/2008 2:27:18 PM)
Comment: Yes Cody, The 49er need to hurry up & sign Justin Smith so these guys who really can't understand what Smith can bring to the table can shut the hell up!

Posted By: Robert Wood (29/02/2008 2:27:08 PM)
Comment: JUSTIN SMILEY FOR PREZ

Posted By: JJ Calle (29/02/2008 2:26:17 PM)
Comment: I don't like you cody, jake is so much cooler!

Posted By: PDX Mike (29/02/2008 2:26:14 PM)
Comment: Jake; They are not getting "owned" today. It appears they are making a run at players that they think will fit. If they throw big cash at a questionable receiver that does not pan out; they are then in a precarious position. Wise use of money and cap space is the correct approach. I for one applaud the fact that Dang is not taking a shot at a fairly poor FA class of receivers.

Posted By: Jake (29/02/2008 2:26:01 PM)
Comment: Dan, If Bruce is the 49ers #1, they are in BIG TROUBLE at WR! Battle, Bruce, Jackson are all pretty much the same thing at this point, #2 and #3 receivers. Chad Johnson is the only guy out there besides Moss and maybe Javon Walker who are legit #1's.

Posted By: GH (29/02/2008 2:25:18 PM)
Comment: Stoner - I know that's why included "and followed the top kids this year". The combine is just a small piece of the puzzle. But after seeing some of the kids do drills, watching games, and following draft analysis I didn't see any real 1st round quality kids. They will get drafted in the 1st because of need but IMO I was not overly impressed. And everyone knows Rice is an anomaly, most DB's that covered him will tell you he had game speed and was quicker than most realized, plus he was the greatest WR / football player to ever play the game - god I miss Jerry :(

Posted By: PatMan (29/02/2008 2:24:27 PM)
Comment: Now that Philly has signed Asante Samuels there is a possibility that Lito Shepperd is on his way out. Anyone think we should pick him up if he is cut?

Posted By: Cody Kotsopoulos (29/02/2008 2:24:22 PM)
Comment: I love Justin Smith. He's the man!

Posted By: Dan (29/02/2008 2:23:42 PM)
Comment: I see all you guys complaining about price of FA... Let me ask you guys this question.... Would you rather over-spend a little bit on a guy to improve our team and make the playoffs.... OR.... not over-pay, have another 7-9 season, miss the playoffs, and be able to say you got value? I don't know about you, but I'd be willing to over-spend a little bit and make the playoffs....

Posted By: JJ Calle (29/02/2008 2:22:55 PM)
Comment: Jake, you're a smart man

Posted By: Mike in Marin (29/02/2008 2:22:19 PM)
Comment: Do not let the man leave without a signed contract!

Posted By: Global Nomad (29/02/2008 2:21:41 PM)
Comment: Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch wrote, "If Bruce gets on a plane for San Francisco, it will be to sign a contract with the 49ers " not to visit the club." As far as I am concerned Bruce has agreed to terms. But I'll wait for Matt to give the official word.

Posted By: JJ Calle (29/02/2008 2:21:39 PM)
Comment: I agree nasty freak, our pass rush is dukie... lets become raiders fans, at least have have the 50 million dollar man Tommy Kelley

Posted By: BayBossin (29/02/2008 2:21:36 PM)
Comment: Kings, come on man? You serious. Moss? you think he wants shaun hill throwing to him, or smith. Kearse big money no production when hes healthy anymore. I'm sure Dan is going to give you a detailed explanation on each players faults so i'll stop.

Posted By: Dan (29/02/2008 2:21:14 PM)
Comment: Mike, if we're talking about talent level then yes, Bruce is still a #1 over Djax... Martz reportedly loves WRs with great hands. Bruce has terrific hands, and DJax has had problems his whole career with holding on to the ball. Isaac bruce is just as food as DJax. Isaac Bruce knowing the offense like the back of his hand puts him ahead of any of our existing WRs...

Posted By: jbeezy (29/02/2008 2:21:03 PM)
Comment: I hope we get Smith to sign today. Do you think the Niners might try to trade for Roy Williams of Detroit.

Posted By: mayo63 (29/02/2008 2:20:58 PM)
Comment: GH, Hardy should just make it to us at #29, but Dallas at #28 could ruin things, especially since Manningham probably dropped out of the first round because of his bad forty.

Posted By: sandip (29/02/2008 2:19:54 PM)
Comment: We need to pass on Free Agency this year from here on out. Smith is just a 'B' player at best, and we shouldn't overpay for that. Stay well under the cap so we can have more flexibility next year and hopefully sign another A-quality free-agent.

Posted By: Jake (29/02/2008 2:18:53 PM)
Comment: I agree with JJ Calle on this. The 49ers are getting owned today. I don't understand why they aren't going after Bernard Berrian. Bruce is at best a #2 or #3 receiver at this point just like D. Jackson was from last year. Justin Smith is a good Defensive End but he is by no means a difference maker. At the right price he would be a nice fit and hopefully be better than the DISASTER that was Banta-Cain. They should save the money for Jared Allen next offseason. Jonas Jennings and a pick for Chad Johnson. Get Cincinnati on the Phone!

Posted By: Da NaStY fReAk (29/02/2008 2:18:23 PM)
Comment: I have a fever and the only cure is more pass rush. ~Un0z~

Posted By: StonerLab (29/02/2008 2:18:18 PM)
Comment: GH, There's going to be a very good opportunity for the 49ers to pick up a promising WR in the draft. As NFL scouts will say the combine is about 10-15% of there overall decision making. Mostly the scouts look at film in order to determine their prospects. The combine is only good for a couple of things, teams get to go over medical records & get the chance to interview the young players so they can get a better feel for who they are as people. The 40 yard dash (check guys like Rice & Emmitt Smith who did not fair well in that regard) & the combine drills that they do which really doesn't simulate game conditions are for the most part pretty much over rated.

Posted By: Thiago (29/02/2008 2:18:11 PM)
Comment: Some of you fans are real idiots! If the niners spend money on free agents you question the deals(ex. Clements), if they don't spend money on players you question the deals to solid role players (ex. Foster,Rossum). Here are the facts. 1. No more Maurice Hicks! Foster is huge upgrade to Hicks. 2. Rossum is an upgrade to Hicks as a return man. 3. Issac Bruce will be the No.2 receiver next year if we sign him. (To those who bash the niners interest in him, he had a better year last year than any of our receivers.) Do you not remember him hurting us when we played the rams last year??? 4. Bruce comes at a discount! and honestly at least for next year can give you similar production to Berrian. Come on it makes sense financially. 5. No Briggs, No problem. Not a real need for him right now. 6. If we get Justin Smith, he is a solid player and will help our inexperienced depleted line. 7. We save a little dough on not going overboard with the $$ this year and hopefully have some cash to spend next year. 8. We have been drafting relatively well the last couple of years.

Posted By: BayBossin (29/02/2008 2:17:23 PM)
Comment: Look Back, I dont remember any Mock Drafts ever even coming close, and with a pick like 29? who knows. Those Mocks are such Junk. They are entertainment purpose only.

Posted By: JJ Calle (29/02/2008 2:16:16 PM)
Comment: Even if we sign that fatty Justin Smtih we better go after a few more pass rushers in FA/draft

Posted By: Kings (29/02/2008 2:15:46 PM)
Comment: Ive been a niner fan forever and this sht is awsome...finally have some cash to spend. But is J.Smith really that good?? And Thomas is he going to really do anything for the 49ers? Why aint they going hard for Moss and Berrian and Stallworth?? And how come noone has said anything about Kearse, i think it would be worth a shot. I just dont see that much value in the guys there going after. ANY STARTERS OUT THERE!!!!!!

Posted By: GH (29/02/2008 2:14:23 PM)
Comment: Dan / Mayo - Hardy would be an interesting pick. Better IMO than some of the other potential candidates. He would probably be available since I don't think he will be ranked in the top 5, just outside, but I like his size and speed.We could probably grab him in the 2nd, but it would be cutting it close.

Posted By: BayBossin (29/02/2008 2:14:04 PM)
Comment: I dont see any other #1 guy. It May be slightly sad, but I think I agree on his probable #1 status on OUR team.

Posted By: Mike in SF #1 (29/02/2008 2:12:47 PM)
Comment: Dan, We dont consider him a #1 because we're talking about talent level in addition to the 49ers depth chart. Talent level he's a #2 at best...and I wouldnt automatically put him above Jackson on our depth chart.

Posted By: Mike in SF #1 (29/02/2008 2:10:14 PM)
Comment: Mayo63, ESPN has us taking Hardy in Todd McShay's latest mock draft (updated today).

Posted By: Dan (29/02/2008 2:10:13 PM)
Comment: Heck, everyone's talking about Bruce being maybe a #2, or even #3 WR? This guy would be our #1 right now. He has better hands than anyone on our team, he has better knowledge of system than any WR on team, and he runs better routes than any WR on our team... All of our WRs are #3 quality... Bruce is definately at least a #2, or even a #1 in our WR corp.

Posted By: 49erJimmy (29/02/2008 2:10:08 PM)
Comment: The 'Niners are going to draft CB, O linemen and WR. Nolan said you DRAFT these 'skill' positions. He's said this several times. 'Ya gotta believe him.

Posted By: Marc (29/02/2008 2:07:58 PM)
Comment: Matt, has there been any interest towards Javon Walker? he was release today and it was reported that SF was 1 of many teams who were talking about trading for him.

Posted By: Mike in SF #1 (29/02/2008 2:07:54 PM)
Comment: Aaron, Jackson might not be an ideal WR, but he's certainly a quality #2 WR if your QB is accurate. Last year was the first year since 2000 when he wasnt a 1000 yard receiver (projected to 1000 over 16 games). The year before he came to the 49ers he led the NFC in touchdown receptions. You're just being a hater if you dont consider him a productive NFL receiver. Maybe he has work ethic or character things that held him back amidst the horrible QB play of 2007, but more likely the problem was that we didnt have a QB on the roster that could throw a decent 15 yard route. We checked down damn near every passing play, so Jackson didnt get the looks.

Posted By: GH (29/02/2008 2:07:38 PM)
Comment: I would also agree with some that Berrian might not be the answer. A kid I really like is Bryant Johnson, he is raw IMO and has a lot of upside. Wilford would have been an interesting pick. Obviously none of the FA's are clear cut #1's but there are a few out there that we could have gotten cheaper with good upside and that would have made an immediate impact.

Posted By: Justin Smith (29/02/2008 2:07:36 PM)
Comment: Yes Matt, I'm here. Now stop texting me please.

Posted By: OtisWasYellow (29/02/2008 2:05:39 PM)
Comment: Aaron - once again when Dilfer came in it was about teaching a 20 year old the game of NFL football - not a system - harder to see the little things I'm sure Dlfer did for Alex from a fan standpoint but there's a reason why he was brought and sought after by three other teams and will eventually be a hell of a coach in the NFL. And the System that we are talking about is considered more complex then Walsh's West Coast - it's considered the most complex in football - also not only with Isaac Bruce not be playing for an divisional rival he knows every corner back in the NFL as well if not better then any WR in the game - he's always been a student of the game -and that ability to lend to our currenbt receivers is invaluable. I also love how you write of Jason Hill - you know a lot about him from watching his 20 sum plays from scrimmage last year don't you... I want to point out to every person reading this blog - our current WR's have not worked out in the other 3 systems we've had here - we are about to go to a system that likes the smaller faster players who run good routes... and hmmm who is small, quick and runs great routes? DJ, Battle and yes even Isaac NO LONGER A RAM Bruce... Thank you and good night...

Posted By: Dan (29/02/2008 2:05:16 PM)
Comment: GH, I think it depends on how FA plays out... Like if we sign Bruce or any other WR, AND if we address our need for OLB in FA... If not, and it's our pick at #29, we'll probably get either the best player available between the WR and OLB position. I see if we get a WR at #29 (hardy?), then we will get an OLB early 2nd round (groves?), or vice versa...

Posted By: SDNiner (29/02/2008 2:05:12 PM)
Comment: Hey Matt. I have a question. Why would J.Smith visit SF before going to Minnesota? Does that indicate he may favor our team, or the deal we have preliminarily offered him? Any insights on that thought process would be helpful. I would assume a free agent would make his first visit to the team he's most interested in, or the one that is offering the best deal. If Minnesota is offering him more than we could, why would he come to SF first?

Posted By: BayBossin (29/02/2008 2:04:56 PM)
Comment: This is great, I dont remember offseason buzz like this for the Niners. We should all be f'n happy for this.

Posted By: 49erJimmy (29/02/2008 2:01:51 PM)
Comment: GOOD news! Just hope when he leaves, he's a 49er!!!

Posted By: mayo63 (29/02/2008 2:01:51 PM)
Comment: The reciever to tsrget with our #29 pick is James Hardy, 6'5", 4.45 forty.

Posted By: British9er (29/02/2008 2:00:43 PM)
Comment: They are locking the back gate not to stop you Journos getting to the FAs in the building but to stop them leaving !! - especially Justin Smith. Check your cell phone because I suspect McNolan will be activating the newly acquired jamming device any time now.

Posted By: GH (29/02/2008 2:00:10 PM)
Comment: Stoner - I get it and can grasp football very well, you obviously have a different opinion of the value of the WR's in this draft and what we could get with our picks. Bruce is not going to be a #3 or #4 in our offense he would be at worst the #2.

Posted By: B Reign (29/02/2008 1:59:59 PM)
Comment: I am so sick and tired of the 49ers owners being f-ups. It was ten years ago that we started (key word started) having salary cap issues. You would think by now we could have figured out how to create at least a decent team. We let TO go, which is fine, but for nothing??? NOTHING??? This is no way to run a team, and when we had great owners, this was not a problem. Case and point when two teams during the 2007 draft traded their respective fourth round pick for a wide receiver. Well the 49ers got Jackson and the Patriots got Moss. The 49ers pick was even the more valuable pick that was traded. So you can argue with me on some details here and you would probably be right. The point is though that we have not been a superior team for quite some time now, and it's not because of salary cap and it's not because of free agency and it's not because we haven't had the time to rebuild or the opportunity to do so. It's because the owners of this organizations are idiots! The San Francisco 49ers of Santa Clara County. If it happens, that will be the owner's final betrayal to this fan. Go Sharks!!!

Posted By: SDNiner (29/02/2008 1:59:28 PM)
Comment: Matt, you are a BEAST! Thanks for the updates. Keep up the good work. Hopefully we can lock up J. Smith before he leaves for Minn. And, hopefully we don't have to overspend to make that happen. Bruce could be a good addition to our team.

Posted By: BayBossin (29/02/2008 1:59:03 PM)
Comment: I definately agree there, Berrian is so not the solution. He's in no way a #1, and that kind of money for a #2 like him is overkill. Take bruce and draft WR for sure. Our GM even hinted that Berrian was over rated for that kind of $$. I dont think we will land Smith, but thats just me.

Posted By: JJ Calle (29/02/2008 1:58:11 PM)
Comment: Justin Smith sucks, he can take his two sacks up to minny... Right now we've signed some decent to good backups, with Bruce being another good backup.

Posted By: Aaron (29/02/2008 1:57:28 PM)
Comment: OtisWasYellow, slow my roll? A 35 year old Bruce is not good enough anymore to play in the top 2. Hill has no playing experience so it's hard to imagine him taking one of the top two spots, so he'd ideally be a 3 or 4. Battle at his best is probably a slot receiver so he's a 3. Notice a trend here? DJ can't catch a cold so he's not really a 1 or 2, and the coaching staff obviously has no faith in Lelie so he's a 3 or 4 at best. So tell me, where is Bruce gonna actually play? On a real team he'd only play at the expense of guys like Battle and Hill and how does that make us better? I get that Bruce knows the system and I get that he's reliable, but isn't t hat why we got DJ last year? Or Dilfer as our backup QB? Did either of those moves make us a better football team? Dan, I'm not arguing about money or commitment at all I just don't see how he improves our team UNLESS we cut DJ and/or Lelie. We have 6 guys fighting to be 3-4 WR's and NO ONE qualified to be a 1 or 2. How does bringing in another 3-4 guy help us? I don't necessarily agree that having a player experienced in the system come in can help other players learn. There's something to be said for young players going through that learning process together as opposed to having someone come in and spell it all out for them.

Posted By: kem99 (29/02/2008 1:57:07 PM)
Comment: Matt -- are you sure they aren't locking the gate to keep Justin Smith from leaving? ;)

Posted By: Dan (29/02/2008 1:56:14 PM)
Comment: Patman, it's time to jump for joy that we're still not in the running for Berrian. The guy is not worth $24 for first 3 years... He's getting paid based on the lack of quality WR free agents, and not based on talent. You should be thankful we're not desperate enough to give him $8m a year for #2 quality guy.

Posted By: GH (29/02/2008 1:56:10 PM)
Comment: Dan - What WR do you think we should target in the draft and in what round. I watched the entire combine, followed the top kids this year and I am not overly impressed with any of them. I just don't see this draft as being much about WR's, there are a lot of potential #2 and #3 guys in the draft.

Posted By: mayo63 (29/02/2008 1:55:00 PM)
Comment: Minnesota runs a 4-3, too. I bet Smith goes there instead our 3-4.

Posted By: StonerLab (29/02/2008 1:54:59 PM)
Comment: Dude, That's the other advantage of getting Bruce that GH doesn't seem to grasp or just plain can't figure out. Bruce can not only be productive as a#3 or #4 but he can expidedite the whole proccess of the WR's learning Martz's offense. This is a win-win for the 49ers. There's a very good crop of WR's in the draft to build for the future. Enough said.

Posted By: Mike in SF #1 (29/02/2008 1:54:54 PM)
Comment: Dan, Although 750 yards as a #2 WR with a beaten up starting QB is certainly impressive, Bruce was protected by the double teams that Torry Holt demands. With no true #1 to draw coverage on the 49ers, he may find less openings in the defenses he would face as a 49er. He's a NFL calibur WR, but he's a quality #2 WR for a couple years at best. As an aging WR I have to wonder if his main impact on the team will be to reduce the opportunities given to our young WRs. This will not only impede their development, but also lengthen the time required to determine if we need to cut bait on wasted draft picks.

Posted By: Matt in SR (29/02/2008 1:54:52 PM)
Comment: Matt, hop the fence, we got your back! You're the employee of the year, they can't fire you!!

Posted By: 49erJimmy (29/02/2008 1:53:50 PM)
Comment: Where is DE J. Smith?? It's 5:00 in Cincy. He's got to be in Santa Clara by now! C'mon....give us the news!!

Posted By: dan (29/02/2008 1:52:57 PM)
Comment: If we signed Bruce, I think he would be our #1 receiever over Djax or battle... Especially because of his prior knowledge of running Martz system. If he was a #2 last year, behind Tory Holtz, then he should at least be a #2 or #1 next year with out underachieving WR corp...

Posted By: Bud San Jose (29/02/2008 1:52:39 PM)
Comment: Bernard Barrian is en route to Oakland cause no deal could be done.(rotoworld.com)

Posted By: Samra (29/02/2008 1:52:23 PM)
Comment: The way our receivers are bruce will no doubt be a starter here...he still has a year or 2 left in the tank as he did pretty good with 700 some yards and would have had some more if its werent for his injury...Bruce is a known niner killer as bryant young was a known ram killer...now the rams have no chance with clements shutting down Holt all day and Drew Bennett an easy match for walt harris

Posted By: GH (29/02/2008 1:52:14 PM)
Comment: I also keep hearing about Bruce will everyone learn the offense quicker, how does he do that exactly? Do their homework for them, tell where to throw the ball and how to run routes? On on field coach in a player can have a negative impact, especially with an egomaniac in Mart and a lame duck head coach. I like Bruce and if we need him to coach then hire him to coach but don't think him being on the field will equate to Smith making better decisions or the O-Line blocking or lazy WR's getting open. I want to be optimistic , I love my 49ers but I am also willing to take off the homer glasses and throw a flag every now and then, that's all I am saying. We will see I guess, I hope he does payoff.

Posted By: PatMan (29/02/2008 1:50:44 PM)
Comment: Is it time to panic? Rotoworld is reporting that Berrian is leaving Minn. and heading to Oakland. If this is the case then the Vikes still have cap space to offer a huge contract to Justin Smith.

Posted By: Dan (29/02/2008 1:49:37 PM)
Comment: Gh, I would rather have Bruce for a year or two while we develop an early round WR draft pick, rather than overpay $8M/yr for a guy like Berrian who's not even a legit #1... Bruce is just a "short-term" answer to fill a void while we can develop a WR in the draft... This way we don't dedicate huge portion of the salary cap for an over-rated receiver like Berrian.

Posted By: The Dude (29/02/2008 1:47:00 PM)
Comment: Aaron: Very good point. Theres a lot of wild cards in all of this is VD, Frank Gores reciving, Hill, Lelie (we really saw nothing to prove or disprove him last year) Whichever WR we draft. The reason I like Bruce so much is his constaniancy. He is the best bet to make a positive impact. Worst case scenerio is a tutor, if he can no longer get it done on the field I doubt he'll see it. Of course I thought that about Dilfer :/

Posted By: saj4423 (29/02/2008 1:46:57 PM)
Comment: No one said that Bruce would come in to be a #1 or 2 receiver but he would be one hell of a 3rd or 4th one and would help everyone including whoever the QB is understand the system quicker. It is no secret that they need a #1 WR but why should they go and overpay for one?

Posted By: Nick Fumia (29/02/2008 1:46:45 PM)
Comment: What's your take on this kid JT O'Sullivan - The one game on I saw him play he looked okay, plus he knows Mike Mats

Posted By: GH (29/02/2008 1:45:53 PM)
Comment: Look I am not trying to knock Bruce, I know what he has accomplished, I don't need anyone to throw his stats around to tell me he has been a great WR and if we were a team that was close to making the playoffs and needed a good cheap #2/3 WR to help give us an extra push I could see it making sense. Or if we had a team full of young talented guys that needed a mentor that might make sense but we are not in that position. A 1-2 year contribution from him IMO just does not equate to much success for us. We need to find guys that can add value for the long run, building blocks of some kind, we need to address so many areas and I think all we have done is add depth to already weak spots. The draft is a good place to add building blocks but it depends on what is available, where we are drafting, and who's in FA. Anyone of the top, and yes somewhat overrated, FA WR's would have added far greater value at the WR position than wasting a 1st or 2nd on it when need other areas filled.

Posted By: BayBossin (29/02/2008 1:44:58 PM)
Comment: MATT!! Give us somethin', cus were getting sick of Dan repeating himself.

Posted By: Quinn (29/02/2008 1:44:21 PM)
Comment: Dan..... lighten up buddy. Don't need to bash anyone here. Save that for the convicts across the bay!

Posted By: Quinn (29/02/2008 1:44:05 PM)
Comment: Dan..... lighten up buddy. Don't need to bash anyone here. Save that for the convicts across the bay!

Posted By: OtisWasYellow (29/02/2008 1:43:29 PM)
Comment: Aaron - Bruce is not being brought in soley to catch footballs - he is being brought in because no player in the NFL knows Martz's system better then Bruce... So slow your roll chief and think before you speak...

Posted By: SloppyK (29/02/2008 1:42:51 PM)
Comment: Where can I find an official report of Javon Walker being released by Denver? I've been looking all over and can't find confirmation

Posted By: Dan (29/02/2008 1:42:06 PM)
Comment: Actually, Bruce was only a #2 guy when he got 750 yards, which is even more impressive. He would've out played any of our guys at WR, even at age 35. It's pretty bad when our rb (frank gore) leads your team in yards... Bruce would be a GREAT addition. It's not like it would be a 6 year deal or anything. A 1 or 2 year deal will be enough time for us to draft and develop a WR picked early in the draft for next year. And Aaron, he does address a BIG need for us... Production from a WR spot who knows Martz system like the back of his hand... Everyone worried about the complexity of Martz offense? No need to worry about Bruce picking it up...

Posted By: EastCoastNiner (29/02/2008 1:38:11 PM)
Comment: Berger- Agreed on Starks. Why don't the Niners take a page from Parcells? Though check the money thw Fins gave Starks. Awful lot of money for someone who has never lived up to expectations or played in a 3-4 defense.

Posted By: Sam (29/02/2008 1:37:36 PM)
Comment: Matt, IS Justin Smith in the building yet? I am kind of assuming you are going to follow up on the 11:52 update

Posted By: Aaron (29/02/2008 1:37:22 PM)
Comment: Dan, 24 1,000 yard seeasons in 14 years in the NFL IS impressive. Good thing you checked the stats for us. I guess congrats to Bruce for a big 750 yard season? That's only marginally better than our guys and like you said, he's 35. While that type of season is impressive at that age, firing up the AARP crowd doesn't get you any W's. He just doesn't address our need for a major contributor in the top two spots.

Posted By: StonerLab (29/02/2008 1:37:09 PM)
Comment: Dan, Couldn't have said it better myself about Bruce. With those stats he would have lead the 49ers in recieving & as you stated with everything that happened to the Rams last year is quite remarkable. Again people (GH) the intent to signing Bruce is for a 2-year contract where it's front loaded for playing 1 year. I'm pretty confident that the 49ers will be looking at the draft to get a WR for the future.

Posted By: Tim (29/02/2008 1:34:20 PM)
Comment: Hey Matt- Is there not going to be a push for Berrian? Is his asking price to steep? It would seem he would be a perfect fit in Martz's offense. No offense to Bruce, but his best years are well behind him.

Posted By: Dan (29/02/2008 1:34:05 PM)
Comment: BayBossin, that's like me comin on the blog tomorrow and saying, "Hey Guys, we're interested in Isaac Bruce, and Justin Smith...." Well duh.... Why don't you get a life and go rep the raiders... They're from the bay too

Posted By: Aaron (29/02/2008 1:33:41 PM)
Comment: "No that's what you call me man, I'm The Dude. Or Duder. El Duderino if you're not into the whole brevity thing." Greatest movie ever made. You kind of proved my point about McDonald: his production was a result of all the attention given to Williams and CJ. Those stats show me teams did a relatively good job against those big 2 but then had nothing left to use against McDonald and Furrey. I agree we need more weapons but our biggest problem isn't a lack of depth guys who could fill that 3 or 4 role, it's that we have NO ONE who commands respect in our top 2 and I don't see how bringing in Bruce does anything to address that. And when you look back to last year at how unwilling the coaching staff was to get Hill on the field, why should we expect any WR we draft this year to come in and grab one of those starting spots, let alone make any kind of impact? Martz systems exploit the 3 and 4 WR spots when he has explosive options at 1 and 2 that the defense has to account for. Until we address those positions we're just playing musical chairs with mediocrity. No amount of 3 or 4 WR's is going to makeup for our lack of starting caliber players. It's a similar situation to what goes on with our Dline in that we have a bunch of nice depth but no dynamic talent.

Posted By: Baybossin (29/02/2008 1:33:22 PM)
Comment: Wow, amazing insight.

Posted By: The Dude (29/02/2008 1:32:50 PM)
Comment: Am I the only one not on the Quentin Groves bandwagon? I honestly think Shawn Crable will be better. He has similar skills and he played OLB in college so he would have an easier transition. Plus he should be there at the top of the third.

Posted By: GH (29/02/2008 1:32:29 PM)
Comment: RE: Martz has been good about finding guys in the draft to fit his system - DET has drafted 1 WR in the last 2 years and that was the top prospect last year. The lions were 7-9 with the WR core they had last year, what exactly are we going to be with what we have and our QB? Martz is way over-rated IMO.

Posted By: 3MTA3 (29/02/2008 1:31:49 PM)
Comment: I've been reading this blog now for about 2 weeks, and I can't believe some of the comments. I do like the analysis of some of the readers, but the negative comments are just taking up space. Remember we are just fans of a product we all enjoy. If Nolan and Co. came over and told us that we are horrible, a bum, clueless, etc., about how we perform our jobs, we would tell him to get lost. If you think that players they sign or bums, worthless or whatever other choice words some of you have been using, then don't watch.

Posted By: Berger (29/02/2008 1:30:39 PM)
Comment: Bruce sure torched us. Him leaving the Rams is the best news.

Posted By: BayBossin (29/02/2008 1:30:02 PM)
Comment: Hey DAN, Maybe you could get a life and quit wishing you had your own blog, if your life is so meaningless that you have the time to crawl the web looking for useless information than you should really keep that to yourself. BigG just givin us mentally and socially healthy fans some info, don't dog that... Rep the bay.

Posted By: Dan (29/02/2008 1:27:59 PM)
Comment: Anyone that thinks Bruce doesn't have anything left in the tank should do some research... The man had like 750 yards last year in only 13 games. He also had a hurt QB for a few games, and an O-Line that couldn't block for their lives. Managing to get 750 yards under those circumstances, at age 35, is pretty impressive... If it wasn't for injuries, he would've gotten 1,000 yards AGAIN for the 24th time in his career... The man can still play...

Posted By: GH (29/02/2008 1:25:47 PM)
Comment: Bruce is going to be 36 this year with 15 season under his belt. If they draft a WR in the 1st round I will be incredibly disappointed, and yes the draft has a lot of WR's but most are mediocre at best and we have already drafted 4 in the last 2 years. Sounds like they are trying to build a team to break .500 and not build for the future.

Posted By: Dan (29/02/2008 1:24:50 PM)
Comment: BigG, thanks for the *breaking news* about Javon Walker getting cut. If it wasn't for the espn reports (2 hours ago), the 5 people already posting about it on the blogs, the 3 49er forums that have 100 threads each about it, I might've missed it. Thanks for the info... Great to know we can count on you for breaking news as it happens.

Posted By: Berger (29/02/2008 1:22:04 PM)
Comment: Cyrus-I agree. Wouldn't Starks have been good for the 3-4 RDE so we could put Smith at Elephant? As I said earlier, the first thing Parcells always does, no matter where he's been, is build the D-line.

Posted By: The Dude (29/02/2008 1:20:58 PM)
Comment: McDonald was 4th on the depth chart thus I labled him the #4 WR. He actually led the team in Rec. Yrds. and TDs. So he had the best stats. The top 4 WR in Detriot (CJ, Williams, McDonald and Furrey) all had 50+ catches (well CJ had 49 but he missed some games. I think 4) and all had 500+ yards. My point is giving Martz weapons is a good idea. And if Martz wants a guy he should have him. Also I wonder how much of Bruces declining stats can be attributed to Martz not being his OC. It seems to me that they were trying to phase him out to get younger players out there. Thats a luxury we don't have. We need to get better. I also think your kind of wrong about Bruces playing style. He doesn't work the middle very much (anymore at least). I mostly notice him on the sidelines. He seems to be more like D Jack, a step slower but much much better hands. Our biggest problem last year was dropped passes. If our WR depth is hurting us at other postions and we had to make a roster spot I would cut Jackson and sign Bruce.

Posted By: PatMan (29/02/2008 1:20:22 PM)
Comment: Hey Matt, any word on wheather or not Justin Smith is in the house?

Posted By: BigG (29/02/2008 1:20:13 PM)
Comment: NFL Network on Sirius is reporting that the Broncos have cut Javon Walker and that a number of teams will pursue him heavily.

Posted By: Aaron (29/02/2008 1:20:00 PM)
Comment: ChampCast I think your analysis is pretty spot on but you have to admit there are a lot of ifs and maybes in there. DJ as a possession reciever "if he can hold on to that ball." Doesn't really inspire a lot of confidence, especially considering he's had problems with drops his entire career. I agree with you about the Hawaii WR's but that basically proves my point: unless we start subtracting there won't be any roster spots or playing time for those players. Regarding Lelie and Jackson we know what they can do, and it isn't much so why would we waste more time and money on guys who are in their "prime." At this point, aren't they exactly what they will ever be?

Posted By: PDX Mike (29/02/2008 1:19:37 PM)
Comment: I'm surprised that Cleveland is making a run at Stallworth. They already have Braylon Edwards on the roster and some decent support WR's. Their FA dollars would be a lot better spent on the defensive side of the ball where they were a grease fire.

Posted By: Cyrus (29/02/2008 1:18:21 PM)
Comment: I'm annoyed the Niners did not kick the tires on Randy Starks. Parcells obviously thought enough of him. The guy is 24, 310 lbs, and absolutely dominated in college as a 3-4 end. He's only played in a 43 as a pro, and still posted decent numbers when he's played. I think he would have been a great signing at a reasonable price to compete at either end position.

Posted By: 49ersNews.com (29/02/2008 1:16:54 PM)
Comment: Fox Sports is reporting Bruce is on his way to SF and St Louis Post Dispatch is reporting that Martz contacted Bruce on Thursday and if Bruce got on a plane to SF it was to sign a contract.

Posted By: Berger (29/02/2008 1:16:02 PM)
Comment: Champ-Foster had two scoring runs of more than 70 yds last year. He can score fron anywhere on the field and catches the ball well. As a RB to spell Gore, I thnk it is going to be a good fit.

Posted By: Dan (29/02/2008 1:14:46 PM)
Comment: BayBosin, you say Ulbrich is a bum? And D. Thomas isn't? Ulbrich had more tackles on SPECIAL TEAMS than D. Thomas had in his whole season...

Posted By: Dan (29/02/2008 1:13:21 PM)
Comment: Yea Manny will be fine... I believe he's already running... He should be ready for our offseason conditioning program.

Posted By: BayBosin (29/02/2008 1:11:39 PM)
Comment: Ulbrich is a BUM. You're ridiculous. I dont even need to back that up with info.

Posted By: Joe (29/02/2008 1:10:09 PM)
Comment: I haven't heard anything lately on how Manny Lawson is doing? Is he expected back for the season?

Posted By: Bud San Jose (29/02/2008 1:09:23 PM)
Comment: Ok Javon Walker has been released by Denver !! S.Rodgers has been traded to Cincy.

Posted By: Dan (29/02/2008 1:08:49 PM)
Comment: Yea I could see D. Thomas backing up Willis rather than playing Ted... I don't see why everyone just assumed Thomas was our new starting Ted ILB... Ulbrich OR Brandon Moore would have a better chance.

Posted By: BayBossin (29/02/2008 1:08:20 PM)
Comment: Justin Smith had how many sacks last year!? WHAT

Posted By: ChampCast (29/02/2008 1:06:40 PM)
Comment: Regarding our WR's: Battle could be in line to be the Shaun MacDonald, Az Zahir Hakim, Mike Furrey mold. I just don't know if he has the stretch speed. Welker is the prototype for this type of role, but I think Randle El could be the pinnacle in this type of role. Javon would be my #1 go-to, with D-Jax as the posession receiver, if he can hold on to that ball. Lelie may work out in Martz system, but I think Stallworth would provide better speed. I think the Univ of Hawaii WR's like Davone Bess & Rivers might mold into this system very well. Plus, they could be playing in their backyards. Can someone please tell me the thought process behind signing Foster?

Posted By: Dan (29/02/2008 1:06:20 PM)
Comment: I understand B Moore had a bad preseason... However, I find it hard to believe that D. Thomas with 5 tackles last year, is going to beat out Brandon Moore... Besides that, one of the SF reporters talked to a reporter who use to cover D. Thomas. He said that Thomas is more of a "chase the ball and tackle" type of ILB, rather than attack the line of scrimmage and blow up holes...

Posted By: EastCoastNiner (29/02/2008 1:06:19 PM)
Comment: Briggs is a perfect fit for Tampa Bay

Posted By: PDX Mike (29/02/2008 1:05:27 PM)
Comment: Dan, I think that it is more likely that Thomas will be split time with Ulbrich at the Ted and Moore will spell Willis at the Mike and serve as a situational pass rusher at DE. That will keep Willis fresh and put Moore at the Mike where he saw his success in '06.

Posted By: EastCoastNiner (29/02/2008 1:05:24 PM)
Comment: Berger- I agree on TBC. I think the Niners will draft a pass rushing OLB with one of their first two picks. I really believe Quentin Groves will be there at #29.

Posted By: Bud San Jose (29/02/2008 1:04:35 PM)
Comment: Stallworth is in Clevland talking & Briggs is on his way to Tampa.

Posted By: OtisWasYellow (29/02/2008 1:03:31 PM)
Comment: Dan - D. Thomas will NOT play the TED - he is being brought in to back-up Willis - in turn sliding Ulbrich over to the TED on a full time basis... Briggs would be a waste of money - too bad we didn't go after C. Pace.

Posted By: StonerLab (29/02/2008 1:02:48 PM)
Comment: Ya, just because the 49ers picked up DThomas doesn't mean that BMoore is now out of the picture. I don't know how you can assume that, the bottom line is the 49ers are adding what they think are quality players wether they're starters or backups. People who don't know anything just want to assume & that's being a little reckless in my opnion.

Posted By: BayBossin (29/02/2008 1:00:57 PM)
Comment: Lets Go Matt!! Wheres the updates, I'm constantly refreshing here. LANCE BRIGGS Please!! Rep the BAy

Posted By: Jon in SoCal (29/02/2008 1:00:11 PM)
Comment: Dan: in 2007 BMoore forgot how to tackle. He was given the job coming into TC and lost it because he kept wiffing. I really don't care who starts, Moore or Thomas, as long as they tackle and can take on OL. BTW did you see that Jerry Porter got a HUGE 6 yr, $30mill contract. JERRY PORTER!!!

Posted By: Bud San Jose (29/02/2008 12:59:39 PM)
Comment: Stallworth is in clevland and Briggs is on his way to Tampa!!

Posted By: Dan (29/02/2008 12:56:44 PM)
Comment: You're asking what happened to briggs? Well let's see... He wanted HUGE amounts of money for a position that was not a HUGE need... D. Thomas was probably signed to add depth at the Ted ILB position. Did everyone already forget that we still have Brandon Moore on our team at ILB? In 2006, he led the team in sacks and tackles, and he didn't even start until half way through season... D. Thomas will be Brandon Moore's back up if we don't sign or draft any other ILB.

Posted By: Jon in SoCal (29/02/2008 12:55:37 PM)
Comment: From what I've read and heard about DThomas is that he doesn't have great numbers, is a backup/special teamer. However, he is going to be thrown in the mix for the new TED backer. He doesn't really need great stats, he just needs to blow people up to help Willis. The thought is that TED's are easier to come by and are undervalued, so we just need to geta bigger backer to fill that slot. They need to be able to tackle tho. Not really a vote of confidence for Moore.

Posted By: Aaron (29/02/2008 12:54:13 PM)
Comment: With all due respect, part of the reason that McDonald put up those numbers was because he was a nightmare matchup as a #4 WR. Did the Lions have 3 WR's who put up better numbers than McDonald so that you can definitively say he was the 4 guy, or did he start out as the 4 and move up throughout the season? The Lions also had a couple guys named Johnson and Williams who were drawing a pretty significant amount of attention from defenses. We don't have the talent in our top two WR (whoever they actually are) for our 4th WR to make that kind of impact. Martz's theory is that if you have to use your best 2 corners on his best 2 WR, you probably don't have anyone left who can cover a speedy 3 or 4 guy even if he is undersized. But we don't have enough speed (other than Lelie) or talent to threaten teams and create those favorable matchups at 3 or 4.

Posted By: twoniner (29/02/2008 12:54:12 PM)
Comment: 49erJimmy- we signed him because he is better than Briggs.

Posted By: ChampCast (29/02/2008 12:53:50 PM)
Comment: Can we please get Javon Walker!? What are the chances of this happening? This fills a gaping hole!

Posted By: JB (29/02/2008 12:51:02 PM)
Comment: Stallworth=Lelie in my book.

Posted By: 49erJimmy (29/02/2008 12:50:45 PM)
Comment: Can anyone please help me understand why we signed D.Thomas at LB?? Is it something Singletary noticed? ALSO, what happened to Briggs??

Posted By: Stephen (29/02/2008 12:48:16 PM)
Comment: what about stallworth...hes very good with YAC

Posted By: aaron (29/02/2008 12:46:43 PM)
Comment: Like I said, I can understand the appeal of Bruce but 2 of his last 3 years have been pretty disappointing. He hasn't caught more than 4 TD's since 2004 and hasn't had double digit TD's since 99. He has missed 7 games in the last 3 years and his avg dropped A YARD AND A HALF from 06 to 07 after being stable for the previous 5 years. The Rams offense was terrible but those are bad signs. If we had a group of 3 or 4 talented but inexperienced WR and we needed an experienced anchor I'd be all over this move but that's not how our team is CURRENTLY set up. So either we will be making some subtractions to the WR group after the draft or this is a bad move. At this point in their careers Battle and Bruce do the same thing and Battle does it better.

Posted By: The Dude (29/02/2008 12:45:37 PM)
Comment: Aaron: Valid point about playing time but in Martz system he will use all the tools he has. Case in point, Shuan McDonald was the #4 WR on the depth chart for the Lions last year. He had 79 catches for 900+ yards. Unless Martz modifies his system the WRs will get work. A first day draft pick, Battle, Hill, D Jack, Lelie, Bruce and VD (don't forget Walker). Thats a lot of weapons and depth. That is a good forumla for Martz. We have the cap space and Lelie's has a pretty small contract and I'm sure were not going to break the bank on Bruce.

Posted By: Mike Nolan (29/02/2008 12:44:15 PM)
Comment: Well If I was still in charge I would have got the Briggs deal signed sealed and delivered, but whatever you fans just want to fly airplanes over the stadium with flashing lights wanting to fire.....

Posted By: Berger (29/02/2008 12:43:14 PM)
Comment: NinerKing-I, too, am a Ninerholic! EastCoast- I'm OK with Smith at RDE. It's not like I'm the expert. But I am and expert fan and a Ninerholic. I just saw his size and speed and thought this could be a monster Elephant. TBC surely isn't the answer.

Posted By: EastCoastNiner (29/02/2008 12:37:55 PM)
Comment: Dolphins have signed OG Justin Smiley, WR Ernest Wilford, 3-4 ILB Reggie Torbor and 3-4 DE Randy Starks. They have also traded for NT Jason Ferguson. Parcells is something else.

Posted By: Stephen (29/02/2008 12:34:38 PM)
Comment: Smith is not on the same skill level as BY

Posted By: StonerLab (29/02/2008 12:33:21 PM)
Comment: It's official Foster has signed.

Posted By: BK (29/02/2008 12:32:59 PM)
Comment: Hey Niner King, listening to the Afternoon Blitz as I type this and doing the same thing on the laptop. Refresh! Glad to hear I'm not the only one

Posted By: candlestick (29/02/2008 12:32:40 PM)
Comment: aaron, i disagree. with an offense as complicated as martz's, i think bringing in bruce will be a great help to the receiving corps, and he is a guy who can still produce. the bruce-dilfer comparison is terrible.

Posted By: Matt in SR (29/02/2008 12:32:30 PM)
Comment: Hi Matt, are you going to have any "spy" footage this time around? Also, get a scale out and make Justin Smith stand on it, then we'll know for sure. I agree with you that he looks bigger than 275. He looks like the size of BY to me. In fact I think that is a good comparison size and skill wise.

Posted By: Paul (29/02/2008 12:32:24 PM)
Comment: So basicly were going to be stuck with the same team that went 5 and 11,plus unproven rookies. Man this offseason bites.

Posted By: Catch87 (29/02/2008 12:32:07 PM)
Comment: I'm with you NinerKing! I feel like a junkie needing a fix...ha!

Posted By: NinerKing (29/02/2008 12:28:30 PM)
Comment: On a side note, anyone else feel like a junkie looking for their next hit with this damned Free Agency thing? I've been checking multiple websites, refreshing this one along with the SacBee, and listening to Sirius NFL Radio...just for a little hit of news! I think I need an intervention or going to need rehab.

Posted By: Aaron (29/02/2008 12:28:04 PM)
Comment: Listen, I certainly understand the appeal of Bruce but we saw with Dilfer what it means to have an over the hill player masquerading as a coach. It's a freakin disaster if that guy ever has to actually play. As far as keeping 6 WR if I recall that was a concession made by Nolan and was not his original intent (I also think bringing Gilmore back was an insurance policy against some of the lingering injuries to Battle, Jackson, and Lelie. It just seems to make sense to thin the herd a little as both Lelie and Jackson make a lot of money for guys who don't produce, don't stay healthy, and are unlikely to actually get on the field. Looking at the moves made and in the works in FA it seems like the team prefers to address WR in the draft but unless they thin the herd there's no playing time to be had to develop anyone new. We've tried Jackson and we sort of tried Lelie and neither really worked. Other than for the sake of having warm bodies on the roster what's the upside to keeping them and/or playing them ahead of guys like Hill and whoever we end up drafting? There's only room for 1 past his prime veteran WR on any good team and we already have DJ.

Posted By: Stephen (29/02/2008 12:26:29 PM)
Comment: Adding faneca will help open the run game. He is pro bowler basically because of the wholes he opens. If the offense would have some kind of ball movement and time on the field this would help the defense out and greatly help out the offense. Faneca is at least a pro bowler smith isnt...id ratherthem pay big for pro bowler level Faneca then good FA level smith...dont get me wrong i do like smith too but hes not changing much

Posted By: Randy in Santa Rosa (29/02/2008 12:26:01 PM)
Comment: Just say no to Faneca.

Posted By: nekst (29/02/2008 12:25:22 PM)
Comment: I'm going to assume that Alan Faneca & his agent are just using the 49ers to see if they can get a better deal. I heard the Jets offered him a 4 year, $32 million dollar deal. $20 million guaranteed. Can't see the Niners spending that much...

Posted By: Catch87 (29/02/2008 12:25:18 PM)
Comment: Anyone know where Briggs is? Does he have anything lined up yet with any teams?

Posted By: StonerLab (29/02/2008 12:24:31 PM)
Comment: Thanks Matt for the latest update, I just raced home from the office to check out the latest. Now that we know Justin Smith is coming here first is there any doubt that the 49ers are poised to sign him? Especially after hearing that Pace & Berrian are no longer in the running.

Posted By: stephen (29/02/2008 12:22:53 PM)
Comment: Even if they get Isaac and we will prolly, sadly, there is not a lot to get excited about there. Average at best

Posted By: Robert (29/02/2008 12:21:58 PM)
Comment: ProFootballTalk.com reports Favre retires

Posted By: EastCoastNiner (29/02/2008 12:21:54 PM)
Comment: Berger- Are you completely opposed to having Smith as the RDE? I don't think Smith can play a pass rushing ROLB. I think Niners should have traded there 2nd rounder for Corey Williams too. He could of played LDE at 6'4'' 315 lbs. Sope at the NT, and then sign Smith to play RDE. Draft Groves with the first rounder to be the pass rushing ROLB and there you go. The front 7 is complete.

Posted By: Jake (29/02/2008 12:20:37 PM)
Comment: Chad, Remember though, that was against our Defense that Bruce had 100 plus yards last season. Against the good defenses, he didn't do much.

Posted By: Berger (29/02/2008 12:19:31 PM)
Comment: I'm going to blindly throw a dart. When we draft Dexter Jackson in the 3rd round, he'll need a good mentor. Isaac Bruce will help the transition for Martz offense and teach Jacson how to use his 4.27 speed and quickness to get open in the NFL.

Posted By: The Dude (29/02/2008 12:19:25 PM)
Comment: Aaron "It's hard to see the team keeping Battle, Bruce, Jackson, Lelie, Hill, AND drafting anyone on the first day." How is that hard to see? Thats 6 wide outs. Not too many by any means. Switch out Bruce and a draft pick with Gilmore and Jacobs and its the same amount we had last year (a considerable upgrade I might add). Even if Bruce brings the same physical tools to the table that Battle does he'd still be great to have. Just for the fact that he knows the playbook inside and out. He can make more of an impact than anyone else, even with the physical limitations. Hell he can catch better than any of our guys I'm sure.

Posted By: Michael (29/02/2008 12:16:28 PM)
Comment: A Minnesota radio station is trying to report that a Vikings team source is saying the Vikings signed Justin Smith. Odd seeing as the 49ers are his first scheduled visit and he isnt in SF yet.

Posted By: Nirav (29/02/2008 12:15:48 PM)
Comment: I'll take Bruce on our frontline over D. Jackson anyday. Atleast we fans wont be moaning with numerous drops throughout the game.

Posted By: Jake (29/02/2008 12:15:22 PM)
Comment: TX49er, Obviously you haven't been to Candlestick Park lately???? I don't think anyone is going to be giving 20 million to put their name on that stadium anytime soon, especially with the lack of exposure nationally because of how poorly the 49ers have been playing in the last few seasons.

Posted By: JB (29/02/2008 12:11:50 PM)
Comment: I was just looking through the archives at last years Free Agency Blog and the signing of Clements and Lewis happened at 4:24 pm. I wonder if we will follow the same kind of pattern here? Probably not with no free agents even in the building yet.

Posted By: stephen (29/02/2008 12:11:06 PM)
Comment: Just so you guys know Faneca has not signed with any team yet. He has offers from rams, 49ers, and jets. He is taking two days to think it over and deciding where to go by sunday. He wont make any visits. This came from his agent calling the steelers coverage team here in Pennsylvania...This was said two hours ago..

Posted By: CHad (29/02/2008 12:08:16 PM)
Comment: I think Bruce has prenty in the tank. Did you see him against us this year. I believe the first game he had over 100.

Posted By: Aaron (29/02/2008 12:05:10 PM)
Comment: Matt, in your opinion how does signing Isaac Bruce make us a better team? He obviously knows the system but what good does that do if he's no longer physically capable of executing it? It seems like we already have a short to mid level WR who can go over the middle and can't get deep (Battle) so I'm curious how Bruce fits in. It's hard to see the team keeping Battle, Bruce, Jackson, Lelie, Hill, AND drafting anyone on the first day. Does this say anything about where Hill fits into a Martz scheme, or does it free the team up to cut DJ and/or Lelie?

Posted By: nekst (29/02/2008 12:03:29 PM)
Comment: Berger - Thanks for pointing out some of the subtle differences between Nolan/Parcells 3-4 scheme & Philips 3-4 scheme. I agree with your assessment. I must say that I kind of prefer the attacking 3-4 scheme that Philips uses though. Like you, I noticed the defense was more aggressive w/ Manusky's calls towards the end of last season. Hopefully, that continues...

Posted By: JB (29/02/2008 12:02:53 PM)
Comment: Mike: I can agree with your assesment of the niners current wr situation, however, I would personally hate to see the niners give alot of money to someone only to see them put up Darrell Jackson numbers. No wa of knowing if that would happen or not, just my humble opinion.

Posted By: Tsunan (29/02/2008 12:01:33 PM)
Comment: Jake. With Jenning's contract I'm pretty sure we're stuck with him I think for this year at least. Doubt we could get a trade for him from anyone, and there is no better r-tac/backup option, so he gets paid instead of taking a cap hit. If he ends up being the backup then I see him getting cut next year. I believe next year cutting him wouldn't be a significant cap hit if not a a falt out cap savings, but I don't know the numebers to be certain.

Posted By: medford (29/02/2008 12:00:23 PM)
Comment: Hey Matt check out my Question I aske Trevor Laws http://www.trevor-laws.com/ask/ask.php its under aaron ramun. My reporitng skills at work!! 11:58 Pick up my daughter at school half day

Posted By: Nik Kay (29/02/2008 11:55:55 AM)
Comment: Hey Matt, I think you meant to say "understandably" in your last blog update, but you had it down as " Mike Martz, understandly, really wants him." just thought I could point that out... ALso, you do an amazing job man, thank you for all of your coverage of the niners, I find myself checking your page daily to see whats going down this off season and its nice to have such a reliable source of such good information. I hope your friday is miraculous - Nik Kay

Posted By: Berger (29/02/2008 11:55:04 AM)
Comment: PDX- That is very good question. I thought I addressed it by saying we need a 300lb DE to man the RDE. And not Sope, he is perfect for LDE. EastCoast has Laws. That would work, but he'd be a rookie. I'm thinking somebody like Paul Spicer from JAX. BTW, if Cleveland got Cory Williams for a 2nd round pick, I would've done that, and our pick was even higher than Cleveland's.

Posted By: Mike in Marin (29/02/2008 11:54:37 AM)
Comment: JB: I dont think anyone can answer exactly how much they will be worth to the niners at this point, but what I see is a team who has a lot of needs for starting players who seems to be going after backups. We dont even have a high first round pick.

Posted By: danno49 (29/02/2008 11:54:01 AM)
Comment: Wikipedia says Joe Montana is coming out of retirement to play for the 49ers. w00t!!!

Posted By: Mike in SF #1 (29/02/2008 11:53:24 AM)
Comment: Quick question...What number would Bruce wear?

Posted By: http:// (29/02/2008 11:52:59 AM)
Comment: Dan, anyone can edit a wikipedia page, least reliable source out there

Posted By: JB (29/02/2008 11:50:26 AM)
Comment: Damnit i hate it when that happens..lol

Posted By: GH (29/02/2008 11:49:38 AM)
Comment: That seems to be the million dollar ? Mike, why not spend some money on a WR or OLB? I am not a fan of Martz, he wants Bruce so badly, why? To mentor who? This draft is about 4 positions this year, RB, TE, O-Line, and DB with some D-Linemen worth a look. 3 of the 4 are not a priority for us. I am confused thus far, yes we would overpay for a LB or WR but it will be far better than any return we will get in the draft over the next 2-4 years.

Posted By: Berger (29/02/2008 11:48:55 AM)
Comment: EastCoast, PDX- Wade Phillps plays the 3-4 with penetrating Ends. The NT pushes forward, but two gaps. Wades father, Bum, would one gap the NT often, but he didn't use Teds and Elephants. Just quick and agile LBs. Today's 3-4 uses Two gap NTs, Teds and Elephants. The difference that I can see from watching on TV is that Wade has his NT push forward and Nolan has his read and react without pushing upfield. I would not play Sope at NT with Nolan's philosophy. his game is pushing upfield and at DE he can do that. One more difference between Wade and Nolan. Wade will one gap his DEs and Nolan doesn't, but Manusky did use that tactic more and more near the end of the year. So hopefully we'll see more of it this year. Manusky was Wade Phillips LB coach so you would think he would've learned his system. The system Nolan runs is more like what Parcells runs, except Parcells spends a lot of money and draft picks getting some major talent at DL and Elephant. I've given Nolan a pass on this so far because when he got here he had a lot of holes to fill. I, as a fan, will not stand for ignoring the DL, and in general, the pass rush, anymore. McCloughan seemed to indicate yesterday that DL was his primary concern. I loved hearing that.

Posted By: nine (29/02/2008 11:47:44 AM)
Comment: Dan : on wikipedia, Faneca can sign new york cosmos ;) everyone can modify the page

Posted By: JB (29/02/2008 11:47:35 AM)
Comment: Mike in Marin, are Donte Stallworth, Bryant Johnson worth #1 money in your opinion? Is Calvin Pace worth superstar money after 1 decent year? Just wondering your opinion

Posted By: NinerKing (29/02/2008 11:46:07 AM)
Comment: Mike in Marin - Are we so desperate for a #1 at WR that we add more #1-wannabe's to an already long list of #1-wannabe's that is our Receiving Corps? As strong as this draft is at WR, Im much more comfortable building that position up through the draft.

Posted By: Mike in Marin (29/02/2008 11:41:45 AM)
Comment: I agree with GH. I think we should at least grab JS and Calvin Pace. We need a quality pass rushing olb and I thought Pace would be perfect. It seems were going for quantity rather than qulity. How about some play makers? Smith would be nice and probably he and Deshaun the only good signings so far if it happens. WR would be important as well. Do u really believe we are going to find a #1 wr in the draft, come on. Mushin Mohammed would have been nice. Jerry Porter, Bernard Berian, Dante Stallworth or Bryant Johnson, any of them would make sene for us. We have enough money to be competetive for some playmakers and we desperately need some so why not?

Posted By: Dan (29/02/2008 11:40:44 AM)
Comment: How could wikipedia already have Faneca signing with Jets before any news reporters? Is Wikipedia reliable for breaking news?

Posted By: Josh (Yreka, CA) (29/02/2008 11:40:12 AM)
Comment: Matt, isn't this silence usually good news reguarding a player who is still meeting with the 49ers? I remember last year it was quiet then all of a sudden Clements and Lewis were signed and taking physicals.

Posted By: wsmith (29/02/2008 11:36:42 AM)
Comment: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alan_Faneca Stating Faneca signed with Jets

Posted By: PDX Mike (29/02/2008 11:33:43 AM)
Comment: Berger; if Smith is brought in as the Elephant, then who is on the line? McDonald is more of a pass rusher. Putting McDonald and Smith on the same side appears to make them susceptible to the run.

Posted By: PDX Mike (29/02/2008 11:30:50 AM)
Comment: EastCoastNiner; if you put Soap a the nose, who do you put at the end? Do you think that McDonald has the size to play end in the 3-4? If they don't land Smith; who would play the other side? What would that do to the run defense? I have not paid close attention to the Chargers defense. How do they account for the run with a penetrating line in a 3-4? If it is an ILB; he would have to be a Ted with some serious girth.

Posted By: Berger (29/02/2008 11:27:33 AM)
Comment: PDX-TBC was our Elephant last year, IMO its an area that we need the most improvement. I don't know if Smith is the answer, but from every descriptiopn I've read, he seems like the guy. 4.67 speed and a physical rusher. It sounds like he has been playing out of his natural position so far.

Posted By: TX49er (29/02/2008 11:25:27 AM)
Comment: Jake, get your facts straight. The reason why we arent looking for a new sponsor to put their name on the park is because of Proposition H which was passed by the city of San Francisco limiting the teams ability to look for a new naming rights sponsor. wow some of you guys are morons and talk out ur rear end.

Posted By: Jake (29/02/2008 11:22:54 AM)
Comment: Tsunan, I heard that as well. The guy has been terrible and never lived up to the contract. Why they are bringing him back I don't know? Hopefully, it is just to use him in a draft day trade, we shall see.

Posted By: Bud San Jose (29/02/2008 11:22:37 AM)
Comment: The Jets have offerd Fanaca 4yrs 32 million & 20 mill take home!

Posted By: Tsunan (29/02/2008 11:19:29 AM)
Comment: Jake. Jennings isn't leaving per Scott's interview. Looks like he'll be fighting for the starting r-tackle spot/ backup at both.

Posted By: Marc - NJ49er (29/02/2008 11:19:25 AM)
Comment: NFLN Crawl / Adam Schefter reports -Browns Trade 2nd Rd pick to Packers for DT Corey Williams

Posted By: GH (29/02/2008 11:17:29 AM)
Comment: Awesome!! A 33 year old return "specialist", a bu LB who had 5 tackles last year, another mediocre bu RB, a 3rd string QB who no one have ever heard of and all we have left to get excited about is a DE who doesn't even fit, nor ever played in a 3-4?? All I can say is WOW. For all those excited about Smith, if we over pay for him that will be a huge mistake IMO, in a 3-4 a good OLB makes a difference in the pass rush not an undersized DE.

Posted By: Michael (29/02/2008 11:16:32 AM)
Comment: Chris is an idiot. A few fact corrections.. Issac Bruce is 35. Alex Smith the cowardly lion? He played with a freaking seperated shoulder you moron. If we drafted Edwards who would throw to him? Tim Rattay? Matt Leinart? Seriously who? They are using free agency to address depth which wins football games. Part of the problem was a lack of depth in some positions. They will find their number 1 WR in the draft I wish people would stop bitching. As for Alex being a "4th round QB picked number 1" how is he considered a 4th rounder when Miami was ready to pick him if the 49ers didnt?

Posted By: EastCoastNiner (29/02/2008 11:15:57 AM)
Comment: I don't remember ever hearing the Niners were going to play the Elephant. I agree in Fields though. He isn't a starter. But neither is Franklin. Niners should play the 3-4 like Wade Phillips plays it. Penetration. They have Jay Ratliffe as their NT. He is like 310 pounds, at most. Sope should play NT and penetrate.

Posted By: Jake (29/02/2008 11:15:56 AM)
Comment: The 49ers have the only stadium in professional sports that nobody wants to put their name on, that is funny! TIME FOR A NEW STADIUM 10 YEARS LATE!

Posted By: Jake (29/02/2008 11:13:01 AM)
Comment: If the 49ers don't get Faneca the offensive line is LOOKING VERY THIN! Losing Smiley, Harris, and Jennings being as bad as he has been is not a good sign. I'm a little confused on why you would extend Alex Smith to 2010 when you have already declared an open QB competition for 2008??? If Hill beats him out this move was terrible. You will have a 5 million plus a year QB as your second string QB. Not money well spent. If Smith doesn't win the job I would expect him to be cut next spring.

Posted By: PDX Mike (29/02/2008 11:09:54 AM)
Comment: EastCoastNiner; I find it hard to believe that Fields will find his way into the starting unit. Franklin is a solid NT and I believe that Sopoaga will take a DE spot. He has good reach to shed blockers, a good mix of size and speed to contain the run and his style of play is more penetrating to create some pressure on the edge when called upon. The big question in my mind is where McDonald comes into the mix. Will he play an elephant role, will he be limited to a 4-3 lineup or can he play end in a 3-4? He is quick of the ball, so I don't know if lining him up at end in the 3-4 is the way to use his talents.

Posted By: jbeezy (29/02/2008 11:08:36 AM)
Comment: chris can you please shut the heck up. Are you even a Niner fan? The Niners are doing whats best for the Niners and all of the players we have got so far fill needs that we have. dont get impatient. Not even one day has passed and we have agreed to terms with 3 players. So just chill. With that attitude you should really think about becoming a Raider fan.

Posted By: Marc - NJ49er (29/02/2008 11:06:13 AM)
Comment: J.T.O=designated Tutor and, as it was correctly commented on earlier, bye bye Trent. Let's remember folks, we're a 5-11 team. If we were a sailing vessel with this many holes we wouldn't see the water. Capt Scot and First Mate Nolan better have lot's of advanced scouting done for the visiting dignitaries to keep them around long enough to get the deals done once they arrive. Anyone here curious to see Ted Washington finish his career in SF? He's a NT!

Posted By: PDX Mike (29/02/2008 11:03:06 AM)
Comment: Berger; that is an interesting idea about the elephant position. But that raises a question about Manusky and Nolan and their experience with using the elephant. If they sign Smith to put at the elephant, how do you see the LB core set up? Either way, I see the team going after an OT in the first and a pass rushing OLB in the second. TBC is a situational player at best; they need an impact player at that OLB spot.

Posted By: medford (29/02/2008 11:02:49 AM)
Comment: matt foxsports is reporting issac bruce will visit 2day any info on that?

Posted By: Tsunan (29/02/2008 11:02:34 AM)
Comment: There are some things teams can do converting roster bonus into signing bonus (when you can't afford the roster bonus cap hit, bad practice imo) or paying a roster bonus today in exchange for a lower salary in coming years. Basically giving the player garenteed money today for next year so next year their cap number is lower. Philly did this a few years back paying out beyond some minimal salary to lower the cap cost of players later on. All of these take a resigned contract with the player. I don't recall a signing bonus being convertable into roster bonus since the player already has that money. Clements 7 years for 64 with that initial 10 mil roster bonus means the cap hit is going to run 50ish mil (he had a salary last year that's been paid now too) over the reamining 6 years, so 8ish mil a year if it was evenly distributed.

Posted By: Berger (29/02/2008 11:00:09 AM)
Comment: Since Bruce has a decent chance of making the HOF, it would be good to sign him, if for no other reason than to say another Niner is in the HOF. But the main reason would be to piss of the Rams fans. If he does make it to the Hall, for Rams fans, it would be like watching Marichal pitch for the Dodgers or having Jackie Robinson retire as the property of the Giants. Any time you can piss off the Rams fans, its a deal that has to looked at! I kinow I digress, but hey, I'm still a fan that hates the Rams!

Posted By: EastCoastNiner (29/02/2008 10:59:20 AM)
Comment: Marco- Agree 100%. 3-4 defenses are built through the draft. I think it would still be great if the Niners got Smith though. They NEED a RT, DE, OLB, CB, and WR. Getting Smith helps solve one of those. I figure Fields/late draft pick can play LDE with Sope at the NT spot. As far as the pass rushing specialist, who knows? Groves would be great.

Posted By: shobbrobb (29/02/2008 10:59:03 AM)
Comment: Chris i agree with u on D.Foster and Alex Smith. It wasnt Alex's fault he was drafted No 1. "McNolan" as some of these misguided faithful calls them drafted a Fourth round QB with the 1st pick in the draft REMARKABLE!!Alex is who he is...He probably will have a average year next in Martz's system then everyone will get excited because in comparison to the other years he will look like Tom Brady

Posted By: medford (29/02/2008 10:58:33 AM)
Comment: matt foxspots is reporting issac bruce to meet wih 49ers 2day. any news on that?

Posted By: Nate (29/02/2008 10:57:36 AM)
Comment: O'Sullivan signed as a 3rd string QB - this doesn't qualify as a "judgment of offensive talent," it qualifies as a 3rd stringer familiar with Martz's system brought in at the minimum salary. The real news here is that Dilfer is done with the 49ers, for sure.

Posted By: n8er (29/02/2008 10:56:56 AM)
Comment: man chris, it's like alex stole your girlfriend or something

Posted By: Randy in Santa Rosa (29/02/2008 10:55:51 AM)
Comment: Newsflash for you Chris- Alex & Shaun will compete for the staring QB position, but you already knew that right? We can all look back and say coulda, woulda, shouda, but that's the past and there is nothing we can do about it. If you're so unhappy, I heard the Raiders are looking for fans.

Posted By: Marc - NJ49er (29/02/2008 10:55:06 AM)
Comment: There is a report on the NFLN crawl that states Faneca is scheduled to visit Jets, maybe they agreed on something today? Lot's more to come, we haven't dropped our cards on the table yet, show me Wesley Britt or Shane Olivea with Drayton Florence perhaps? Agreed on Laws too guys, he's on my list for Day 1.

Posted By: shobbrobb (29/02/2008 10:48:33 AM)
Comment: i like all the moves so far except for JT Osullivan?....Judging Offensive talent so far has been a problem for this regime they have proven it time and time again(and dont give me Frank Gore hes been the exception to the rule,a needle in the haystack)noone they have aquired offensively (SKILL POSITION)has panned out.Lets hope Bruce comes here because regardless of his age hes still productive knows the system and is far better than anyone weve got,plus there is no compensation,pair Bruce with someone like Donte Stallworth in Martz's system all the while drafting a receiver would put us in a good position without giving up anything .Also fellas Marlon McCree is a Free Agent and we are in need of a quality safety although we have other pressing needs

Posted By: Chris (29/02/2008 10:47:48 AM)
Comment: Good job niners, let's add more mediocrity to a mediocre team.... I don't advocate throwing money around like crazy but for a quality free agent a sorry team like the niners is going to have to overspend because unless the guy is a niners fan or loves the bay area he probably wants to play on a team that isn't garbage. With Alex Smith as qb I don't think any amount of money in the world could get a wr to come here because Alex Smith will ruin even the best wr's career. Why can't we just get some proven players as starters.... The one move I like is D Foster, I think he is alot better than Maurice Hicks and will be one of the better back up rb's in the league. I don't care if Isaac Bruce knows Mike Martz's system or not he is 80 years old, nice if we had a legitimate #1 wr, we could have if we drafted Braylon Edwards instead of Alex "the cowardly lion and king bust" Smith. Smith does not deserve to wear a niners uniform, he is a bum, a baby and an inaccurate goofball.

Posted By: medford (29/02/2008 10:46:18 AM)
Comment: Issac Bruce makes sense R fans have always loved him. To bad we dont try to get Ernest Wilford

Posted By: Marc - NJ49er (29/02/2008 10:45:56 AM)
Comment: Kawika Mitchell to Bills, Jeff Faine to TB, Jerry Porter and Troy Williamson to JAX, Vilma to Saints. This is like musical chairs, we must be doing something behind the curtain out there in SF? Berger, Myron, all in good fun, lot's of us are glued to the blog and feel anxious to share our thoughts, that's what makes this the best place for 9er news.

Posted By: Razoreater (29/02/2008 10:44:10 AM)
Comment: Oh yes Mr. Berger it would be nice to get laws because he not only be a beast but he is like Mrs. Howell after she ate those special beets-he would infuse that energy into our d-line which we so desperately need-urgency and suddenness!

Posted By: Utah 9er (29/02/2008 10:42:36 AM)
Comment: From profootballtalk.com : NO VISITS FOR FANECA Posted by Mike Florio on February 29, 2008, 1:26 p.m. For Pro Bowl guard Alan Faneca, free agency isn't about wining and dining or touring facilities or meeting with other players already on the team. It's about getting paid. And so Faneca won't be making any visits. Instead, per Charles Robinson of Yahoo! Sports, Faneca will assess offers from the Jets, Niners, and Rams, and then sign with one of them on Sunday. He's expected to receive a deal worth $8 million per year, at a length of four or five years.

Posted By: baron (29/02/2008 10:40:05 AM)
Comment: Re: SB from SF. The 49ers didn't just "front load" the Clements contract for using traditional methods. They gave him a $10M roster bonus, which counts against the cap the year that it is written for. A signing bonus, which accounts for the majority of Clements' remaining bonuses, is already paid up front, but the cap figure is divided up (or prorated) throughout the length of the contract and can't be accelerated (unless he's cut or traded). At least I'm pretty sure how that works. Roster bonuses are due on the year they're written for and signing bonuses MUST be spread throughout the life of the contract.

Posted By: saj4423 (29/02/2008 10:40:05 AM)
Comment: If the player like Clements is already under contract the only way to redo the way the bonuses are paid out is to redo the entire contract. I don't think that the team can just say okay we are going to charge the rest the players signing bonus to this years cap without voiding the contract and having him sign a new one.

Posted By: SB from SF (29/02/2008 10:34:50 AM)
Comment: Mike in SF #2 - What I'm curious is if he's already under contract and is guaranteed the money over a certain period of time and the 49ers have the ability to pay a large portion of that in any given year. I'm talking about someone they already have under contract not someone they are trying to sign. So someone like Nate Clements who we've already locked up for a couple of years. Clements should get about 10 million in bonuses this year and 2.5 million a year from '09 to '11 for a total of $7.5 million in those years. If they had the room would it be possible for the 49ers to decide to pay that $7.5 million now and have it could against the cap this year and then not in those years? I'm just curious if teams can do something like that.

Posted By: Berger (29/02/2008 10:31:30 AM)
Comment: razoreater- I see Laws as a RDE if Sope is at LDE and Smith is at Elephant. Who knows, maybe McDonald can anchor that spot, but it would be good to get Laws, too.

Posted By: Marco from Stockton (29/02/2008 10:30:44 AM)
Comment: I am starting to suspect this will be a 49ers free agency of nothing but players who haven't started for other teams, are over the hill, clearly not in their teams future for a good reason, and won't improve the Niners much . We don't need depth, we need starters first. Like a left Guard,Tackle, and receiver. Although I do agree Smith would be a decent signing. Go back and look at NFL drafts 3-4 years ago. That's where the Cowboys, Pats, Colts, and Giants got their new talent. It's the Draft. Give any team 3 years of good drafting with a good Coach and staff and you will win in the NFL. Maybe not the Super Bowl, but you will can be in the playoff hunt.

Posted By: ninerfan986 (29/02/2008 10:30:01 AM)
Comment: Matt, Thank you sooo much for doing this. The niner's web site is no help at all in trying to get the scoop on this type of stuff. Your blog is the best resource out there... I love it. - niner addict

Posted By: Berger (29/02/2008 10:27:11 AM)
Comment: That was a good one Marc! You forgot about surface type. PDX and Pat- I could be way off here, but I think Smith could be a great Elephant, instead of TBC, and we need to go get a guy like Paul Spicer or some other big(about 300lb) two gapper for 3-4 RDE. I am confident that Sope will draw double teams at LDE.

Posted By: AM (29/02/2008 10:26:15 AM)
Comment: Rob, the Vikes have something in the neighborhood of 35 million cap space. We signed Nate and Mike Lewis last year to huge contracts then went out and got TBC and a few others, I think cap-wise they'll be able to sign Smith, so hopefully we can get something done.

Posted By: Razoreater (29/02/2008 10:25:46 AM)
Comment: i'll tell u what, u add a guy like trevor laws into this d-line mix to carry on the BY flag, and what u have got my friend is an intimidating relentless unit

Posted By: Jason (29/02/2008 10:25:46 AM)
Comment: So, what, now we sit and wait for Smith to show up? I like the Foster signing. Rossum will replace Hicks and could fill in if Strickland is not re-signed. I don't know about the Thomas signing. Everything I have read is that he has yet to tap his potential, and if nothing else he is depth at LB.

Posted By: JB (29/02/2008 10:24:16 AM)
Comment: I can't wait for the info for the player sightings of coming into the facility..

Posted By: Rob (29/02/2008 10:22:29 AM)
Comment: Looks like the Vikings signed Madieu Williams to a record deal. That's one huge contract for the Vikes, plus they are supposedly the front runners to sign Berrian to a big deal. Will there be enough funds for the Vikes to snatch up J.Smith as well? I doubt it.

Posted By: Marc - NJ49er (29/02/2008 10:18:27 AM)
Comment: Look at it this way Kelseyville9er, they are paying attention to Matt's work. The whole FA frenzy is full of half baked disinformation anyway. It all ends up being accurate when the contracts are signed.Until then, it's all about the process of getting it confirmed. Matt's on it and they know it.

Posted By: Kelseyville9er (29/02/2008 10:12:44 AM)
Comment: Matt, What's up with profootballtalk.com saying your info about recent signings are not accurate? Bruce would be a great mentor to Battle (who's greatly underrated).

Posted By: n8er (29/02/2008 10:09:23 AM)
Comment: is it just me who sees the parallels between the vikings of 07 and the niners of 06. breakout running backs, won games they weren't supposed to, made late season playoff push, big spenders in FA... potential 5 win season for vikes in 08?

Posted By: todd (29/02/2008 10:07:53 AM)
Comment: hey vermonator, how can you say these aren't good signings? Foster ran for nearly 900 yards last season. O'Sullivan marks the end of the Dilfer era. Did you see Dilfer play last year man?!?! Trust me, getting O'Sullivan - a guy who already knows this offense well - as our 3rd QB is a very nice piece. Sure, these may not be big names but did you know who David Tyree was before he made that catch? I doubt it.

Posted By: Mike in SF #2 (29/02/2008 10:07:41 AM)
Comment: Guys - let's not forget MD's great season last year had A LOT to with the great B.Y. being on the other side of the D-line gathering all the attention/double teams. Secondly, he had a pretty significant drop off in production towards the end of the season as the rest of our D was getting better. A sure fire sign of an aging player.

Posted By: Mike in SF #2 (29/02/2008 10:04:40 AM)
Comment: SB from SF - The answer is pretty simple - "Its not market". If the 49ers were to give a HUGE roster bonus to a player up front in year one, it would set a precedent for all subsequent NFL signings and it would piss off every other NFL team. The NFLPA is a very strong Union and the teams/owners are careful to watch each others backs on ways to structure contracts (Except the Raiders of course). It does/could make sense for a team with a ton of cap space, as there is talk of the Bucs doing bigger bonuses this year for that very reason, but they would never go to far outside of what is considered a "market" deal.

Posted By: Pat (29/02/2008 10:04:22 AM)
Comment: Hey PDX Mike, totally agree! Lack of pass rush was/is from poor OLB play. Justin Smith in a 3-4 isn't going to dramatically improve our pass rush. He is replacing Douglas who as you said led the league in tackles for loss. So, what are our plans to improve the pass rush? As I see it, we must get a new OLB. Sounds like Pace is going to get paid by the Dolphins.

Posted By: Jeff (29/02/2008 10:03:34 AM)
Comment: Matt how is it you can text Smith's agent? Do you tell his agent you are keeping a blog going for the Niner fanatics who are anxiously awaiting Smith signing with the Niners, and might that give an extra small incentive to Smith to want to sign here? Just curious....I know you're probably too busy to answer....

Posted By: n8er (29/02/2008 10:02:17 AM)
Comment: brilliant!

Posted By: Marc - NJ49er (29/02/2008 10:00:55 AM)
Comment: Myron, let's not forget the adjustment for relative humidity together with correction parameters for wind speed and direction. Tends to skew actually timing differential in terms of Mean time to engage QB.

Posted By: The Jerm! (29/02/2008 9:59:17 AM)
Comment: Thanks for the updates MM!

Posted By: JB (29/02/2008 9:59:05 AM)
Comment: I don't think we need to go into personal attacks Myron. He gave an abritrary % and that is his opinion. Lets try to keep civility and respect for Matt and his blog

Posted By: n8er (29/02/2008 9:58:43 AM)
Comment: The niners better not let him leave the building b/c the Vikes are looking to make moves to be the Niners of 2008

Posted By: Myron (29/02/2008 9:43:11 AM)
Comment: Where do you get the 75% Einsten? Do you have confirmation for that figure? Let me Guess you watch all the Bengal Games and take down the numbers of times he was double teamed and then divide them by the number of plays. You are such a fraud oneniner.

Posted By: PDX Mike (29/02/2008 9:40:22 AM)
Comment: Parker; I would not call Douglas a B-type player. He led the league with tackles for loss and provided what is desired from a 3-4 DE. The only reason SF is hesitant to give him a big payday is his age. If Smith is a younger version of Douglas, he will be well worth the money. The pass rush issue last year was less due to the DL; is was more a result of poor OLB play. TBC was ineffective and Lawson was hurt. The 3-4 can keep offenses on their heels, but the OLB and NT positions are both potential Achilles heels. That turned out to be the case in the bay last year.

Posted By: Berger (29/02/2008 9:39:15 AM)
Comment: nekst- Thank you for the correction.

Posted By: Why Sam (29/02/2008 9:38:55 AM)
Comment: SAM - How can you post a stoopid comment like that and not read what Matt wrote above: You don't need to ask: "Are they interested in so-and-so?" Again, if I know it, I'll report it." Its like some of you fans are complete morons.

Posted By: Berger (29/02/2008 9:38:08 AM)
Comment: I read a couple of days ago that if a bonus is called a roster bonus, it is all counted in the first year. A signing bonus is spread out for the terms of the contract up to a certain amount of years. I don't remember what that amount of years is. I think it was 5.

Posted By: oneniner (29/02/2008 9:35:52 AM)
Comment: I get your point...I don't think that is why they are signing J. Smith...i think they like J.Smith because 75% of the time he commands a double team (something Marques couldn't do), which will free up the other 2 d-linemen and olb. (see strahan with the giants) With J.Smith and the potential of Soap-aubry commanding a double team we would be tough to play against. J. Smith's move will open up holes for all our LB's.

Posted By: nekst (29/02/2008 9:35:32 AM)
Comment: Berger - Correction: That would be Jason Ferguson.

Posted By: Robert (29/02/2008 9:35:03 AM)
Comment: What time will Smith be meeting with McLoughlan?

Posted By: nekst (29/02/2008 9:34:15 AM)
Comment: 49er Fans: Can we stop asking the same questions over and over? He'll report what he hears... don't you read the blog before you post a comment? Anyways... thanks for doing this for us Matt!!!

Posted By: Berger (29/02/2008 9:32:02 AM)
Comment: What have I been telling you guys for months now. Parcells would build his D-line first. After all, it is the fastest way to start winning. He just traded for NT Jason Ellison and appears to be getting Pace. I'm sure he will get that position fairly well set this year while looking at the O-line too. He already went after Smiley. I like the fact McCloughan is targeting D-line. That is already an appearant improvement from Nolan.

Posted By: sam (29/02/2008 9:31:14 AM)
Comment: Matt, the latest rumor is that the Niners are one of three teams interested in Alan Faneca. How legit is this rumor? Have you heard anything about Faneca on your end?

Posted By: GP (29/02/2008 9:30:56 AM)
Comment: Matt: Thanks very much for the updates! Any word about the extent to which Jay Moore and Joe Cohen figure prominently in the 9ers plans for the coming year? Put another way, if they sign Smith, do they think they're set on the D-Line? @Byron: apparently the Panthers got 3rd and 5th round picks for Jenkins, and the Jets signed him to a $35 million contract. (http://www.carolinagrowl.com/Read.aspx?Story=517) Count me happy that the Niners have the Soap and Franklin--though Calvin Pace would be on my wish list regardless of whether they get Smith...unless the price gets too (i.e. Joey Porter money) high.

Posted By: Weary9er (29/02/2008 9:27:26 AM)
Comment: Matt, Thanks again for the great work at this most crucial moment. I have a question which is probably dumb, but, when does the year start with the salary cap? Are we on this year's or last year's now? Forgive the stupidity! :]

Posted By: JB (29/02/2008 9:25:16 AM)
Comment: Oneniner, It would tell me if there is a possibility of him being able to play the position. I'd like to know if the money i'm paying out is going to a player with a varied skill set at different positions or if he is isolated to being only able to play one position. It's the same to me as any hiring process. Do you want someone who specializes in HR or someone who has knowledge in HR and IT?

Posted By: AthensGaNiner (29/02/2008 9:25:16 AM)
Comment: SB and EastCoast: While this is no where near official, I recently read somewhere that the Niners structured Clements' contract to be front loaded, taking advantage of the extra money last year by paying a big portion of his guaranteed money at the time. Again, not official, but I've read stuff that points to that being possible.

Posted By: SantaBarbara49er (29/02/2008 9:21:17 AM)
Comment: We've got to dub Scotti "Dang". We can just refer to him as "Dang McCloughan".

Posted By: oneniner (29/02/2008 9:21:12 AM)
Comment: Marques Douglas visiting Bucs....

Posted By: saj4423 (29/02/2008 9:20:06 AM)
Comment: SB from SF- I believe that they can. I think that is what they did last year with Nate. They gave him a big roster bonus as part of the guaranteed money and that roster bonus counted against last years cap. So they could do the same this year with a player J. Smith

Posted By: Randy in Santa Rosa (29/02/2008 9:19:28 AM)
Comment: I agree Matt regarding Faneca. Seems like signing him would go against McCloughan's belief that guards are not worth paying big money for. Plus he's getting older anyways.

Posted By: EastCoastNiner (29/02/2008 9:18:38 AM)
Comment: SB from SF- Great question! Matt can you please answer SB's 12:11 post?

Posted By: EastCoastNiner (29/02/2008 9:17:11 AM)
Comment: Byron- Jets already traded for Jenkins. 3rd and 5th rounders going the Panthers way. Not to mention we have already signed Sope. Hopefully Smith can be signed. If Marques Douglas can flourish at that RDE spot, what do you think Smith's impact will be? Yes. Exactly.

Posted By: PD (29/02/2008 9:11:58 AM)
Comment: When u say "off the 49ers' radar screen" do you mean there is no interest from the niners(or free agent) or are the agents demanding too much money so we won't bother?

Posted By: SB from SF (29/02/2008 9:11:55 AM)
Comment: Matt - I asked this last year and never got a response. Let say that 49ers go into the draft 25 million under the salary cap - Can they opt to pre pay guaranteed money to players they already have to save them from having to pay it in future years? As an example: Let say Sopoaga was supposed to get a total of 10 million guaranteed over 5 years @ 2 million a year. If they had lots of room could the 49ers opt to pay all $10 million this year so in future years those bonuses would not count against the cap?

Posted By: oneniner (29/02/2008 9:11:08 AM)
Comment: Berger-JB-...."legit question"..you are kidding right? The fact is knowing his speed and lateral movement 4 yrs ago is not going to tell you if he could play the position you wish or envision....that is what Training camp and pre-season is for.

Posted By: Byron (29/02/2008 9:10:34 AM)
Comment: Matt, I know you said that you'd post it if the 49ers are interested, but I'm curious if Kris Jenkins would be a good fit for us. Do you have any idea of what the Panthers are asking for? Thanks!

Posted By: 49erJeff (29/02/2008 9:09:59 AM)
Comment: Thanks Matt for all of your info. You do great work. Just think of yourself today as a bartender. We the 49er fans get thirsty for more info, and here you come running with the cold frosty news. TGIF to all Niner fans!!

Posted By: vermonator (29/02/2008 9:07:08 AM)
Comment: Not bad signings so far but I would expect these to be at the end of free agency rather than the beginning, none of these guys seemed like a hot commodity. Other than our own, are we going to sign any starters for more than a 2 year deal? Doesn't appear so. Scotti wasn't kidding, no splash this year not even a ripple.

Posted By: Jon in SoCal (29/02/2008 9:06:08 AM)
Comment: Was driving all last night so I didn't hear the early news. Smiley to the Fish - OK would have liked to sign him, the deal sounds a little expensive, but whatever. Then I find out we're interested in Faneca? What the heck is McCloughlin thinking? He said he wasn't interested in paying interior lineman lots of cash, but Faneca (he's REALLY good though) is going to cost a lot. Kwame to Raiders - with the Kelly signing it's official...Davis is nuts. The Thomas signing is interesting, I know he wasn't productive, but he doesn't need to be, Willis is productive enough for the both of them. He needs to smash into OL and free up everyone else. I think this will be the sleeper signing. Smith is in town, sign his butt before he gets on a plane.

Posted By: kmok (29/02/2008 9:05:44 AM)
Comment: first

Posted By: Parker (29/02/2008 9:05:44 AM)
Comment: Slim pickins in the FA market. I'd rather see the Niners spend the big bucks on Faneca rather than Justin Smith. Smith is a decent enough, high-motor player who takes up space. But he's a B-level Marques Douglas type of DE who's not going to scare any quarterbacks in our division. Niners need to start building DLs in the draft now.

Posted By: Justin Smith's 40 time (29/02/2008 9:04:37 AM)
Comment: Of course this was a few years ago, but NFL Draftscout has a time of 4.64 listed at 267 lbs.

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