Shanahan on Garoppolo: “He was happy with the result, but hopefully he’s not satisfied.”

San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan participates in a news conference after an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Frank Victores)

SANTA CLARA — Here is the transcript of Kyle Shanahan’s Monday press conference, courtesy of the 49ers P.R. department.

 

Any update on T Joe Staley’s knee injury?

“Same, I think, from last night. Same what I told you guys and we’ll probably expect about six to eight weeks.”

Is there any plan on brining any tackles in to work out or anything?

“Yeah, I think we will later this week, probably work some guys out. But yeah, we’re not set on anything yet.”

How did T Justin Skule do?

“When he came in, he did a good job. We were mainly running the ball at that time, but it was good to get him in a real NFL game, especially since he’s going to be playing a lot next week.”

What have you seen from him just since he’s been here?

“Just the game’s not too big for him. That’s what we liked a lot about him, being a four-year starter in the SEC at Vanderbilt. He got to play against a lot of good players always throughout an entire game. He played the whole game pretty well. Wasn’t always a ton of great highlight-tape plays, but he’s a guy the game wasn’t too big for and helped his team win.”

You and general manager John Lynch have been aggressive throughout the tenure here looking at options. Are you going to be aggressive, you think, looking at what is out there for left tackle?

“Yeah, always. We would love to if there were options. You look at anything that’s possible. I don’t think there’s a ton of great options out there that are possible.”

You’re 2-0, two road wins, do you feel different about this team having done that or is this what you thought you were going to be?

“I mean, we expected to be, but I’ve been in this league long enough that I know no matter what you expect, it’s hard. It’s very hard to win in this league versus whoever you play. We knew we had a better team going into this year. I think we played like it in two games. What I was really happy is we found a way to win an ugly game that first game, which we haven’t done too much around here. Yesterday was a little bit different, everything kind of just clicked in all three phases, so that was fun to be a part of. But no, by no means do I feel, I never feel great. We’re 2-0, we’re going to have a real tough team this week, got a number of injuries we’ve got to deal with and make some adjustments this week because of it. The season’s just getting started.”

Obviously, you’ve been on the road for so long, but to get the win you had, to go 2-0 and the flight back home, what was that like?

“It was fun. It was real fun. We had a pretty bad delay, so it took us a while to get onto the plane. It took a while to refuel coming from Chicago, but when we got on there, it was a good time. Usually you get on there and fall asleep, but not this time. We stayed up pretty late, now that we’re East Coast guys, we know how to stay up later. Being back it definitely, being away for 10 days, it would’ve been a much sadder feeling coming back here being gone that long if you came back losing those games. To come back 2-0, it made it a lot more fun.”

Is there a sense of urgency to maybe make an addition at left tackle or do you feel confident enough in Skule that you can give him at least this game before the Bye and then maybe reevaluate after he puts some stuff on tape?

“I mean, you’re always doing that stuff as coaches. When you go to your final roster of 53, I mean, at every single position, whoever’s on it, you’re looking at all options out there to see. If that’s the case with Skule on the final 53 and we’re trying to see who’s better at that time two weeks ago. We kept Skule because we thought he was the best available. That doesn’t change now. I think Skule’s going to get a lot better throughout his career, but we kept him on this team because he can help us win now. Unfortunately, he’s going to get thrown into that right now. We were hoping it wouldn’t happen that way, but he’ll step it up and we’ve also got [OL Daniel] Brunskill also who can play the position, so we’ll practice both of them throughout this week. We’ll see how it unfolds on Sunday.”

I know you said it was unlikely yesterday, but 24 hours later, is there any more thought about moving T Mike McGlinchey to the left side or are you still liking him at the right tackle?

“No, I don’t see a difference. [Denver Broncos OLB] Von Miller always rushes on our right side, so I think there’s movies named after the left side and stuff like that, but once you get past that then I don’t see much of a difference.”

ME: How does Skule block in the run game? It seems like he fits your scheme well.

“Yeah, he does a good job. He’s very efficient in what he does. He’s still, I mean, he’s getting better at it each week. Those are the types of guys I do like as O-Linemen. O-Line is a grimy game. There’s lots of stuff that they have to do and it’s fun when they pancake people and get noticed for that, but usually guys get noticed when they whiff on people and the quarterback gets hit or they hit the back four yards deep in the backfield. It’s about getting on your man. The more he can, the more reps he gets, the more he can play. I believe he’s got the type of mind and the talent to get better.”

ME: Will you have to help him in pass-pro in ways that you wouldn’t have to help a great player like Joe Staley?

“I mean, you’re always, when you put a rookie out there, especially someone going into his first game, you’ve always got to think of how to help them. But that’s, it depends on who you’re going against, also. There’s plenty of weeks you help McGlinchey and plenty of weeks you help Staley. There’s some good rushers in this league, so I’ve been with a lot of good tackles. Having [Washington Redskins T] Trent Williams in Washington and [former Cleveland Browns T] Joe Thomas in Cleveland and Staley here, there’s still times you’ve got to help those guys also.”

What about DL Dee Ford? Is it the same injury that he dealt with in August in terms of the knee?

“Yes, yep, the same area. Quad, knee area. He’s still hurting today. We’ll see how he is for practice on Wednesday. I don’t have anything new to update today, but practice will definitely be in question for Wednesday.”

Anything else crop up injury-wise?

“No, there’s some wear and tear, but nothing to where I’d tell you guys that guys are going to be out for Wednesday. We’ll see how they come back then. I’ll have a better update for you guys then.”

On the broadcast, they said that you guys told them that RB Matt Breida is your best running back?

“Who’s that?”

The broadcast.

“Those guys shared all of my secrets, huh? No, they were asking why he’s not in much. Why he’s not in all the time because he looks like a really good runner. I just said, yeah, he has some plays where he looks like the best running back, because he is very efficient in what he does. He always hits the right hole and that’s why he was hard to get off the field last year, even when he wasn’t always 100-percent. Breida’s also as tough as any running back I’ve been around, but it’s also very important to keep him fresh. He was able to play with us a lot last year, but Matt, just like anybody, the more he gets worn down, the harder it is to play up to his full ability. That’s why we do try to spell him, try not to keep him in there every single down, because we believe it’ll help him, which helps the offense in the long run.”

With RB Jeff Wilson Jr. getting the two scores yesterday, was that just kind of how the game went or does he give you something down by the goal line that maybe the other guys didn’t?

“Yeah, I mean, we don’t mind the other guys going in there. We try to spell them out and keep them fresh. We usually try to do that with two guys, but we wanted to get Jeff in the game, and we definitely planned on when we got closer to there, doing it. You’ve got to try to set something before the game and help [running backs coach] Bobby [Turner Jr.] with the substitutions and things like that. I wouldn’t say he’s our designated red-zone back, but that was how we planned going into the game and he did a good job with it. We tried to do that when we got down there.”

ME: Has RB Raheem Mostert taken his game to another level? He’s always been fast, but it seems like he’s really finishing runs.

“Yeah, I think that everyone started to see that last year versus Green Bay. You get that week before where he had a fumble, which we were on him pretty hard for, because he had done it a couple times, and we were down on some guys with some guys getting hurt and banged up. I know [former 49ers RB] Alfred [Morris] wasn’t totally healthy that way, that game, and we put Raheem in. He started breaking tackles that game and did some really good things for a couple weeks and then he got hurt, which then he went away until this year. I know Raheem going into this offseason, I think he showed us and everyone else that he can make those plays, but I think he also showed himself. I know going into this offseason, he had a lot more confidence because he always thought he could do it, but he actually went in and did it for a few games. His opportunities didn’t come right away, but when [RB] Tevin [Coleman] got hurt, since he went in versus Tampa and what he did yesterday, it was exactly, to me, how he left off versus Green Bay.”

Did you guys give LB Kwon Alexander the game ball again?

“No.”

He had one in his locker.

“Did he? He’s been carrying that game ball around since we gave it to him. It was actually, if everyone appreciated it that much than we would give it to guys a lot more.”

It looked like you were in nickel defense almost the whole time. Was that strictly based on their personnel or did you want to play nickel?

“No, based off their personnel. They went three receivers so much so we usually match people.”

How encouraged were you by WR Deebo Samuel’s play at wide receiver and what do you think about the wide receiver corps through two games?

“To me, I’ll always say you’re getting better or worse. I think they took a huge step forward this week. I thought they played very well, especially in the run game, all of them. They blocked extremely hard and were one of the reasons we got our running backs to the corners and not always just the safeties. Deebo, I thought, did some really good things when he got the ball in his hand and I also thought he ran some of his best routes that he’s done, especially that first play of the third quarter. I thought that was the best route that he’s had since he’s been here. Even the one that he dropped was a really good route. He dropped the ball, which he’s got to finish, but I was encouraged by his route. But, I thought all the guys took a step in the right directions. I was really happy with them.”

The tackling’s been a lot better through two games this year than last year. Do you attribute that to better personnel or something you guys did in the offseason?

“Hopefully we get better at coaching it and then hopefully the players, we added some players who are pretty good at it. I think we’ve had a lot more than just one guy at the ball too. I think it’s tough for anyone just to tackle a guy one-on-one. I think we’ve had a lot more guys flying around, getting to the ball, playing a little bit more aggressive and getting guys down. It’s been encouraging, but it’s not like we were tacking in practice or anything. You’ve got to constantly talk about it and harp on it and you’ve got to make sure you’ve got the right guys.”

 

How did DL Nick Bosa come out of that game just in terms of his health?

“He came out healthy. Healthier than the week before. Sometimes when you come back with a high ankle sprain you always get a few setbacks in those games. I know he did versus Tampa, but he didn’t complain of any yesterday. Didn’t play as much. We were playing him less on purpose and then we took out most of our starters there in the fourth quarter. I think it worked out well. He was able to affect the game and get out healthier than he did the week before.”

If DL Dee Ford were not to play on Sunday, would you like to keep the rotation the same and have Bosa in sub-package and third down or would you increase his workload?

“I don’t think that would have to do with Dee. I think that would more have to do with his health. We’re going to give him whatever he can handle and if we feel he’s good enough to go and it’s not risking him for anything, then we’ll play him as much as possible.”

I know you don’t base anything on what the chatter is, but QB Jimmy Garoppolo obviously there was conversation even after last week about not playing well or could be playing better. After this week, is there any conversation with him, even before, about what you might be thinking about his play and what you expect from him moving forward?

“No, not much. I don’t try to make a big deal with him the first week. You go over the plans and you coach him up and we did the same thing today when we watched the stuff. I think it was good for him when you talk about the chatter and stuff. I think it was good for him to have some success because that always takes a little pressure off. Everyone, whether you try to ignore it or not, you hear that stuff. I think it’s good that he did go out there and have some success so that he can take that off his back a little bit and relax and just go through his process of just trying to improve each week. We all know what he’s coming back from. He did struggle at times the first week, but he had some good plays too and yesterday he had a really good day, but there were also some plays he missed. By no means was it perfect so that’s just, you look at each play as its own and you get through the whole tape and I think he was happy with the result, but hopefully he’s not satisfied.”

With Pittsburgh Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger, obviously it’s a completely different game and how different will they be without Ben?

“I’m still trying to get to them, once you guys let me get out of here. Anytime they don’t have Ben, that’s a huge deal. Ben’s one of the best quarterbacks of our generation so I know that’s got to be a huge blow for them. But, I know [Pittsburgh Steelers QB Mason] Rudolph will be ready. He’ll step in. They’ve always had a good scheme. They know what they’re doing and they’ve got some other payers out there too. By no means is, it’s still the NFL, it’s going to be a very tough game. Anytime you lose a guy like Ben Roethlisberger, everyone knows how good he is and I still think he’s underrated. It’s a big blow for them.”

That first touchdown to WR Marquise Goodwin, I noticed FB Kyle Juszczyk had to come across the formation after the fake. How tough of a block, pass block is that?

“It’s tough, especially to do it from the I formation. That’s what’s nice about Juice, he’s got a lot more fluidity than a lot of other full backs. He can be in the I in a three-point, go to the strong side, not run into the quarterback, come back across like he’s doing a slide and then stop and block which allows Jimmy to pull up and look for Marquise trying to sneak out the back side.”

Have you a chance to solidify the Baltimore, New Orleans travel? Do you definitely know if you’re going to stay there?

“Yes, I mean that’s definitely the plan. Our travel guys have just got to come through.”

Do you want to stay near New Orleans I would guess?

“Yeah, I don’t really care where we stay just as long it’s the East Coast time. That’s pretty much the only thing to me that would matter. I know it was a big deal, we didn’t want to stay in Florida after the Tampa game because we didn’t want to be in the heat all week. Even though the humidity and heat followed us to Youngstown, but it shouldn’t be as big of an issue in December so I think we’ll gave more options. We’ll see what [director of team logistics Steve Risser] Riss and [team logistics manager Mike] Slap come up with.”

Do you think this team is thinking it’s good?

“Yeah, I think our team has been feeling that since OTAs. If you don’t you’re in trouble. I think you go into every season believing you’re good. It has been different this year than the last couple years because guys, they can see the guys next to him. We have some better players and the guys who have been here have gotten better. Guys could feel that early on in OTAs, which gives you some confidence. Definitely had it in training camp and you try to develop that confidence in the preseason. But, that to me is what was so important about that win versus Tampa. You want to do believe, you think it’s true, but you’ve got to find ways to win some of those ugly ones and that’s why I thought that Tampa one was a huge win and guys believe it, the more they do that. They carried it into the next week and that game went, yesterday, as good as any game, as good as any game that I’ve been a part of. That only gives confidence, but it doesn’t make anything easier. Things only get harder and we’re going to have a huge matchup this week.”

ME: Yesterday was the most locked in this team has been in a long time. Do you feel that staying in Youngstown was an important team building activity? What do you think you got out of staying in Youngstown?

“I don’t know. We had one of our best games, so that doesn’t mean we’re going to go to Youngstown every single week from here on out, but Youngstown was great. For the last two years we’ve felt how our team feels sometimes on those early kickoffs on Sundays even when we have gone on Friday and that is really about the earliest you can go. You want to have this option on another East Coast game, but when you do have two back-to-backs at least we had that option and I heard how they had done it in the past. If someone would have asked me that the first year when I got here, I would have been like, no way that would tire our team out, that’s too much. It did feel like that at times when we were there, but I definitely felt like we felt different when we woke up Sunday, we felt like East Coasters and we were for 10 days. Now, we’ve got to get used to being back on the West Coast, but as I’ve learned it’s not as big of an adjustment.”

On that trip, potential trip to the Eastern time zone in early December, is that a conversation you’ve already had with the leadership council and if so, what was their reaction to that?

“I haven’t had it with them yet. I don’t think I totally have to. I think they know how it went and I think they understand. I think everyone has different opinions and I think no one will argue with the fact that it does make sense.”

This article has 130 Comments

  1. Grant,
    Do you think the 49ers will try to trade for T. Williams? Do you think they should? I would love to see them acquire Williams and eventually move Staley inside. I believe it could lengthen his Career.

    1. Seems that they’d just switch the tackles if it becomes an issue with Staley later, which would also lengthen his career.

    2. Staley would never move inside.

      He’s not a guard, its not his fit.

      The guys a tackle for life. He will be back this season on the left.

      1. I don’t see him as a malcontent, nor do I agree that he’s past his prime. He’s entering it.

        1. The dude has issues with his coach, blowing up on him in a 3-0 game in the 1st quarter. He had to be restrained. Hes a problem and not one you want. He throws coaches under the bus. Cannot play with them, cannot win with them, cannot coach with them. Can’t do it.

          I didn’t say prime, I said peak. He peaked out two years ago, last year was a step back. All “great” CBs do, from Deion to Champ to Revis to Sherm (although Deions was a peak of about 10 years).

          1. Prime, peak. Same thing to me. You and Hammer are the only ones that I know of that don’t believe he’s 1b to Gilmore’s 1a of cb’s in the NFL. It’s a mute point anyways, because the Jags want two 1st’s for him. Kinda high asking price for being “past his peak”, although they’ve been offered a 1st and change from two teams according to reports. I’m betting one of them was Seattle….

          2. Jalen Ramsey is “past his peak” at age 24? ?

            You made my day eMJay. That might be the funniest thing I’ve heard since someone was serious about the notion that Mullens would be a better option for SF at QB, than Garoppolo. ?

            1. Its a fact.

              Dude ran his mouth before 2018 and a lot of those guys he called trash ended up beating him/Jags.

              The guy was now getting in heated arguments with his head coach and demanding trades.

              Don’t want that on this team, especially when the guy is asking for near 20 million a year.

              No CB is ever worth that much. QB, LT, Pass Rush. Thats where you spend your money.

          3. DO not pick up Ramsey, just a big huge cancer. Did you see him blow up on the sidelines screaming and lunging at his coach and a handful of players needed to hold that idiot back and another player had to stand in front of the coach to protect him. Then he threw drinks at personnel and was steaming with a evil look on his face just looking in circles and wandering around. PASS….DON’T waste good draft picks on him.

    1. I’m pretty much with the others re Ramsey. I don’t mind outspoken guys, but I do mind guys that always seem to make it about them. Selfish players. These guys often blame others and clash with coaches or other players on the team, especially when things aren’t going well. That’s Ramsey. Ramsey is great to have when things are going great. He’s a liability in the locker room when its not.

  2. Not predicting this, but it wouldn’t stun me if Staley pulls the plug after season’s end–especially if the 9ers make the playoffs and the ’19 season was seen as very successful. He’ll be 36 next August. He doesn’t strike me as one who’d be content serving as a backup game after game if he’s replaced, or if he’s pegged to start but his play has diminished.

    Just saying I wouldn’t be shocked. Hope he hangs on.

  3. The Niners should pass on both Williams and Ramsey. They are good, but they want too much money, and would hurt the salary cap structure.
    .
    Also, keeping draft picks is best for building towards the future. They should trade back, and get as many players locked up under rookie contracts as possible. The Niner first round pick is too precious to spend for a player who may not want to stay, especially if he does not get top 5 money.
    .
    They should poach a player off a playoff team’s practice squad.

      1. Man, he was All Pro handing off the ball. They gained 259 yards on the ground.
        .
        He did not look too good throwing a lollipop for a pick. He will be the first to tell you that he needs to have better ball security. Throwing picks seem to be his biggest problem.
        .
        I hope they pull him once the Niners build up a 2 score lead in the second half. Since he is coming off of an ACL injury, they need to not risk further injury, if the game is in hand. Mullens should be perfectly fine, handing off the ball.

        1. Like a moth to a flame, I knew you would complain and find fault or criticism in something.
          But then again, your just a die hard.

          Team is 2-0 and Jimmy leading the way.
          Oh I love seeing the doubters eat their crow.

          sebnynah says:
          August 20, 2019 at 8:20 am
          Mullens is the best QB on the team.

          1. Once again, That was just after he threw 5 straight picks in practice, and threw a pick against the Broncos. On his last pass attempt, a Bronco DB dropped a pick six. In that game, he had a 0 QBR.
            .
            Thankfully, JG recovered, and improved, so I am happy he is leading the team to victory.

            1. Let that be lesson for you Seb. Never underestimate the level of talent Jimmy G possesses and the outstanding play calling and coaching of Kyle Shanahan.

              1. Prime, I am so happy JG is the starting QB, I am not calling for Kaep to be signed by the Niners.
                .
                Do not get too far over your ski tips. This last game was easy, but other teams will not allow the Niners to gallop for 259 yards on the ground.
                .
                KS is not infallible, especially after his SB performance. He needs to get better in the red zone, stop wasting time outs, and consistently finish games properly. He still could improve.
                .
                He should have pulled JG in the 4th quarter, so he would not have risked JG to injury in a blowout.
                .
                I will continue to suggest ways he can improve, because he dotes on every word I write. ;p

              2. Haha!!!! STILL……still holding grudges against KS for the Falcons HC decision to not be a HC.

                Walsh lost against the Giants a few times……………..we need to start hating on Walsh.

                Much more poetry is coming for you, Sebs–I feel it in my bones………..

                A real hate mongering Harry is our Sebs………………

          2. ‘ He did struggle at times the first week, but he had some good plays too, and yesterday he had a really good day, but there were also some plays he missed….I think he was happy with the result, but hopefully he was not satisfied.’
            .
            Sounds like you could rip KS for being negative, too. He criticized JG.

            1. If you’ve ever played the game which we know you never have,you would know a coach never ever praises too much or criticizes too much.
              Kyle is just keeping everyone humble. It’s what a good coach does.

              1. Sure why not? Everyone should be coachable at this level. Red faced or not, it’s working isn’t it?
                2-0!

                And the fact you brought the SB from many years ago shows your desperation in trying to find fault in Shanny.
                Keep trying there son!

              2. Yup, I will keep suggesting way for KS to improve. Gotta keep him humble.
                .
                Sure hope they reduce those unforced errors. Still way too many penalties. KS needs to instill more discipline and control, so they stop with the self inflicted wounds.
                .
                If you think that being red faced and ripping JG on the side line is not criticizing too much, you are unclear on the concept.

              3. “Yup, I will keep suggesting way for KS to improve. Gotta keep him humble“

                Seb no one but you is listening to you, you know that right? You are better off peeing in the wind, at least you’ll get a return.

                “If you think that being red faced and ripping JG on the side line is not criticizing too much, you are unclear on the concept.

                Again if you’ve played football you know that football is an emotional game. Players get ripped all the time. Red faced, screaming is all part of it.
                You clearly have no concept of what it all entails. That’s what’s sad about all your commentary.

              4. You obviously have never read a word that Bill Walsh has written.
                .
                Maybe you should read what KS just said.
                .
                Peeing in the wind? You seem to be doing that all the time. Your posts reek of it.

              5. Seb to save you more embarrassment and ignorance, you should volunteer at your local highschool football program.
                Learn about coaching and football through your own eyes and not some book written 20 years ago.

                As great as Bill Walsh was, I think you need to live and breath the game live, present and under your own viewing.

              6. Prime, now it is time for you to give your bona fides. How many years did you play in the NFL? Which team did you coach?
                .
                Oh bravo. Dissing Bill Walsh defines you.

        2. I believe it was his best QB rating since being a 9er–or anything. 130 or something………..
          He’s clearly getting better the more he plays.

          Freakin Sebs badmouthing our 9ers…………..Is it time fore some more of my poetry, Sebs? Or should I send you a barrage of really, REALLY bad jokes? One is just as horrible as the other……………..take your pick.

          Even the soup nazi recognizes a good bowl of soup when he sees one…………………………

          1. Saw, I agree, JG is getting better, and these 2 wins have now given me more hope that the Niners may make the playoffs. I have been generally positive about the Niners. Some troll is just bringing up a comment made in the preseason to make it appear that I am unhappy JG is the starting QB. I am very happy JG has improved, and hope he improves even more. I really hope JG has better ball security. Fortunately, the pick did not result in any points for the Bengals.
            .
            Saw, stick to your day job. You aint funny.

            1. Oh………………………………………………………………………………………………I’m very funny. Admittedly nowhere near as funny as you–and I mean that!

              Here’s a starter, a sample of whats coming your way…………….”Take my wife–please!”
              Get it? I got a million of ’em and they all have your name on them!

    1. There won’t be a cb close to Ramsey’s level if we’re drafting in the 20’s. The Patriots’ Gilmore is a prime example of why you trade your 1st rounder for Ramsey. With the rules favoring the receivers, the importance of having a great secondary has never been greater. Mckinnon will either be cut or restructure, Armstead will be off the books, and the salary cap will increase. Marathe should have no problems with regard to Ramsey’s cap hit….

        1. I don’t think you want to calm a player like Ramsey down, because that’s his alpha nature. I think he’d be fine on this team, because of the culture created. I wouldn’t compare him to Mr. Bigfeet(AB) as some selfish drama queen. Give him a change of scenery, a structured, winning culture, our front 7, and a big contract. We should have a championship defense by the end of the year, and for years to come….

          1. Calm in the in terms of learning how to be a professional. Ahkello was all emotional his first 2 years. Now with Sherm he has harnessed that energy and becoming a good pro.
            I agree a change of scenery with a good culture and player type coaches is what Ramsey needs.

      1. You pass on Ramsey for the same reason you pass on guys like Williams or Gordon.

        There are core guys coming due that are more important, and quite frankly the upside of the player being acquired isn’t much higher or a wash compared to who they’d be replacing.

        1. Totally disagree. You don’t pass up game changers like Gordon or Ramsey when they become available.
          These guys are difference makers and with our cap situation, they could easily fit while signing our own.

        2. You pass on Ramsey for the same reason you pass on guys like Williams or Gordon.

          Williams is 31 years old, and Gordon is a running back. You don’t pass on Ramsey if all it takes is a 1st rounder that will more than likely be somewhere in the 20’s. He’d be a huge upgrade over Sherman. I don’t think Ramsey’s contract would prevent us from locking up Buckner, Kittle, Witherspoon, Breida, and Blair, if Paraag is the cap whisperer everyone says he is….

          1. Minkah Fitzpatrick would have been the move. Low cost for the next two years. Not $15 mil on a guy who isn’t close to what he did 2 years ago.

            As for game changers, ha! The 49ers have 2 backs that are perfect fits for their system, and their corners are playing better with the help of their friends up front.

            1. Disagree. Fitzpatrick would’ve stunted Moore’s growth. You’re the first person I’ve heard believe Ramsey isn’t one of the top 2 CB’s in the league. I don’t disagree that our cb’s are playing better because of the pass rush. I agreed with Lynch’s assessment in the off-season, however we will need a replacement for Sherman, and you’re not going to find one with Ramsey’s skill in the 20’s….

              1. You cut Ward and there’s 10 million for a guy who plays 3 games a year.
                You lose 3.8 in cap hit but Ramsey becomes your shut down corner, Spoon can move to the slot, Moore is playing well and eventually Sherm can move to safety.

              2. “You cut Ward and there’s 10 million for a guy who plays 3 games a year.”

                You don’t know what you’re talking about.

              3. “You don’t know what you’re talking about“

                That’s funny from the guy who talks out both sides of his mouth!

              4. Yeah, Minkah would have been the slot CB here. But versatile enough to cover other positions.

                To be perfectly honest his best fit would have been in Todd Bowles scheme. Playing that role Mathieu played for him.

            2. I have to agree with Jack Hammer on this one.

              I would only consider making a trade for him if I was in serious need of a starting CB. Ramsey would be an upgrade, sure, but the cost would be prohibitive, IMO. I suspect Jax will be asking for a 1st round pick, and Ramsey’s payday is on the near horizon. That money would be better spent rewarding players like DeFo, Kittle, and Spoon with contract extensions. Taking care of your own ascending young players who have worked hard, and kept their noses to the grindstone, is the best way to forge a blue collar culture.

              1. Yah, 2 first rounders, I just read that.

                So ….. 2 first rounders and a blockbuster CB contract? Again, it would be one thing if CB was a glaring need for the Niners, but it’s something else entirely without a pressing need at the position.

                That would be a hard pass for me.

      2. That’s a very good point, and something I didn’t consider Razor. Even if the team picks top 20 any corner drafted will at least be a few years from Ramsey’s level. And with Staley out, the defence might need to ball out even harder over these next two months.

        1. Well, at least Louis Riddick agrees with me. I think I’d trade Williams for whatever I could get for him if we got Ramsey, and then maybe move Witherspoon to the slot….

          1. Doesn’t Witherspoon appear to be blossoming into a force on the outside, Razor? Why would you want to risk upsetting the apple cart by moving him to a position that doesn’t take advantage of his physical skill set, and give up a 1st round pick in order to accommodate a diva like Ramsey, who expects to be the highest paid CB in the league, in the very near future?

            I usually agree with you Razor, but in the instance, I think that makes bad business sense.

            Ramsey is a beast, but for what it would take to acquire his services only makes sense to me if the Niners were in serious need for a starting outside CB, which they aren’t at the moment.

            1. Not at the moment, but Sherman ain’t no spring chicken and the guy who was supposed to be groomed to take over for him is now our FS of the future. Besides, it’s true Witherspoon is blossoming but that doesn’t guarantee a bountiful harvest. If it’s that big of deal, put Ramsey in the slot this year and leave Witherspoon where he is….

              1. I’m not saying you are nuts Razoreater, Ramsey is a rare talent. But it’s hard to build a championship team while giving up 2 first round picks, and then a blockbuster contract on top of that. I wouldn’t do it, but that’s me.

              2. OK, that makes sense Razor. I’m with you on that. Amazing talent though, that’s for sure!

                Cheers.

    2. Sebbie agree with you except poaching another tackle off a practice squad because of the shortage in the NFL of good tackles JL would have already done that two weeks ago if they though they would have gotten someone better than what we have.

      1. I think it is an unwritten rule that teams refrain from poaching players off the PS.
        .
        However, a major injury has created an emergency, so the Niners should be desperate to protect JG’s blind side.

  4. Don’t trade for anybody, stay the Course.

    Question is, what will they do when Coleman returns? These three RB’s are the perfect Trifecta for this team.

    1. Very good question. I think they should stay with what they have now. Coleman didn’t seem to run as hard as the other three. He was supposed to be their power back, but never looked like it. He also seemed slower. After his showing against Cin. I don’t think they will be able to stash Wilson on the PS anymore. They would be better off not playing Coleman. Shanahan needs to forget any loyalty he might have to the old vet and go younger.

  5. ‘Everyone, whether you try to ignore it or not, you hear that stuff.’
    .
    I bet many posters on this site rolled their eyes and ground their teeth. I claim vindication.
    .
    Hmmmm, I guess I will keep writing as though they read my stuff. ;p

    1. Through the verdant plains of North Umbria walked Waylon Ogglethorpe and, as he walked, the clouds
      whispered his name, the birds of the air sang his praises, and the beasts of the fields from smallest to
      greatest said, “There goes the most noble among men” – in other words, a typical stroll for a schizophrenic
      ventriloquist with delusions of grandeur.
      [blf]

    2. Ha! Sebby, Sebby, Sebstrom…………………..making provocative statements and then denying that you do it…………..
      Many a chuckle, Sebs………….we all owe you money…………….and no 2 drink minimum, either!

      Think I saw your truck the other day………………

  6. I sure like how Wilson ran up the gut. He was met 2 yards from the end zone, but powered his way in.

    1. He runs harder than Coleman. Time to go with the younger over the old vet. Coleman is supposed to be the power back of the corps. but to me it looks like he is not only the slowest but also the weakest of the four.

  7. Rapoport reports the Detroit Lions are signing former Bengals backup quarterback Jeff Driskel. Driskel recently worked out for the team.

    Once a 9er….

  8. Would be interesting to see that first TD and the one from Minnesota last year that Kittle dropped. Pretty sure it was the same play/concept.

  9. In Hawaii and didn’t get see the game or replay (they showed the f-in Cowboys and no internet for stream or replay). Now with internet I saw a Jimmy G highlight reel and – man – looks like the good old days even with the pick mishap. (stuff happens) WRs stepping up too.

    1. I hope you can watch the entire game. The Niner run game was explosive. It was an offensive juggernaut, and made the Bungles look inept.

  10. I think some folks are forgetting who they got to coach the D-line.
    Every one of the players look better than last season rushing the QB and cohesion.
    Yes it helps to have talent, but Ford and Bosa aren’t playing every snap and others are getting in the backfield.

    This defense is only going to get better if they stay healthy.
    The offense will too.
    This is a scary up and coming team.
    Coaching is coming into form folks.
    If they can just stay healthy. It’s going to be a magical year.

    1. Totally agree. Interesting how they are constantly rotating in fresh legs – like a new line in hockey.

  11. Kyle Shannahan has this 49er team ROLLING! Finally, next week we got the steelers which we will destroy like we always do at home, in 2003 Tim Rattay torched up the steelers, in 2011 Alex Smith torched up the steelers at home as well, now its time for Jimmy G to do so, rest dee ford and nick bosa to get them healthy, we dont need them this game, James Connor might not even play.

    Week 3 Prediction.
    49ers 34 – Steelers 6
    Garropolo 300 yds, 2 TD
    Breida & Mostert & Wilson Jr 150yrds on the ground
    Deffense 5 sacks, 2 Int.

  12. Seriously, does this Sebby dude/chick have any life whatsoever outside of this blog? Grant’s blog is awesome but there are so many other things he/she could be doing.
    I found a good list to start with. I hope this Sebby person can possibly find at least one thing to do on this list besides wasting their life away here in this blog.

    1. Color
    2. Go for a walk
    3. Clean your room
    4. Clean your sister’s room
    5. Do your homework
    6. Play a board game
    7. Read a book
    8. Play with Play-Doh
    9. Reminisce through old pictures
    10. Watch Netflix
    11. FaceTime your friend
    12. Build a fort
    13. Play with your dog
    14. If you don’t have a dog, use your imagination
    15. Take a nap
    16. Find a DIY project
    17. Do the DIY project
    18. Build a puzzle
    19. Play outside
    20. Draw a picture
    21. Clean the bathroom (my mom used to tell me to do this when I told her I was bored)
    22. Paint your nails
    23. Organize your closet
    24. Learn something new
    25. Learn how to do origami
    26. Listen to music
    27. Complete a word search
    28. Make a “to-do” list
    29. Play Wii
    30. Or some other gaming console
    31. Annoy your siblings
    32. If you’re an only child, annoy your parents
    33. Sing a song
    34. Take a shower
    35. Eat
    36. Play sudoku
    37. Make a bucket list
    38. Call a grandparent
    39. Go to the gym
    40. Write a poem
    41. Go to the pet store
    42. Make a list of places you want to travel
    43. Watch music videos
    44. Write a letter to yourself to open in 10 years
    45. Take another nap
    46. Play Candy Crush
    47. Write your own song
    48. Buy some helium balloons
    49. Poke holes in the balloons and suck in the helium and then call people
    50. Do a craft
    51. Watch the clouds
    52. Eat some more food
    53. Make a photo album
    54. See what the highest number you can count to
    55. Go to the park
    56. People watch at the park
    57. Make up imaginary stories about people
    58. Do a crossword puzzle
    59. Learn an instrument
    60. Talk in an accent
    61. Play iSpy
    62. Hang out with your friends
    63. Try to lick your elbow
    64. Make breakfast for dinner
    65. Sit by the fireplace
    66. Hang out with your family
    67. Tell funny stories from when everyone was little
    68. Have a movie marathon all day
    69. Read some relatable Odyssey posts
    70. Do some online shopping
    71. Watch home videos
    72. Have a spa day
    73. Take a bubble bath
    74. Clean out your dresser and closet
    75. Start your own blog
    76. Do a paint or color by number
    77. Take an online course
    78. Write some letters to friends and family
    79. Check social media
    80. Do some community service
    81. Buy a pet
    82. Cut the grass
    83. Make yourself a home cooked meal
    84. If you can’t cook, just go through drive thru
    85. Go to a concert
    86. Go get some coffee
    87. Take a bike ride
    88. Rearrange a room in your house
    89. Lay in bed all day
    90. Go shopping
    91. Watch a Disney movie
    92. Research conspiracy theories
    93. Go for a drive
    94. Have a picnic
    95. Learn the dance to a song
    96. Start a new project
    97. Go to the zoo
    98. Pop bubble wrap
    99. Fly a kite
    100. Learn how to juggle

    You’re welcome!

    1. Crab, I am touched. Thank you for such kind words.
      .
      FYI, I am a self employed landscape contractor, who can pick and choose my jobs. I may get even more busy with 3 more jobs, but will probably select only one, because talking about these undefeated Niners is so much fun.
      .
      I do not consider this a waste of time. When I see them use Wilson up the gut, KS utilize JG properly with the short passes, along with rollouts, see the counters and misdirections and watching JG get the ball into the hands of his playmakers, I feel as though KS is doting on my every word.
      .
      Yes, I play with my cat. I watched some deer nibbling on my astroelmerias. Picked fruit. Trimmed some bud. However, I will not waste my time on conspiracy theories, and already know how to juggle.
      .
      I do not need to start a blog, because Grant’s blog has everything I need. I get to discuss, praise, cheer for and constructively criticize a team I love, along with other Niner fans.
      .
      Maybe you should take your own advice, and stop letting me live in your head. You’re welcome.

    2. I could also think of a lot of things to do rather than compose a list of 100 options for someone else to do.

  13. Remember how we beat up on Greg Roman?
    He and Jim Harbaugh did everything in their power to help CK keep advancing his game as NFL DC’s began to figure him out. Roman dumbed down the offense and CK’s reads so much that guys like Mathieu knew where he was going with the ball before he did. Confidence lost and never regained. But Roman took our heat.
    Now Roman and John Harbaugh are mentoring a young dynamic QB who actually takes their advice and coaching. He dedicated himself to improving and made great strides from last year and (shock!) is enjoying success.
    I guess Roman wasn’t the problem………

    1. They’re lack of putting opponents away and playing conservative football with a lead was the problem.
      For me at least

    2. Maybe JH was. He forced Kaep to be only a pocket passer, which is like putting an Abrams tank in a pit. John has learned from his brother, and is utilizing Jackson properly.

      1. Kaep has been out of the league for quite some time. It appears he might never return, yet the haters just will not let it go. I have never seen a football player become the target of so much vitriol from his own teams fan base as Kaep. It is no wonder he drifted over to the radical left. As far as Kaep was concerned there was always little to no objectivity in respect to his value on the field. One can just see the double standard that is afforded to Jimmy G. This is no slam on Jimmy, but he is given much more slack than Kaep ever for any mistakes or short comings.

  14. Seems two teams offered a 1st round pick and change for Ramsey, but the Jags asking price is two 1st rounders. I bow out! I wash my hands!

    1. Yeah that’s impossible to justify. I would go as far as a first and a rotational piece, but two firsts is just too much. The only position that is worth that is the QB.

  15. I forget who posted it, but I would give Matt Kalil a chance. See if he is back from his injury, former All-Pro, left tackle experience, plus when Staley is back can easily put him in the swing tackle role.

    1. Pot Kettle –

      Good call on Matt Kalil… he’s worth looking into. I saw his brother Ryan in there last night playing for the Jets.
      I used to talk to their dad Frank once in a while back in the day (7-8 years ago).
      He was the director for my son’s youth football program in Corona California (Corona Chargers).
      I remember him telling me about Matt as a youth football player. He said Matt used to stand around and pick dandelions instead of listening to the coaches. He thought Matt had no future in football.

  16. Jeff Deeney
    ‏@PFF_Jeff

    Among qualifying cornerbacks through two weeks, Ahkello Witherspoon’s coverage grade of 83.3 ranks fourth in the NFL and his passer rating allowed of 16.0 ranks second. #49ers

        1. Nobody this year. Who makes way for Ramsey this season? Witherspoon? How do you think that will go over?

          1. No, if they would have been willing to give him up for a single 1st round pick and some change, I would have traded Williams, and put Witherspoon in the slot. The point being, just get him on the field….

            1. I understand the desire for a true lockdown CB, but with Spoon and Sherman starting the season the way they have, plus Verrett in backup, trading for Ramsey I think sends the wrong message to a guy like Spoon who the team is counting on being a long term starter.

              Plus you have the financial ramifications. People on here acting like they have heaps of spare cap space to sign big money guys plus keep the key young guys they have coming due for extensions are being a bit unrealistic. They already have quite a few players on big contracts now. Only so much money to go around.

              1. Ramsey would be a bad idea. He’s a hot-headed, immature player who is a huge risk to the culture that the Niners have worked so hard to create.

                Additionally, it’d be crazy to think that Niners can invest large sums of money on DBs, LBs and the D-line. Clearly, under Shanalynch, the D-line will get highest priority, with LBs and DBs divvying up the remaining money allocated to the D. Niners will have to look to the draft and aging/injured bargain veterans on FA for competent DBs.

              2. A large part of that is due to salary cap rollover. If you trade for and pay Ramsey you lose a lot of the rollover.

                But yeah, having another look at the current financial position and expected contract extensions, the 49ers probably can afford one more high priced guy without it stopping them re-signing the guys they want to keep over the next couple of years.

              3. The 49ers have about $27.7 mil in cap space headed into 2020 with only 43 players under contract.

              4. Niners need to lock up Buckner, and now it looks like Armstead might be a keeper.
                .
                If Verrett comes back healthy, the Niners do not absolutely need Ramsey, especially at his price.

              5. Jack, you are correct, I had misinterpreted the 2020 cap space thinking it didn’t already account for the rollover from 2019, but it does. So yeah, that doesn’t leave much space for another large contract.

                One positive though is that Buck is already included as counting for a fair chunk of change under the 5th year option, so with an extension his cap hit probably doesn’t need to increase too significantly.

  17. Strange. Just read the 49ers waived Colin Holba and now looking for a new LS. Didn’t seem to me there were any issues with his snaps… wonder if its an injury or some personal issue?

      1. Holba broke into Shanny’s stash of Oreos. You’re not going to let that go! Let the player go instead. ?

  18. Eric Branch
    ‏@Eric_Branch
    6m6 minutes ago

    The #49ers signed OT Will Holden to the practice squad. Holden, a 2017 fifth-round pick of the Cardinals, was a teammate of OT Justin Skule at #Vanderbilt.

    Will Holden wasn’t supposed to be Vanderbilt’s starting left tackle. Instead, that job was reserved for Andrew Jelks — a more-hyped recruit in the Commodores class of 2012. When Jelks went down with a pair of season-ending injuries the past two years, however, Holden was ready to step up. He turned that opportunity into All-SEC honors and, on Day 3 of the 2017 NFL Draft, a spot in the Arizona Cardinals’ draft class.

    https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2017/4/29/15155024/will-holden-arizona-cardinals-2017-nfl-draft

    1. Was with Seattle of late. Let the gut spilling begin!

      Arizona Cardinals —
      The Arizona Cardinals selected Holden in the fifth round (157th overall) of the 2017 NFL Draft. He was the seventh offensive tackle selected in 2017 and the 17th offensive linemen. On May 12, 2017, the Cardinals signed Holden to a four-year, $2.66 million contract with a signing bonus of $268,132. He played in seven games with five starts in his rookie season. On September 2, 2018, Holden was waived by the Cardinals.

      Indianapolis Colts —
      On September 13, 2018, Holden was signed to the Indianapolis Colts’ practice squad. He was released on September 24, 2018.

      New Orleans Saints —
      On October 2, 2018, Holden was signed to the New Orleans Saints’ practice squad. He was released on November 28, 2018.

      Arizona Cardinals (second stint) —
      On November 29, 2018, Holden was signed by the Arizona Cardinals. He was released on July 20, 2019.

      Miami Dolphins —
      On July 21, 2019, Holden was claimed off waivers by the Miami Dolphins. He was waived on August 26, 2019.

      Seattle Seahawks —
      On August 27, 2019, Holden was signed by the Seattle Seahawks. He was waived on August 31, 2019.

      1. Naw, he was only there for a cup of coffee.
        .
        Now, Kwon did give good intel. He gave such good intel, Mike Evans asked Witherspoon if the Niners knew the play before the snap of the ball.

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