Veteran Damon Huard did not take one snap throughout training camp and OTAs with the Chiefs last offseason, he said. Still, he managed to be the team’s starter in three of their first five games.
Onus on Smith to win job from Hill
Coach Mike Singletary says the 49ers are still playing catch-up to some of the elite teams in the NFL.
Sheets’ speed is slowed by demands of playbook
Undrafted rookie Kory Sheets is having some problems, and he’s not afraid to admit it.
Lotsa intrigue with deepest WR group in club history
It’s not the best group of receivers the 49ers have ever assembled. Obviously, Rice and Taylor trumps all. But this is the deepest the 49ers have ever been at wideout. (And if you don’t believe me, try to name seven better receivers who have been on the roster at the same time.)
Singletary pleased with week’s work
Coach Mike Singletary was pleased with the final three practices of the week, he said, because the 49ers took the opportunity to get better every day. Today was the 49ers’ seventh consecutive day of practices.
CB competition is every bit as intriguing as the QBs
Yes, there is daily competition at the quarterback position. But while that competition is taking place, there’s some pretty good action at cornerback, too.
Equal time: Today, Shaun Hill speaks
Yours truly did not make the trek to Santa Clara today for another day of OTAs. However, The Press Democrat was represented all the same.
Smith talks leadership: Can he pass Singletary’s eye test?
Which QB would you like to see open the season as the starter? Vote here. * * * Before we get to my conversation with Alex Smith, I wanted to address an issue. In recent weeks, I’ve received emails stating that I am . . . a Shaun Hill basher, a Shaun Hill supporter, an Alex Smith “hater” and an Alex Smith apologist.
Final word on Vick-to-49ers speculation
The 49ers have been saying for several months that the organization has no interest in would-be quarterback Michael Vick. But, finally, a high-ranking organization member has put his name behind it.
Singletary continues to lay down the law
Today’s practice in 49erland had a little bit of everything, including heavy doses of humor and discipline – you laughed, you cried.
Niners focus on pass rush
The 49ers hired an assistant coach this offseason whose sole focus is on improving the team’s pass rush. Appropriately, Al Harris’ position is listed as “pass rush specialist.”
New role for Davis? Raye plans to use him as pass target
There is a logical reason tight end Vernon Davis saw his total of receptions plummet from a respectable 52 catches in 2007 to a meager 31 last season.
Willis expects 49ers defense to be no worse than No. 10
Linebacker Patrick Willis said there is no doubt in his mind the 49ers will rank in the top 10 of defenses in the NFL this season.
What Smith must show to win starting QB job
A couple days ago Reader Danny had a question about the 49ers’ quarterback competition.
Staley’s contract details and ramifications
The Joe Staley contract extension had been in the works for several months. Today, I learned more details after communicating with a league source with knowledge of the deal, which was signed Thursday.
Smith gets his shot with the first-team offense
Quarterback Alex Smith took snaps with the first-team offense today, but 49ers coach Mike Singletary said it “doesn’t mean anything” – other than the coaches just want to make his competition against Shaun Hill as fair as possible.
Niners sign Staley to extension through 2017
The 49ers locked up left tackle Joe Staley through the 2017 season with a six-year contract extension the club announced just moments ago.
Catching up on 49ers happenings
Just spent a few minutes catching up on some of the happenings around 49erland, courtesy of fellow beats Bee-Rows, Mr. Angels and Demons, and S.F. Boys. Now, I think I’m caught up on what’s going on:
A signing, a look ahead, and many, many thanks
With the signing of sixth-round pick Bear Pascoe, a tight end, to a four-year contract, the 49ers have now gotten four of their seven draft selections under contract.
Remembering a good man
Ernest Loren Maiocco, a Korean War veteran and a damn good person, died late Monday night . . . on Memorial Day.