The season ends. Whew. But what did we learn?

In a moment that typified the season, C.J. Beathard has his pass blocked by Seahawks defensive end Carlos Dunlap. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)

It is never a good sign to hear members of a team say they are “excited” to have a season end, as the 49ers did this week.

You can be excited about going to the playoffs. Or excited to start the season. But if you are thrilled that it is over, it must have been a real downer.

And it was. If the 2019 season was a rocket ride to the glitz and fame of football’s biggest showcase game, 2020 was more like a long, hot bus ride over flat, featureless countryside. And the cherry on top was forced confinement, in a hotel away from home, for over a month.

The milestones slipped out of reach as the season crawled along. First, there was no chance to win the division. Then no playoffs. Followed by the reality that a winning season was impossible. And finally, a hope to at least win the last game to go out on a positive note.

None of that happened. And by the end, everybody, players, coaches, and staff, just wanted to get off the damn bus and get  away.

“I will be very much off the face of the earth for the next month,” George Kittle said. “Don’t try to find me or ask me any questions . . . please.”

Kyle Shanahan joked that he was so eager to get going that he’d packed his bags two full days before departure. After the final crusher of a loss to Seattle, you have to assume Shanahan was ever more eager to leave.

The 26-23 defeat was more than just the 10th loss of the season. It encapsulated the season.

The Niners took the field with their usual keep-the-roster-chart-handy list of new and previously unknown players, due to an almost unbelievable number of injuries and the pandemic. They played pretty well early, even took a ten-point lead. But at crunch time they were done in by superior talent, in Russell Wilson, and the now inevitable fumble by the 49ers quarterback.

So it is fine that the season is over. Because we don’t need to see any more of that. We get it.

Feel free to move on. Spend time debating the skills of draftable college quarterbacks. Assess the effect of the expected departure of Robert Saleh. Consider potential free agents. And, of course, continue agonizing over the potential of Jimmy Garoppolo.

But before we do that, it is worth looking back. Surely the 2020 season taught us some things. A few observations:

The evenness of Shanahan’s keel abides: You may remember that one of the concerns the 49ers had with hiring Shanahan was the perception that he could be a little arrogant and abrupt. And, as the media noted over the first three years, he’s been anything but. In fact, he’s gone out of his way to be cooperative, giving lengthy, thoughtful answers to questions.

But honestly, that’s not hard to pull off when you are on your way to the Super Bowl. Let’s see how he is when he only wins six games. You’ve seen football coaches like Bill Belichick or Alabama’s Nick Saban, who get unpleasant when they get a tough question.

But Shanahan kept his cool. Unless I missed it, he didn’t get defensive or snap back. His composure was so noticeable that a reporter asked Shanahan how he can be so fiery on the sideline but composed in post-game interviews.

First, he said, “I think I’ve been doing it for a long time.”

Which, although we think of him as a young coach, is true. He is only 41, but he spent 15 years as an assistant before taking over the 49ers four years ago.

And then he made a real veteran move, a shout-out to reporters.

“When you don’t win and stuff, I expect to have tough questions,” he said. “But also, giving you guys a soft compliment, I think you guys have been pretty good to us too. I’ve had some places (Washington? Cleveland?) that aren’t so good. So not to get that confused with really good, but you guys are respectful, I try to be respectful in answering your guys’ questions.”

And that’s how you handle the media. One tiny caveat, the making sure the media didn’t think he was saying they were “really good,” sounds like classic Shanahan. Never one to toss around too many compliments. It makes me wonder if he’s ever been happy with one of his quarterbacks. Nothing wrong with a little back-patting. Just a thought.

It is true, the QB is the most important player: Don’t take my word for it, check with Shanahan. Asked what it takes to have a consistently successful franchise, he went right to the guy they give the ball to start every play.

“I think the key to long success is having the right quarterback that whole time and then having a great coaching staff and good personnel department,” he said. “I think if you look at . . . all the teams that have great quarterbacks over the last decade, with good coaches and good personnel departments, they’ve got a shot to be in the playoffs year in and year out.”

There’s a reason why guys who can rush the passer get the big bucks: The enduring image of the 2020 49ers season is the sight of Nick Bosa leaving the field on a golf cart. That injury, and don’t forget Dee Ford, made a huge difference. The numbers make the case. In 2019 they sacked the quarterback 48 times. In 2020, it was 30.

And finally, now that everyone can sit in on Zoom press conferences, people are mocking our media questions: Been there, done that. Let’s just say asking perceptive questions on short notice isn’t easy, especially now that they are broadcast live. I know I’ve asked some really dumb ones.

I’ll keep working on it. Isn’t that what the off season is for?

This article has 2,790 Comments

  1. Availability is the best ability at qb, and then it’s accuracy. Jimmy needs to work on both.

    This draft is deep at edge and if I’m the 49ers I take one in either round 1 or round 2 and then double down on another with the late 3rd round comp pick they’ll get for Saleh. Someone like, Myjai Sanders.

      1. I’m looking for day 3 corners that take the ball away. This kid, Shakur Brown outta MI St., had 5 Int’s with 4 pass break ups in 7 games this year. He’s a threat to take it to the house once he has it in his hands too, averaging over 26 yards per Int return during his 3 years there. He’s only 5-11, 190 but I think he could be a field cb in this system. Day 3 prospect.

        Another kid I like is T. J. Carter outta Memphis. 4.3 speed and sticky. Could be our NB of the future. Think, L’Jarius Sneed. Might slip through the cracks and available round 4.

    1. I called the season accurately last summer. Niners were in for a letdown even before it was clear, midway through game one, that the talent and motivation and health were just not there. One can discern a lot if you look carefully and intuitively.

      1. Low hanging fruit, Allie. Most SB losing teams have not fared well the next season- just look at the Falcons and Rams.
        .
        I was rooting for them to return, but no one, including you, could have predicted this Mash Unit sized injury list.
        .
        However, I will agree that some may look carefully, and perceive intuitively, with the right mentality.

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  2. The way I read the Press Conference that Lynch and Kyle had today is that Jimmy is coming back but they will look to add a QB through the draft.

    Off season needs: CENTER ( So important to an O line). While Brunkskull did ok for a guy that never played it, an upgrade is needed bad. I would look to sign Alex Mack to a 2 year deal while drafting a guy at that spot in rnd 3-4. GUARD- I would attack this spot in free agency too. Someone who can actually compete for a spot, not a Compton type player. Need someone who can also help Mcglitchy over there. Mcvittz and Skulle are better served as back ups.

    Bring back Trent Williams, Juice and Verrett. Everyone else can be replaced with cheaper options. Restructure Jimmy in March to help bring in those upgrade on the O line.

    One last thing, We are not in a position to move up and give up our two next draft classes for a QB. It’s not happening. Kyle again made it clear the picks this year are too important. But with Saleh third added, I could very well see Kyle moving back into rnd one for a Mac Jones. He also a guy that might not need a full year on the bench to be ready. If and when Jimmy gets hurt, Mac can come in and never come out of that position for a long time. Just my thoughts early on in the off season. Can’t wait for this conversation with a lot of you guys the next couple months.

    1. Wow feels foreign being on Press Democrat. Follow into the Cohn rabbit hole haha.

      To me their number 1 need in the draft is Edge rusher. I am also intrigued to see who ends up on this roster out Thomas, Jordan, and Blair.

    2. I agree the 49ers probably won’t look to make a blockbuster trade to move up and take a QB. But I could see a small trade up for one of the top 4 guys. And if one falls to 12, then would be surprised if they didn’t take the opportunity.

      If they miss out on one of the top 4 then Mac Jones is definitely the guy I expect them to want.

      Right there with you Alex Mack. Been saying they should sign him for ages. And agree they should also draft a C/OG to sit behind Mack and potentially compete for the RG job. Obviously need to re-sign Williams too.

      1. Williams graded out as the top OT in the league. He might have just priced himself out of SF.

        Listening to Jimmy’s presser, it sounded like he was told he’ll need to stay healthy and perform next year as they will be adding a quarterback through the draft, and to expect a more competitive training camp.

        1. I believe they’ll find a way to keep Williams. If they don’t then the 1st round pick has to be OT.

          I think JG was under no illusions heading into last offseason that he needed to improve – Shanahan intimated he had told JG as much at the end of last season. No doubt they had another candid discussion at the end of this season, and JG will know the pressure is on to prove he should be the QB long term. The 49ers would be foolish not to give him a legitimate backup that can push him, and replace him if JG gets hurt again.

          1. I believe they’ll find a way to keep Williams. If they don’t then the 1st round pick has to be OT.

            100%

    3. RAW,

      I think SF will do everything they can to bring back T. Williams. The problem is to do so in a cap friendly manner, it almost guarantees that Juice is gone. Williams will cost in excess 20 M per year, and they will likely need to either move on or restructure Jimmy’s contract to get the cap space necessary to sign him.

      Scooter and I have debated a bit regarding Williams as a niner, but I think he is right in assuming that SF will move heaven and earth to resign him. I personally believe they would be better served to go hard after someone like Moton, and sign him for 16 M and use the difference and not resigning to Juice to add Mack. To me, this would make for a much better Oline than one with Williams and whatever they can pick up off the scrap heap.

        1. Sigh I wish, but I cant see any way his agent will allow him, as All Pro, to be paid as the 10th best player at his position. You have a bit more faith than I, my friend :D.

          1. I’ll tell you what. Why don’t we meet in the middle at $17.5 million and call it a day?

            1. If Williams wants to stay with the 49ers he’ll work something out.
              But as the top rated interior linemen in the league he has earned the right to pursue a bigger paycheck.

              We were all surprised to see Buckner walk for a big payday. I certainly wouldn’t be disappointed for Williams to do his due diligence in doing the same.

          2. I’m thinking that a 5 year $90M with team outs after three years structured in such a way to keep the cap hit for 2021 to under $10M.

    4. Great breakdown RAW, but I would add edge rusher to the list of off-season needs. With the increasing likelihood that Ford could be cut, the team will need someone to pair with Bosa and return the line to its dominance.

  3. What did I learn? Losing half the team to injuries, made it twice as hard to win.
    .
    It all starts in the trenches, so it will not matter who the QB is, if the O line cannot protect him, it will doom him.
    .
    I learned that Robert Saleh deserves his upcoming promotion to HC. Maybe his best landing spot may be the Chargers, with a good QB and a stout defense.
    .
    I learned that 2020 suacked, and I am so glad 2021 is here. I learned that this pandemic changed everything, but the vaccines may allow us to get back to living. I learned that winning by 7 million votes, may not be enough for some people.
    .
    Now, on to the draft and the off season.

  4. The season ends. Whew. But what did we learn? – our 2 back up QB sucks

    and Trump lost re-election

    1. Not sure how that last one ties in with the 49ers. But hey, whatever floats your boat.

  5. Let’s not make too much of the two-bit, tin pot dictator. Troompy is the Jacksonville Jaguars of dictators. The vast majority of the country doesn’t take this guy seriously. People who surround him have called him a fraud con-artist, dumb @ss, !diot, and of course F*cking !diot. He has attempted to alter the election results in AZ, GA, PA and MI. Republican lawmakers in all 3 states have told him to F-off. Now , in addition to rape, sexual assault, money laundering and fraud, he will be faced with more legal actions after the 20th. This guy has been and will continue to be a disgrace to our country.

  6. I heard on a Niners podcast that the team had a total of 43 players on IR this season. That’s a staggering number even after taking into account the special 3-week COVID season rule.

    Also 16 players in all played in the 5 DB positions. Great job by Tony Oden in coaching up and scheming with these player combos.

  7. “Teddy has to have a tremendous offseason,” Rhule said, via David Newton of ESPN. “Part of being a quarterback in this league is being able to withstand the physical toll of the season, playing your best football at the end of the year. I don’t think I’ve seen that from him.”

    “Teddy is here. I have a lot of respect for him. I believe in what he can do. I’ve seen glimpses, flashes of us as an offense looking really good. We need to get Christian [McCaffrey] back. We need to have a run game we can rely on,” Rhule said. “With regards to the draft and players, we’ll look at every opportunity to have the best we can have at every position, and that includes the quarterback position.”

    The Panthers are at the same crossroad as the 49ers are with Garoppolo, and they’ll be taking a quarterback. In fact, it wouldn’t surprise me in the least to see Rhule move up to get his dude….

    1. * How many QB’s will be drafted in RD # One? Three? Four? Five?
      * How many QB’s will be drafted in RD # One, before SF at #12?

        1. Bruglar,

          Since 1960, how many times have 3 QBs been drafted in the top-5 picks? Twice (1971, 1999).

          Since 1960, how many times have 4 QBs been drafted in the top-10 picks? Once (2018).

          Both could happen in the 2021 NFL Draft.

  8. If Williams doesn’t sign, my trade back scenario works just as well. Trade back to #18 and pick up a late 2nd and a 4th. Then pick an OT at 18, with a pass rusher and CB in the 2nd.

    1. Man, he just articulated what I have been saying since midway through the season in a much clearer way than I could.

      In terms of roster, I think everyone is aware of the big names and that the secondary is almost entirely FAs, but the position group I feel doesn’t get enough attention is DL. That is a lot of good depth (and starters) that are FAs. And if Ford isn’t returning, that’s a lot of talent that could be leaving from what is meant to be the strength of the team.

      The staff departures are concerning. Saleh will be a big blow. He proved his quality these past two years. It won’t be easy to find as good or better. And the assistants he likely takes with him will hurt a little too. And Peters would be a big loss too.

      While I highly doubt the team trades up for a QB at such a cost, if the cap is indeed $175M the writer has explained very well why such a move isn’t ludicrous. Especially if you are willing to accept JG is at best a slightly above average QB. Even if you disagree with his take, it is explained clearly why it should at least be considered a viable alternative.

      1. Yep, he put pen to paper in a concise and deliberate fashion. I still think that trade makes sense, and if it were me and the HC was all in; I’d do everything in my power to make it happen….

      2. I appreciate his effort but obviously don’t agree with a lot of it. David Lombardi did a similar piece a couple of weeks ago and while we won’t have the exact same roster, there are ways to bring back the guys they really want. The trade up would be stupid as well. You’ve just given up 2 drafts to move up for a QB that could just as easily bust as be successful. Makes no sense at all, especially when you have a guy who wins already on the roster.

        1. I can understand why people will disagree with the take. But the writer has done a good job of outlining why it is a viable and logical approach that should at least be considered.

          I agree it is highly unlikely they make such a trade. However, if one of the top four QBs were to make it past the Panthers, I could definitely see the 49ers moving up a few spots to get him. Heck, even moving up ahead of the Panthers would likely not require an outrageous trade package.

          1. His analysis of Jimmy G seemed spot on.

            If the team moves on from Jimmy, I’m assuming they’ll have to do it before some “target” date in his contract, which date no doubt will precede the draft. So if JG is “gone”, then that pretty much signals that the 49ers will be picking a QB. I wonder how that affects draft day deals to try to move up and get a potential “franchise” QB. If KS decides that Mac Jones is the guy, then not much of an impact; but if it is one of the top four…..

        2. Nonexpert: The “guy who wins” was only 3–3 before he went down for the rest of the season. In the super bowl season, he was not as great as the record showed. That was a great team, top to bottom. And, the fact that he is already on the roster means very little considering his fragility. If the Niners keep Garoppolo for another season, and JG goes down again, the owner may be looking for a new coach and gm. Why pay a man 25 million when you can draft a qb for about 10% of that (or less).

          1. Yep only 3-3 playing the majority of that time with a high ankle sprain he came back early from. He also played well enough to win the game against AZ to start the season. Your next sentence is the same thing that can be said of virtually every team that has a good season. Their success was due to many factors but Garoppolo was a large part of it and his numbers back that up. Fragile is a very poor term to use in this case. That implies that he gets numerous injuries and his body as a whole can’t hold up and that’s not the case. He tore and ACL and had the same ankle rolled up on him twice for high ankle sprains. That’s not a case of being fragile it’s case of being unfortunate and unlucky. In between those injuries he put together a 19 start season culminating in a SB appearance so there’s also that.

            Your last question is the easiest to answer: You pay him 25 million because he’s been the only QB you’ve won with in your time in SF. That is the goal in this league last I checked. The HC and GM also just signed long term extensions so they aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. You also don’t seem to understand the cost of a first round pick considering you think they will only pay that pick 10% or less. The 49ers are currently picking 12th overall. Last year’s 12th overall pick received a fully guaranteed contract worth 16.67 million and a SB of 9.685 million. You can count on paying the 12th overall pick this year more than 17 mill on a guaranteed contract and a SB of more than 10 mill.

      1. I’d let Hyder walk at that amount. He’s just a solid guy that can start in a pinch. His sack production is better than his actual level of play. Can likely pick up a different guy and get similar level of play at less than that.

        1. Let’s see they tried Ansah, Jordan and one other guy I believe. Can’t say I saw any similar production compared to Hyder. In almost every game, Hyder’s name was mentioned the most on defense by announcers for making plays except for Warner (and at the end Verrett).

          1. Those guys are either washed up, busts, or never were’s, that were signed during the season or just before the season. Street FA calibre.

            I’m talking more in the Ronald Blair calibre. He can provide the same level of production when healthy, and will be cheaper. In a depressed FA market there will be other similar calibre guys too that can be had for less than $6M. Can’t afford to pay $6M for a guy that is a marginal starter.

        2. One other thing about Hyder. IIRC, he didn’t sit out with an injury this year. On this team that has to be worth an extra mil or two per year. My internet search doesn’t mention anything about injuries.

            1. Yep. Torn Achilles in a preseason game. I still like him and would pay him. If you want to talk about the team overpaying for production, Armstead comes to mind.

              1. Yep, they overpaid for Armstead. Which means they can’t afford to overpay for many others.

                Armstead is a legit starting calibre player though. He was dominant last season, and while much quieter this year that was in part because he was the focus of the defensive line. Still played well, despite what the peanut gallery may try and tell you. Hyder is more a rotational guy that can start if needed, and gives good effort with decent skills.

  9. Given the current expected salary cap and the specific 49ers cap situation, I can’t see paying Trent Williams as much as he would get if the salary cap was going up 10 or 15 million in 2021 as opposed to down 15 to 25 million. You have to field a team not just a bunch of individuals. And correct me if I’m wrong, but isn’t the OL a unit that really has to gel as a unit much more so than the DL for example. TW seemed more like he is about himself. Didn’t he throw some guys under the bus at the beginning to midway in the season when people were questioning his ability. There’ll probably be some good OTs available as salary cap casualties. Field a good OL (i.e. try to sign Alex Mack or similar at center) with quality depth instead of an OL with a star OT, who will reset the salary at that position.

    1. Imo, in order to field a solid to good OL group you actually need one or two stand out guys that can consistently handle their business with minimal help. A group of decent OL will end up being pretty poor as a group. Just have to look across the league to see this is the case.

      I’d do whatever I can to re-sign Williams. If they can’t, unless another high level OT like Moton is available (though he’s more a RT), it is OT in the 1st round. And I would try very hard to get Mack in as well, plus draft a guy like Morrissey in the mid rounds.

    1. I really hope they aren’t settlers. Only 3 of the 14 QB’s in the playoffs were picked after Round 1 and only 2 were picked after #32. It’s a rare QB class and Shanny is within striking distance. Time to pull the trigger and go up and get one!

    2. Scooter, we agree on this.
      I actually have him as my 4th QB.
      1. Lawrence 2. Wilson 3. Lance 4. Jones 5. Fields.
      I obviously don’t like Fields even recognizing his huge upside… he’s just to inconsistent for someone surrounded by so much talent.

      1. So Fields gets no love even if he beats Alabama?
        He just ousted last year’s champion and was the best QB on the field in doing so.

        I still believe that Lawrence is the top QB but there’s no way Fields (who is a winner) drops to number 5.
        I would question why teams looking for a QB would view him as the 5th QB off the board especially if he beats the semi-pro team better known as Alabama.

        Speaking of Alabama’ incredible talent, two of their players were up for the Heisman and one won it.

        1. AES,
          I just don’t like Lance as a prospect as much as the others. I believe he is heavily managed in the OSU offense, they don’t ask him through a full progression tree there much. They roll him out a lot, giving him half field reads, which is fine in it of itself. My problem is how he runs those plays, in that he really seems to hold on to that first read, staring them down, then either throws it (covered or not) or takes a quick glance at his second read and then takes off. Doing this at OSU works where you almost always have a clear talent advantage but I don’t think it translates to the NFL.

          Every other prospect I mentioned has showcased the ability to go through progressions enough that I am more comfortable with them. IMO Fields is a poor mans Cam Newton.

          I could be wrong, but I expect Alabama will give him fits. If he plays well and goes through his progressions against Alabama then I would move him up a lot( to as high as 2) , simply because of his athletic ability is Uranium Grade, and he would have demonstrated the ability to grow in the area that most concerns me.

          1. Shoup,
            Fair enough. But Fields is an ascending player that has a high ceiling who will benefit in the right offensive scheme.

            And Cam did take his team to a SB and has only deteriorated in the last few years.
            But we don’t know how Fields is going to do in the NFL. I see a lot of Johnny Manziel in Wilson, but I can’t say that Zach will be that type of QB because we just don’t know.

            Like in many debates over the years regarding comparisons on potential draft picks, we’ll have to see how these players look after a few years in the pros.

            1. AES,

              We agree on that. In terms of raw Athletic ability, Body and Arm talent, Lance, Fields and Lawrence are very close IMO. Lawrence is far and away the most proven in terms of reading the defense and making tight window throws of the 3.

              Like I said with Fields, he appears to be highly managed at OSU, and doesn’t really go through progressions. I saw this more from Lance in his limited time at NDSU than I did from Fields in his 2 years, and that is a major cause for concern for me.

              As to Cam Newton, I admit, I am biased and never really thought he was all that great, and was always a 2 read guy, who was so good for a short time because he was literally as a running back.

              To me qb’s like that are 1 contract qb’s. That, to reach their potential, you must utilize as a runner and then discard in favor a younger, less banged up qb. The very thing that makes them great, is the thing that shortens their career because either, they have learned to rely on it too much, or their coaches have made them rely on it too much.

        2. AES, I agree. This crucible of conflict and competition may very well determine the draft order of the QBs.

    1. I really don’t think they are going to trade up that high/ give up that much. You have to be absolutely sure the guy is worth it for such a move. Lawrence is the only guy I would feel sure enough about. A smaller trade up I could see.

      1. 2 firsts and a 2nd doesn’t sound that steep to me. Though I think 3 firsts and 3 seconds would be way to much or this team to part with.

        1. The Bills paid 2 2nds (53 and 56) plus pick 12 to move up to 7 for Allen. The Chiefs gave up 27, a 3rd and the following year’s 1st to move up to 10 for Mahomes. Texans gave up 25 and the following years 1st to get to 12 to take Watson.

          I’m thinking either 12 and 2022 1st rounder or 12, 43 and 2022 2nd may be enough for a similar move up (especially if Saleh takes the Lions job!).

  10. 2021 is already off to a better start than 2020. Watch out for deranged trumpeee fanatics domestic terrorists tomorrow.

    1. Shoup
      Do you agree with Matt Miller’s QB ranking?
      Everyone is entitled to their opinion and mine may be wrong, but I don’t see Wilson being drafted before Fields.
      I think Lawrence is drafted by Jax #1 and Fields by the NYJ #2.
      I also think jones is drafted late first Rd. (9ers may trade down for him), and Trask early 2nd Rd.
      The Senior bowl, pro day and the combine, could still make some changes.

      1. GEEP,
        No I do not, but My rankings are still flexible right now.
        I am not a huge fan of Fields.
        For me currently it’s 1. Lawrence (Huge Gap) 2. Wilson 3. Trey Lance 4. Mac Jones 5. Fields
        – With Lance and Fields you are drafting them both based on upside and their athletic traits but I think Lance is is a better fit for this offense. I also think he is slightly ahead in terms of his development.
        – With Wilson and Mac Jones, you have 2 players that have played behind great Olines. Wilson, is more athletic, has more arm talent and is better when the play breaks down. Jones, appears better at processing information and is more accurate even on his deep balls and when pressured.

        1. Shoup
          Don’t disagree about Lance and Fields based on upside and athletic traits….BUT, you also have to take into account Fields performance in big games and the fact he stepped up under pressure. (We’ll see how he does against Alabama and Mac Jones). I don’t know if you’ve played the game, but when you play in big games, under pressure and the bright lights, you feel like you’re wearing an overcoat and you’re feet are in mud. That’s when you find out who the pretenders and the contenders are. (Just my opinion).
          Lawrence is still #1, but he got exposed a little and Fields rose to the occasion. I like Wilson, but I’m not as confident about him as you are! We don’t / won’t know if Wilson will wilt or rise to the occasion under pressure until we see him do it. That’s not to say he won’t, or can’t., just that he hasn’t been put in that position to see how he’ll perform.
          I believe there are three things we need to know before anyone has a better idea who the 9ers will draft.
          1) What will the 9er FO decide to do with JG? 2) What can they afford to do with T. Williams and 3) The Salary cap number! If it’s $175 Mil., or $185 Mil…..Or….$195 Mil….. etc.

          1. Geep,
            I’ve played a fair amount (8 years) but never in anything at that level. That said, in my experience the Big Game nerves were there in the pregame but went right out the window after the first or second snap. You are too focused on what you need to do to think about how big the situation is/was. Maybe for others it’s different, I can’t say but I was never the most emotional player or person.
            As to how he is in big games… he looked good against Clemson but not very good in the Big 10 Championship. Looking at his play, he showcased a lot of the traits that make you like him. Mobile, strong arm, Accurate. There is a lot to work with there.
            As to Wilson I like him but I don’t love him . This is a good class but I don’t like it as much as Razor does.

            1. Shoup
              I guess my response to your “the Big Game nerves were there in the pregame but went right out the window after the first or second snap. You are too focused on what you need to do to think about how big the situation is/was.”
              In a big (championship) game, especially when it’s close, there will be times when the bright lights are on every player and how he reacts is put under a microscope for everyone to see, especially a QB. It’s not just pregame., It’s when you’re called on to perform, to make it happen. Trust me, you may not think about it, but you feel the pressure. That’s why they play the game, to see who can control their emotions, get the job done and rise to the occasion! For a QB that needs to get a first down, or score, that happens every time they take the field, that’s how they’re judged and trust me, they’re “thinking about the situation.”
              “He looked good against Clemson but not very good in the Big 10 Championship.” Isn’t that what you want from your QB, to get better every game? To learn from experience and improve?
              Like I said, we’ll see how he does against Alabama, a team with superior players and very few weaknesses. If he leads Ohio St. to a win, no way will he be drafted the 5th QB off the board.
              As for Wilson, I only wish we could have seen him play against another top team where he was put
              under constant pressure to perform. His tape shows he did everything he was asked to do, just not against a top team. Razor may be right, maybe Wilson can walk on water? I’d agree that maybe he can….If he knows where the stumps are?

              1. GEEP,
                That is why my Ranking of Fields is so fluid and he could move anywhere from 2 to 5. His sample size is small, and he has not been consistent.
                And yes, I want them to improve for certain, but with this sample size, is it that he is improving or is Clemson’s defense not all that great and wasn’t prepared to play such an offense? Additionally, when I see that Dwayne Haskins was even more proficient as a passer at OSU very recently, it gives me pause.
                I am not writing him off, or saying I wouldn’t take him and maybe I am being overly cautious, but I am taking a wait and see approach.

            2. Shoup: The #1 quality when looking at quarterback play is accuracy/ball placement. Wilson has it in spades. When talking about the best deep ball throwers coming out this year, Wilson is in the top of the conversation. Re-focusing and going through progressions after turning his back from play action, Wilson stays in rhythm while changing his launch point, and hits his receivers in stride so they can RAC it up. He’s instinctual when improvising and filters out the noise to deliver strikes off platform. This kid is the perfect fit for Shanny, and I hope they know where they’ll need to be in order to secure him….

              1. To be fair, Lawrence and Fields throw excellent deep balls too. Very accurate, very catchable, huge arms. Lance isn’t far behind. Wilson might be the best off platform thrower though.

              2. Scooter
                yes, I agree with you! Razor makes excellent points…Just that Wilson has not done it against top teams! Not that he can’t, he just hasn’t had the opportunity. Not his fault, but until he faces a top team that’s still a question mark! NFL history is littered with players that looked great in college, but failed in the NFL.
                The draft boards I’ve looked at have Lawrence the first QB drafted, then Fields the second QB drafted, followed by Wilson at 3rd and Lance the 4th QB drafted.
                If the 9ers stay with JG, I look for them to trade down for more draft picks, then draft Jones late first RD., or early Second RD.

              3. Razor,
                If that is the case shouldn’t we be touting Jones more? He was by far the most accurate qb regardless of situation. Throws when under pressure, tight window throws, throws over 10 yards. Basically, if you can pick any category in terms of accuracy, he was the highest rated thrower.

              4. Shoup, his physical limitations restrict his ceiling, but I’ve said all along he’s a quarterback Shanny will love due to his similarities to Jimmy G….

  11. John Elway stepped down as GM. Looks like Adam Peters may be a strong candidate for the job.

  12. Highest positional success rate for Round 1:

    1st Round – OL (83%) LB (70%) TE (67%) DB (64%) QB (63%) WR (58%) RB (58%) DL (58%)

    1. Seems like OL is the best route for teams to go with in Round 1, with the other positions essentially being a wash. I’m curious what the rate of success is at each position after the first round.

      1. The hardest job in my opinion within a NFL organization has to be in the scouting department. No matter how much you interview, watch tape, or compare measureables, there is no way to tell how a player will develop or perform in the NFL.

      2. When you’ve got a position coach like, Kocurek your DL’s success percentage is higher than average, as opposed to a position coach like, Benton whose not as good at developing average….

    2. Funny, based on the comments from some here you’d believe the success rate of 1st round QBs to be around 20%… ?

  13. troompeees battalion of cucky clanslosers , bugaloo butt boys and incels left their mummies basement and have overrun the capital. this is who and what what trumppeee is .

      1. Guns drawn in the Capitol Chamber. Sounds like they were incited to violence, staging a coup.
        .
        Violent insurrection, sedition, giving aid and comfort to our enemies. Putin is so proud of his toady.

        1. This is the hill they choose to die on? For that fat f*ck who doesn’t give a fat f*ck about them? SMH.

          I’m glad I’m seeing certain posters posting here today. At least I know they are not connected to that seditious mob.

          1. “I’m glad I’m seeing certain posters posting here today. At least I know they are not connected to that seditious mob.”

            Funny, I haven’t seen any police officers killed. Did you see any statues being destroyed, because I didn’t. Hmm, I wonder how many businesses have been looted and burned?
            Can you get me up to snuff on this?

            Also, please explain to me why Polosi wants to call the National Guard after a few hours of protest but disagreed with Trump calling the National Guard after days and months of BLM and Antifa destruction.
            Also, it’s not only interesting but highly hypocritical that your media godhead CNN immediately called these people “Mobsters” and yet had one of their reporters call BLM and Antifa as peaceful protesters while fires were burning and properties were being destroyed right behind him last summer.

            I for one do not condone what happened to today and certainly would want to see violators being arrested and going to jail.
            But it should cut both ways.

            1. Are you f-big kidding AES? Storming the Capitol? Interfering in the nation’s business? Sending lawmakers scurrying for their own safety? They aren’t mobsters, they are domestic terrorists. Somebody has been shot and killed. Your false equivalence is sickening and shows your true measure.

              1. You completely deflected my comments. But that’s to be expected.
                Just like the anger and frustration that boiled over last summer, today we saw the same thing from another group of American’ that are angry and frustrated.

                The actions today cannot be tolerated. I hope that law enforcement punishes the culprits. And not release them overnight like we saw last summer.

              2. Yeah. Attempted destruction of entire American democracy is exactly the same as breaking a window at CVS. Pathetic cultist to the end. Why weren’t you with the mob?

            2. What’s next? Should I wait for you to start blaming this sedition on Antifa infiltrators like your more deranged cohort are claiming on Twitter?

  14. I love how re-pooplicants are saying “this is not who we are” Ummm, have you only been watching fox the last 4 years. Troompy has simultaneously been looting the treasury , looting from his own degenerate supporters and whipping those same degenerates into a crazzeeee frenzy. This this the culmination of 4-6 years of corruption, fraud , racism , hatred and severe lack of intelligence. troompeee is good at taking advantage of those people who yearning to be taken advantage of of.

    1. BruceLee
      John F. Kennedy — “Those who foolishly sought power by riding the back of the tiger, ended up inside!”

  15. Dane Brugler
    @dpbrugler
    ·
    Jan 5
    Since 1960, how many times have 3 QBs been drafted in the top-5 picks? Twice (1971, 1999).

    Since 1960, how many times have 4 QBs been drafted in the top-10 picks? Once (2018).

    Both could happen in the 2021 NFL Draft.

  16. So nice to see these law abiding “patriots” ransack the capitol.
    Where’s the pepper spray? The rubber bullets? The announcements that anyone remaining in the area will be arrested? I wonder what the difference could be…..

  17. I like Fields as the second QB taken in the draft. He has good size and is mobile. He can elude the pass rush, and gain yardage with his legs. He can roll out and throw on the run, and is accurate, but he may benefit from having Chris Olave to throw to.
    .
    The Jets must move on from Darnold, so they should select Fields, instead of Wilson. The Bengals may take Zach Wilson, but he might be Joe Burrow’d, too.

    1. Only people who hate US and the constitution would vote for the Russian puppet Scump!
      How many non-white people are rioting in DC???

      1. DP , It is the trumpees who have blood on their hands. Kyle Rittenhouse -killed 4, San Antonio Walmart massacre, the mailbomber in FL, the Pittsburge synagogue shooter …

        These people are crazy , racist and unhinged and trooommpee lit the match.

  18. TRUMP = WINNING:
    * Republicans turn on Trump after both Georgia Republicans lose and the GOP loses the Senate! * Democrats will now control all three branches of Government.
    * Fissures are forming as Republicans decide whether it’s useful to cling to Trump — even as he tries to subvert an election — or to distance themselves……Let the blood bath begin……
    * “It would damage our republic forever!” McConnell rebukes attempt to overturn election
    * Pence rebuffs Trump, telling lawmakers he has no authority to throw out election results
    * Protesters storm past police as Congress meets to confirm Electoral College votes
    * Woman dies after shooting in U.S. Capitol; D.C. National Guard activated after mob breaches building
    * Ivanka Trump calls rioters “patriots,”

    1. * Republicans turn on Trump after both Georgia Republicans lose and the GOP loses the Senate! * Democrats will now control all three branches of Government.

      “The GOP lost the House in 2018 and now the presidency and the Senate in 2020, after it came into office holding all three levers of power. Trump would become the first elected president since the Great Depression to lose all three in a single term, and he would join just five other presidents in doing so.”

      https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2021/01/06/trump-set-be-first-president-since-1932-lose-reelection-house-senate/

      So much winning! And we him to thank for solely appealing to his cult (some of which were/are strongly represented here) while the rest of us “snowflakes”, aghast at first, organized to take down his @ss.

      1. Rib are you forgetting that Primedoll and Razdoll were guaranteeing a Humpty-Dumpty landslide?
        What a bunch of sore losers they are.

        1. Seriously Dee P, what kind of a demented loser are you to come out and flap your fat mouth only when a political event occurs?
          You seriously have nothing better to do you moron!

          1. Primate Slime reminds US of your prediction for November 3rd.
            You never waist an opportunity to show of your cerebral deficiency!

          2. PT
            I wonder how YOU would react it this was happening to The Parliament of Canada at Parliament Hill in Ottawa? Would you be one of the rioters trying to overthrow a democratically elected PM? Would you support thwarting the will of the Canadian people? Would you support a Canadian mob defying Canada’s constitution?
            Better yet, if it was happening to the Parliament of Canada and I was injecting my opinion(s) of how YOU should act in your country, of which I was NOT a part of. Would you support me questing your right to state your opinion?
            Just asking for a friend….Inquiring minds need to know!
            Seems only fair, if you do it why shouldn’t I (or any US citizen), have the same privilege?

              1. The Orange Clown Show will be over soon!
                Primate tell me again what you predicted for 11/3/20???

              2. STFU you idiots! You clowns need a life!

                PT, surprisingly, there is a life beyond wondering who the Niners 3rd string OT will be next season. When events of a magnitude not seen since the Civil War transpire in our country, we are not supposed to acknowledge or comment on it? Yes, even in a sports blog.

              3. “ Yes, even in a sports blog.”

                Sorry Rib, no. Not on a sports blog because in case you have not noticed, the sports bloggers are all leaving and all these losers are showing up.

              4. Sorry Rib, no. Not on a sports blog because in case you have not noticed, the sports bloggers are all leaving and all these losers are showing up.

                Sorry PT, but yes. If the sports bloggers can’t take a cold water splash in the face from the world outside their little sports bubble, that’s on them. And this isn’t the only sports blog where the world at large is mentioned. Every professional league, nearly every player in said leagues, have opinions on the outside world and have expressed them. Pull on your big boy snow boots and deal with it.

    1. BruceLee
      Look at it as “A TEACHABLE MOMENT!” Some Republicans leaders have learned what Trump is….And have, or are now rejecting him, his rhetoric and criminal tactics. Some Republicans are even questioning weather there needs to be a new party formed for moderate Republicans! Trump legacy may be that he’s responsible for fracturing the GOP party?

  19. Both JL and KS stated they did not know how to prevent injuries, but really wanted to learn how to.
    .
    Maybe the first thing is to concentrate mainly on healthy players. Street was an ACL player, and Ford was damaged goods. Yes, some injured players are bargains, like Verrett, but it is a hit or miss proposition. Start with fully healthy players, and definitely avoid ACL players. That may be one way to avoid injuries. Focus on college players who have played all season for multiple years, so they can demonstrate their durability.
    .
    Next, maybe change their strength and conditioning coaches. Bring in some martial arts trainers, so the players can absorb and deflect the sledgehammer blows. I think it would also be good for their balance, and conditioning. Judo and even Sumo wrestling coaches may help linemen with their blocking and slipping blocks.
    .
    Finally, work more on stretching. Deebo pulled his hamstring on the first play because he was tight, not loose. This seems like the easiest, and simplest way to avoid injuries, but I rarely saw players stretching on the side line.

  20. Sticking to football, I first thought that Saleh’s best opportunity may be with the Chargers. However, the Texans may be a superior landing spot. He would have to compete against the Titans and Colts, but he would not have to play twice against the Chiefs, every year. He will have Watson as QB, and a talented team that underperformed. He will be hampered by not having a first round pick, though.

  21. AES
    Did you know a woman was shot and killed by a police officer? Now why do you suppose he felt
    he had to shoot her, because she was protesting peacefully?
    And while you’re at it, could you explain why both the GOP and DEM’s had to be evacuated?
    Because the protests were peaceful, or because they were encouraged and incited to riot by
    someone?
    In light of the fact even Republicans, not just Pelosi, were telling Trump to call off his proud boys, why would they do that if they were just peaceful protesters? Why would peaceful protesters feel the need to beak down doors and occupy offices? JUST FAKE NEWS, RIGHT?
    * Rioters Breach Nancy Pelosi’s Offices, Put Feet On Desks, Leave Menacing Note! A pro-Trump rioter puts his feet up in Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s offices. after violently storming the Capitol building and clashing with police……JUST PEACEFUL PROTESTERS?
    A number of rioters entered the top Democrat’s suite of offices, flipping over tables and pulling photos from walls. Outside the Capitol, protesters were seen with a sign reading “Pelosi is Satan.”
    * Meanwhile, multiple rioters posted images and videos of themselves inside Capitol offices. Other photos show rioters apparently stealing property, smashing windows and climbing on building scaffolding. Do you believe somewhere in the Kremlin, Putin is smiling?
    * Then there’s these damn left wing, socialist liberals: Corporate group urges officials consider Trump’s removal “to preserve democracy.” The head of a major U.S. business group that represents 14,000 companies including Exxon Mobil Corp, Pfizer Inc and Toyota Motor Corp urged senior U.S. officials to consider removing President Donald Trump from office after supporters of the outgoing president stormed the U.S. Capitol. Why would they feel the need to do that?

    1. Inciting? Maybe you haven’t watched the media and dems labeling Trump as an agent for Putin, racist and Hitler comparisons.

      Do you think that what happened today was a sudden spontaneous act? Today’s ugly actions were the result of the Trump hate machine that was set in motion the day he came into office.

      There’s no respect for our cities and citizens as we witnessed last year. There’s no respect for the presidency as we have seen for the last four years.
      People (mostly white) were dragged out of their cars and beat on the streets last summer.
      And now all of a sudden, those very same people who were causing destruction and injury are now patriotic because the US Capital was breached?
      Sheesh, you can’t make this stuff up.

      Both sides of the political isle need to take the blame for what happened today. And if they humble themselves to accomplish this, perhaps America’s division can begin to heal.

      And it’s tragic that someone was killed today in the same manner of tragedy that many people have been needlessly killed by law enforcement and in subsequent rioting over the years.

      1. labeling Trump as an agent for Putin, racist and Hitler comparisons.

        LOL, Arthur which part is not true???
        Have you not heard what he said today to incite the crowds???

      2. AES
        * “Inciting? Maybe you haven’t watched the media and dems labeling Trump as an agent for Putin, racist and Hitler comparisons. Well AES, if the shoe fits, should you wear it or claim it’s all “FAKE NEWS?”
        * “There’s no respect for our cities and citizens as we witnessed last year. There’s no respect for the presidency as we have seen for the last four years.” Respect, AES? Respect is earned, not given. Do you “respect” a president that breaks the law, that incites a riot and pressures fellow Republicans to break the law for him, then he throws them under the bus? (not my words, but those of his fellow Republicans). If you believe Trump deserves “respect,” does that means you respect the Russian media that called him an “agent” of Putin and Russia.
        1) Even the GOP controlled Senate intelligence committee report #3, #4 and #5 concluded Trump and his aids solicited Russia’s help prior to and during Trump’s 2016 campaign.
        2) The latest example of Trump’s betrayal: Trump downplays government hack after Pompeo blames it on Russia. “The Cyber Hack is far greater in the Fake News Media than in actuality,” Trump tweeted on Saturday morning. “I have been fully briefed and everything is well under control. Russia, Russia, Russia is the priority chant when anything happens because [US media] is, for mostly financial reasons, petrified of discussing the possibility that it may be China (it may!)”

      3. AES, you need to STFU with your pathetic whataboutism bullish!t. There is no precedent for or comparison to that rampage in the citadel of American democracy yesterday. None.

        1. And yet, the Biden’s are miraculously shielded from the the China debacle from the dems puppet known as the left media. Hey, I get it. The left (CNN, Twitter, Facebook among others) picked their side a long time ago. It’s not my fault that many here fell into their rabbit hole.

          1. Just stop it AES. There are no pro-Trump points you can make following yesterday’s attempted insurrection. Really no pre-republican points as nearly half that party’s federal lawmakers were complicit.

          2. The China debacle??? You mean the trade war that left Americans worse than before???
            America has been the laughing stock of the world for the last 4 years and after this coup attempt it has lost even the last moral standings. People like you, who still don’t get it, will continue the fill the pockets of this impeached and disgraceful ‘president’.
            It will takes decades to recover from this shameful episode in American history.
            Either China or Russia or Europe will fill the void that was created by a bunch of grifters that tweeted themselves to the top.

          3. AES
            “And yet, the Biden’s are miraculously shielded from the the China debacle from the dems puppet known as the left media. Hey, I get it. The left (CNN, Twitter, Facebook among others) picked their side a long time ago. It’s not my fault that many here fell into their rabbit hole.”
            AES ARE YOU REALLY OBTUSE ENOUGH TO BELIEVE THAT BS? REALLY?
            IF YOU DO, YOU LIKELY BELIEVE TRUMP WON BUT THE DEMOCRATS CHEATED ? OR HE DIDN’T PAY STORMY DANIELS $130K?  AND HIS PHONE CALL TO BOTH UKRAINE PRESIDENT VOLODYMYR ZELENSKY AND GEOGIA’S SECRETARY OF STATE. BRAD RAFFENSPERGER WAS A
            “PERFECT CALL,” AND HE BROKE NO LAWS?
            BTW: 4 dead and 50 DC police officers were injured amid pro-Trump riots at the U.S. Capitol and 83 “INNOCENT PROTESTERS WERE ARRESTED!” Move along folks, nothing to see here…Just “FAKE NEWS?”
            AND THEN THERE IS THIS: Members of Trump Cabinet discussing invoking 25th Amendment: Sources…..Are they liberals that are against Trump too? lmao…..

      4. Oh AES, do you want a list of denigrating and/or demeaning names your Scump has called people he doesn’t like? Or are you too busy watching him grabbing women by their poosie?
        Pathetic how you only address one side and refuse to see who started this name calling.
        Maybe you’re like Cruz and let him insult your father and family and then take money on the side to pretend it didn’t happen….

        1. I do know that hate blinds, and you wear it well.
          And yes, give me a list of all the denigrating names he has used.
          Btw, when did I say that I saw Trump grab poosie?
          Since you like to fact check everything around here, please find where I said this.

          Just like your media god CNN you are very comfortable with projecting fake news.
          But then again this is to be expected of you. Your predictability is all to familiar here, you only show up to spew your hate.

          1. Gee Arthur, you really want a list? Let’s first see how blind, deaf and dumb you are…
            Who did Scump call a skank, a dog, braindead, psycho or deranged?
            I’m sure they showed you on FUX ‘news’.
            Since you want me to fact check everything around here, please show me where I said that I saw you watching Scump grab some poosie. I merely asked, since you don’t deny it, it must be true! Do you want more proof than that or are you satisfied and proud that your leader wouldn’t hesitate to grab your wife by the poosie? Now if you had an under aged daughter, he probably would go for her.
            BTW, I don’t watch TV, but you apparently do and your regurgitating of fallacies shows your tendency for fake news, it also lead to think that losers are actually winners!
            FYI checking facts and backing it up with REAL evidence is not the same as spewing hate unless of course you believe all of the 20,000 lies by the Impeached, disgraced and traitorous sociopath in the WH!

  22. The world has gone crazy! The NY Knicks, a team of nobodies, is tied for 4th place in the Eastern Conference.* The Brooklyn Nets, with KD and Kyrie Irving, are on the outside looking in.**
    .
    .
    .
    .
    .
    * this may change by seasons end.
    ** ditto.

    1. Cool. Russia says we had it coming? Good to know.

      Don’t go “but Trump,” either. The supposed Nazi fascist dictator himself ordered National Guard and police to clear out the protesters who sided with him, and protect the establishment that did not.

      Actually no, comrade. It was Pence that finally had to order the NG in.

  23. Pretty funny how all the re-poop-licants are lining up to denounce , reprimand and resign with 2 weeks to go. Ummm, where were you for the last 4-6 years. Cowards.

    ******
    No one could have seen this coming
    . Troompy Twitter 12/19/20: “Big protest in D.C. on January 6th. Be there, will be wild!”

    *******
    We ain’t out of the woods. Former Chair Joint Chiefs indicates there are more shenanigans brewing.

    https://twitter.com/nickschifrin/status/1347005015291006976
    NEW: Former Joint Chiefs Chair Mike Mullen tells
    @JudyWoodruff Trump “incited” failed insurrection, says Trump “not in position to lead the next 14 days.” Warns “I don’t think we’re done. Today was not it. We need to act in a preventive way to prevent more from happening.”

    ********
    Thomas Jefferson prescient: “When a man unprincipled in private life desperate in his fortune, bold in his temper, possessed of considerable talents, having the advantage of military habits—despotic in his ordinary demeanour—known to have scoffed in private at the principles of liberty—when such a man is seen to mount the hobby horse of popularity—to join in the cry of danger to liberty—to take every opportunity of embarrassing the General Government & bringing it under suspicion—to flatter and fall in with all the non sense of the zealots of the day—It may justly be suspected that his object is to throw things into confusion that he may “ride the storm and direct the whirlwind.”

    TJ got the military habits and talents part wrong. LOL

  24. I bet Houstonniner is out there chomping at the bit to get back here and get his 2 cents in.

    1. The best thing the 45 cult can do now is just keep their heads down. They own yesterday’s insurrectionist riot, lock stock and barrel.

      1. Ha ha!
        Looks like yesterday’s event has totally (conveniently) blinded you of last year’s so called Summer of Love.
        Lol, calling rioting, looting and squatters of city blocks that caused businesses to close down for months a Summer of Love, tells me all I need to know about the Lefts mindset.
        Interesting how the Summer of Love and rioting and destruction in other American cities suddenly get a pass.

        1. AES, soon it will be all over, and the new administration will open up the Mueller Report.
          .
          I said they could defeat an incumbent President, and thought they could flip the Senate. I also said that Trump was his own worst enemy, and he imploded by himself.
          .
          Trumpty Dumpty sat on his WALL, Trumpty Dumpty had a great fall. All the king’s horses and all the king’s men, couldn’t put Trumpty together again.
          .
          I fully expect Assange will soon sing like a canary.
          .
          I predicted he would not go out with a bang, he would go out with a whimper.

          1. I’ve supported (not always agreed) with every president in my lifetime. And will continue to support every president as long as I live. I’ve learned this from many family members that served in the Arm Forces to allow me this privilege.

            What happened yesterday was a disgrace, but I also believe in fairness, and the way the media brushed aside the upheaval of last summer is absolutely hypothetical.

            If BLM and Antifa would have stormed the Capitol yesterday the news media would be spinning their quality control excuses for them today, like they did last summer.

            1. Give me a break AES! Just how short is your memory, or have you just conveniently forgotten about what happened to BLM protesters in Washington DC back in June, when hundreds of officers equipped with assault rifles and decked out in riot gear (some were even mounted on horseback) advanced rapidly on PEACEFUL PROTESTERS using batons, tear gas, rubber bullets, as well as sting-ball and flash grenades. And this was just one example of the differences between the type of response by law enforcement, between right-wing and left-wing protests in the nations capitol. Had this been a protest organized by a left wing group, they would have been met on the steps of Capitol Hill by the same National Guard troops that unleashed fury upon them in DC during the summer.

              So you can stop with the what-about-isms, because, just as there are distinct differences in our law enforcement and justice systems based on race, there are also distinct difference in the way political protests have been policed and adjudicated based on party affiliation. How else can you or anyone explain yesterday’s failure to protect our nation’s capitol? This organized right-wing, QAnon, MAGA, Whatever – protest by the DJT Cult and lunatic fringe, had been in the works for weeks. This was no secret or surprise. These groups had been gleefully organizing this pathetic insurrection and attempted coup all over social media, and POTUS’ nationally televised seditious speech had been planned in advance.

              No, I’m sorry but the jig is up! You don’t get to pretend that there is a parallel between protesting racism, and trying to overthrow our government. All of the conspiracy theories, the election “fraud” lies, and baseless bulls_it ….. all of it! The jig a fricken up! The big con of the DJT presidency is coming to it’s fitting conclusion and those who supported this psychopath don’t get to rewrite history and pretend that they aren’t partially responsible for yesterday’s tragic events, or the huge mess left behind in the wake of this disastrous presidency!

              Enough is enough!

            2. If BLM and Antifa would have stormed the Capitol yesterday

              – there would have been alot of dead people

              Remember the picture of Soldiers in front of the US Capitol

              See this is another reason racism always backfire – The police always under estimate the white person but always over estimate the intent of a black person…

              …now the Police look stupid…..they had one fat white cop at the door crying on tape…..sad stuff…..what a shame…bunch of terrorists

            3. AES
              * “If BLM and Antifa would have stormed the Capitol yesterday”….THEY WOULD HAVE BEEN SHOT IN THE FACE AND THE CAPITOL GROUNDS WOULD HAVE BEEN LITTERED WITH DEAD PEOPLE……There fixed it for you!

            4. * Hypocritical
              .
              The problem is, they did invade the Capital and physically threatened congress people.
              .
              The difference is- The BLM movement protested for social justice. A lot of the violence was perpetrated by anarchists in order to blame Antifa. Steven Carillo, a Boogaloo Bois, killed 2 law enforcement officials, in a vain attempt to foist blame on Antifa. Right now, they are trying to blame Antifa, but all of those MAGA hats and Trump flags told exactly who they were. There were Proud Boys, QAnon, Nazis and holocaust deniers in the crowd, and the Confederate flag was waved in the rotunda.
              .
              Yesterday was a tragedy, and a travesty. In this case, it was an armed mob committing seditious acts, fomenting an insurrection, incited by the presidential loser. The police response was a joke. they let them in, just like they conspired ahead of time, with Trump. The National Guard was AWOL, on Trump’s orders, and he refused to deploy them.
              .
              I am glad you decry the violence in the Capitol building, but there is no equivalence to the BLM movement. BLM Protested, and made history in Georgia. Trump’s failed coup will be a day of infamy, and shame.

        2. Ha ha!
          Looks like yesterday’s event has totally (conveniently) blinded you of last year’s so called Summer of Love.
          Lol, calling rioting, looting and squatters of city blocks that caused businesses to close down for months a Summer of Love, tells me all I need to know about the Lefts mindset.
          Interesting how the Summer of Love and rioting and destruction in other American cities suddenly get a pass.

          Nobody ignored the vandalism in those protests. It was a constant focus of all the media outlets. It also was discovered that a lot of the looting was done by people that had no affiliation to the protests at all and were just low lifes taking advantage of the situation. You seem to blind yourself to the fact that there is also a drastic difference in the two protests. The BLM protest was directly attributed to the murder of minorities by Law Enforcement with numerous examples to choose from. The pathetic display put on by Trump supporters yesterday was based on the continuing fraudulent claims from Trump and his supporters that the election was stolen. There is no evidence to support their claims and they have been shot down by both Left and Right wing Judges and Secretary of States but the travesty continued to the point the Trump supporters believed it or didn’t care, they were going to get their way and spit on the alter of democracy. There is no comparison here and your inability to see that is in lock step with all the other right wing indoctrinated extremists who believe what they want to believe and don’t care if it’s backed up or not.

          1. What news focus are you referring to? Are you talking about the death of Breyana Taylor who was shot in the cross fire when her boyfriend shot at police first? You must find it amazing that CNN, MSNBC and others news outlets spun that story to make look like the police officers were solely responsible.
            Sheesh, talk about being blind to the truth, dude.

            Gotta like your coward incoming presidents remarks that if BLM had stormed the Capitol that they would have been treated differently.
            Really? This guy cow-tows to the left more than any incoming president in history.

            What we saw yesterday was the result of the lefts polarization of the president since day one.
            Spin it anyway you chose, but there are many hands complicit in yesterday’s disgrace.
            And the only way to healing the country is for both sides to put down their sabers.

            1. Arturo really hates facts. They get in the way of the truth!
              Scump told the crowd at the Ellipse that he would go with them to the Capitol, but he didn’t (Coward in Chief). Instead he sent them off with incendiary rhetoric.

              “If you don’t fight like hell, you’re not going to have a country anymore,” he said. “Let the weak ones get out,” he went on. “This is a time for strength.”

              His lawyer, Rudy Giuliani, told the crowd, “Let’s have trial by combat

            2. AES, pathetic and disgusting. I’d have thought our usual firebrand Razor would be on the deck of the Trumptanic until the very end. But no. How the hell did you ever get a reputation on this board as a measured voice of restraint? True colors now.

              1. There’s an old adage that says “follow the money.” I’m so doing you find the root of the problem.

                In this case, I follow the core of the hatred and I find the that the root is Pelosi, Schumer, Biden, Bernie and the squad. Following their marching orders from Soros, Hillary, Obama and big tech.

                With such a powerful alliance of hate, I wouldn’t put it pass them to infiltrate the Trump protest with hired plants to push their way into the Capitol. Oh, did I say push? Well it helped when you have a Capitol officer holding a door opened to allow a certain group come in.
                Also, gotta love the mayor turning down a request to have the NG at the protest before it took place. I mean, I guess the mayor didn’t think anything would happen, right.
                I’ll finish my comments on this topic by echoing Nancy Pelosi’ infamous words, “I was set up!”

            3. AES, all the bullsh!t, lies and whataboutisms you’ve been posting here is what the seditious mob used as justification and rationalization for desecrating the United States Capitol building and attempts in bringing down our representative democracy. Remember a few months back I labeled you as an anarchist and you took such high indignation? Little did I know then.

              1. What the IMPOTUS has done is expose how weak and gullible his followers are. We should thank him for that!

              2. The only thing that is embarrassing is how much of a low life POS you are.
                How’s your brothers bar doing?

              3. Which one of my brothers Primate? What’s his name?
                This is how Scump is doing

                Scump once vowed that he’d be the “greatest jobs president that God ever created.” Instead, with Friday’s jobs report, he’s on track to become the first president since modern employment statistics began to leave office with fewer U.S. jobs than existed when he was sworn in.

        3. AES
          RIGHT! And Trump and the Republicans are the PARTY OF LAW AND ORDER……ROFLMFAO
          And you my friend, are suffering from a severe case of inverted anal-cranial syndrome…..
          BTW: There is a reason the fascist, wannabe dictator Trump, loves grade school drop outs! The question is…..Have YOU figured out WHY?

          1. Hmm, let’s see if I can find my way through all the fluff you just wrote.

            Many illegal immigrants out out of state residents voted for Biden. But I’m sure you view that as Law and Order.
            The dems went on a witchhunt and hired their ace Robert Mueller to prove that Trump colluded with Russia.
            Big Fail!
            The dems tried to destroy Kavanagh by creating a rape charge against him.
            Big Fail!
            The left media hid the Hunter Biden, China issue in the days leading up to the election.
            If you don’t believe that your high school drop outs didn’t notice the obvious purpose and motive behind their silence on this, then you might want to ask a high school drop out.

            If want to ignore and forget what happened last summer, then perhaps you need to take a closer look at case studies on severe inverted analcranial.

            1. AES….PLEASE STOP MAKING A FOOL OF YOURSELF…AND PUT THE KOOL AID DOWN
              * “Many illegal immigrants out out of state residents voted for Biden.” PROOF PLEASE?
              * “The dems went on a witchhunt and hired their ace Robert Mueller to prove that Trump colluded with Russia…..
              * Mueller is a life long Republican and an American lawyer and government official who served as the sixth Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation from 2001 to 2013.
              MUELLER WAS JUST SOME IGNORANT BUFFOON THAT GOT USED BY THE DEMOCRATS, RIGHT AES? ROFLMAO @ U
              * What did the GOP controlled US Senate Select Committee on Intelligence report #3 thru #5 find? The same thing the Russian media claimed, that Trump was a RUSSIAN ASSET AND PUTIN’S PUPPET.
              The Committee found that Manafort’s presence on the Campaign and proximity toTrump created opportunities for Russian intelligence services to exert influence over, and acquire confidential information on, the Trump Campaign. Taken as a whole, Manafort’s high level access and willingness to share information with individuals closely affiliated with the Russian intelligence services, particularly Kilimnik and associates of Oleg Deripaska,represented a grave counterintelligence threat.
              Hack and Leak.
              The Committee found that Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the Russian effort to hack computer networks and accounts affiliated with the Democratic Party and leak information damaging to Hillary Clinton and her campaign for president. Moscow’s intent was to harm the Clinton Campaign, tarnish an expected Clinton presidential administration, help the Trump Campaign after Trump became the presumptive Republican nominee, and undermine the
              U.S. democratic process. Leaks actively sought, and played, a key role in the Russian influence and Trump likely knew it was assisting a Russian intelligence influence effort. The Committee found
              sinificant indications that at the time of the first WikiLeaks releases, the U.S. Government had not yet declared WikiLeaks a hostile organization and many treated it as a journalistic entity.
              (U) While the GRU and WikiLeaks were releasing hacked documents, the Trump campaign sought to maximize the impact of those leaks to aid Trump’s electoral prospects. Staff on the Trump Campaign sought advance notice about WikiLeaks releases, created messaging strategies to promote and share the materials in anticipation of and following their release, and encouraged further leaks. The Trump Campaign publicly undermined the attribution of the hack-and-leak campaign to Russia and was indifferent to whether it and WikiLeaks were furthering a Russian election interference effort. The Committee found no evidence that Campaign officials received an authoritative government notification that the hack was perpetrated by the Russian government before October 7, 2016, when the ODNI and DHS issued a joint statement to that effect. However, the Campaign was aware of the extensive media reporting and other private sector attribution of the hack to Russian actors prior to that point. Trump and senior Campaign offici.als sought to obtain advance information about WikiLeaks’s planned releases through Roger Stone. At their direction, Stone took action to gain access.
              The committee further found Papadopoulos communicated the information he learned from Mifsud to at least two separate foreign governments. The Committee could not determine if Papadopoulos informed anyone on the Trump Campaign of the information, though the Committee finds it implausible that Papadopoulos did not do so.

              1. Thanks for your exhaustive news sources that don’t mean anything to me.
                The dems hate and news lib spinners have colluded against the highest office in our country for the last 4 years and they’re efforts to attempt a political coup during this time should hold them just as responsible for yesterday’s event as they hold Trump.
                This has been brewing for four years and it finally came to a head at the Capitol.
                And don’t be surprised if this continues after the new president takes office. When a nation loses trust in their elected leaders nothing good comes from it.

            2. OMG, Arturo you’ve really gone off the deep end here.
              I hope for your sake that this your catfish, or maybe Seb’s catfish.

              1. The only one who makes threats is your Scump baby!
                And like the canadian coward doesn’t show.
                Sore losers and a bunch of snowflakes you MAGATS are!

              2. Rib, it’s surprising how intellectual dishonest people are willing to be. This circular thinking has locked them inside their own group-think with the garbage floating to the top….

  25. Looking at the draft order, the Jags, Jets, Bengals, Panthers and Broncos may all want to draft a QB. Additionally, the Falcons, Giants, Cowboys, Washington, Patriots and Bears may want to improve their QB position.
    .
    Unfortunately, there are not 11 QBs who warrant a first round ranking.

    1. Why would the Bengals draft another QB Seb? Burrow was on his way to being OROY before he was lost for the season.

      1. “Before he was lost to the season’.
        .
        He tore his ACL AND MCL, along with meniscus damage. He is damaged goods, may never play again, and certainly not like he played before his injury.
        .
        Since many posters on this site think that all of these QB draft prospects are better than a SB QB, the Bengals should be prudent, and prepare for the future.

      1. Mid: Comparing rookie season for Buckner to rookie season for Kinlaw; it’s the only fair way to compare.

        1. Sorry, I misread that. Needless to say, those stats do show Kinlaw has a long way to go before he can even touch Buckner’s level of play.

          1. Agree. When you first stated that you thought letting Buckner leave was a bad move, I wasn’t so sure especially considering what the Colts signed him for. But now that I learned that Buckner stated he would have met the 49ers half way on the difference during the contract negotiations, I agree with you. Especially, since Armstead is making something like $17M average per year. One caveat is that Armstead’s contract is more team friendly than what would likely have been the contract if Buckner had been signed by the 49ers instead. But, imo, Armstead is not on the same level as Buckner and IIRC Buckner stated he would have agreed to around $18.5M per year on average.

            1. After 1 year, imo the move is clearly in favour of the Colts. But if Kinlaw develops into a good player that equation will change.

              1. Kinlaw would need to develop into an elite player before the equation could change.

              2. Not strictly true Mid. The combo of Armstead and Kinlaw needs to be better than Buck.

              3. Two good players do not make up an elite player Scooter. Anything less than an elite status means the Kinlaw pick and Buckner trade should be graded as a big win for the Colts and a considerable mistake by the 49ers.

              4. Not sure I would say Buck is elite per se. But very good. Two good players, paired with an elite edge rusher in Bosa, I think is as good or better than Bosa and Buck surrounded by decent guys. Basically, Kinlaw has to be good, but not necessarily elite.

                Though if Buck strings together a few seasons of play as dominant as this season I will change my mind and say he is elite.

              5. I am Jack – @Scoot_McG78 (recently changed from another handle). I don’t really post anything though – just use it to get sports news.

              6. Thanks Scooter. Doesn’t show up. Grant and I were hoping to get in touch to have you come on and talk about the 49ers.

                My twitter is @JackHammer_NFL If you’re interested hit me up. Would be cool.

              7. Strange. I think I am following you already.

                Thanks heaps for the invite, but I don’t think that is for me. You guys have way more insight than I do!

              8. Alright. If you change your mind let me or Grant know. He was hoping to get in touch with you. You’d bring some great insights and it won’t be with all of us yahoo’s lol.

              9. Not sure I would say Buck is elite per se. 

                We’ll have to agree to disagree on that considering that level of play was only behind Aaron Donald.

              10. Not only that, but a perspective from a non-American might be interesting as well. Tidbits like is American Football “big” with Aussies. How did an Aussie become so interested in American Football to devote over 20 years to studying and following it (correct me if I’m wrong on that one, Scooter). Maybe some remote or tangential connections to rugby, etc. Something you don’t get on your everyday sportscast in the USA.

            2. Part of the reasoning behind keeping Armstead over Buckner, besides the cost, is position flexibility, and I think that’s something that fans either don’t realize, or just simply forget. Armstead is the much more versatile DL allowing for more schematic flexibility. Unfortunately this didn’t pay off for the 49ers this season because due to the outrageous number of key injuries (Bosa, Ford, etc), Saleh was largely forced to play Armstead out of position. Even then the decision mostly paid off. Buckner is the superior interior lineman, but as great as Buckner is on the interior, he’s much proven to be much less effective out on the edge, than Armstead. Can you imagine if Buckner was the guy who was forced to play on the edge for a large part of the season, because of all the injuries? I can almost guarantee the results would have been worse.

            3. Why is everyone leaving Aiyuk out of the equation?
              Here is the combination of players SF got/kept by moving on from Buckner.
              1. Armstead 2. Ward 3. Kinlaw 4. Aiyuk
              So the question is would you rather have Buckner than those 4 players.

              I think a greater argument could be made that SF would be have been better off trading both Buckner and Armstead. The cap space and draft capital could have greatly helped.

              1. They could have drafted Aiyuk regardless (using a different pick to trade up with), and tbh, they probably could have signed Ward if they extended Buck and traded Armstead instead. So really it is Armstead plus Kinlaw vs Buckner.

              2. Scotter,
                To move up SF gave up a 1st, 4th and 5th.
                They had already traded away our 2nd, 3rd and 4th for Ford and Sanders then gave up a 5th and future 3rd for T. Williams.
                So using the draft value chart the alternative trade, without the additional 4th would have been every remaining selection they had a 5th, 6th, and 7th (which still falls slightly short on the draft value chart) or a future 3rd which they didn’t have due to T. Williams deal. Making such a trade would have been problematic to do without that selection, and that is why I feel it must be factored in.

              3. Fair enough Shoup. I still think they would have found a way.

                Tbh, I really just wanted to post under my pseudonym, Scotter_McG. ?

    1. Buckner is a great player and one the team wanted to keep but you can’t keep everybody. The reason he was traded was because he would bring back the highest return. We don’t know how the negotiations went down but I would imagine the team would have re-signed him if he would have agreed to a deal similar to Armstead.

      1. Yeah, it looks like he might have agreed to $18.5 M per year average. I don’t think the trade was terrible; I guess I’m more irritated that they way overpaid for Armstead who is only above average. Buckner doesn’t need studs around him to be great, Armstead does.

        1. Buckner is a better player than Armstead but Armstead had to take on a lot more attention due to the injuries and loss of Buckner this season. He had the best season of his career in 2019 when he got go inside on 3rd down. That wasn’t the case this year a lot of the time. Wait and see how things look when Bosa is back and it’s not just on Armstead.

  26. I just want to say – WE TOLD YOU TRUMP WAS BAD FOR THE COUNTRY

    no argument on who the worst president in usa history is now..

  27. Jeremy Fowler
    @JFowlerESPN
    #49ers and Pro Bowl LT Trent Williams had extensive discussions last week on a contract extension, per sources. Doing something before Week 17 would have helped SF’s salary cap. It didn’t happen, and an elite tackle could hit free agency, but SF is clearly prioritizing Williams

      1. I’d say a 4 year deal with a 5th voidable year to push signing bonus out, avg around $20M per year, 1st year cap hit around $10M. Approx. $60M guaranteed.

        Wouldn’t surprise me though if it ends up closer to $22M per year.

        1. Especially if Williams decides to play hard ball. I don’t care. Just sign him ASAP.

        2. Scooter
          Yes, that is what I was thinking also, except it may be a little more than $10 Mil first year cap hit.

  28. Larry Krueger:

    Zach Wilson is “the guy” #49ers need. Lynch/Shanahan need to have conviction that Wilson is it, trade up to #2 w/the Jets, pay the price and get a franchise QB. This kid is it. Flip Garoppolo back to the #Patriots for a couple of day 3 picks, resign your core FAs and go win a SB!

    1. I’m not saying Larry is wrong, and I like Zack Wilson, but I don’t think he’s as sure of a thing as some people seem the think. He had a sensational season, but it was against sub par competition, at least compared to guys like Lawrence, Fields and Jones. I am not saying he isn’t the real deal, but I am saying that trading all the way up to #2 in order to draft him, is a huge risk. Standing pat and drafting him at #12, or a small move up the board, might be unrealistic, but it seems much more in line with where he should be drafted based on his performance in relation to the level of competition he faced. I am definitely uncomfortable trading up to #2, considering the cost. I mean, you have to factor everything into the equation. He does have an injury history, and while anyone can get hurt, the risk becomes great we when there is not only a history, but also when you give up a huge amount of draft capital in order to draft him. Is Wilson’s value that much higher than Trey Lance? I really don’t think so. Wilson may be the more polished prospect, but Lance probably has the higher ceiling. If Kyle is such a quarterback friendly head coach, why not stand pat and draft the QB with the higher ceiling? And how about Mac Jones. He doesn’t have Wilson’s mobility, but the guy is a surgeon when it comes to taking what a defense is giving, after all, Kyle is a master of scheming his receivers open.

      1. If Wilson falls, great, take him. But I think you’re right with regards to Jones. If the 49ers target a QB without the need to trade up (or at least not give away the farm for a tradeup), it’ll probably be Jones. KS seems to prefer QBs of this type.

        1. I like Jones, but I think you are taking him in the 2nd. Maybe you grab him at the end of the first just to have that 5th year option… but he is someone you take in a trade back scenario. Matt Miller even speculated that Lance could fall to day 2. If I could trade back for more pics and grab him I would be singing Halleluiah all the way to the podium.

    2. Kreuger is delusional. The last 2 QBs who went number one, both have struggled. Trubisky, Darnold, Jones, and Haskins were taken later, and have not won any SBs. Wentz and Goff were highly touted, and have won nothing.
      .
      Zach Wilson beat up on second tier competition with a massive O line and good receivers.
      .
      There is no guarantee that any QB will get you to the SB.
      .
      Go win a SB? Easier said than done.

  29. If Deshaun Watson does request a trade, what would people be willing to give up for him?

    Personally I think he is a guy the 49ers should be willing to give up a lot for. Incredible player. Truly elevates the players around him on offense. And showed in college he can rise to the occasion.

    I would even consider adding Fred Warner to a trade for him.

    1. Fred Warner might be the one guy that I wouldn’t trade. Well, him and Kittle. Those two are untouchable in my opinion.

      1. In order to get a true franchise QB I would. Especially given the team is going to struggle to find the cap space to extend him this offseason anyway.

        Basically, if losing an all pro calibre LB means you get an all pro calibre QB, I make that trade every time.

        1. It’s a tough pill to swallow, but OK, I can get on board with this.

          Quarterback is the most important position in all of professional sports, and there aren’t enough really good ones to go around. Deshaun Watson is not only a really, really good quarterback, he’s also young. He likely hasn’t even entered his “prime”. I can hardly imagine just how dynamic Kyle’s offense could be with Watson’s at the helm. If he hits the trading block, the 49ers probably ought to go get him!

          1. That’s my thoughts exactly – it would suck to lose Warner, but if it gets you a QB like Watson it is worth it.

            1. The better plan is to draft and develop. It doesn’t matter who is available.
              The Niners need to maintain the depth on the roster while also staying competitive.
              Watson would command a huge return plus a substantial amount of cap space.

              1. Sure, if you can draft Watson then even better. But much harder to get that right. Thus the reason it costs more to get Watson.

                Regardless, having that type of QB is the sort of move that helps a franchise stay competitive long term. Yes, Watson isn’t cheap. After 2021, he’ll be a bit over $30M per season (for a team that trades for him – higher for the Texans due to signing bonus). But that is what a true franchise QB costs.

                And yeah, he will cost draft capital too. But if you include a guy like Warner in the deal, it is probably just the next two drafts you are giving up high picks. Or you can spread the draft picks you give up out a bit more. Worth it for a QB of Watson’s talent, imo. And by not needing to pay JG and Warner, you have the cap space to sign the majority of your FAs this year.

              2. Franchise QB’s are hard to find and will cost a lot via trade.
                But when you have a generational talent like Warner, you don’t trade him. You keep him and then still try to find your franchise QB.
                Selling the farm and assets is not the way build a winning roster. I don’t care how good Watson is, it’s about team first.

              3. Warner is now a generational talent? All pro calibre sure, but generational? If he is generational at LB, Watson is generational at QB, and I know which position I take.

                And yeah, for a true franchise QB you give up a lot – if you already have a strong core of guys. The 49ers do.

            2. Before getting onboard with shipping Warner out for Watson, I’d like to know the full terms of the trade proposal.

              1. 2 firsts and Jimmy and Warner. Done… But I wouldn’t do that deal if I was Houston. :D
                Jimmy is thrown in mostly just to clear the contract for SF

    2. I would definitely not give up Warner because he has become a leader and the face of the 49ers defense, but I would be okay with the 49ers parting with some picks along with some players as well for Watson, as he is most definitely an upgrade over Garoppolo. However, what I have read is that it would take three first round picks and three second round picks just to get trade talks started.

      1. Tbh I doubt the Texans even entertain the idea, but it makes for better discussion than politics. ?

        The price you outline is why I think someone like Warner may need to be included in any such deal. He basically replaces a 1st round pick, imo. Maybe more. Not many guys the 49ers can trade that would provide close to the same value as that.

        1. Why would the Niners trade the heart beat of their team?
          It’s the same situation as Jimmy G. Everyone looks at these guys as expendable but you cannot replace the value guys like Jimmy and Warner bring in leadership and making others around them better.
          I’d rather pay through the nose for glue guys and guys that are leaders of men and guys that make other less talented players play better.

          1. “I’d rather pay through the nose for glue guys and guys that are leaders of men and guys that make other less talented players play better.”

            That’s exactly what Watson is.

              1. Seriously? Did you see the type of season he put up? With the supporting cast he had? With the coaches he had? It may not have translated to wins this year, but he was amazing. And he single handedly kept O’Brien employed the past few years by willing a bad team to the playoffs.

              2. So why not just keep the glue guys you’ve drafted and developed then draft more of them and develop them?
                It’s a proven formula for sustainable success.
                Brick by brick!

              3. Because the one and only proven formula for sustained success is a true franchise calibre QB.

              4. I still wouldn’t trade Warner Scooter. However, I would be fine if they included Garoppolo and Samuel in a trade for Waston. Maybe also Mostert.

              5. If that gets them a similar trade value as Warner, sure, I would do that too. Though it would set back the weapons around Watson which wouldn’t be great.

                Thing is, I think Bosa, Warner and Kittle are the 49ers most valuable assets and would be the most likely to result in the draft capital needed to get Watson being reduced considerably. And tbh, the 49ers are in a position with Warner that isn’t too dissimilar to the one they found themselves in with Buck. While I believe they will find a way to pay Warner, including him in a trade for Watson would free up some much needed cap space.

              6. Because the one and only proven formula for sustained success is a true franchise calibre QB.

                Let’s take examples of franchise QBs, say Peyton Manning, Brett Favre, John Elway. It was combined 29 years for those franchise QBs to get their franchise a SB win. Add Dan Marino and you have more years than most posters on this board have been alive. In the meantime should we settle for MVP? Or the satisfaction of a gold jacket a couple decades down the road?

              7. Though it would set back the weapons around Watson which wouldn’t be great.

                Not really Scooter. Mostert will be on the final year of his contract, and Samuel will be in line for an extension after this season, so it is quite possible that the 49ers do not see them in their future plans going forward. However, the team could bring back Juice and add another WR through free agency or the draft, thus giving Watson the weapons he needs.

              8. Sure, lets take those examples. All but one won SB rings. And each of them had their teams competing for playoffs long term. So yeah, proved my point, thanks! End of discussion.

              9. So yeah, proved my point, thanks! End of discussion.

                And you’ll be patient to wait 9 years, a la Manning or 14, a la Elway for a ring huh? I’ll check back in with you, say, around 2030. Deal?

              10. I’m going to be the contrarian again in regards to trading for Watson. If you gave me the choice of Watson or Garoppolo, I’m taking Watson every time but that isn’t what is being debated here. The question is should the 49ers trade for Watson and my answer is no. For what you would have to give up for him – high picks and I saw Warner being thrown in there by Scooter McG, how much better is he actually making you? I’ve said this numerous times already but I’ll say it again because it’s important to have context when doing these types of comparisons. In 2019 the 49ers had the second best scoring offense in the NFL. Houston was 14th. Check out these two stat lines:

                Completions -329
                Attps – 476
                Completion percentage – 69.1
                Yards – 3,978
                YPA – 8.4
                TD’s – 27
                Int.- 13

                Completions – 345
                Attps – 505
                Completion percentage – 68.3
                Yards – 4,165
                YPA – 8.2
                TD’s – 26
                Int – 9

                The first one is Garoppolo’s 2019 numbers, the second is Watson’s best season as a pro before this past season which was 2018. His 2019 season was similar but featured more Ints.(12) and less yardage as he missed a game. So knowing that the 49ers had a better offense than Houston with a full season from both QB’s how much is Watson really going to improve the 49er offense and is it worth trading the picks and a great young defensive player to do so? The numbers say no.

                If you are strictly looking at Watson’s 2020 season the numbers are the best of his career and yet they only won 4 games. Thats where stats can be deceiving because I think if we look closely from game to game and I’ll try to do just that at some point or somebody else can if they feel so inclined, we’d find out that there are a lot of empty yards from Watson in situations where they are behind and have to throw to get back in the game. Whatever the case on the surface it was a great season from Watson but it didn’t move the meter in the W/L column.

                Watson is a heck of a player and as I said I’d take him over Garoppolo if it were one or the other, but I can’t see anyway this team would be better with him and the loss of picks and a core young Defensive player over Garoppolo with the picks and young Defensive player. Watson’s cap hit is about 16 mill in 2021 but jumps to 40 mill in 2022 and even higher in 2023 so the ability to build a team around him hampered both by a loss of picks and player and the lack of cap space.

                It was a fun exercise but not going to happen both because of the compensation it would take and the fact Houston is not going to trade him anyway.

              11. The system the two QBs play in matters. Are you of the belief that O’Brien’s system is as good as Shanahan’s? That he provided Watson as many easy throws?

              12. The system the two QBs play in matters. Are you of the belief that O’Brien’s system is as good as Shanahan’s? That he provided Watson as many easy throws?

                I’d take Shanahan’s system for sure. I have no idea on the amount of easy throws do you? All I know is before this season the Houston passing game was DeAndre Hopkins and then the next closest player had about a quarter of his production if that. This season it was Cooks with the most catches and the next guy with about 10-15 more than he would traditionally have with Hopkins on the team.

              13. So? Production was pretty similar. If your point is that Watson will throw more deep passes, that could be true but overall this offense is mainly short to intermediate passing and running the football and as I pointed out, the offense was near the top in 2019 so how much better is it really going to get with Watson?

              14. My point is that the 49ers system is a lot more QB friendly. JG and Watson putting up similar stat lines does not make them equal.

                As to how much better would it get with Watson, well, first and foremost teams would have to respect the deep pass. And there would likely be less turnovers in the short to intermediate game. So I would think it could be noticeably better.

              15. My point is that the 49ers system is a lot more QB friendly. JG and Watson putting up similar stat lines does not make them equal.

                If you say so and I didn’t say they were equal. I’d take Watson over Garoppolo but not for what it would cost to acquire him.

                As to how much better would it get with Watson, well, first and foremost teams would have to respect the deep pass. And there would likely be less turnovers in the short to intermediate game. So I would think it could be noticeably better.

                Yep and I think Garoppolo will continue to improve in this system the more he plays. Both of these statements – mine and yours – are speculation and nothing more. The numbers say they aren’t that far apart in production or turnovers.

              16. Watson’s average depth of target is much deeper than JG.

                And that’s definitely worth losing 1st, 2nd round picks the next couple of years, and an all pro LB to boot.

              17. If they’re consistently in the hunt, yeah. Been over all this with you already.

                The past decade the Niners have been in 11 playoff games, including 4 NFCGs and 2 SBs. Alex Smith, Colin Kaepernick, Jimmie Garoppolo – all Franchise QBs? That says the most important thing is competent coaching and squad health, not pie in the sky thought that some stat-master or touted rook is going to take the team to the promised land.

                Next argument, mate?

              18. 49ers have made it to the playoffs due to having a shirt tonne of high draft picks which has provided loaded rosters. They got those because in the intervening years they were atrocious. The opposite of consistently being in contention.

                Next argument mate?

        2. Tbh I doubt the Texans even entertain the idea, but it makes for better discussion than politics.

          + INFINITY

        3. Tbh I doubt the Texans even entertain the idea, but it makes for a better discussion than politics.

          I find it hard to argue against that, although seeing DJT permanently wiped off of the face of Twitter has a certain appea, and is certainly worth celebrating as far as I am concerned!

    3. For Watson? 3 firsts no problem, and Yes I would throw Warner in there if necessary… he will cost a ton at a non premium position.
      In theory, he is a guy I would be willing to trade regardless if I get a high enough first. This is mostly because his position is not one I want to throw a huge salary at. SF is looking at 18M per season for him vs drafting his replacement which even a first rounder will only cost around 4M per season. I don’t want to invest that much cap space in a LB ever.
      The only problem is, from an optics stand point letting him go after letting Buckner go could look really bad from an optics stand point to potential free agents.

      1. I disagree with you on Watson as I stated my case above but you make a good point on Warner. Is it worth 18-20 mill for a MLB in this defense? Warner has been excellent but a case could be made that he’s well down the list of importance on the defensive side of the ball. The optics would look bad if they let him go but I’ve seen other teams do just that instead of paying the LB’s. That deserves more discussion.

          1. And if he is, we’ll have a 1st or even 2nd round pick just there for his replacement. Oh, wait.

  30. The girl who got shot at the capitol, started yesterday thinking she was an American eagle. She ended yesterday as a dead duck.

    1. Oneniner:
      She is NOT the only one dead….This one may get Trump supporter(s) some prison time.
      Prosecutors plan to open a federal murder probe into the death of Brian Sicknick, the US Capitol Police officer who died after reportedly being hit in the head with a fire extinguisher during this week’s riots, according to a report.
      A law enforcement official told CNN that prosecutors in the US Attorney’s Office will launch an investigation.
      Sicknick, 42, died Thursday, a day after collapsing when he returned to his division office following the attack on the Capitol, according to the USCP, which said he was injured “while physically engaging with protesters.”
      Two sources told the New York Times that the officer had been struck with a fire extinguisher.
      News of the officer’s death came as the chief of the Capitol Police, Steven Sund, announced his resignation.

    1. I don’t know Watson, but it isn’t apparent to me why a young player would be someone you’d want input on for the GM position. HC position, I could easily see.

      Rather than promising him input on the GM, if promises had to be made, I would have wanted his input for the HC position only and not both.

      And with regards to Florio speculating that the 49ers would be in the hunt – yeah, I need to hear it from somebody else in the “know”. Florio has hated Jimmy G for several years now, so…..

      1. I think the issue is stemming from the fact he wants to more involved in helping decisions get made Cubus. In regards to the GM, Watson is probably wanting to know if the GM’s thoughts line up his his on what the team needs to do.

    2. from the Texans’ perspective, stating that the team would require three first- and three second-round picks even to start considering moving on from their franchise quarterback.

      Sure and also throw in Warner and Kittle too. That should land us our long term Franchise QB, right Scooter.

      This off-season fan naval gazing has taken on more bizarre dimensions than usual. Glad we have some end of democracy insurrection to discuss, as a way of bringing things back to reality.

      1. You know Scooter never indicated that Kittle should also be traded, right? And if the team can get a QB who is already an upgrade over Garoppolo, then why not?

        1. You know Scooter never indicated that Kittle should also be traded, right?

          Yeah, I’m being (somewhat) facetious. But if that’s what it takes? We’ve been seeing some pretty outrageous scenarios floated here in the name of moving on from Garoppolo.

          And if the team can get a QB who is already an upgrade over Garoppolo, then why not?

          Did you see my quote from the article upthread? “the team would require three first- and three second-round picks even to start considering moving on from their franchise quarterback.” That’s why not.

      2. Poor Rib, really don’t like it when people don’t praise our Lord and saviour JG, do you?

        1. No. I just think it’s insane to push the idea of giving up multiple 1sts, multiple 2nds, All Pro linebackers in an attempt to erase him from the team. All in the name of some nebulous idea that what this teams needs is a franchise QB or high 1st round draft pick. Since we all know high 1st round draft picks always develop into franchise QBs and franchise QBs are SB winners year after year after year….

          1. If the team wants to be consistently good, history shows a true franchise calibre QB is what you need. That isn’t a fantasy.

            Recent SB history also shows that first round QBs are the most likely path to a SB. That isn’t a fantasy.

            I am not saying all 1st round QBs develop into great QBs or SB winners. Just that they have a significantly greater chance, so unless you believe JG is the guy, the chance of taking a later round QB and finding you’ve gotten Brady is so remote that as a plan for long term success it is ludicrous.

            I also am not advocating giving up heaps of draft picks for a 1st round QB. For Watson, yes – he is a proven franchise QB. For a rookie QB I have said I would do a small trade up for one.

            But, if Shanahan absolutely falls in love with a guy and trades up big for him I also wouldn’t be upset with it. But obviously that puts a ton of pressure on Shanahan to get it right, and I wouldn’t put my neck out like that for anyone except Lawrence.

            1. I can’t see any way this actually happens.
              Even so don’t get what the debate is on that… a top 5 QB in his mid 20’s comes up? Yeah, I’d give up a lot for him. I’d throw Bosa or Warner in that deal if necessary because that’s how valuable qbs at that level are.
              Looking back does anyone think that Ravens wouldn’t have thrown Ray Lewis in a trade to get Manning or Rodgers in their mid 20’s?
              Having one of those guys turns a 6 win roster into a perineal playoff team.

              1. “I can’t see any way this actually happens.”

                No, me either. Just some fun hypotheticals to discuss. Texans will find a way to appease Watson before it gets to forcing a trade.

                But yeah, surprised there has been any opposition to the idea if it were to become a thing.

              2. You know what turns a 6 win roster into a perennial playoff team? Not having an entire pro-bowl quality roster sidelined for a good duration of the season.

              3. “You know what turns a 6 win roster into a perennial playoff team? Not having an entire pro-bowl quality roster sidelined for a good duration of the season.”

                That, and not having a salary cap so you can keep that roster together long term in order to meet that perennial part of the statement, hey?

                Tell me, which NFL team in the past two decades has been a perennial playoff team (i.e. team that consistently made the playoffs over a long period of time) that didn’t have a great QB?

            2. But obviously that puts a ton of pressure on Shanahan to get it right

              Not to mention the pressure of getting drafts right without 1st or 2nd round picks for the foreseeable future. They’d better keep up that string of finding 5th round gems.

              1. Rib,
                To your point/argument I would agree with you that they have not exactly been great in their drafts, nobody is, but you would hope to have a higher hit rate with those first rounders. Right now… Solly, Foster, and McGlinchey are not looking like great selections… hell even Bosa is a bit of a question, given his injury history and the fact that he has already missed a seasons worth of games in his 2 seasons in the league.
                Let’s hope they learn from their mistakes… but based on what they have done you could argue either they are better off using those picks to get established players or that they need as many swings as possible to get good players. Though, there is no arguing that rookies are cheaper.

              2. Shoup, that they don’t need high picks because they’ve been crap at exercising them somehow isn’t convincing to me.

              3. Rib,
                Sorry for not explaining it correctly I meant that due to their draft record they might need more draft picks because they haven’t been good at them. |
                The problem is, this team was able to accrue a lot of talent precisely because they couldn’t make the playoffs. 4 times in 15 years

        2. Nah I think ribico is just looking at it from a practical stand point instead of a fan fantasy angle. I’ve already stated my thoughts on it above, but I don’t think there was a lot of thought put into these trade ideas beyond wanting to get Watson for whatever it would take. As we saw in Houston this past season, he isn’t going to win games without a good team around him and Garoppolo had comparable production to him in Watson’s best statistical season before this past one. If you want to look at the injury angle Watson comes out ahead overall but did suffer his own ACL tear in his first season so there is history. I’m guessing we are going to be doing this with a number of other QB’s before this offseason is over judging from the tunnel vision involved with this subject. Matt Ryan, Matt Stafford? Anybody else? May as well get it over with.

          1. “As we saw in Houston this past season, he isn’t going to win games without a good team around him.”

            The Texans were absolutely awful on D this year. The previous two seasons he led them to 11-5 and 10-6, and did so with a roster nowhere near as good as the 49ers 2019 roster. He absolutely can win a lot of games without a great team around him.

            1. In 2019 the Houston defense was 19th in points allowed the offense was 14th in points scored. In 2018 the defense was 4th in points allowed the offense was 11th in points scored. He’s been good but in the year they won 11 games the defense was ranked higher than the offense and the offense in 2019 was middle of the pack in a 10-6 season so I think you are overestimating his achievements in these years. The Houston defense was awful this season but funny thing is the 3 teams just below them in points allowed – Dallas, Minnesota, LV – all had better records than the Texans so they obviously found a way to win more games with defenses comparable to Houston.

              Ultimately the question is whether the 49ers would be better trading for Watson and I don’t think they would be for what they would have to give up and the fact the offense is already among the best when Garoppolo has been healthy.

              1. So to confirm, for you it pretty much just comes down to what they would need to give up. What would you be willing to give up for Watson?

  31. What I’ve read is that Watson is upset because he didn’t get a say in the GM hiring and isn’t being consulted on the hiring of the next coach. If true, I don’t want him on the Niners at any price.

    1. Can you blame him? The previous regime traded his best receiver for chump change and has done a very poor job building around him.

      1. Exactly. And what I have heard is he was told he would be kept in the loop, then wasn’t, which is what his issue is. The Texans have made a bunch of blunders in recent years and you can understand why Watson feels disenfranchised.

        1. If the 49ers are smart, they will take advantage of the situation and push for a trade.

          1. Yep, agreed. Though there are probably at least 20 other teams that should have a similar mindset.

      2. Okay to ask for a trade if he doesn’t think the organization is doing a good job but when he thinks he should be involved in hiring decisions I draw the line. What next? Decide draft picks? Not on my team.

        1. Considering that the owner has done a poor job at hiring, I can see why he wants a say in the hiring.

    2. I agree 100% Jerry. I have no idea why Cal McNair would give Watson an indication he would be involved in determining who is hired as GM and HC but that is a huge mistake if he did.

  32. If Watson wants to leave Houston, the Niners should trade JG for Watson, straight up.
    .
    Since Caserio is now the GM of the Texans, he may want to re-unite with JG, who he helped draft.
    .
    Watson would give the Niners a mobile QB, and hopefully, KS will know how to maximize his potential.

  33. Tommy Tremble has declared for the draft. Didn’t think he would. He’s a guy the 49ers should consider to replace Juice.

  34. Trent Williams said he wanted to stay with the Niners. Now, he is not satisfied with the Niners offer, and will now entertain other offers. Being the top rated OT in the league, he will command top dollar. Other teams will throw money at him, and some playoff team will probably lure him away with the chance for a ring.
    .
    The Niners will need to draft O line help, and fortunately, there are several good prospects that could help solidify the line for years.
    .
    The Niners may not only lose Trent Williams and Richard Sherman, they may lose Kyle Jusczyzk.
    .
    With their third round compensatory pick for Saleh leaving, they may be able to draft RB Rhamondre Stevenson. He is 6′ 0″, 246 lbs. He may be able to replace Juice.

    1. Actually, Williams said that he wants to stay with the 49ers but also wants to see what his worth is in free agency since this will be his first time being one. And from what I understand, there has been no offer put out there yet by the 49ers.

      1. I just read that they did meet and TW was not impressed with what the Niners offered, so he plans on exploring the market.
        .
        Of course, with the shrinking salary cap and JG’s 27 mil cap number, paying TW 22 mil may be too much. Ronnie Stanley makes 22 mil, and Bakhtiari makes 17.9 mil.

  35. Looks like the Eagles will be letting Rich Scangarello go. Could be a good replacement of Lafleur or McDaniels leave.

  36. The thing that is shocking is that there is a segment of our population who is so painfully dumb and easily manipulated that a known con-artist could convince them that a handful of senators and the vice-poodle could overturn elections results which have been certified by all 50 states.

    1. BruceLee
      An ‘angry’ Pence navigates the fallout of his rupture with Trump over election, Capitol riots.

      Before leaving office, President Barack Obama awarded the nation’s highest civilian honor – the Presidential Medal of Freedom – to his vice president.
      In President Donald Trump’s final days, he has presented similar honors to California Rep. Devin Nunes, one of his most vocal supporters during impeachment, and to three professional golfers.
      To his vice president, Trump bestowed the label of coward.
      https://www.yahoo.com/news/angry-pence-navigates-fallout-rupture-100017188.html
      ONE CAN ONLY CONCLUDE THAT THE BOOM IS OFF THE ROSE….AS PENCE IS THROWN UNDER THE BUS!

      1. Pency is just as much of a fraud as troompy. Why else would a self described devout conservative Christian snuggle up to the most corrupt and immoral man. Someone who constantly professes their piety is most likely a snake in the tall grass.

        1. BruceLee
          Ya kinda missed my point, which is….THERE’S TROUBLE HERE IN PARADISE! The next thing ya know, t-RUM-pee (AKA golden showers), will be accusing him of paying off Stormy Daniels?
          Yea, I know AES….”FAKE NEWS!”

  37. Looking at the draft needs, the Niners would want to re-sign their DBs, because some mocks have them picking Patrick Surtain CB, with the 12th pick. Maybe that would be good for the Niners to build towards the future, but there also may be some other team’s FAs who could fit well in the Niner system.
    .
    Like OC, I want the Niners to trade back with the Dolphins, to obtain an additional second round pick, which would give them flexibility in selecting players. They even might trade back a second time, and get another third round pick. it may be well worth moving back 10 spots, an ending up with 5 picks in the first 3 rounds.

  38. Proposed offer for Watson: Would this be enough, and if not, what else would you throw in?

    Our 1st round pick this year
    Jimmy G
    George Kittle
    Deebo Samuel

      1. Been fine, buddy, just taking a break from Inside the 49ers. I tried Grant and NN. No dice. Learn much more here. How’ve you been?

        1. Good to hear. I’m not as good as I once was, but I’m as good once as I ever was.?

          Hope to hear more from you during the 2 months of Draftmas.

    1. Kittle is the face of the franchise and a lynchpin of the offense, so he should not be included in any trade discussion. For me, a good trade scenario to get Watson could look like this:

      49ers acquire –
      Watson

      Texans acquire –
      Garoppolo
      Mostert
      Samuel
      2021 1st round pick
      2022 2nd round picks

      If that isn’t enough, then throw in a second round pick or two.

      1. I hear you, but this is my reasoning about including Kittle: For Houston to let Watson go, they ‘ll have to think about appeasing their fans, so if we’re going to get him, we have to gear our offer to what the organization can brag about from the trade. Mostert isn’t a household name to diehard NFL fans. Kittle is. So they’ll get a starting QB, a starting WR, and the best TE in the League. And there’s another side to this, the injury history of each of these players. It would be a win for us in that regard. I do agree with you about needing to throw in more picks.

        1. I understand what you are saying, but trading Kittle would result in a dead cap of almost $18 million for the 49ers in 2021, whereas keeping Kittle result in a cap hit of only $5.5 million.

          1. Ok, there you got me. I didn’t do the cap ramifications. I know that trading JG would free up a ton, no?

          2. That is why, imo, if it requires a top tier player talent in exchange (which like George I think it might) then Warner is the most likely and obvious candidate.

            1. Well, I hope not. If they balk, I’d up it by offering Aiyuk instead of Deebo. They’d be getting a guy who could develop into a Hopkins. They’d also get a serviceable QB, be able to draft one of the top QBs, and have Kittle.

              I have to admit, Scooter, that I got that idea from you and figured that the defense should be off limits, so put in Kittle, in part because of his health history. Deebo too.

          3. Trading Kittle would result in a dead cap of almost $18M?

            Say what, MWD?

            I am pretty sure that a dead cap penalty applies to a release, not a trade. I don’t think there is a penalty if a team takes on his current contract via a trade.

            1. Doesn’t matter how they move a player, the signing bonus is absorbed by the team that paid it.

    2. Hey George,

      Would this be enough

      Not according to analyst Benjamin Allbright, quoted in the article that started this speculation frenzy:
      “Three 1sts, three 2nds and a player might start the conversation”. But then again our analyst Seb says a straight up Garoppolo for Watson swap would get it done.

      1. Seb must have been high when he wrote that. How’s it going, Rib, and please don’t talk Election.

        1. Indubitably.
          .
          If Jamal Adams is worth 2 firsts and a third, JG is worth at least 2 firsts and a second round pick.
          .
          I am not calling for a Wentz or Goff level of compensation.
          .
          Kreuger is brain dead to think a 13-3 QB who led his team to the SB, is worth a couple day 3 picks.

          1. Intelligent gms won’t be looking at JG as a 13-3 quarterback. If he’s that great, why are you trying to unload him? He was 3-3 in 2020 before he went down for the count. And, he missed most of the 2018 season with an injury. The guy has to be looked at as fragile, and not a franchise quarterback when he’s healthy, if that time ever comes again. He’s good when he’s healthy, no question. But not great. You can’t build your team around a gimpy quarterback, hoping he’ll stay healthy. The Niners should unload his big contract. Take what we can get for him, and don’t be surprised if it isn’t much.

            1. Maybe the best solution is to give JG adequate protection, so he does not get injured so much.
              .
              Go ahead, diss JG all you want. It just shows how little you know. You want to get rid of a SB QB, and replace him with what? A raw rookie? When has that worked out well?
              .
              JG knows the drill, and expects the hot takes and second guessing from the peanut gallery. He also knows that JL and KS like him, calls him a leader, and a winner. George Kittle just does not understand why so called fans are so down on JG. Kittle would run through a brick wall for JG.

              1. No, don’t replace JG with a raw rookie. Replace him by trading for a durable quarterback whose gm foolishly sees JG only as a superbowl quarterback, and is willing to take a chance that he won’t go down for the season with another ankle sprain. There are such fools out there, we just need to find them and see what kind of a deal we can make. The only people still defending Garoppolo are nincompoops. The 49ers are pretending to back JG to keep his trade value up. If they told the truth no one would want him. Where did you get the foolishness about Kittle going through a brick wall for Garoppolo? He does support him, but your comment is way over the top.

        2. Doing well George. Healthy and safe, as are you I sincerely hope. No election talk in this response. Just amusement, or is that bemusement, in some of the more outlandish scenarios being floated here. https://tinyurl.com/y5v497gs

  39. @PFF
    laid out a hypothetical trade for Deshaun Watson that had the #49ers sending their 2021 1st, 2022 1st, 2023 1st, 2021 2nd, and Jimmy Garoppolo to the Texans for the QB.

    @Razoreater says don’t give up more than, Jimmy, 2021 First round pick, 2022 Second and Third round picks.

    1. Would the Texans want JG, and would JG agree to be traded to the Texans?

      I’m a little confused razor. That almost sounds like less than you would be willing to give up for Zach Wilson.

      1. Caserio had his hands all over the Jimmy G pick. Jimmy has familiarity with the promise to build around him.

        Scooter, I’ve been Dazed And Confused for so long it’s not true. All good, mate. It’s not like we really expect a deal to get done, but they have a disgruntled employee on their hands, thereby negotiating from a position of weakness. Their team is bereft of talent, bereft of draft picks and bereft of common sense. Watson is special, but I believe Wilson/Lance/Fields could be too. I use that as my position of strength. It’s not gonna cost an arm and a leg to move up from 12 to 7 for the one that falls….

        1. But Watson is proven, the others not, obviously.

          @PFF laid out a hypothetical trade for Deshaun Watson that had the #49ers sending their 2021 1st, 2022 1st, 2023 1st, 2021 2nd, and Jimmy Garoppolo to the Texans for the QB.

          I actually think it’s not brazen to give them 3 number one picks. Watson’s 25 and the first round is still a crap shoot, especially if some of them are later picks. Losing our second pick this year, though, would hurt.

          1. That would be a terrible trade and set the team back for sometime with all the picks lost and the cap space his contract would take up. People on here have been complaining about JG’s 27 mill hit the next couple of years but Watson’s is 40 mill+ starting in 2022. So no cap space and no picks but we got Watson who just led his team to a 4-12 season. Sounds like a great plan.

            1. Watson would be a bit over $30M from 2022 on (and much less in 2021). Texans would have to absorb his signing bonus.

  40. In the “Everyone Saw that Coming” category, the Cowpies have fired DC Mike Nolan.

    1. I have no sympathy for Nolan. I’d personally like to fire him for the way he treated Alex.

      1. Smart move; if he continues to improve, Ridder could be the top pick in the 2022 draft.

  41. In the end, Trump cost Republicans the Presidency, the Senate and the House. The son of a B actually did it. He made America great again.

    1. funny…….

      I am a moderate (fiscally conservative D) living in a split house, but I just hope everyone can agree that some heads need to roll from the debacle which transpired yesterday…… and there should be investment to explore constructing a concealed hydraulic lift fencing to secure a perimiter, a la posts at entry points.

      I would trade for D Watson in a heartbeat

        1. That begs that there will be enough common sense for appropriate staffing…. wherein clearly there was an obvious fail by Capitol police command….. granted, they will swing the opposite direction now w over-staffing for the inauguration and moving forward. Personally, I would simply prefer to see an investment which makes it clear to the world that the White House and other select government buildings could become a fortress w the push of a button.

  42. JL is not BOB. He would not have given away Hopkins for a song., and he will not give away JG for a bag of Skittles, either. Remember, they considered JG more valuable than Tom Brady.
    .
    I fully expect that Belichick is considering JG, and what it would take to pry him away from the Niners. He will not continue with Cam, because he is not accurate enough.
    .
    In any bargaining negotiation, you start out high and work your way lower. 2 third day picks for a SB QB is like a dog rolling over and lifting a leg. Total capitulation.
    .
    Maybe I am assuming that Caserio is operating from a position of weakness. He has to make deal, and no other team would give as good a QB as JG. Draft picks are nice, but give no guarantee for success. Caserio may really like JG, since he helped draft him.
    .
    Maybe they could add a conditional pick. Whichever team who gets to the playoffs first, has to give up a second round pick. If a team reaches the SB, it becomes a first round pick.
    .
    JL does not have that kind of mentality. His bargaining position is- We will only accept deals that may look too good to be true.

      1. Belichick was forced to trade him away, because otherwise, he would have lost him to free agency for nothing.
        .
        He liked JG so much, he sent him to the Niners, instead of some team like the Jags.
        .
        Now, he is faced with a new year with no competent QB. Belichick is such a good HC, he could take back JG and get back to the playoffs. Belichick would be smart enough to utilize JG properly, like allowing him to control the game with his short passing attack, instead of forcing JG to throw long bombs, which is not his forte.
        .
        Look at it this way. Belichick is just re-acquiring JG, he is not going back on a trade. Belichick may deem it wise to spend a couple first round picks and a second round pick, because he assumes those picks would be late first and second round picks, anyways. JG would be way preferable over an untested rookie. Cam is inaccurate, and Stidham is a stiff, so JG would be a major improvement.
        .
        I think the Niners should keep JG, but I also thought they would keep Buckner, too. If Belichick did offer 2 firsts and a second round pick for JG, that might be an offer that is too good to be refused.

        1. If BB had wanted to keep JG, he would be a patriot now. Cam has to go but BB has a history of paying very little to get players. He likes to get players with underdeveloped talent and then raise them up to his standards.

          1. I wish to respectfully disagree. BB wanted to retain JG, but he would adversely affect the salary cap, so BB decided to trade away JG, in order to obtain a second round pick for him, instead of letting him walk in Free Agency, and get nothing.
            .
            BB liked JG so much, he traded JG out of the conference to a team with a SB history, not some perennial loser.
            .
            BB may want to trade 2 first round picks and a second round pick for JG, because he knows what happens when he played an inaccurate QB. If he wants to get back to the playoffs, he may think that the price is not too steep, but would probably start out by offering a couple day 3 picks for him. Maybe the Niners should start out by demanding 3 firsts and 3 second round picks, because JG had a 13-3 record during his SB run. Then they could both settle on a 2 firsts and a second round pick as reasonable compensation.
            .
            Yes, BB raised JG to his standards, so he could possibly continue utilizing him in his system.
            .
            However, JL should think hard about trading away JG to the Pats, which could possibly give them more rings.
            .
            On another note, BB just declined his Medal of Freedom, because of January 6th. I hope Biden gives him one, 2 weeks from now.

  43. Fat @ass banned for life from Twitter. LOL. Time to impeach again or execute the 25th. We must remove the cheeto dust monster.

    1. If it costs what Jack outlines, he is right. That is too much. Anything that derails 3 straight drafts is too much.

            1. He thinks it makes him look smart, but it just does the exact opposite.
              .
              I really must be living in his head to make him obsess about me so much.

              1. I don’t think you’re living in his head anymore, he keeps on showing you his pecker!
                Combine that with his penchant for scatological eruptions, I think he’s really going downtown ……

  44. Yeah, I agree with Jack on this.
    I would be ok with 2 subsequent 1st rd picks, but definitely not 3.
    Watson would be good fit for the 49ers especially under Shanahan, but giving up 3 first rd picks in the next three drafts is a deal breaker for me.

    My upset for this weekend is the Bears over the Saints. I’d like to see if Trubiski has had a real resurgence or if his last few games have been fool’s gold.
    Bears have been averaging 28 pts per game of late and if their defense holds up their end this becomes their biggest win in a long time.

    1. I would be ok with the firsts because they would be using one of those on a qb anyways, potentially two, if you wanted to trade up… the problem is the 3, 2nds in addition.
      Understanding SF’s cap situation, including Watson’s figures, I don’t know how they field a competitive roster on those seconds… maybe if you trade away some established talent like Bosa and Warner for pics but then you hoping you get lucky in drafting similar players.

  45. Look at the Texans. They declare they will not give up their starting QB for less than 3 firsts and 3 second round picks.
    .
    Now they expect the Lions to give up Stafford cheap, when they have no superior QB candidate identified?
    .
    Some talking heads want to give up JG for a couple day 3 picks? Then acquire Stafford, who has good stats, but owns a 5 win -11 loss 2020 record? He had a 64% completion record, 4084 yards, 26 TDs and 10 picks, for a 96.3 QBR. Those are good stats, but JG had a 13-3 record, and is a SB QB.
    .
    Stafford is the least of their worries, and they might have won only a couple games without him. They will not dispose of Stafford, if they want to win.
    .
    Wentz even costs more than JG, and JL is not a clueless noob who would want a shell shocked QB who is struggling. If they cannot afford JG, the Niners certainly cannot afford Wentz. He is damaged goods, and no other team wants to pay him 34 mil. Barnwell must hate the Niners, to predict that Wentz would go to the Niners. The Colts certainly do not want to inherit a 34 mil cap hit for a sub par QB.
    .
    Darnold? Why the heck would any team want him for? Maybe if they are tanking, and want the first pick in the draft.
    .
    Guess these talking heads think they can hoodwink the Niners into making a Hopkins styled trade. JL is way too smart for that. He went to Stanford, and is a candidate for Football’s HOF.

    1. Hi Seb. This is one of those articles I post because I think people will be interested. Call it Saturday morning reading with a cup of coffee in front of a log burning in the fireplace. I have no clue about what’s going to happen in the offseason, only that it will be “bloody” for some teams, including us. And the more I think about it, the more I think Scooter is right about Fred Warner. He might very well be Bucknerized, as Scooter called it. A good term.

      1. George, you should apply to be the blog master amongst us old timers. I do appreciate your posting salient ideas, so I can comment on them, and I hope you know that I would never infer your football expertise is lacking due to your posting contrary ideas.
        .
        How is your ticker doing? I am now a member of your class, and am improving.
        .
        I wish you a better New Year, and look forward to your posts.

        1. Hi Seb. Just read this. Very sorry to hear about that. I do hope you’re getting better and have a full recovery! Best wishes.

      1. Well, I concede that Stanford alum are pretty smart to be able to get in, but what they do with their education is up to the individual.
        .
        Hawley and JL are polar opposites.

  46. The Texans want 3 firsts and 3 second round picks for Watson.
    .
    Maybe they should not have ticked off Watson, and at least kept him informed about the GM and HC search.
    .
    Another unforced error. They did not shoot themselves in the foot, they shot off their whole leg.
    .
    Sounds like McNair is a chip off the old block.

  47. A trade with Houston is unlikely. It is nice to see that the Houston Chronicle has joined other TX newspapers asking Rafael ted Cruz to step down.

    1. Well, so far, Grant is 1-2. Bills won, but the Seasquawks and WTF lost. His upset prediction fell flat.
      .
      BTW, just a word of caution. Some posters do not countenance any mentions of Grant, now that he is gone.

        1. George, Grant at least got his last grade right. I would give him a D for his efforts.
          .
          He seemed to do the hot takes approach and did impart some cogent analysis, but he was way off base. To think he is impactful is ludicrous. Why, it would be like they take my suggestions! I certainly hope they are using their time wisely, instead of getting distracted on the internet.
          .
          My problem with the SI site is that they tend to focus on unimportant things, like JLS spouting about the offense and STs, when it was the defense that won the game. Maybe I would respect them more if they had talked about CJB dropping back, and if all receivers are covered, the best thing for him to do is fling the ball out of bounds, past the sticks. They were focusing on other things, like dissing JG.
          .
          I also was critical of their presentation. Poor lighting, low quality, seemingly improvised production. Grant would shout while JH would whisper. I must admit that Jack has improved, but any competent production should have some sound modulation.
          .
          I will say that I tried hard, but just got bored of their topics. Grant, being consistently wrong, did not help. Just look at his latest predictions- 1 right, 2 wrong.
          .
          Now, about Lowell; I love his stories. He brings me back to the Glory Years. His writing style is hard edged and scintillating, and he was a- must read- for years. However, I do not like his stance on Kaep, and I hope Kaep will get the chance to prove him, and many others, wrong.
          .
          One slight critique of Lowell that I have, is his insistence to use the name IGGY. Yes, it is a pet familial endearment, but in the business world, Grant is a solid name. In no interview should Grant be called Iggy. Grant is a professional name, and he should not be labeled with 2 names. Lowell would further Grant’s career if he just stuck to Grant. In an informal setting, Lowell should be able to address Iggy all he wants, but when the camera is rolling, Grant is a stronger name.
          .
          I wish Grant well. He is caught like us all, in this Pandemic. I am glad he is on first name basis with JL and KS. Kittle likes him. too, and Richard Sherman respects Grant enough to discuss strategy with him. However, I still think his last grade was appropriate, and he has room to improve.
          .
          I, too find him entertaining, but I also find him informative.

      1. Some posters do not countenance any mentions of Grant, now that he pissed away his years of heading up this blog, classlessly exiting without as so much a thanks for the memories, a goodbye or a see you later

        Fixed that for you Seb. May Grant toil away in internet obscurity, garnering zero to one responses to each of his irrelevant posts.

        And George, sure, go ahead and find your entertainment on the site that Grant currently blogs for.

        1. Sorry, Rib, I did see his farewell message, but it was on twitter.
          .
          My take on the situation was- Grant was informed his salary would be cut, like many others, and Grant, seeing the writing on the wall sought out further career enhancements. The PD caught wind of his job search, and fired him. They did not allow a farewell message. Grant certainly would have written one, if allowed to do so.
          .
          So please do not blame Grant for abruptly leaving. Maybe the PD felt betrayed of hearing about a career move, but they should have stayed classy and let there be a smooth transition.

            1. ‘My take on the situation.’
              .
              It is a lot less speculative than the Niners trading JG for a couple day 3 picks.

          1. Ahhh Seb, I actually predicted Grant’s departure. He never took a shine to my constructive criticism about his vids. Funny thing though is that all the pointers I gave him on how to improve his vids they made him do at SI. I wrote about 2 years ago that he was fishing for a new job with all the different platforms he was playing at. Not just print
            I think he left because he wanted to be using more of the social platforms and the PD is a little slower (and not paying) in that regard. I also think he wants to work towards doing broadcast and is making the connections at SI.
            I’m surprised that he slighted you and asked scooter(nothing against scoot) to be interviewed with Jack. It would have been entertaining one way or another!
            Hope you get better, especially with that Primate following you where ever you go!

    2. Grant ended up at .500. Considering the Rams and Browns upsets that’s probably par for the blogger course.

  48. Yeah, I believe in the old John Madden philosophy that you always go for the points rather than gamble.
    Reich, passing up on a field goal before halftime proved to be their downfall.

  49. So great to see Seattle lose. Can’t stand’em! Amazing how the Rams routinely beat Seattle, the Niners rarely beat Seattle, and to add to this years grief, the Niners JV’s beat the Rams twice this year, and If I’m not mistaken at least the last 4 in a row. Such is the NFL I guess. I’m pulling for the Bills. Cali, Central Valley farm boy kid at QB. Overlooked coming out of HS. Josh is the real deal. Roughly 6’5”, 240, has the great, accurate arm and runs like a RB. A lot of GM’s missed it! Go Bills!!!

    Ps And, Allen grew up a Niner fan!!

  50. I see that Grant “I don’t know much about football but ask me about soccer” Cohn picked 1 out of 3 games yesterday. Lol. Some things never change. Todays a little easier. Maybe that will help.

  51. Here’s how I’m ranking the QB’s this Spring:

    1. Lawrence
    2. Trask
    3. Wilson
    4. Fields
    5. Jones

      1. Maybe he thinks none but Lawrence deserves the first round. This time of the year there’s so much hype.

        1. Trask could develop into a starter but I wouldn’t bet on it. I did bet Prime $200 that he’d still be on the board after pick #15, and if CFC wants to get in on that action, I’d be perfectly happy accommodating him….

          1. To be fair… Even if you and I don’t like Trask, CFC said they were his rankings, not where he thought they would be drafted.

            1. If you’re convinced he’s the 2nd best qb in the draft, I’m not so sure it’s unfair to challenge his conviction. Put your money where your mouth is!

      1. Ha!

        I’ve noticed that if a blogger makes a wrong call on this blog, it’s remembered forever; but if you get a call right you get maybe 15 minutes of fame.

        1. Lol! So true.

          The willingness to die in a ditch over an opinion on here is also something I find hilarious. As if there is only one right answer to anything, and any opinion other than your own is stupid.

            1. My memory isn’t good enough to recall the reference – all I remember was I liked the Millard pick, thought he could be really good. But he wasn’t.

              1. No, I really can’t remember! What did I say? Or was that it – that I liked Millard?

              2. I can’t remember exactly, either. I do remember jokingly giving you grief about it. It was more than you liked him IIRC. Maybe akin to he would become the best FB in the NFL or something like that. As Hammer would say at this point it is “meaningless”.

                Cheers.

        2. The one thing I will never forget CFC for is how he said Turner was going to run roughshod over our defense, while Gore would be shut down. According to CFC the Falcons were going to handily defeat the 49ers in the NFC Championship game. He talked that $hit all week long….

          1. Razoreater says:
            November 27, 2016 at 1:48 pm
            Mahomes? Another project spread quarterback just like Kap? Please say we can do better than that!

          2. Just for funsies

            sebnynah says:
            November 27, 2016 at 1:51 pm
            I would take Kizer over Mahomes. Especially if he falls to the second round.

            1. Lol. That’s what happens when you are focused on some highlights/hype. That’s the way it is for most of us fans who don’t have the ability to study these players in depth or find out about their mental makeup.

            2. No problemo. He did not fall to the second round. Even Tyreek Hill had his doubts about Mahomes.
              .
              I thought it was essential to use their first round pick to shore up the run defense. Instead of moving up to select CJB in the third round, KS should have just re-signed Kaep.
              .
              Well, at least I did not bet 200 bucks that the Niners were going to select Trubisky.

  52. Whoa. Ravens got robbed on that obvious uncalled OPI. Not called during playoffs, announcers? Tell that to George Kittle.

    1. I thought so too at first, but replay showed it was pretty soft……. I thought it was a good non-call.

      Rooting for Roman- I always wonder what he had to work w during the Kaepernick years as he clearly had a QB who didn’t seem to be able to read the field

      1. In this case, Brown clearly had an easier catch after pushing Humphrey away with his left arm. So this play clearly fit the definition, both officially and practically. But it should be noted that NFL officials were pretty stingy on offensive pass interference this season. They threw flags 72 flags for it in 2020, the fewest total since 2007 and third fewest since 2001. This season’s total represented a 40% drop from 2019, when there were 122 such flags.

        https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/30656411/questionable-nfl-playoff-officiating-decisions-happened-which-were-right

        Sure could have used that officiating largess last season and especially in the SB :)

      1. He is just a running QB. 109 yards passing? One trick pony. The Ravens will never win a SB with that style of QB.

        Morons like Seb think he is the wave of the new age QB. He’s not. You have to play and being able throw from the pocket 90% of the time.
        That’s why Colin Kaepernick is out of the league.

          1. He’s a rb that can throw but he’ll never be anything more under Greg Roman. It’ll be interesting to see if they pick up his 5th year option, and/or extend him….

            1. he’s dynamic and will b paid handsomely……. I agree w your guys assessment as a QB, but w his athleticism, I now view him more as a hybrid QB/RB, as opposed to a mobile QB, based upon how many designed runs he has, as well as the fact that he runs inside so often.

              1. His body will begin to break down at some point in the not so distant future. Meanwhile, his development as a passer never gets the time necessary to catch up….

              2. KC will expose him. You can get away with the running against other running teams. But when your down 1 or 2 positions in the 4th and have to throw? He will crumble.

        1. Poor Prime. Talks tough but is just a clownish buffoon.
          .
          He is the one who bet 200 bucks the Niners would draft Trubisky, then welched on a stipulation.
          .
          Poor, poor Prime. Wrong AGAIN. Hey, did you know that Lamar Jackson just tied a playoff record? He is the second QB to rush for over 100 yards in a playoff game. Guess who did it first? Yup, Colin Kaepernick.
          .
          So yes, Kaep will get his chance to compete, in less than 12 days. Do you know why? Because you were wrong AGAIN, and Biden will be the next President.
          .
          Feel the burn……

          1. Nothing like proof.

            Prime Time says: 
August 22, 2020 at 7:59 am
            
He did take the league by storm. But when will he return?

            Seb says: 
August 22, 2020 at 9:16 am 
November 4th.

            Prime Time says:
            December 2, 2020 at 8:18 am
            We have, just need confirmation as I keep getting labelled as one when it was you and I that made the bet and the stipulation. So please for the record, tell me one way or the other?
            Did I welch?
            Reply

            Razoreater says: 
December 2, 2020 at 8:27 am 

            Nah.

          2. That’s a record no quarterback should be proud of, it means they aren’t a real quarterback. Kaepernick proved that.

            1. A real QB has set playoff records and has a 4-2 road playoff record. What other non-SB QBs have done that?
              .
              Lamar Jackson just won his first playoff game, and may compete in the AFCC Game. If he gets past Mahomes, he may be SB bound.

              1. You have to be a good pocket passer to be considered a good quarterback. That’s not Kaepernick or Jackson.

              2. No, you have to win games in order to be considered a good QB.
                Kaep got to the SB after only 10 games. Lamar Jackson is a good QB because he defeated a playoff division winner.
                .
                DeShaun Watson is considered to be such a good QB, the Texans will only accept 3 firsts and 3 second round picks for him. He is a dual threat QB, not an immobile pocket passer.

        1. PT
          Your frequent ? responses to Seb are infinitely more palatable to this room than vitriolic posts that don’t work on the moron and are only an annoyance to the rest of us. I, for one, prefer this method of disapproval. ?‍♂️

              1. On franklin’s behalf, I submit all your posts ever as evidence in support of his analysis. You really seem to be a sad little man, but, have at it, as your reputation is already cemented.

              2. Boyd, I am glad you have read all of my posts. Most posters just scroll past. Sounds like you are also bent about this election, and want to vent out your frustrations on me.
                .
                Franklin’s analysis? More like Franklin’s screeds, and even he admits that the vitriol and expletives do not add to anyone’s edification.
                .
                Yes, so sad, that you want to make insults a new art form.
                .
                So go ahead, snark away. Just, do not start whining if I push back.
                .
                You are another one time burner account, from some gutless wonder. Good show.

      1. Henry looked slow and sluggish today. The physical play of the season may have played a big part in his disappearing act today, but Baltimore’ defense had a great game plan.
        They consistently collapsed to middle of the line to clog up any running lanes.

        I also felt that the Titans should have gone for it on 4th and 2 with around 10 minutes left in the 4th QTR.

  53. Question for you Notre Dame fans,
    could Tommy Tremble be converted to Fullback as a replacement for Juice? How is his blocking in space?

    1. That’s a heck yes from me. Posted about how they should draft him for that role earlier. Love his game. Really athletic and a beast as a blocker.

      1. Where though? Must have gotten a pretty decent draft grade. I’m thinking late 3 early 4.

        1. That sounds about right… right now by the numbers he looks like a better athlete than player. The question is if that lack of “production” is because of they way he is used (similar to Kittle) or is there some other unknown reason.
          Thanks Scooter, based on what you said it looks like he could be another diamond in the rough.

        2. Yeah, that’s where I’m thinking razor. Around 4th round. I don’t think he is leaving ND due to draft grade advice he was given by the committee coming back as a high grade. I think it is likely more a personal decision.

          Shoup, he was basically used as a FB/HB by ND, so it won’t be much of a transition. And the way he was used was the main reason for his lower end production. Love the way he plays the game.

  54. Interesting. There is now speculation that Deshaun Watson may go to the Dolphins for Tua, and a first and second round pick.
    .
    That just bolsters my straight up JG trade for DW. JG is a SB QB. What has Tua done?

      1. Oh good. BB will now receive the Medal of Freedom. Who cares about a Covid Crisis? Golf, anyone?
        .
        I hope BB has enough class to decline the ‘Honor’, considering who is bestowing it.

        1. I hope BB has enough class to decline the ‘Honor’, considering who is bestowing it.

          Check.

    1. He seems accurate, can throw on the run, can scramble with the best of them, and is fast of foot.

      1. At first blush Heinike looked very good.
        But Heinike seemed to catch the Bucs defense by surprise with his quickness, speed and accuracy.
        While he looked good to me, personally I would like to see him play against a team that has game planned for him before jumping on his bandwagon. A snap decision on an unknown player seems to risky.

    2. George,

      Actually, I was adding a posting with the mocking intention of another hysterical fan’s recipe for solving the Niners question at QB. So far, we’ve seen calls for trading for other teams discards, giving up HUGE draft capital and proven players at critical positions (warner? kittle? deebo? aiyuk?) to move up for a possible drafted savior or highly touted QBs that somehow couldn’t bring their team to the next level because they lacked defense, coaching, complementary players, you name it (does that sound familiar with our team?). Churn churn churn… NOW without high draft picks!

      So why not Heinicke ? He came from nowhere, had a good showing in one good game, probably can be gotten on the cheap (though we’d have to fight other teams who saw the same highlights). Should be on the fan’s short list for the next starting QB, right?

  55. Jason La Canfora
    @JasonLaCanfora
    ·
    7h
    Had a few execs text me a siimilar trade concept regarding Texans should the situation with Watson go nuclear: Jimmy G plus several high picks for Watson. Caserio/Jimmy reunion. Gets Watson out of the AFC kinda like how Belichick wouldn’t trade Jimmy within the AFC.

  56. ESPN Chris Mortensen reporting Tua and picks for Watson.
    I say let these teams hammer it out while we draft and develop our own franchise QB.

    Everyone keeps touting Shanny as this great offensive guru. Well it’s year 4 so the honey moon is over.

  57. So, in the NFC it is 3 HOF QBs (of which only one was taken outside the top 32 picks) and a former #1 overall QB, and in the AFC it is going to be 3 1st round QBs from 2017 and a 1st round QB from 2018. But yeah, taking a QB in the first round is a silly idea.

    1. All those HOF QB’s and 1st round QB’s( not Jackson as I don’t consider him a QB, he’s an athlete) had exceptional coaches to develop them.
      My issue is, is Kyle Shanahan one of those exceptional coaches to draft one, develop him, and then have him become a franchise QB.

      1. Any reason to think he isn’t? Are we blaming him for RGIII and Manziel not developing? RGIII’s best football was under Shanahan, and Manziel was Manziel. Other than that, he has helped Schaub (who he was also instrumental in developing), Ryan and JG put up their best years. Also was an important part in Cousins early development.

        1. “ Any reason to think he isn’t?

          CJ Beathard and Jimmy Garoppolo.Both guys in 4 years have not developed technically or physically.

          1. Are you suggesting that both of those guys should be great QBs? You can’t make a great QB without having the right raw materials. You can make a decent QB look good though, which is what he did with Schaub and JG.

            1. I’m suggesting that for all the praise and hype surrounding Shanny as this offensive genius and coach, he really has not done much in his career to indicate he can.

              He has made a lot of average QB’s look good through his play calling but as an “instructional coach and developer” he has not.

              In the 4 years he has had Mullen’s, Jimmy G and CJB, fundamentally they haven’t improved and overall their games have not developed to a point you could say, they are better QB’s. Decent yes, better no.

              1. Exactly when is he supposed to teach these guys these fundamentals? His role is to coach his team up to execute his playbook/ scheme/ game plan. He successfully coached JG up in this regard.

                In terms of general fundamentals and mechanics that is up to the player to seek outside coaching during the offseason. In season there isn’t much time to do so.

              2. “ Exactly when is he supposed to teach these guys these fundamentals?
                How about daily at every meeting and practice? That’s what coaches do.

                “ His role is to coach his team up to execute his playbook/ scheme/ game plan.
                But you forgot, putting his players in the best position to win. And that begins at the fundamentals. No matter what sport you play, if your not drilling the fundamentals daily, your players are not getting better.
                These are not up to the players in the offseason. It’s drilled over and over again because if it isn’t, the talent regresses.
                This is critical to any professional athlete.
                If your not teaching or working with the players on mechanics, or the technical components of their position, how do you expect them to understand and execute the play book and the scheme?
                Any good teacher will show you what to do and how to do it. It’s called progression. No matter what level you play, this is sports 101.
                Scooter did you ever play football?

              3. Prime, this isn’t HS or College. They have a very limited amount of time to teach technique. The rules in the CBA mean they basically need to spend most of the offseason practices installing, and during the season getting the players across the game plan. They aren’t spending much of that time teaching these guys technique, because they don’t have the time to do so.

                Here is an article that explains it.

                https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1185067-nfl-myth-and-the-coaches-role-in-the-creation-of-a-play-maker

              4. Prime, KS has forgotten more football that you ever knew.
                .
                While I also do not think he is a genius, he is very smart and innovative. Yet, like all of us, he can improve.
                .
                KS has not done much? He took a 2-14 team, and made a total rebuild, getting back to the SB after only 3 years. That is impressive.

              5. PT,
                I don’t think Jimmy and CJB are fair reasons to say he can’t develop a qb.
                Jimmy has been rehabbing for the majority of his time in SF, when you are doing this the focus is on getting healthy not growth and development. I think that is biggest argument in favor of keeping Jimmy, We really haven’t had a chance to see him healthy after an offseason were he could work on his mechanics.

                As for CJB, he was a late 3rd rounder who Kyle brought in to be a potential backup, he was never looked at as a starter. This was not a guy they invested heavily in. Then when they brought in Jimmy, and Mullens moved ahead of him… why are you really going to waste time on him?

                In terms of development, when it comes to Kyle’s ability, its a massive unknown.

              6. At least 30% of every practice in a 75 minute practice is spent on warm-up and technique/fundamemtals. And if it isnt then you are doing a major diservice to your players. Might be a reason why we have had so many injuries.

                The point is, to teach a route or a pass rush move, a tackle,or a particular throw, you have to implement the fundmentals. If you dont, that player wont execute the technique needed for that skill.
                To tell me they dont have time is ridiculous. They have position coaches portion prior to every practice. And they have after practice time. Kyle Shanhan as the HC, should be instructing his staff to work on these things.
                As for the development of the current QB’s on the roster, Shanny as a head coach, under his direction has not developed these guys. All 3 guys have terrible footwork and throwing mechanics to start. That all begins with working on the fundamentals.
                Point is, for such a highly touted offenisve genius, he is doing a terrible job getting his players better. Once you are fundamentally sound, you can open up your play book. But if your players can execute simple skills, you will never evolve the player. Thats his job!

              7. Prime,
                30% of a 75 minute practice is not much. Especially if you include warming up in that period. Even throwing out the stretching/warming up it’s only 22 minutes a session, now divide that by the number of qb’s you have and you get 7 minutes a session, 11 minutes if you have 2 where coaches are really working with a player.
                There is a reason why most of them go to see qb coaches in the offseason like Tom House etc. Here, they can have multiple hour sessions dedicated to these fundamentals and spending the extra time to do this doesn’t violate the CBA. 1 session at a qb school, could then be the equivalent or more than 2 weeks worth of practices.

              8. At the end of the day, regardless of how much time you have, you better get it in. If you pass it off to the offseason, your players are getting worse and as we have seen, picking up bad habits.

                Look at Jimmy G. His footwork and throwing mehanics are terrible. They should be working on that with him daily. How can the coaches leave that to the offseason? Again, might be a very good reason why the 49ers are so injury prone.
                I cant say for sure but I know when I played and coached, it was a significant part of practice. And if it was not drilled in practice, we worked on it during the strength and conditioning component outside of practice.

                You guys telling me its something they dont have time to work on during the season blows my mind. To me, its more important than anything. You can have the best game plan and best designed scheme to the cows come home, but if you cannot execute the simple skills, does it matter? Case in point McClinchey this year. Technique was awful. Bourne for years has been a terrible route runner. Witherspoon still cannot turn and locate the ball.

                Overall Id say this is something that falls on the direction of the HC and if we think drafting a franchise QB in the 1st and saying Shanny is the best to develop him, I am questioning it.

              9. That extra work you are talking about will have to be done on their own and it is… there are QB camps, Lineman camps, and Pass Rushing camps for players to go to on their own.
                The team cannot just take “extra time” to do it because the league would punish them either by fining levying a monetary fine, taking away draft picks, or both. That, is something that would get people fired.

            2. It should not be considered “extra work”. It is work that is a cornerstone for every athlete to have and be great at.
              A great coach would never leave it up to chance or for the player to do it on his own. Its as important as film study and conditioning.
              Look at all the players that struggled this year. It was all flaws in their fundamentals.

              1. Prime, whether you want to believe it or not, I have merely relayed what is known about pro coaching – they focus on implementing their scheme/ game plan as practice time is very limited. The “fundamentals” they get taught are limited to how they pertain to meeting the requirements of the scheme. They will get pointers on certain things they can do to make them better, especially during preseason, but it won’t be dedicated training to teaching fundamentals.

                As far as fundamentals for a QB go, they will run through some of the mental side of things, but in terms of mechanics, probably very little, especially once the season starts. Basically it is too late to be changing a players mechanics anyway at that point and would be detrimental.

                If the coaches ID an issue I am sure they will tell the player and get them to work on it on their own during the offseason, but they don’t have the time to do it themselves.

              2. Scooter your telling me coaches don’t correct flaws in players mechanics and fundamentals because they don’t have time?
                Well Shanny should find the time because when you look at the development of his QB’s, they need that type of coaching time!

                My point originally was I don’t trust Shanny to draft and develop a rookie because a) he’s never done it and b)he’s done a poor job with the current QB’s on the 49ers roster for 4 years.

              3. I’m telling you that any major overhauls in mechanics and technique happen during the offseason and is mostly done away from the teams coaches.

                I have pointed out numerous examples where he has developed QBs and gotten the best seasons out of the QBs he has coached.

              4. No one said over haul, I said drill and work on them daily which is required. You could tell throughout the year a lot of 49er players struggled with basic techniques.
                And yes you mentioned some examples of QB’s Shanny worked with but I’m talking develop. From scratch to finish. Most of the QB’s Shanny worked with were already with NFL experience.

              5. From start to finish? He’s never been in one spot long enough for that. He developed Schaub into a starting QB. He was the guy that developed Cousins over his first 3 years in the NFL so he was ready to start when he left.

                Basic techniques get taught through repetitions, drills and warm ups. Of course they do. But they are mainly teaching what the players already know. Honing of techniques. Not trying to suggest that doesn’t happen.

                Bit when you talk about the mechanics of a guy like JG, what do you want to change? You mentioned footwork. Any change in footwork is a major overhaul. You asked if I have ever played football – I have not. But I have played a lot of sport, including a lot of sports where footwork is essential. I assure you, unlearning something like that and learning a different way of doing it is major. And you will be worse before you get better. An NFL team will NEVER mess with something like that for a starting player or a guy they believe may need to play an important role for the team leading into a season or during a season. That is something that MUST be done during the offseason. All you can do during the season is help reinforce good habits and try and prevent bad ones from emerging/ re-emerging, not learn new ones.

                For a QB, if you include going through progressions and reading defenses as part of the fundamentals (i.e. the mental side), then sure, that will be getting taught. It has to. It is vital to playing the scheme successfully.

              6. There is many more but the first fundamental flaw I see in Garoppolo is weight transfer. On most of his throws he tends to stand stationary when throwing the ball. Instead he should be stepping forward and transferring his weight to his lead left foot.
                That fundamental doesn’t take an offseason to rectify or a QB school.

                The second fundamental flaw I see in his game is his lateral movement. He lacks the agility to side step on in the pocket. Another footwork issue he should work on so he does not have heavy feet on the pocket.

                Point is if Shanny wants a QB to make short accurate throws in his scheme, they should be working more on his footwork, agility and mobility. In 4 years being with the Niners, Jimmy has not improved in this area. That’s on him and his head coach. You work on things with players so that they develop the skills to mesh with your scheme.

                As for KS developing Schaub? Really? Schaub, like Cousins, like Jimmy G, like RGIII was a by product of exceptional play calling, in my opinion.

              7. “As for KS developing Schaub? Really? Schaub, like Cousins, like Jimmy G, like RGIII was a by product of exceptional play calling, in my opinion.”

                Of course he was! That’s my point! You can’t make a QB great if they aren’t great QBs. They need to have the raw materials. But Shanahan can make a decent QB look good (Schaub, JG), and a good QB look great (Ryan). Imagine what he could do with a great QB.

              8. You also cannot make a great QB a franchise QB if he doesn’t have the simple skills mastered.
                Shanny throughout his coaching career has had to do a lot of masquerading with his play calling with his QB’s. I’m just not sold on him being this great developer of talent.

    2. So, in the NFC it is 3 HOF QBs (of which only one was taken outside the top 32 picks) and a former #1 overall QB, and in the AFC it is going to be 3 1st round QBs from 2017 and a 1st round QB from 2018. But yeah, taking a QB in the first round is a silly idea.

      Big whoop. 2/3s of the league’s teams start HOF or 1st round QBs. I would hope some of them would be represented in the post-season But that means 15 of those 1str round led teams never sniffed the playoffs this year. 6 of the playoff teams with 1st round pick QBs got bounced out of the first round. *golf clap*. Wait til next year, first rounders!

      Scooter, when are you going to give Grant and Hammer your insight over at SI?

      1. I also don’t get the point as like you said most of the starters in this league are first rounders. What we also know is that there are exceptions to every rule and Brady is the exception. Last year Garoppolo was as well. While the majority come from the first round, there are always successful ones who don’t.

        1. Yep, vast majority of QBs in the NFL are 1st rounders. Vast majority. Because the vast majority of talented QBs get drafted high. There are very rare exceptions.

          Combined with my previous points about recent SB winning teams… the point is that any strategy for SB and long term success that is based on a QB from outside the 1st round is banking on a rare exception.

          1. Yet we saw the exception play out when they went to the SB last season. You seem to want to overlook this or just don’t give it much credence. If we were sitting here with Garoppolo not having accomplished anything you’d have a point but he has and there is no reason to believe he can’t do it again.

              1. They may do that. I’d rather use the first pick on another area of need or trade down, but if they take a QB so be it.

              2. Doesn’t have to be their first pick. Can move up from round 2 to get someone like Jones late 1st. My point is, you don’t often find talent at QB late. And the 49ers need to add talent at QB regardless of what they do with JG.

              3. I’m all for adding talent at QB but Jones and Trask to me are not first round picks. I am hardly the guy to state who the best QB’s in the draft are but neither one of these guys jumps out as quality pro prospects imo.

              4. Agree on Trask. From a physical traits perspective I also agree on Jones. But I think what he provides above the shoulders makes him worth looking at late round 1. He really looks like the type of QB Shanahan likes.

          2. Much less rare is a 1st rounder not doing much for the team that drafted him. *my best Dirty Harry* “Do you feel lucky punk? “ Giving up those 1st and 2nd rounders and that all-pro LBer will not increase your luck

  58. From the GM’s own lips, JL states that he is not anticipating drafting a QB in the first round. Glad to stop beating that dead horse.
    .
    Now, who will be drafted is the big question. Looking at the top prospects list, Trevor Lawrence, Justin Fields, And Zach Wilson may go top 5. Trey Lance is rated 12, and Mac Jones may shoot up the list if he wins a National Championship.
    .
    Penei Sewell OT may be the first non QB to go, along with Micah Parsons, Kwity Paye and Greg Rousseau as the first 3 defenders. There are 3 WRs listed on the top 10- JaMarr Chase, Devonta Smith and Jaylen Waddle, along with TE Kyle Pitts. There are 2 CBs in the top 13- Patrick Surtain and Caleb Farley. Those may be the top 15 prospects.
    .
    After that, Wyatt Davis, Rashawn Slater, Alijah Vera Tucker, Christian Darrishaw, and Trey Smith, who are all O linemen, may be available in the top 20. I think the Niners may be able to trade back to 20, and still get one of those O Linemen.

  59. Thanks, admin for putting up such outstanding and passionate information with us through this article.

    If you are seeing Canon E31 Error it is because the printer is unable to establish a connection with the computer.

  60. JUST TO SATISFY MY OWN CURIOSITY:
    Assuming the 9ers move on from JG, T. Williams signs with another team, the 2021 salary cap is ~$175 Mil. and the CBSSPORTS.COM draft board stays the same on draft day and is accurate with respect to when players are drafted.
    1) How many would draft Trey Lance at #12?
    2) How many would trade down from #12 to #19 and draft Virginia Tech OT Christian Darrisaw, plus extra draft picks?
    3) How many would trade down from #12 to #25 and draft Alabama QB Mac Jones, plus extra draft picks?

    1. Geep,

      I’m not sure which I prefer between option 1 and 3.
      If Williams goes, I would go hard after Moton, Okung, or Villanueva that should be about a 7M difference. If the decision is to keep Jimmy, then option 3 makes the most sense to me, though I would trade back further and go after either Humphrey or Meyers then hope for Jones in the 2nd.
      If they decide to Move on then you use option 1 and Add Alex Mack along with your tackle signing. With the amount of cap space available from Jimmy’s contract they should be able to resign most of their FA’s and potentially add an Edge or CB to help the defense remain in the top half of the league.

    2. 1. Not me.
      2. I hope the Niners would try to trade back at least 2 times, to get as many picks as possible in the first 3 rounds. Darrishaw looks like he will be available when the Niners select, and I touted him before.
      3. Trading back that far would help garner a boatload of picks. With one of the later ones, I hope the Niners could select Jamie Newman, or if he is gone, Brock Purdy or Kelly Mond. Mac Jones may move up from ranking number 25 to up in the top 10, if he manages to defeat Fields.
      .
      I am glad you are coming around to the idea of trading back. You are pretty astute.

    3. I agree with Shoup. If they keep Jimmy, drafting Jones makes the most sense to me, if they can get him at 25, and letting him fight it out with Rosen for QB2. It’s a lot for a QB3 if Rosen wins that competition, but I think that there’s a good chance they won’t like the Chosen One’s intangibles OR that, if they do, Rosen supplants Jimmy and they trade him. So Jones would be QB2. Would that be too high for picking a QB2? I don’t think so. You need two starting-caliber QBs imo, especially if your QB1 isn’t mobile.

      1. As for the extra picks, we have strong needs at Edge, Oline, and CB. I can’t make an intelligent guess about those available players. I’ve seen Jones play and read reviews about him. That’s it. He’d be a great addition imo. Btw, tonight should be fun TV, yeah?

    4. If the 49ers were to move on from JG they would pretty much have to take a QB in the first round. I don’t think they’d take a player without some serious physical talent with that first round pick so my guess would be Lance.

  61. If, Lawrence, Wilson, and Fields go off the board, 1, 2, 3; I would trade up with the Falcons at 4, (This years 1st, this years 2nd and next years 1st) for, Trey Lance….

    1. Razor
      * I’m assuming no changes from CBSSPORTS.COM draft board. Trey Lance is listed at pick #12. You obviously aren’t assuming no changes, as you’re trading up for him. Before I would agree, or disagree, I’d want to know how far you would trade up? And if you’re going to trade up, what’s the difference between where Lance is listed and Wilson?
      * CBSSPORTS has Wilson listed at #6 and Lance at #12. I believe we’d both take Wilson over Lance if their listings were reversed?

    2. That would take too many picks for someone who may not be an upgrade over Garoppolo. Pass.

      1. Based on traits alone, Lance is superior to Garoppolo and as one scout told me; traits over production!

          1. Drafting traits and projecting what a player can be at the next level is how you scout prospects. That’s why Lance is among the top four at the position with a lesser resume….

            1. I get that, but it also depends on how the players utilizes those traits.

              I don’t see Lance as a prospect worth taking over an edge rusher, CB, C, or RG; I also don’t see him as a prospect worth mortgaging the future for.

              1. Lance would’ve been the number 1 pick next year by far if he would have returned for a full season. He’s worth trading up for as long as you have a plan in place for him, and a coach like Shanny to implement it….

      2. MWD
        * “That would take too many picks for someone who may not be an upgrade over Garoppolo. Pass.”
        Not sure who you’re responding to? Lance is #12 on the CBSSPORTS.COM draft board. Are you saying that Wilson would take too many picks? If that’s your point, at 400 point, it would be the 9ers 2nd Rd. draft pick.
        * I assume that your response is directed at Razor?

    3. No to trading up to #4 for Lance. It would be a gamble taking him at 12 never mind trading those picks away to move up to 4.

    4. Razoreater says:
      January 10, 2021 at 11:12 am
      Nobody is drafting Trask that high. He’ll be lucky to be selected in round 2.

      ** SAY WHAT? **

  62. I’m assuming trading up to #4 would be the cheapest way to secure the last elite traits quarterback left on the board. You don’t want to wait at that point because it’s highly likely another team would target him before #12….

    1. Razor
      I’d have to agree with WMD, I would not trade up to #4 (for Lance). If JG & Williams left, I’d trade down for more draft picks, Virginia Tech OT Christian Darrisaw at #19 and Mac Jones at #25! I can see why others would draft Gregory Rousseau at #14 + an extra Rd. #4 draft pick, but I don’t see Shanahan drafting a CB or Center in Rd #1, not with Oklahoma’s Center, Creed Humphrey at #61 and several top CB in Rd #2 and Rd #3. Just my opinion.

        1. I’d give a 3rd rounder for him. Some team would probably be willing to give more.

          He has talent, but also has a lot of areas he needs to improve, in particular pocket awareness and poise which is really vital to the position. Basically have to hope he Steve Young’s it.

    1. Tua is a great example of why it shouldn’t be assumed that a rookie QB could come in here and replace Garoppolo. He played in more games than most of the QB’s in this class at a major SEC school and struggled big time. He is very talented and has a chance to be very good eventually, but it’s never a given that a highly ranked rookie QB is going to come in and keep things running.

      1. Well, he was on a 10-6 team and had a 6-3 record as the starter despite not playing that well… hard to say he didn’t keep the team running.

        1. He didn’t play well and was replaced twice during his time starting. Even the “good” games weren’t overly impressive. Expecting a rookie to come in and play as well as an established veteran is unlikely.

          1. Yes, it is. Maybe I haven’t been clear, but I am not suggesting we should expect a rookie QB to come in and be better than JG year 1. But I do believe Shanahan and this 49ers team can be very competitive and a playoff calibre team with a rookie QB – so long as the rookie doesn’t completely suck.

            1. With a strong defense and running game, a rookie game manager would be ok. Grant proposed something today that I thought made sense. Trade Garoppolo (actually he said release him), sign Andy Dalton, and draft a QB. Dalton could be a good game manager for us. Actually he’s more mobile and may have a better arm than Garoppolo. He’d obviously cost much less.

              1. I see Grant is continuing his D grade suggestions. He still wants to diss JG. It makes him look petty, and stubborn. Die hard Faithful Niner Fans like JG. Kittle loves JG. JL and KS have repeatedly stated that they are planning on having JG back. JG knows the drill, and is not affected by the chatter, and will concentrate on things he can affect, and are important.
                .
                Andy Dalton? Maybe if they wanted to tank.
                .
                Fortunately, Kaep will be available soon. He would be way superior to Dalton.

              2. That’s what I have been suggesting previously. Comes down to just how tight things are with the cap. My preference would be keeping JG and draft a QB if they can manage it and still retain a strong roster.

  63. I think a lot depends upon how the negotiations go w T Williams, but while I don’t believe JG is the answer, I think the best move is to roll w him and I would personally look to trade down for value, if there wasn’t a big talent drop-off, and take a Corner around 17-22 range, if possible- otherwise, T possibly (or OL 2nd rd, bpa) and get an Edge in round 3… unless they went w another Corner/DB.

    No Tua for me… I am curious to see if Rosen can develop, at least into a solid #2.

  64. In football news, Belichick just turned down the Presidential Medal of Freedom because he didn’t want to be associated with One-Term Donnie’s wannabe fascist actions. Nice.

  65. If I don’t jinx him, Jones is looking really good so far, though admittedly I am more interesting in watching Fields in this game.

    1. I’m actually more interested in watching Jones. I think the chances of him being a 49ers player are greater than Fields.

      1. Agreed. I’m liking what I see from Jones. He’s going through progressions, knows where his outlets are, seems to have good awareness of what is going on around him, accurate and seems cool, calm and collected. The only thing I’m unsure of is how well he can function under a strong pass rush.

        1. That’s definitely the big question mark cubus. He rarely gets pressured. When he has been what I have seen is he usually handles it well, but in the pros it will be more relentless which can mess with a QB.

      2. Scooter / Shoup
        I’d be very surprised If the NYJ don’t draft Fields with their first Rd. pick #2, and Atlanta takes Wilson with their first Rd. pick #4.
        At this point, it’s all speculation and a lot of this will change before the draft. But Lance may not make it to the 9ers at pick #12. The Eagles could take him at pick #6, if they don’t, there is a chance Denver will at pick #9.

        1. Ok. If the top 4 are gone by pick 6, so be it. They have JG. They don’t need to force it. But if a guy is available at 9… that isn’t a huge trade up… I could see them potentially thinking about it at that point. But if not, again, so be it.

          1. Problem is there’ll be more than a few teams thinking the same thing if Lance is available at 9.

              1. Like who? Don’t give me a cb or iol either cuz you and I both know that’s not happening at 12.

              2. If a top 4 QB isn’t there, and they don’t need an OT, then CB at 12 I think is likely. Again, you have to draft for value. At that point CB, OT and WR will likely be the highest value. I imagine they would look to trade back, but if no takers, CB absolutely could be the pick.

              3. I don’t give a rat’s patoot about value, they are not drafting a cb at 12. Will never happen under this command.

        2. Yeah, I like this qb class but I don’t think it is that good.
          I don’t see 4 qb’s going in that early, In fact I think one of them will be available at the 49ers selection without a trade up… the question is more do you want to risk it. To that end, I understand Scooter’s slight trade up.
          I wasn’t a big Fields guy before this game, I don’t like the way he sees the field, but his raw talent is exceptional.

          1. Shanny is gonna sit tight at #12, select Mac Jones and I’m gonna throw my draft notes up in the air!

            1. I like Jones quite a bit, but there is no way I am taking him at 12.
              Maybe at the bottom of the first for that 5th year option, but he has a 2nd round grade IMO.
              I was thinking Lance at 12.

              1. Shanny is going to see Kirk Cousins written all over Mac Jones and he’s going to draft him at 12. That’s been my biggest fear since week 10 of the regular season.

                There’s nothing about Jones that makes me want to move up into the 1st round. Maybe in the previous NFL but not in today’s NFL….

              2. Doubt it razor. I think he will like Jones a lot, but he will also still recognise he’s not a top 20 pick. Still have to draft for value.

              3. Yeah, I don’t see him taking him at 12… I think Shanny believes in himself to much to do that.
                There are things to like with him though, he is the most accurate passer in college football, goes through progressions and goes and always seems to make the right decision.

              4. Let’s not forget that Shanny and Lynch have moved up previously (to the chagrin of fans) to take the guy they wanted: CJB, Pettis, etc. If KS wants Mac, I think he’ll take him with the 12th pick unless they feel they can trade back a bit and have a high certainty that Jones will still be available.

              5. Cubus,
                I think the CJ trade up is massively over scrutinized, he was a late 3rd pick that they gave up one of multiple 7th rounders to move up for. Additionally per Peter King that was more of a John Lynch call than a Kyle call as he wanted Kyle to have a guy he liked to work with.
                The Pettis Trade is more problematic but that wasn’t for a qb, Kyle’s history is not one where he reaches for a qb.

    1. Seb
      You never cease to amaze me, Don Quixote!
      If you got em, smoke em….Just be careful you don’t fall off your horse…lol

        1. Seb
          * “Well, after this game, Mac Jones may be the third QB taken.”
          * After this game, Jones is who we thought he was! A late first round draft pick. He pays in Saben’s system, a system that has a Heisman Trophy winer that Scored 3 TD’s in the first half. WR DeVonta Smith is the Alabama player that’s likely to move up in the draft. Alabama QB Mac jones game tonight only confirms that the Alabama team put up 54 points in the National Championship game and Jones did his job! He made no mistakes and he can make all the throws to play in the NFL. Shanahan will likely move down for extra draft picks and then draft him. Sitting behind whoever is the 9er QB and for a year, 9er QB coaching, a year in the Gym and he’ll be ready.

          1. Actually, he destroyed the vaunted Ohio State defense.
            .
            You are way off base on your round prediction. Mac Jones is ranked 25th on the CBS big board, so he will be a top 10 first rounder, after this game.
            .
            Alabama used to be an NFL training camp for every position except QB, but that is changing. There used to be no quality QBs since Stabler, but Alabama has produced Tua and Hurts recently.
            .
            Not only did Mac Jones put up 54 points, Fields looked pedestrian. Since he won a national Championship, he should be the second or third QB selected in the upcoming draft.
            .
            There are several teams who need a QB. I fully expect that there may be 5 QBs taken in the top 10, just because the drek QB play demands improvement.

  66. I pity the fool team that makes Jones a 1st round pick, but I have a bad feeling it might be Shanny. Hope I’m wrong.

  67. Alabama up 28 to 17 over Ohio ST., with ~3 minutes left in first half.
    And as soon as I cut away to post the score, Alabama scored. Alabama 35, Ohio St. 17

      1. I considered Fields as the second best QB but with little separation between him and Wilson.

    1. I had Fields as my 5th rated qb going into this game but who I doubt many other experts would agree with that… as Fields athletic upside is huge. It will be interesting to see how he and Lance compare numbers wise at the combine.

        1. Other than athleticism, Jones seems to me like he is ahead of Fields on virtually all of the other traits needed for a pocket QB (plus he can take off if a clear opportunity presents itself or if there is no other option; you wouldn’t want to design runs for him, though).

          1. All except zip on the ball, which I guess you can say is part of the athleticism aspect. Mentally and pocket awareness/ poise, I agree. Ball placement too tbh, though Fields is generally good there too. But the athletic traits can’t be taught, and Fields shows enough flashes on the mental side of the game that he is the better “prospect”.

            1. To say Jones doesn’t have zip is grossly overstated. Does he have an Elite arm no. But he has a good arm. Can make all the throws with Elite placement. Goes threw progressions. Very very underrated Qb.

              1. Good thing that’s not what I said then.

                My comment was in response to cubus, comparing Fields and Jones.

              2. Jones is another system qb that will need to be surrounded by talent. His arm looks no more than 55 mph velocity. Adequate, nothing more. When Scooter talks about his lack of zip, he’s talking about when he does not have a stable base. That means he’ll need a completely clean pocket to get everything on his throws. Off schedule without his base, forget about it. That would mean Shanny would need to invest more capital into the iol and rt. Too tough to consistently win in the NFL today with that type of quarterback….

      1. I’m not saying it will take a big hit Scooter, but I do believe the ones who had Fields ahead of Wilson will be switching their placement after tonight.

    2. MWD
      What did fields do tonight (or didn’t do), that makes you think he’ll slip behind Wilson tonight?
      Q: Do you believe if Wilson had he been the Ohio St. QB tonight, he would have done a better job than Fields? Considering he, or BYU, has never played against a team anywhere near as good as Ohio ST, let alone Alabama, how do you make that assessment?

    1. MWD:
      Absolutely! And likely the player that could move up in the draft. I can’t wait to see his Combine results.

  68. The QB to take is Mac Jones. Accurate, poise and has an incredible deep throw. Deadily accurate. Absolutely fits exactly what Kyle looks for. There will be no trade up for Wilson or Fields. Mac Jones =Matt Ryan.

    1. Mac Jones = Kirk Cousins

      You wanna take him in round 2, ok but please don’t take him in round 1.

  69. He’s got better pocket awareness. Poise in the pocket. Deadily accurate at every level. Everyone wants that shiny new toy. Mac Jones is a very good QB. I prefer to take him in rnd 2 but that ain’t happening. He would play extremely well in Kyles system. I understand the pick at 12. More and more.

    1. He’s had a great year but the more I watch him the more I see a kid who had the easiest path to success of any QB in this draft and no elite physical skills that separate him from a pick beyond the first round. Yes a QB has to be able to make the plays that are there and he did, but honestly in watching a number of games of his now I can’t believe how easy he has it. Little to no pressure ever, a dominant running game, tons of quick screens and passes down field to wide open receivers with nobody near them. The Championship game especially was insane for how poorly the OSU defensive scheme was at dealing with Smith. No double coverage and there were numerous times he was being covered by a LB for goodness sake. Again I understand that Jones still needs to make those throws and he does, but there is no way this kid is ready for what he’s about to face behind the Niners Oline and the tight windows you have to throw into at the NFL level. I’d be very cautious about drafting a one year starter to begin with but this kid won the lottery of College QB situations and it’s hard to know just how good he really is because of it.

  70. If the top 4 QBs are gone at 12, the 49ers should be hoping that Jacksonville want to move up to get Lawrence a top OT.

    1. A trade down is ideal. But you will lose a chance at Jones. Which is fine but your focus would shift to the 2022 draft for a QB.

  71. Lot of Alabama stars tonight. But one that has not been mentioned is Patrick Surtain Jr. He shut down one side of field tonight.
    Having opposing Off. Cords not throwing to his side in a Championship game is an outstanding compliment.

    Surtain reminds me of former CB Mike Haynes.

    Also, Mac Jones put himself in the top 3 QB conversation.
    My top 5:
    Lawrence
    Wilson
    Jones
    Fields
    Lance.

      1. Seb,
        Not bad, but I believe Lance goes before Newman. I’ll even say that Trask goes before Newman.
        Remember that Trask looked much better against Alabama then did Fields.

        The top 3 QBs might be settled, but it will be interesting to see how the other QBs shake out in the draft.

        1. I dunno. The small school negative may be enough to hurt his draft position, unless he has a great Combine.
          .
          There might be a lot of comparisons to Wentz.
          .
          Trask may go at 15 to the Pats. BB likes pocket passers.

          1. Seb, I’ve got a bet going that Trask will still be on the board after pick 15. Would you care to get in on some of that action?

            1. Well I would like to bet a big bud, but do not know how to convey it to you, if you win. However, it is hard to bet with you, so I will pass.
              .
              Of course, I know you would not welch on this bet, but money is a little tight right now. I had to spend 13K cutting down trees, and my new well needs relining, which will cost a bundle.
              .
              How about a gentleman’s bet. I will acknowledge you have superior football knowledge, if I lose.
              .
              Maybe our bet could be- I bet Jamie Newman will be selected before Trask, and the loser will have to give football kudos to the winner?

    1. AES,
      I have been a pretty big proponent of Jones favoring him over Fields and Trask. I just don’t think his physical attributes provide enough upside for the scouting community as a whole will move him above Fields.

      Additionally, I feel that, given the fact that when he goes to the NFL he will likely be taking a step down in terms of the weapons he’s throwing to, it will provide a big enough question that most scouts will keep him below Fields.

      I don’t have him below Fields but I don’t like Fields that much as I feel he is mostly a single read qb who was highly managed at Ohio State.

      1. Fields and Jones have NFL talent next to them. Trask and Wilson dont. Thats the biggest difference between these QB’s. Thats why I think we should avoid those guys and go with either Trask or Wilson as they have the intangibles.

        1. Trask doesn’t have NFL talent around him… aside from the two likely 1st round receivers he was throwing to.

          Wilson meanwhile was playing against opposition that generally had lesser talent defending him than he was surrounded by.

          It is very common for QBs to benefit in such a way in college. Using that as a barometer for whether a QB should be drafted would mean you would almost never take one.

          1. Trask doesn’t have the level of talent like OSU/Fields and Jones and Bama.
            Add the fact Florida didn’t have half the talent on defense that those other 2 schools have.

            The barometer I use to evaluate QB’s is how they make players around them better. When you compare Trask to Jones and Fields, it’s pretty clear the talent around those guys made them look like top 5 QB.
            With Trask, he made lesser known guys on his team look better than they are.

            1. Funny thing is, for most of the year Jones really only had one really good receiver to throw to.

              1. And a great defense, and a great RB and the best offensive line in college football.
                I know you hate hearing this but Mac Jones is just like AJ McCarron, Jalen Hurts, Jake Coker. All good QB’s because of the talent around them.

              2. I wasn’t aware the Bama defence made Jones look good on offence.

                Good OL and RB help, no doubt, but Jones also was outstanding all year. Not just in terms of production. In terms of his play.

                You can call him McCarron all you like. Your earlier comment gave you away – you aren’t basing your opinion on watching him, you’re basing your opinion on the team he plays for.

              3. “ I wasn’t aware the Bama defence made Jones look good on offence”

                A good defense will make a QB look good every day of the week when they gift him the value of turnovers and field position.

                “ you aren’t basing your opinion on watching him, you’re basing your opinion on the team he plays for.

                When you are evaluating players in the draft, you most certainly have to look at the team he plays for. From there you evaluate the production of the team and the individual. And more importantly, the talent around that player.

        2. You don’t scout the team you scout the players.
          As for Trask has Grimes, Toney and Pitts all three are going to be drafted so he had a lot of talent.
          If you get to Wilson, the excuse is he had all day behind that fortress of a line and was throwing against lesser competition.
          But, you don’t do that, you scout the players.
          So in doing that, when we look at Jones, we don’t talk about about everyone around him, we look at strengths and weaknesses.

          Jones
          Strengths – The most accurate passer in college football, adequate arm, shows the ability to read defenses and makes the right decision every time. Navigates the pocket well.
          Weaknesses – Not very Mobile, doesn’t have a huge arm, is a little undersized.

          Wilson
          Strengths – Mobile, is very accurate and can throw from multiple arm angles, has an above average arm. Throws well on the run.
          Weaknesses – Pocket awareness, injury history, appears to be a little undersized.

          Trask
          Strengths – Very accurate, shows the ability to go through multiple progressions and is comfortable in a chaotic pocket, has an NFL body.
          Weaknesses – Is not mobile, has a weak arm (think Mullens), has an injury history.

          Fields
          Strengths – NFL Body, Very athletic/Mobile, Has a big arm, and can make all the throws.
          Weaknesses – Doesn’t go through progressions, appears to struggle whenever pressured, isn’t as accurate as the other top qb’s in this class.

          Lance
          Strengths – NFL Body, Very athletic/Mobile, goes through simple progressions, Has a big arm, and can make all the throws. Accurate and throws a nice deep ball.
          Weaknesses – Mostly questions due to his lack of playing time. Experience, Can he go through full progression reads? How does he handle pocket pressure? The NFL will be a HUGE jump in competition for him. Will it be too much?

      2. Shoup,
        I hear you. Alabama is a production line for the NFL with their perennial talent.
        And I’m sure that all NFL teams are aware that in Alabama’ long line of QBs only three, Bart Starr, Joe Namath and Ken Stabler have found great success.

        But my interest on Jones isn’t just isolated to the championship game. Jones has been a top performer throughout the season with his stats that back up his successful season.

        That said, I understand some of the concerns, which are the same concerns I’ve had about Zach Wilson – if you are referring to physical attributes as size.

        An important comment was made last night by one of the game announcers when he said that sometimes you can tell a lot about a player when they’re losing then when they are winning (paraphrase).

        Fields never did anything to lift up his team in the huddle or on the sidelines when they fell behind. His silence was deafening last night as a team leader. Team leadership (at least to me) supersedes more than what a player does with stats.

      3. AES,
        I have been a pretty big proponent of Jones favoring him over Fields and Trask. I just don’t think his physical attributes provide enough upside for the scouting community as a whole will move him above Fields.

        I’m not aware of any scout that prioritizes production over traits when it comes to the NFL.

        1. Raz,
          Those weren’t my comments.
          I was responding to Shoup.

          But I am in agreement with you on this. Though I believe that it has to be a union between both.
          Production and very good intangibles must work together.

        2. You’re right razor, but Jones may be an interesting test case in how highly mental and accuracy traits as a QB are regarded vs physical in today’s NFL.

          1. Accuracy from the pocket as well as off schedule without a stable base is the priority in today’s NFL.

            1. Where would a 22 year old Peyton Manning get drafted if he was coming out of college today?

              1. Hopefully by a patient team. Is nearly double digit years for your Franchise QB to deliver a SB championship asking too much?

              2. Lol! Still on this I see Rib. So what, now you think the Colts made a mistake drafting Manning because it took a long time for that to translate into a SB?

                They were in the playoffs all but two of his seasons. Perennially in the hunt with Manning. I seem to recall being over this with you before…

              3. Nearly a decade of not advancing past the first round with a QB regularly winning regular season honors would challenge most team ownerships.

        3. Razor,
          While we agree that scouts will not prioritize it over traits, production has to be taken into account. Otherwise, Fields , Ridder and Lance would likely be the top three picks and Wilson and Jones would be day 3 picks.

  72. Im surprised the “hottest” coaching candidate Saleh has yet to be hired. Or maybe people are finding out what every 49er fan knows, he cannot make the in game adjustments and isnt ready to be a head coach!

    1. The Jets have requested a second interview with Saleh, and the Eagles are wanting to interview him as well. You need to also keep in mind that teams may be waiting until they interview all of their candidates, some of whom could still be competing in the playoffs, before they narrow down their candidates.

      1. I actually want Saleh to get hired as we then get some compensatory picks. But Im also saying, this guy is not as great as people say he is.

        1. Quit proving your lack of football knowledge.
          .
          Saleh took an injury ravaged squad, and made it a top 10 defense.
          .
          Saleh is smart, and is weighing his options. The worse thing for him to do is take the first offer.

          1. Seb: “Saleh is smart, and is weighing his options. The worse thing for him to do is take the first offer.”

            Good thing Seb an expert at interviewing for a job, RIGHT Seb?
            Just out of curiosity, how many job interviews have you had Seb? ZERO, NADA, NILL, or ZELCH?
            Just throwing a little “SHEET” against the wall?

  73. OT, but I have had enough. They are threatening to be mad if he is impeached? I am already furious that he is still there.
    .
    He talks about the MAGA clad ‘patriots’. I saw a MAGA clad insurrectionist, use an American Flag pole to beat a policeman, who later died. Talk about being offended when Kaep knelt, that MAGA terrorist just defecated on our national symbol.

      1. You are not even an American.
        .
        I am glad Mitch McConnell agrees with me. Removing him will stop him from ever running again.

        1. Seb
          THIS MAY COME AS SHOCK TO YOU SLEB, BUT CANADA IS A PART OF “A M E R I C A!”
          While it’s not a part of “The United States Of AMERICA”….It is a part of North AMERICA! But as a graduate of UCD, surely you know that?…..N O T!
          Careful you don’t step in your own “SHEET” and prove you’re a bloviating, Narcissistic buffoon.

    1. Those rioters were not patriots. They’re Republicans. (As opposed to Republicans In Name Only, like Romney…)

    2. This attempt at destroying American democracy is going to be hung around every Trumpers neck in perpetuity. Get used to it, fellas.

  74. Based on previous comments, it appears the blog will be consumed with arguing about where QB’s will be drafted, who the 9ers will / should draft and why. And weather they should trade up, or down!
    So lets enjoy the banter and the best prognosticator win….Looking forward to the combine.

        1. Lighten up, Francis. I did not question his intelligence or insult him with expletives.
          .
          I just made a one word correction.

            1. Sounds like you need something else to fixate on.
              .
              Haunting my posts just means I am living in your tiny head.

              1. Hey, Prime, you could probably relate to this story. Roseanne went to the Capitol invasion with a- Don’t Tread On Me flag. Maybe it was karma, but it certainly was ironic, that she was trampled to death by the rioting MAGA terrorists.

          1. I just made a one word correction.

            We, including you, knew what he meant. You just couldn’t help being your annoying self, could you.

            1. Rib, just a little pushback.
              .
              You and GEEP sure like to dish it out, but you sure cannot take it.
              .
              Whining is not a good character trait.

              1. Listen to the grammar insurrectionist. (Notice how I refrained from referencing that 1930s German political party).

              2. Very Trumpian.
                .
                Please do not waste my time, and try to write something cogent about football, instead of snarking away.

              1. Poor GEEP. I can type one word, and you start whining. Maybe you should learn to spell before snarking at me.

              2. Prime, you just cannot help yourself.
                .
                It would be better for you to just pay the 200 bucks, so I will not have any reason to accuse you of welching. You constantly touted Trubisky. You crowed about him being selected. Well, you were wrong, AGAIN, and they did not draft Trubisky.
                .
                Any poster with a scintilla of honor would pay his bet, instead of weaseling out under a stipulation.
                .
                Of course, you think it is honorable to storm the Capitol, too.

              1. Seb
                “Poor GEEP. I can type one word, and you start whining. Maybe you should learn to spell before snarking at me.”
                When have YOU ever typed “ONE WORD?” 1000 yes, but never ONE……LMAO
                HAVE THE PARANOIDS GOT YOU SEB? WHO’S THE INSECURE PERSON THAT’S ALWAYS CORRECTING EVERYONE ELSE ON THE BLOG? And WHO is still trying to live up to daddy’s expectations? Since I know you’re too insecure to admit it, I’ll let the others on the blog decide.
                Are we having “FUN” yet Seb? I know I am, but not too sure about YOU!

              2. Noice. You get a kick out of engaging with me. Weak minded posters can try to snark away, but it just makes them look desperate, and juvenile.
                .
                I guess I am living in your head. You seem easily amused, too.
                .
                Just stick to football, and scroll past. It is good advice, but like a moth to a flame……

              3. Seb: “Noice. You get a kick out of engaging with me.” NO Seb, I “get a kick out of” letting you make a FOOL out of YOURSELF.
                Seb: “Weak minded posters can try to snark away, but it just makes them look desperate, and juvenile.” I agree Seb, so WHY do you continue PROJECTING?
                Seb: “I guess I am living in your head. You seem easily amused, too.” SO PREDICTABLE….You continue to use the same tired old rhetoric. Lets see if this response get a “I WIN” from you?
                BTW Seb, You remind me of the narcissist in the WH….Just because you SAY IT, doesn’t make it TRUE! It just makes you an obtuse, bloviating buffoon who continues to spin and deflect
                rather than admitting you’re paranoid, delusional and suffer from Delusions of Grandeur.
                So do yourself a favor Seb, don’t try to run with the big dogs! Go smoke a J and tell yourself how your being persecuted and picked on. No one cares, but you’ll feel better!

              4. How cute. Your lengthy point by point diatribe just means you are becoming unhinged.
                .
                Delusions of grandeur? Yup, that is you, trying to sound superior, so you can diss me.
                .
                BTW, it has really gone over your head, and shows how clueless you are, to not understand what I mean when I say- I win again. I do that to trolls who I upset so much, they devolve into hurling expletives at me. It is just a game I play, that burns them up.
                .
                You have not cursed me out, so I will not claim victory, but it always seems to end up that way with my persistent admirers. You have started using caps, so I could probably goad you into it, but I promised to behave, so I will just pity you.
                .
                I will leave you with a pithy quote. – It is much better to remain quiet, and only have them think you a fool, than opening your mouth, and removing all doubt.
                .
                Think about it.

              5. Hmmm, Rib does not seem to have learned his lesson.

                The only lesson to be gotten here is that there is no incident too trivial for Seb to indulge his damaged psyche and pathetically try to convince himself and show us all he’s the smartest guy in the room. As Geep says, narcissistic.

              6. I will leave you with a pithy quote. – It is much better to remain quiet, and only have them think you a fool, than opening your mouth, and removing all doubt.
                .
                Think about it.

                Have you ever?

                *Whether

              7. “ As Geep says, narcissistic”

                I would classify it a little more abruptly. Seb is a POS!

              8. Yup, Rib is mentally challenged; such a slow learner.
                .
                Maybe he did not realize, that I was responding to some one talking about tilting at windmills.
                .
                Such thin skin. Whining about a one word correction, and it was not even directed at him.
                .
                Rib, it would be better to stick to football. Oh, wait, you have nothing to say, and seem to want to only indulge in politics.

              9. Whining about a one word correction

                You somehow confuse whining with pointing out jackass behavior. Quelle surprise.

                As far as “learning my lesson” I respond to maybe 1 out of every 1000 of your drivel postings. The notion that you are living in my head is living in your head.

                Later, have a nice life.

    1. The Texans need to improve their defense. Their offense was productive, but they would probably be better off with Saleh over Bieniemy.
      .
      However, if they lose Watson, they are screwed, so Bieniemy is a lock.
      .
      So now, the Chargers look like the best landing spot for Saleh. They have an emerging QB and good defensive talent.

    1. Yep, S’s are interchangeable and he’s too athletic not to get him on the field in some capacity, which they eventually figured out in 2019 by getting him on the field in dime packages….

  75. Liz Cheney (d!ck’s daughter): “The President of the United States summoned this mob, assembled the mob, and lit the flame of this attack. Everything that followed was his doing. None of this would have happened without the President. The President could have immediately and forcefully intervened to stop the violence. He did not. There has never been a greater betrayal by a President of the United States of his office and his oath to the Constitution.”

        1. I know you do. I think he may be the best improvisational/ off platform passer, but not the best passer overall.

  76. Looks like the Seahawks will be learning a new offense. Schottenheimer has been sackenheimered!

  77. Sounds like it is going to be Saleh to the Jets.

    He’s going to have a big question to answer almost immediately – stick with Darnold or build around a rookie QB? I suspect that if he gets a long term deal he will go with the rookie.

    1. Let’s hope he doesn’t sweet talk Shanny into trading for, Darnold. He should do him a solid and get us the hometown discount for their #2 pick….

        1. Allbright. “Because the Sam Darnold thing really hinges with this pick and what they are going to do — whether they take a quarterback at 2 or trade back and keep Darnold, which is Joe Douglas’ preferred idea.”

  78. I wish to propose a trade back.
    .
    The Niners would trade back with the Jets. They would trade back from 12 to 23, for both of the Jets third round picks(66+86). It adds up exactly on the Trade Value Chart.
    .
    The Jets could then draft Penei Sewell OT, and lock up the blind side protection for the next 10 years. The Jets would want to trade up and get ahead of several teams in order to get a QB, and Trey Lance, Kyle Trask or Jamie Newman may be available at 12. Then Darnold would have some competition.
    .
    The Niners would trade back 11 spots, and get 2 more picks. In the first 3 rounds, the Niners would end up with pick numbers 23, 43, 66, 86 and around 100 for Saleh’s compensation pick.
    .
    Using the CBS draft board, and trying to pick within 5 of each number, the Niners could select-
    23- Christian Darrishaw OT.
    43- Jaycee Horn CB.
    66- Creed Humphrey IOL.
    86- Joshua Kaindoh DE
    100- Javonte Williams RB.

      1. On the CBS draft board, he is ranked number 2. The Jets have the second pick.
        .
        The Jets also have the 23rd pick, due to the Jamal Adams trade.

    1. If the Jets take a QB with their first pick, I can see it making sense for them to try and trade up to grab a top OT to protect them. Jets did just take Becton this past draft, but pairing him with another top OT makes sense imo.

      If the Jets take Sewell at 2, then they are sticking with Darnold and I doubt they then trade up to 12 for a QB. They should just grab a QB at 2 if they want one of the top ones.

      The Jags I can see being in a similar boat, looking to trade up to get a top OT to protect Lawrence.

      1. Sewell would be the blind side tackle, because Becton ‘s biggest weakness is in pass protection. Maybe they could go the Larry Allen route and move him to guard, or let him move to RT.
        .
        Maybe with better pass protection, Darnold might have enough time to throw the ball.

        1. scooter
          Just curious, is your thinking that the Jets should replace Left OT Mekhi Becton, or move him to Right OT and
          replace George Fant? The Seahawks let Fant go and he was a FA signed by Jets GM, Joe Douglas.

          1. Move Becton.

            Also, I said this makes sense, not that they should do it. Getting two premier OTs to protect the franchise QB would make sense to me.

          1. Yes, Becton did play well, but other times, he was standing around, looking for defenders to block, according to one pundit. Remember, the Jets were 2-14, so the entire O line struggled to protect Darnold.
            .
            On GG nation, one commenter wants the Jets to draft Penei Sewell, and move Becton to RT.

            1. Seb: “Yes, Becton did play well?” I just provided you with the fact that says he did, but you agree with “one commenter on GG nation” who wants the Jets to draft Penei Sewell and move Becton to RT? GOT IT! So what are you going to do with RT George Fant? He started 14 games this past season (12 at RT, 2 at LT) and took 829 snaps which was the second-most on the team behind C Connor McGovern? That’s not to say Fant shouldn’t be replaced.
              While I agree with Scooter, drafting OT Penei Sewell will provide the Jets with two premier OT’s, it also means the Jets will pass up drafting the 2nd best QB in the 2021 draft. And that decision could get their GM, Joe Douglas, fired.

              1. If Darnold has time to throw, he can be accurate. If they protect him, he may shine.
                .
                Fant was dropped by the Seahawks, and we all saw how the weak O Line of Seattle, doomed their season.
                .
                Believe me, I watched a few Jets games, and the O Line stunk.
                .
                Fant could become the swing tackle.
                .
                If the Jets manage to select Penei Sewell and Lance/Trask/Newman, they may be able to crawl out of the basement.

    2. I’m assuming in this scenario Jimmy remains and Williams is gone?
      IF so it makes sense, although I would likely go with a different DE and probably not draft an RB in the top 100 even if I like WIlliams.

      1. Javonte Williams weighs 225 lbs, so he could run between the tackles. He also put up gaudy numbers, running for a 7.3 yard average, and scored every 8.2 times he touched the ball.
        .
        Mostert has missed games due to injury, and Jeff Wilson has been nicked up, too. Hasty broke his collar bone, so they need a bruiser who is elusive, but also some one who gains yards after initial contact.
        .
        Kaindoh is ranked 85, and he was the only pass rusher ranked near pick number 86.
        .
        Yes, I am assuming JG is the starter and TW leaves because a team will throw money at him. I also am assuming that both Coleman and McKinnon leave during Free Agency.

        1. Don’t take it the wrong way I like Williams a lot. He reminds me of Marshaun Lynch coming out of cal. I have even debated with myself regarding Etienne who is more in the McCaffery mode. It’s really just a philosophical question on how to build a team.

        2. No chance we are drafting a RB. If anything we will pick a UDFA for training camp. Like come on, with all the needs we have on defense and oline, why would we waste a pick on the deepest position group on the team?

          Seb is a complete idiot! The fact people on here even respond to his suggestions is embarassing.

          1. Good Ol’ Prime. He just cannot help himself.
            .
            Prime is the guy who bet 200 bucks that the Niners would draft Trubisky, and he has the audacity to claim I know nothing, when Mahomes was selected a few picks later.
            .
            He is so clueless, he predicted the Niners would not win another game. He is one of those who always wants the first pick of the draft. I am one who ALWAYS wants the 49ers to pick last. Think about it.
            .
            Yes, KS is lucky to have found some UDFA gems, but this past season shows that drafting a RB like Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Jonathan Taylor, JK Dobbins, AJ Dillon and Antonio Gibson, helped their team get to the playoffs. Those other teams invested a high draft pick for those RBs, and it paid off handsomely.
            .
            Deepest position group? Clueless as ever, when Juice, Coleman and McKinnon are all FAs.
            .
            Prime is just bent because his hero is being impeached after inciting a riot that desecrated our democracy. His prediction was wrong, AGAIN. He is so clueless, he bet Razor AGAIN. I wonder how he will slither out of paying AGAIN. Welchers are the biggest cowards.

            1. I love when actual proof makes Seb swallow some crow:

              Prime Time says:
              December 2, 2020 at 8:18 am
              We have, just need confirmation as I keep getting labelled as one when it was you and I that made the bet and the stipulation. So please for the record, tell me one way or the other?
              Did I welch?
              Reply

              Razoreater says: 
December 2, 2020 at 8:27 am 

              Nah.

  79. Bruglar,

    Multiple NFL scouts have told me they consider the 2022 QB class to be “underwhelming” based on early scouting.

    That could obviously change, but also one of the reasons they expect teams to be aggressive in April to get one of the top QBs this year.

    This rationale, along with the structure of Jimmy’s contract, has been one of the components of my belief that the time is now for Shanny to pick his guy….

    1. The 2021 draft had a lot of question marks after Lawrence at this time last year, still does imo but there are always players that come to the forefront and become first round picks. The 49ers should try to improve the QB depth but not at the expense of future draft picks.

  80. What the blog thinks about where Alabama QB Jones gets drafted, may be moot…..
    * Alabama QB Mac Jones said he’ll let his ‘mom handle’ whether or not he declares for the NFL draft!”

  81. There’s an article today on NN entitled, “How much do you trust John Lynch if Adam Peters and Martin Mayhew leave?” I think this is a very good question. Here’s a list of Lynch’s draft picks in rounds 1-4 with my comments. Please challenge if the spirit moves you.

    Round 1
    Javon Kinlaw TOO EARLY TO SAY
    Brandon Aiyuk LOOKS AMAZING
    Nick Bosa AMAZING BUT INJURY HISTORY
    Mike McGlinchey OVERDRAFTED
    Solomon Thomas BUST
    Rueben Foster BUST

    Round 2
    Deebo Samuel VERY GOOD BUT INJURY HISTORY
    Dante Pettis BUST

    Round 3
    Jalen Hurd BUST, INJURY HISTORY
    Fred Warner AMAZING
    Tavarius Moore GOOD BUT UNDERUTILIZED
    Akhello Witherspoon OVERDRAFTED
    CJ Beathard BUST

    Round 4
    Mitch Wishnowsky OVERDRAFTED
    Kentavius Street OVERDRAFTED
    Joe Williams BUST

    1. Are they using that list to show Lynch hasn’t drafted well? Aren’t Peters and Mayhew the top two lieutenants letting Lynch know who to draft?

        1. My 2nd point still stands – if you aren’t impressed with how the team has drafted you shouldn’t be that worried about Peters and Mayhew leaving.

          Personally I think they have drafted reasonably well – 1st 3 drafts produced 3 all pro calibre players, and 4th draft got Aiyuk who looks very good. Plus some other good players.

          1. Scooter,
            I slightly disagree with this. I would imagine Peters and Mayhew gather the scouting reports for the top guys and Lynch and Kyle decide on them.
            But by the time you get to day 3, I would imagine Mayhew and Peters have a much bigger say… and that is where they have done their best work.

        2. I will respectfully disagree about Kinlaw. Many D linemen go their entire career without scoring. Kinlaw had a pick six in his first year.
          .
          I thought he was stout against the run, and anchored well. I think he may be an adequate replacement for Buckner.
          .
          I also think that Solomon Thomas was not a bust, but did under perform. I hope the Niners can re-sign him to a minimal contract, with a promise to re-negotiate if he exceeds expectations.

        3. IICRC, the regional scouts were the ones who found the diamonds in the rough, not Mayhew and Peters.

    2. George, I could disagree with quite a few of your comments but proof is in the pudding. In 2017 this team was considered to have the least talent in the NFL and in 2019 the were in the Super Bowl. Somebody made some great personnel decisions and I believe the reason why is that it is a collaborative effort. Not just scouts but coaches also. They have a great system and they will plug in good people and the system is set up to keep this team competitive for a long time.

      Nobody gets them all right but so far it doesn’t look to me that anyone is doing it better than the Niners. I love the system they set up. It just reeks of good management.

  82. Geep,
    Such is the game of football, it’s filled with hits and misses.
    Every GM should have been fired for missing on Tom Brady 5x before finally being drafted in the 6th rd.

    Lynch came into the GM position with zero experience and had the team in the SB in year three, not bad. This past season was a wash because unlike other teams the suffered through injuries, the 49ers suffered more injuries to key players that put them in the hole early in the season.

    Lynch has done an above average job in the draft and has had equal success in UDFA and FA. A healthy 2021 team should put the team back in post season play, because many of the key pieces will be back. I’ll withold my judgment on Lynch’ until he fails with a healthy team on the field.

  83. PFF foresees the 49ers signing, Williams to a four-year, $80 million deal with $62.5 million total guaranteed and $45 million fully guaranteed at signing.

  84. George
    Round 1
    The only player I would agree is a “BUST” is Rubin Foster. I would agree Solomon Thomas was OVERDRAFTED, but has been a useful rotational player. (but not worth his salary).
    Round 2
    I agree, Dante Pettis has been a BUST, but it may help him realize this is his last chance?
    Round 3
    Tavarius Moore “GOOD BUT UNDERUTILIZED.” I agree, but not sure that’s a drafting problem?
    CJ Beathard. He was OVERDRAFTED, not a bust…He should have been a day 3 draft pick
    Round 4
    Agree

  85. I also read that article, and one commenter wanted to burn everything down, get rid of all the aging veterans, Get rid of JG, and start all over.
    .
    That is a strategy that does have some history. BW took a 2-14 team, then built a dynasty. Mike Nolan accomplished a 2-14 team, in which the later high drafts allowed JH to subsequently lead that talent rich team to a SB. KS inherited a 2-14 team, and got back to the SB after 3 years.
    .
    The main problem with that strategy, is that they have to endure 2-14 seasons, in order to move up in the draft, to obtain top talent. My preference would be the Bill Walsh model, where they consistently vie for the Championship, and still draft well, even with a poor draft position. That is because they had become such a good landing spot, Free Agents with talent would take less money in order to get a ring.
    .
    Right now, JL has assembled a team that in 3 years, got back to the SB. He is a class act, and I hope he achieves the Football Hall of Fame. This last season was not a dumpster fire, it was a MASH unit. In spite of all the injuries, JL assembled a team with depth, so they competed in every game. The results were disappointing, but they were resilient, with the right mindset. After losing Bosa, Ford, Kittle and JG, it was amazing that they managed to win 6 games.
    .
    At the end of the Baalke error(sic), talented Free Agents would shun him, and the Niners. Compounded with whiffing on an entire draft, Baalke managed to dismantle a SB squad into a dysfunctional dumpster fire. Thankfully, JL has turned everything around, and it started by stopping the leaks.
    .
    JL should start by trying very hard to re-sign as many FAs as possible. They would be retaining talent. They would be retaining players who fit the system, and they would be strengthening the cohesion, and continuity. KS said it best when he mentioned that the best organizations do not have constant turnover. Bellichick, Reid, Carroll and Tomlin have perennial playoff teams with long term Head Coaches. I am glad Jed gave KS an extension.
    .
    Sadly, this is a business, and they do not have enough cap space to retain all they want. There will be some painful partings. Good players who could help the team win, but are a casualty of the salary cap. Hopefully, they can allow certain players leave, with adequate replacements, that are less expensive.
    .
    One thing posters could do during this long offseason, is pinpoint certain FA candidates. It may be preferable to get a FA replacement for TW. Some battle hardened veteran who can protect the blind side, but at half the cost. If that is the case, they may not need to draft an O lineman in the first round. Maybe there will be a run on QBs, and Devonta Smith or Patrick Surtain, fall into their lap. No matter what, the Niners need to draft a CB, to build for the future. I hope they retain Williams and Verrett, but they still need to draft a CB.
    .
    Yes, there have been some misses, but there have been enough hits to get to the SB. I will give JL an A- for his personnel decisions, because the hits far out weigh the misses. Also, many of those misses were KS selections. My opinion is that KS was directly responsible for the selections of Foster, Joe Williams, CJB, Pettis, Hurd, and Aiyuk. Why? Because the Niners traded up to get them. So far, only Aiyuk seems to be a success. JL has allowed KS to select his players, who he thinks can best fit the system. JL does cede authority, but he also has important input, balancing between the coaches and the scouts. JL thinks that it is better to have a consensus, instead of a disagreement. That is a sign of a competent leader.
    .
    So, I think I will speculate on the Free Agents the Niners should retain, and which they should let go. The existing NFL Free Agent prospects should be studied.
    .
    This off season will be difficult, and this darn Covid Pandemic is making it twice as hard. There is a lot less film on many prospects because the Covid Pandemic reduced games, and specific players. It also messed up the levels of competition, so it is hard to evaluate the talent. Some players like Jamie Newman opted out, so he has no film. I expect the Senior Bowl to change some opinions, assessments and rankings.

    1. I think you hit the nail on the head about Kyle being responsible for many of those misses. But I disagree with your comment that Lynch’s wanting consensus to avoid disagreement is a sign of a competent leader. I think Kyle’s the real leader. He hired Lynch, so Lynch is beholden to him. Lynch is more a cheerleader. He’s always saying, “I’m excited about this. I’m excited about that.” If he says that again about something or someone else, I’m really going to throw up. Some of the posters opined that he’s been simply following the recommendations of Peters and Mayhew. I believe that myself. But who drafts a punter in the fourth round, for example? I assume he or Kyle decided that. As for Kyle, he’s a great offensive coordinator but he has to be controlled, which won’t happen because he’s head coach and de facto GM imo.

      1. Kyle is in charge of the final 53 but they have said many times they make the decisions together and you need that to sustain some consistency. For those now grumbling about the drafting/personnel ability of these guys, just keep in mind that coming into this season the 49ers were regarded as having one of the best rosters in football. They suffered from a ridiculous number of injuries that depleted that roster but it was still a very strong group. No team hits on every pick in their draft and the overall success rate is somewhere in the 50’s for the league as a whole I believe so appreciate the fact they have found some All Pro’s with day two and day three picks to make up for some of the first round misses and have done well with UDFA’s. It doesn’t matter where you find them as long as you find them.

      2. Why does Shanahan have to be controlled? If I remember correctly, when they were hired, lynch was responsible for the 90 man roster and Shanahan for the 55. In reality they are a team that works well together and mostly make joint decisions with Input from scouts, couches, etc. they make an effort not to take credit for successes and not to point fingers for mistakes. This is one very well run organization and thank goodness they don’t have an owner like that idiot Lurie in Philadelphia.

      3. George, JL is light years better than Baalke, so I am very happy with JL, because he is humble, and turned the franchise around 180 degrees. They have a never say die- Championship mindset. It is not his fault that the Niners had the league’s worse injury record.
        .
        It will be interesting to see where Saleh goes, and who he takes with him. The Seahawks may want to poach a Niner OC, since they fired MS, so KS may want to elevate one of the Mikes to OC in order to retain him.
        .
        If Saleh does go to the Jets, I fully expect them to hire a veteran OC who may have had HC experience.
        .
        I agree with you. JL should stop using the term- I am really excited. Maybe he should just say that he is quietly confident in his decisions, and that he hopes for the best, but needs to plan for the worse.

        1. I think you are giving Lynch too much credit. It’s a team effort. Shanahan hired Lynch who had no experience because they had similar thoughts on how to build a team and they got along well. I believe these are collaborative decisions but my money would be on Shanahan as the final say if it ever came to that.

          1. I am giving JL all the credit he deserves. JL is the one who makes the draft announcements, not KS. KS may have a lot of influence, but JL pulls the trigger. As GM, JL is in charge of the personnel, and KS is the one who coaches them up. JL is praised for Kittle and Warner, but also criticized for Foster and Joe Williams, because that is part of his job description.
            .
            Personally, I think the JL/ KS tandem works well together. Jed learned his lesson with Baalke/ JH.

  86. Congressman Moulton (Retired Marine) : “There are more troops right now in Washington DC than in Afghanistan. And they are here to defend us against the commander in chief, the President of the United States and his mob.”

    #TraitorTrumpee

  87. If you take away the players they moved up to draft, JL’s record is stellar, because he found Kittle and Warner in the later rounds, and Mostert and Wilson as UDFAs. That also means that the scouts did their job, finding diamonds in the rough.
    .
    Yes, it is a collaborative effort, and they seem to work together harmoniously. It really does not matter who was drafted when, or who had the final say, if they can get to the SB.

  88. Troompy – the only person to lose the popular vote twice – by significant margins.
    Troompy- the only person to be impeached twice with both parties voting to expel .
    Troompy – the only person who thinks it is a good idea to dye his hair Cheetoh orange.

    Expel the traitor from our country.

  89. * “That is a strategy that does have some history. BW took a 2-14 team, then built a dynasty.”
    * Someone please remind me….Did the NFL have a $$$$ SALARY CAP when BW coached the 9ers?

    * “I can type one word, and you start whining.” LMAO…A ONE with four zeros!
    * Someone in the WH said “I WIN also…..What’s that tell you? Are YOU having FUN yet?

    1. BW did build a Dynasty, and who cares if it was before the Salary Cap. In fact, BW changed the game, and the Salary Cap was installed to prevent the Niners from dominating even more.
      ,
      So desperate, to try to find any fault. Why, that sounds kind of narcissistic. ;p
      .
      Yes, I am having fun, watching you put your foot in your mouth. Keep up the good work.

      1. Seb: “BW did build a Dynasty, and who cares if it was before the Salary Cap.”
        RIGHT Seb! Who cares about FACTS? They’re for people who are “DESPERATE” to try and find fault! Right?
        OR, for someone who’s PARANOID and oblivious to the fact he just admitted “the Salary Cap was installed to prevent the Niners from dominating even more.”
        Seb: “Yes, I am having fun, watching you put your foot in your mouth. Keep up the good work.”
        Thanks Seb, I will. And like the Cretin in the WH, just because YOU SAY IT, doesn’t make it TRUE and trying to live up to the expectations of his daddy……Make my day Seb and continue “HAVING FUN”
        SO LETS SEE HOW THIS WORKS……I WIN! ROFLMAO….If you got em. smoke em! Just be careful the dog didn’t eat it first! Somehow that movie reminds me of you….Having fun!

          1. Seb: “Wow, are you alright?”
            Thanks for your concern Seb, but to answer you question….NO! I’m much better than just ALRIGHT and we both it….Don’t “WE?” WHO’S YOUR DADDY SEB?
            As you’re so fond of saying, “I must be living in your head?” See what I did there Seb?  Or perhaps, “Hmmm, _______(fill in the name), does not seem to have learned his lesson?”
            See how predictable your tired old rhetoric is? Are “WE” having fun now Seb? I know I am!

              1. You’re easily amused?
                Weak Seb and an admission how you’re easily exposed?
                I WIN! I’m having FUN, why aren’t you? WHO’S YOUR DADDY SEB?

  90. 3 Free agents I think the Niners should first pursue are-
    Taylor Moton OT
    Xavier Woods CB
    David Andrews C.

      1. Actually, maybe you did not notice this, but the amount of Niner face paint usage went down, after my posts.
        .
        Maybe they realized that they should have been studying the game plan, instead of putting on makeup.
        .
        If they do come to the Niners, they will adhere to team norms, so they will fit in better.

        1. Actually, maybe you did not notice this, but the amount of Niner face paint usage went down, after my posts.

          “I alone can fix it”

          Whatever is going on that noggin of yours I find somewhat fascinating

        2. “Actually, maybe you did not notice this, but the amount of Niner face paint usage went down, AFTER MY POSTS…..
          * DOES _______(FILL IN NAME), SUFFER FROM DELUSIONS OF GRANDEUR, NARCISSISM, OR BOTH?

          1. What it is is sad. An old crusty fart has to come on a blog with faceless people he doesn’t know to tell them how smart his ideas are. Really sad.

          2. Geep, that is not seb, but Primate posting nonsense to try to make seb look bad.
            Primate has several fake accounts and thinks it makes him look smart.
            It’s Primate that’s the village idiot drinking the FoolAid….
            And Geep you are starting to become a creep like Primate with nothing to offer but trumpian tactics….

            1. Seb: “Ummm GEEP, acting like an 8 year old spoiled brat does not make you look mature.”
              * Replace “GEEP” with Seb, add Narcissistic before 8, and you’ve finally got something right!
              * Am “I living in your head” Seb?”
              * “Hmmm, Seb does not seem to have learned his lesson.” See what I did there Seb?
              * “* “I can type one word, and you start whining.” Does that sound familiar?

              1. Dee Phiant
                Thank you DP and YES, I’m aware of that! But it was not PT that felt the needed to correct “WEATHER, VS Wether and we all know who it was, don’t we? Is there anyone on the blog, including Seb, who has NOT misspelled a word? And do we really need an insecure Narcissist to remind us when it happens?

                * “And Geep you are starting to become a creep like Primate with nothing to offer but trumpian tactics”….
                Your WRONG Dee Phiant, Trump tells lies, I held a mirror up to Seb and repeated his old, worn out drivel.
                * If you’re bothered by the banter, try reminding Seb he’s not the blog spelling police. I doubt he’ll listen to you, but if it makes you happy, I’m willing to give it a try?

          3. Words matter. You certainly did not write this-
            .
            Yes, it is OK to wear face paint when you win, but when you lose, it looks like clown paint.
            .
            Considering all the times they lost, the smearing of their faces with eye black sure precipitously declined. Cause and effect, and you all are too obtuse to notice that.
            .
            Since you seem so dense, maybe you did not hear about George Kittle. He took umbrage with all of the shade thrown at his QB, JG. That just confirmed that he does read the drivel from the peanut gallery. Despite all of your protestations that my missives are not read, even JG admitted that he does hear about the dissing from others, especially on this forum, and Grant’s. Fortunately, he does not let it affect him. He knows the drill, and if he lets it affect him, they will have won. JG is smart to concentrate on things he has power over, and what is truly important. It certainly is not the mindless screeds against him. He also knows that Kreuger thinks he is only worth a couple day 3 picks.
            .
            KS and JL have both been negatively affected by the wild, hot take speculation from the peanut gallery. They finally had to address the chatter, in order to squash the rumors. Fortunately, we now know that they like JG and consider him the starting franchise QB of the San Francisco 49ers. Sure, they read the media, and they tried very hard to ignore the blather, but once the rumors put words in their mouths, they had to set the record straight.
            .
            Why do I think KS follows my advice? I have excoriated him for wasting time outs like a drunken sailor. Every time he did that, I criticized him for not considering time outs to be precious, and saved for legitimate challenges, and the last 2 minutes of each half. Finally, he did stop wasting them, and I praised his actions. In fact, he wisely used his time outs, and he won a game, because he did have time outs at the end. Maybe he is blissfully unaware of my posts, but when he does exactly what I advised, I assume my message has been delivered, and acted upon.
            .
            I also wrote that CJB should not hold onto the ball too long. If his receivers are covered, he should have thrown the ball out of bounds, past the sticks, before the pass rush got to him. Conversely, such an idea never crossed your mind. You did not mention that. I did, because I did not want him holding onto the ball too long, and taking a 10 yard sack. What happened? Sadly, he did not take my advice, so there is also this saying- You can lead a horse to water, but you cannot make it drink.
            .
            Meanwhile, what have you all got to say? Nothing. You think screeds and insults make you look smart. You think that trying to make fun of me makes you look superior to me. It does the exact opposite.
            .
            Your tiny little minds cannot think of anything cogent to say, so you act like spoiled brats. Delusions of grandeur? This is a football blog. If I were truly serious, I would flood them with emails. I am just a die hard faithful Niner fan, and as a fan, have an opinion. Your intolerance to anything I write just makes me live in your heads, and your pushback shows that my words affect you so much, you just cannot help yourself. Typing in all caps just means you are becoming unhinged, like your hero. He likes all caps.
            .
            Ol’ Prime thought that the Niners would draft CJ Henderson. My last mock had them taking Kinlaw. Did either Rib or GEEP post a mock draft? Not one that I can remember. Prime admitted he does not make one, because he is afraid that he will be seen as clueless as ever.
            .
            Before the Cards game, JLS on All49ers thought that the offense and STs would be the biggest factors in winning. I wrote that KS needs to build a lead, and let his defense win the game. Who was right?
            .
            Honestly, Rib, I thought you learned your lesson, but obviously, education is not your strong suit. GEEP, if you continue with your hysterical screeds, you will look even more pathetic, so knock it off. Prime, you need to find a hobby. Football is not your strong suit. If you persist in being wrong all the time, I will pity you even more.
            .
            If you all persist, I wish to apologize to the rest of this blog ahead of time, because I do not suffer fools gladly. Since it is the off season for the Niners, I plan on talking about Free Agency and the draft, but if they want to persist in their screeds, bring it on. Hopefully some one like Scooter will tell them to stop engaging with me and leave me alone. Maybe they will listen to him.

            1. If anyone took the time to read this clowns 25 paragraphs ,you lost.
              We’ve lost since he came on here hot air and Kaepernick all day and night.
              F’ my life!

              1. Geep. seb has an opinion. Actually he has many opinions.
                He has a lot of time and bounces some crazy sheet our way.
                Some of it will stick, most of it doesn’t.
                I don’t need to correct seb, he does a pretty good job himself.
                You only seem to be interested in correcting him and are starting to show the same obsession as Primate by responding every time he posts.
                We’ll see if your puerile protests will sink to the same scatological level as Primate.
                Maybe you’ll even start to post under multiple accounts like Primate…..
                (Hint -> Disgusted = Primate)

              2. Looks like Dee Pee is getting desperate.
                Fact of the matter, I don’t need to post under different names to say Seb is a POS. In fact, you are one too.

                Say hi to your brother for me.

              1. I can assure you that am not Prime and I only use one screen name. I just think Seb acts more like a 13 year old boy than a 65 year old man.

              2. Amen! Narcissistic POS cannot admit that multiple people think they are stupid. Poor old Seb!

              3. You haven’t been around for long “disgusted”, so how do you know he’s 65?
                Primate likes to scour the internet for info about Seb and then post it here.
                As the Canadian Coward that he is, he posted Seb’s name and address while hiding behind his keyboard. He responds real quick, kinda like you…..
                We have a boy in the White House who acts like a 5 year old.
                Primate likes him.
                Promised a landslide.
                Does that mean we should ban Prime Slime?

              4. Yes Primate, only a loser like you would devote all of his prime time to responding to others……
                Did you say hi to my brother yet?

              5. Don’t flatter yourself. I talk football and tell Seb/Pee just how stupid they are. That’s my job on here.

              6. Since you’re on the dole (free -loading) for so long I guess you need to assign your self a job to make your self feel important!

              7. Dee
                I have been on here for a long time, don’t post much here since this site became such a cesspool. It is easy to find someones age on line if you know their name.

              8. “disgusted”, Why would you look up somebody’s name and age if you don’t like him?
                Isn’t that something a 13 year old would do…..

              9. “ Why would you look up somebody’s name and age if you don’t like him?
                Isn’t that something a 13 year old would do…..

                You sound nervous Dee Pee. What’s the matter?
                Loser!

  91. I know that the overt racism made troompy’s loyal kult klan of losers fill with pride , but was the cost worth it. Grifters gonna grift.
    ******
    Many U.S. Secret Service agents have stood guard in Washington’s elite Kalorama neighborhood, home over the years to Cabinet secretaries and former presidents. Those agents have had to worry about death threats, secure perimeters and suspicious strangers. But with the arrival of Ivanka and Jared Kushner, they had a new worry: finding a toilet,” the Washington Post reports.

    “Instructed not to use any of the half-dozen bathrooms inside the couple’s house, the Secret Service detail assigned to President daughter and son-in-law spent months searching for a reliable restroom to use on the job… After resorting to a porta-potty, as well as bathrooms at the nearby home of former president Barack Obama and the not-so-nearby residence of Vice President Pence, the agents finally found a toilet to call their own.”

    “But it came at a cost to U.S. taxpayers. Since September 2017, the federal government has been spending $3,000 a month — more than $100,000 to date — to rent a basement studio, with a bathroom, from a neighbor of the Kushner family.”

  92. Jordan Smith, Edge, UAB is a player worth checking out if you haven’t. Looks like a 3rd round prospect for us.

      1. I expect the combine to confirm his elite athletic foundation for the position, moving him up into the late 1st round..

        1. I am looking at film of Carlos Basham, he looks cat quick. He might be another third round candidate.

          1. Well done – you have identified guys that are considered borderline 1st round prospects as guys that might be worth looking at!

  93. Saleh is having a second interview with the Chargers. Meanwhile, Peters is reportedly out of the running to be the next Panthers GM.

    1. I am hoping Ronald Blair and Julian Taylor can return to help the team. I hope they go slow with Bosa, and do not let him return until the middle of next season.
      .
      Urban Meyer as the Jags HC? Will Baalke remain?

  94. Ward had a 73.5 overall grade from PFF, while Adams graded out at 64.2. Ward allowed 33 receptions this season, and Adams allowed 37. We win again!

    1. Ward has been so underappreciated by 49ers fans. I think mainly because he doesn’t make a lot of turnovers/ highlight plays (and the injuries haven’t helped). But he is very good.

      1. He is a very good player. I didn’t like Ward prior to the 2nd contract because of his availability. But now he seems to have turned the corner. He has also changed his game and possibly his conditioning which tells me the he is invested in being a pro.

        We need still an influx of young talent in the secondary. I would not be upset if we target Horn or Surtain with our 1st. I know the 49ers haven’t been accustomed to selecting corners in the 1st but it’s an area we need to target with possibly 2 picks in the draft or one and another in free agency.

        1. If they re-sign T. Williams and don’t take a QB, I think CB is the position where value will meet need at 12. Surtain, Farley or Horn.

          1. No way in hell. Edge for the inside out philosophical win. They’ll resign Verrett. Add Moore to the backend with Ward. Sign a vet cb, draft one late on day 2, and draft a safety day 3.

            Speaking of qb’s, if Wilson falls to the Bengals I think Shanny will have a deal in place to move up and get him. He knows if he can’t win a Super Bowl with Jimmy on the 2019 team, he has no shot at winning one with him moving forward. I think Wilson could run this offense from day 1 and under that rookie contract they could field a much stronger team. If I had to release him I would….

            1. Yes, the team values front 4 over CB. That doesn’t mean they don’t value CB. They paid Sherman a lot of money – they know they need good CBs and are willing to pay for it. If it comes down to a case of over drafting an edge or drafting a more highly rated CB, they will take the CB.

              1. Sure they paid Sherman and not just for his physical skill but also to buoy a young secondary with his acumen, but a rookie? Nah, they’re not going to draft a cb over the best pure speed rusher in the class, especially when theirs is on the scrap heap….

              2. Of course they would, if that was how their board fell. They just aren’t likely to prioritize CB over DL if they have equal grades.

              3. At some point in the draft, a high value pick will be needed to take a corner.
                Not sure if that is day one or day two, but it’s definitely a priority.

              4. Prime, I disagree on a high pick being “needed”, though that is pending what happens in FA. If they re-sign K Williams, Verrett and Moseley those will be your starters.

                If they don’t sign guys to start, then yeah, CB will be a big priority in the draft.

              5. I mean we should probably draft a corner at some point. We probably let Witherspoon walk and after the guys you mentioned, there is very little depth.
                Now,if we can’t sign Verrett, that changes a lot but with his injury history, a day one pick wouldn’t be so outrageous.

              6. Nw. You said a high value pick (which I assume to be a 1st or 2nd), which is what I disagreed with. They will draft a CB at some point no matter what happens.

              7. We need to draft a corner. If it’s day one great, day two sure, 7th round or even a couple UDFA, point is we need to rebuild the secondary for the next couple years.

              8. Prime,
                I don’t understand what you are saying here.
                They should use a high value pick be it 1st, 2nd, 7th or UDFA???
                That’s basically saying they should pick up a corner this offseason. Well, they have to in order to field a team… sooo???

                A high value pick = 1st 2 rounds for me… some would include the 3rd but I wouldn’t.

              9. Shoup I’m saying they to rebuild the secondary. Whether that is the 1st round or UDFA, it needs to get done.

              10. Well, they only have Ward signed through next year so unless they want to run Ronald Blair out at corner that is a given.

  95. Saleh may go to the Chargers, so I wonder who he will take with him.
    .
    He may want Kocurek as DC and Mike LaFleur as OC.

    1. * Seb: “Saleh may go to the Chargers, so I wonder who he will take with him.”

      * Dee Phiant: “Geep. seb has an opinion. Actually he has many opinions. He has a lot of time and bounces some crazy sheet our way.”

      * Jets hire Robert Saleh: 49ers defensive coordinator announced as New York’s new head coach.

      You’re right Dee Phiant! Most of his “sheet,” is “crazy” and yes, he lives on this blog pontificating his “crazy sheet!”

      1. ‘Saleh MAY go to the Chargers.’ He took a second interview, there, and the Chargers would be a stronger team to go to. They have a talented defense, and Herbert. The Jets have very little, and Darnold.
        .
        Reading is fundamental.
        .
        Oh, and look, he took Mike LaFleur as his OC.

        1. Seb
          Does the CHARGERS FO know they’ve hired Seleh and Mike LaFleur? For you, looking at the world thru your belly button, then post “SHEET,” appears to be an obsession! We should add OCD to Narcissist and delusions of grandeur! YOU WIN, I’VE LEARNED MY LESSON….”IF” you had a brain, you’d take it out and PLAY WITH IT! ROFLMFAO…”SHEET” LESSON LEARNED!

      1. GEEP, do you mean are the 49ers a step up for Jones, if we draft him? It would be hard to replicate the success he had with maybe the best team ever in college football. But I think if the Niners could fix the oline and maintain the quality of the defense, he could win a lot of games in the NFL.

        1. George, we couldn’t win a Super Bowl with the 2019 defense, the offensive line and Jimmy Garoppolo behind center. At best Jones is another Garoppolo. What makes you believe, a. we can win one with Jones, and b. replicate and maintain that 2019 defense?

          The timing is right and if he falls within striking range, (pick #5), Zach Wilson could hit the ground running in this offense, while opening up all kinds of opportunities for the RAC club downfield….

          1. Saying Jones is at best JG is a bit silly to me. One of the key areas Jones provided Bama was accuracy down the field. Lots of big pass plays downfield. If Jones works out he is more Cousins than JG.

            1. They’re system quarterbacks that need to be surrounded by talent, and that’s the bottom line.

              Now that, Saleh is HC and he got to bring along LeFleur, he needs to give us that hometown discount for Wilson!

              1. Well good thing the 49ers O is loaded with talent. It would be kind of hard to screw it up. Only thing that did was injuries and a turnover machine at QB??‍♂️

            2. Yeah, I don’t get that either.
              People compare him to AJ McCarron are just ignorant IMO. Yes, he’s on a loaded team, but he had to get them the ball and he did so better than anyone else in school history. He threw 40 tds to 4 ints, completed over 77 % of his passes and averaged 350 yards a game.
              Tua and McCarron were not even close to those numbers They averaged closer to 70% completion percentage, around 100 yards less passing yards per games.
              I understand all that talent helps but he was also a major part of that and major reason for the success of those wide receivers.
              He is not a guy I love in the first but to pretend he assuredly a bust given what he done seems crazy.

              1. Who said he’s a bust? I said he’d be a waste of a 1st round pick because he wouldn’t upgrade the position.

              2. Shoup, it’s not ignorant because if you look at the history of Alabama QB’s that transition to the NFL, it’s clear that they are productive because of the exceptional talent around them in college.

              3. Razor,
                He might very well upgrade the position if he plays at say Matt Ryan’s level. That’s not out of the realm of possibility.

                Prime,
                That school nonsense works until it doesn’t. No good QBs come out of Tedford’s system at Cal oops Aaron Rodgers. Small school qbs don’t make it the NFL, oops Big Ben. Texas Tech’s air raid qb’s don’t work in the NFL, oops Mahomes. Florida qb’s never work in the NFL… we are still waiting on that one but we will get one from there too someday.

              4. I’ve never said it was, “out of the realm of possibilities”. Quite to the contrary, I’ve said it’s possible he develops into a franchise qb, just like it’s possible Trask does. I just don’t think either will. I just don’t want to waste a 1st round selection on either. My preference is to go all in on a better possibility in a draft with 4 possibilities, each possessing elite traits. Next years draft isn’t nearly as strong at the position, and I don’t plan on drafting this high again….

              5. Prime/ Shoup, not to mention that the way Alabama plays has completely changed since McCarron. They used to be dominant defense and running game with game manager at QB. Now they are a passing offense geared around big plays and out pointing opponents. And under Sarkisian the offense has used a lot more pro style concepts.

                Since the change in offense their previous two starting QBs were 1st and 2nd round picks and both were starters at the end of last year as rookies.

                Without those two players Alabama’s offense went to greater heights this past season with Jones. He did that with less talent around him than Tua had. He lost one of his two top WRs after 3 games and the offense didn’t miss a beat. He lost his other top WR at half time against Ohio State and the offense didn’t miss a beat. Yes, he benefited from the talent around him, but the offense also benefited from having him at QB.

              6. Scooter I’m not sold on Tua either. Too small and injury prone. Jalen Hurts as well doesn’t look to be an every day QB.
                I just think Alabama QB’s are a risk.
                Now Jones in the 3rd or 4th, yeah sure. But not in the 1st or 2nd.

              7. If the issue with Tua is size and injury concern, that has nothing to do with talent. Yet you are also saying Bama QBs aren’t good enough talent wise because they rely on talent around them. You are changing your point.

          2. Razor, I said he could win a lot of games. Didn’t say the SB. I think we’d be competitive but we’d need mobility to win the big one.

            1. George, I invest my time and emotion supporting this team to win Super Bowls. Not just win a lot of games.

              1. Do you break with Scooter’s take that a Franchise QB will have them in perennial contention, satisfied even if they fall short in reaching or winning the SB?

              2. Winning Super Bowls is the bar that has been set in San Francisco, and it’s hard to do with a franchise qb due to the salary cap, let alone a game manager. That is the bottom line. You can’t win Super Bowls without being “perennial contenders”, so I’m not sure why you keep climbing Scooter’s hill only to die on it….

              3. “Perennial contenders”. In the last decade, the NEP led the league in Conference Championship appearances. Know who’s #2? Hint, it’s not the franchise QB led NO Saints, Seattle Seahawks, Green Bay Packers, Atlanta Falcons or Pittsburgh Steelers.

                You and Scooter grasp at these touted rook QBs all you want. Don’t destroy the teams viability while you do it.

              4. I love how Rib has now latched onto this idea that franchise QBs may take a long time to win a SB as an argument against trying to get one.

                Now we are talking up how the 49ers have gotten to the CCG more times than most teams in the past decade while not having a franchise calibre QB (because they had absolutely loaded rosters due to ineptitude in the intervening years)… yet when was the last time the 49ers won the SB? Oh right, that was way back when they had a franchise QB. Oh well.

                I sure would prefer waiting 8 years for my franchise QB to win a SB and be in the hunt every year than be inept for most of the decade with occasional highs of getting to the NFCCG and SB but never win the SB.

              5. I sure would prefer waiting 8 years for my franchise QB to win a SB and be in the hunt every year than be inept for most of the decade with occasional highs of getting to the NFCCG and SB but never win the SB.

                JFC Scooter, that’s a stupid argument. You are not guaranteed a SB win no matter who your QB is.

              6. No, you’re not, but I have outlined multiple times to you that history shows the chances of winning the SB without a franchise calibre QB or 1st round QB on their rookie deal is very low. So JFC, its not exactly the stupid argument you would like people to believe.

              7. Scooter, you’ve dismissed the Niners success this decade as the result of roster stocking up due to high draft picks following off years. If that “strategy” gives the team better success, potential for championships, than 95% of the league’s teams over the same extended period, it blows into another hemisphere tour argument that only a team with a stat heavy “Franchise QB” has any hope of contention.

                I’d also argue those off years were more the result of fraudulent coaching and overwhelming squad injuries than the lack or inconsistency of QB play. Oh wait, isn’t that the same argument made for team failures with touted QBs

                And Razor, no, these Niners teams didn’t win championships. But one time came within seconds, the other minutes of doing so. Nor do you need reminder that a third SB appearance was thwarted by a punt receiver brain freeze.

                Ok, we’ve beaten this horse enough. Let’s see what happens in the next few months. But if a Watson led Niners team fails to make any noise, I’m going to be all over you like stink on manure! ?

              8. So Rib, just to make sure I understand this correctly, you are now suggesting a strategy that involves being inept for large parts of a decade, and having multiple HCs fired plus replacement of the FO, is a good strategy for SB success? Even though it hasn’t actually brought SB success, mind you.

                This doesn’t blow my argument out of the water (let alone hemisphere). Not even close. Because facts remain that the vast majority of SB winners over the past two decades had either a franchise/ HOF calibre QB or a 1st round QB on his rookie deal.

                I agree this has been beaten to death, but only because you keep leading with your chin.

        2. George
          * “GEEP, do you mean are the 49ers a step up for Jones, if we draft him?”
          As I’ve posted several times, I believe the 9ers will trade down for extra draft picks and then draft a QB (Likely Jones), in the bottom half of the 1str Rd. The screaming NO, NO, NO, you hear, in the background is Razor….lol
          IMO the one thing that could change what the 9ers do, is the 2021 team salary cap! If it’s ~$176 Mil. I believe they will try to trade, or cut JG. Then draft Jones. If the Salary cap is $185 Mil. the 9ers will keep JG, resign T. Williams and draft a QB later! I was looking at Kenny Pickett, but he’s decided to stay at Pitt. for another year, so maybe Tex A&M Kellen Mond in the 4th – 5th Rd? (Still undecided)

      1. Last I checked, Meyer is deciding who will be his GM. Baalke has been the “interim” GM.

  96. Saleh and the Jets have reportedly agreed to a five year deal for him to be their next head coach.

    1. Apparently taking Mike LaFleur with him to be his OC.

      And Ryans is the 49ers new DC.

      Congrats to all of them. Well deserved.

  97. Saleh going to the Jets? Maybe they can pull off a trade back, and the Niners could sweeten the deal by throwing in a defensive player that Saleh really wants bad.
    .
    The Jets and Joe Douglas are swinging for the fences and may move on from Darnold, with Fields or Wilson available.
    .
    I wish Saleh well. He is moving to a team that has some defensive talent. The big question is- if he can attract an OC that turns the offense around. Well, it looks like Mike LaFleur is going. Good for him. I wish both of them well.

  98. Some teams have fired their OC. I wonder if KS should promote Mike McDaniels to OC so another team does not poach him away.

    1. But why? Kyle is the man behind the man. He’s going to call plays for the foreseeable future. Who cares if he leaves.

      1. Because it is a brain drain. KS is already losing Mike LaFleur and Saleh, so he needs to replenish his coaching staff. He may also lose Peters and Mayhew.
        .
        Miami may give him a interview. The Bears, Broncos, Seahawks, Eagles, Jags, Texans and Chargers may all be interested.

        1. Again, Kyle is calling the plays. If McDaniel leaves to call plays, god bless him. Kyle will be just fine and will have a backup plan. ??‍♂️

          1. If KS wants to play OC, maybe he should not be HC.
            .
            A HC needs to delegate authority, so he can concentrate on game management, not sticking his nose in the play sheet, missing out on what is going on during the game.
            .
            Sure BW was a genius, so he could be the OC, too. He was so smart, he was also able to be the GM.
            .
            Bill Bellichick is pretty smart, too. He is so smart, he hired an OC, so he could concentrate on being the HC.

            1. If you think the Niners losing record was because Shanny was distracted from being a head coach and calling plays, you really are an idiot!

              1. Yes, look at his SB loss.
                .
                Maybe he should have been helping the defense, too. That is what a HC should do; help in all phases of the game.

              2. Yeah spoken like someone who has never played or coach.
                Ignorance is one thing. Pretending you know better makes you look an a hole!

              3. You may have claimed to have played the game, but it seems like you took too many blows to the head.
                .
                No wonder you are constantly WRONG.
                .
                I guess you think it is stupid to say that CJB should throw the ball away instead of holding onto the ball and taking a sack.
                .
                You are the genius who predicted the Niners would not win another game.
                .
                You also were wrong about November 3rd.
                .
                Sure, I was wrong about November 4th, but believe me, you being wrong about Trumpty Dumpty, made my whole year.

            2. * “If KS wants to play OC, maybe he should not be HC.”
              Good thing we’ve got a HC expert on the blog! How would the 9ers manage without his expert advice?

  99. Very happy that Saleh got the job. Jets are more of a challenge needing a complete rebuild while the Chargers job would have been an easier start. But Saleh is well-organized and disciplined guy. He will put together a good coaching team — probably will get a DC with previous head coaching experience. It’s important that Joe Douglas works closely with Saleh for the draft and FA.

    Shanalynch have very deep connections within the league and I expect that they will tap into these connections to restock their coaching staff with young, promising coaches. I think the receiving coaching could use an upgrade. I am not sure how good Wes Welker is as a coach. The fact that they did not renew Sowers’s contract indicates that Kyle may be looking for improvements there.

  100. Lying season is now in full swing, so take this with a grain of salt, but reports out of the Jets now that Saleh is the HC is that they will stick with Darnold at QB and will be shopping the 2nd pick.

    Of course, Kliff Kingsbury tried to convince people Josh Rosen was his QB before the 2019 draft…

    1. Saleh should give us a break on cost for that #2 pick! I hope Shanny made that stipulation part of letting him have LeFleur….

      1. Razor
        * “Saleh should give us a break on cost for that #2 pick!”
        * 12th pick to 2nd pick = 1400 points.
        Does that mean the Jets would get JG + additional 9er draft picks and the 9ers would get the Jets #2 draft pick

        1. If the 49ers want to negotiate for the 2nd pick, the Jets will listen because of the relationship. But there won’t be any discount. The best the 49ers could hope for is “fair value”. Imagine the roasting Saleh and the GM would take if they gave the 49ers a discount. Just won’t happen, if they value their jobs.

          1. Cubus
            * “If they value their jobs.”
            I’m sure they do value their jobs! And trading draft pick #2 and passed on either Fields or Wilson,
            IMO would likely cost them their jobs!

  101. Saleh is going to the Jets and will want to poach as many players as possible. Since they have over 70 mil in cap space, the Jets could sign Sherman, Tartt, Hyder, Jordan and/or Williams.
    .
    Lafleur may want CJB, Juice, Bourne, Coleman, Compton and/or Dwelley.

  102. So now we have 10 picks in this years draft. This is the draft to trade up back into the 1st and 2nd.

  103. Saleh is lucky that he starts with a bad team record.
    You can only go up from 2-14!
    Now what about Darnold?
    Is he thrown in as a trade for JG?

      1. I’d think that’s likely, else Rutenberg could get a promotion and join Saleh as his LB coach. While Shanalynch may have some other candidate from outside lined up, continuity with a stable linebacker coaching staff would be a plus.

        Saleh/LeFleur could also take either Benton or Forester with him.

          1. Not sure they’d be able to hit the ground running in that capacity. Might be better served in quality control positions to begin their coaching careers….

          2. I have not heard anything from them in their past interviews with KNBR that either of them want to coach. It’s a tough slog to start as an assistant and work your way up. Not a lifestyle most former players want. Also most HoF-caliber players don’t make very good coaches because they have unrealistic expectations of their players and get frustrated easily.

  104. Sam Darnold.

    I’ve been looking at youtube video of Darnold. He’s a scrambler, can throw on the run and has a hell of an arm. On a rookie contract. Wonder if Kyle will want to work something out. Watson’s probably a pipe dream.

    1. It’s overwhelming likely that Watson stays in Houston.
      Douglas/Saleh/LeFleur have a big decision ahead on Darnold.

        1. I watched Darnold mostly during his Pac-12 seasons. I think he has the physical tools to succeed in Shanahan’s system as implemented by LeFleur. He really hasn’t had a chance so far with the Jets to show if he can be their guy. The latter and Saleh have to figure out this off-season if Darnold has the mental toughness and is sufficiently coachable. I was looking at the Jets roster and it’s pretty bare. So I won’t be surprised if they stay with Darnold and trade down to get a supporting cast for him.

    2. Ack, no. Sorry, George, Darnold does look good at times, but even during his college days, he tended to throw a head scratcher to the other team.
      .
      Yes, he looks good on his highlight film, but maybe you should see his lowlight plays, too. He did not make the players around him better, which resulted in a 2-14 season. He passed for 179 yards against the 49ers. Darnold had games where he passed for 120, 132 and 133 yards. Last season, he threw for 9 TDs and 11 picks.
      .
      Heck, Flacco replaced him for a while.
      .
      The Jets will almost certainly use one of their two first round picks for a QB. imho

  105. Here’s the draft positions for the Niners:
    Round 1, Pick 12
    Round 2, Pick 43
    Round 3 (compensatory pick)
    Round 4, Pick 108
    Round 5, Pick 139
    Round 5, Pick 157 (via NO)
    Round 5 (compensatory pick)
    Round 6, Pick 170
    Round 7, Pick 194 (via NYJ)
    Round 7, Pick 204

    A complete draft slate, I especially like the three 5th round picks! I can see a couple of trades to move around the board.

  106. So y’all wanna live out the western stereotype by being settlers with Jimmy or by trading down for Jones? Ok. Forget Jones cuz you’ve already got a game manager in Jimmy. Keep him and with the 12th pick, give him another weapon underneath and see if he can leave opposing defenses in the Pitts….

  107. I am going to be interested in the Senior bowl. There should be some QBs who may turn heads, and some smaller school invitees may shine.
    .
    Dillon Radunz, and David Moore may be good later O line prospects.
    .
    Jamie Newman and Feleipe Franks may be good QB prospects, who could shoot up in the draft rankings with a good Senior Bowl.

    1. Puzzling. I can’t imagine that trade ever having a snowballs chance in hell of happening. Could be Watson letting fans know it’s his preferred destination. I dunno….

    2. JG for Deshaun Watson, straight up. JG is a SB QB, and Caserio likes him.
      .
      Too bad they angered DW so much, he wants to leave. The Texans are in a very weak bargaining position, especially if DW threatens to sit and not play.

        1. George the fact you agree with Seb and acknowledge that trade as realistic,
          I’m starting to question your football acumen.
          You need to step up your game sir!

          1. Prime, the only way a trade will happen is if Watson has made it known in no uncertain terms that he is finished with the franchise and is prepared to retire if they force him to. Given that he has $38 million in the bank, the Texans would be fools to call his bluff….

            1. With a new coach and possibly GM on the way, why on Gods green earth would they trade him?
              If they hire a quality coach/GM, Pretty sure they will do everything they can in their power to convince him that they’re going to build a winner.
              If the player uses retirement as leverage, good luck ever getting the respect from fans and teammates ever again. Giving into that childish demand would set a precedent the NFL would never want to imagine and one the NFLPA would not back.

              1. They’ve already hired the GM. The relationship between player and franchise could be over.

              2. Razor if I’m Caserio, I’m having breakfast, lunch and diner with Watson every day and convincing him how great I’m gonna make the team.
                No matter how upset he is, there is a new regime ready to make him encouraged.

        2. Prime, I didn’t say a one-for-one swap would be enough. All I said was that I hoped he would tell management he’s not going to play. I didn’t say that he would. His wearing a Montana jersey is encouraging, though. You have to agree with that.

          1. I don’t read too much or believe in things when players start demanding where they want to play. Teams that give into that are setting themselves up for failure.

            I think my point was the fact you converse and agree with Seb’s BS all these years after what he’s done to this blog, makes me shake my head.

            I know you are a good guy but Seb? Really?

            1. So you want me to stop talking to him? I used to bitch at him all the time, if you remember. At least I’ve stopped talking to Bruce Lee, if you’ve noticed. Now Bruce has different issues. He thinks he’s a CNN reporter. Talk about Mr. McGoo!

              1. No George I would never tell anyone what to do. I’m a nobody.
                All I’m saying is that I think Seb was a large part of the reason a lot of long time posters left. It also didn’t help that Grant encouraged his rhetoric.
                I’m bitter that we lost a lot of those guys cause that’s when the blog was great.

                There was a guy on here long time ago called himself DS something. He was a pest like Seb but the blog moderator at the time banned him. People don’t know this but Seb was banned on Niners Nation.

              2. I hear you, but did you ever consider that people have left the blog because of the political bitterness? That’s why I left for a while. I came back because it’s still the best Niners blog in town.

                Btw, you’re not a nobody.

              3. Maybe George. But I know Seb got into it with a lot of guys. Maybe I’m just stupid for staying and engaging him.

              4. If you let it go, you’ll enjoy the blog more. Reality bites sometimes. Just accept it and learn to maneuver. Women are better at that than men are, I guess because they’re given so much crap.

              5. George, TYVM.
                .
                I am just a die hard, faithful Niner fan, who wants the Niners to get more rings.
                .
                I will hope you know, I have scrupulously avoided posting on other poster’s comments, unless addressed. I have repeated told them to scroll past.
                .
                I really respect your opinion, and effort to calm the waters.
                .
                I hope you can also see that I am trying very hard to stick to Football, but am human. Maybe the Niners could sweeten the pot by offering McGlinchey, too.
                .
                These are trying times, but I see a light at the end of the tunnel. With a way things are going, I hope it is not the light of an incoming train. ;p

            2. Primate is spilling the truth about himself. Finally!
              “I don’t read too much ”
              ” I’m a nobody.”
              “I’m just stupid”
              There you have it!
              From the horse’s mouth!!!

              1. Prime, there are still great posters on the blog and you know who they are. I recommend that you look for their comments and ignore the posters you don’t like. That’s what I’ve done and I’m enjoying it more.

              2. What part don’t you like about what you said about yourself Primate?
                Why are you whining to George when it’s your foul language and doxing that has left a stench on this site! George doesn’t lower himself to the base bowel movements that come out of your mouth when he doesn’t like someone.
                Tell US about that landslide you promised on November third!

    1. Sounds like he’s told the owner he’s done, and the team he wants is SF. They might already be in talks as we type.

  108. Yeah, Watson voiced his disappointment that he was not evolved in the GM hiring.
    But it was a genius move because now he has the leverage to get a biggg payday. Houston would be silly if they let Watson go, and on top of that, they may lose the locker room.

    Houston could be in a no win situation right now if they don’t appease Watson. New management does not want to start their regime on a sour note by moving Watson.

  109. As much as Watson would take us to the next level, I don’t like what he is upset about.
    Deshaun, you are the QB. Not Vice President of player personnel. STFU and just play football!

  110. I don’t give a rat’s patoot what Watson is upset about. What does that have to do with me? If he wants to come to SF and the Texans are willing to do it, Lynch will act so fast it’ll make Tyreek Hill look like Jerick McKinnon!

    1. So what’s to say he doesn’t get upset with the Niners for some personnel moves he doesn’t agree with?
      When a player starts making demands in areas he is not paid for, that’s a problem.

      1. I guess the Seahawks should get rid of Wilson then, since he wants input on the OC.

        If the 49ers started making moves like the Texans have these past few years I imagine quite a few players would have concerns.

        1. I would tell Wilson to know his role. Does he have the inside track on certain coaching circles that would mesh with Pete Carroll and John Schneider?
          Does he know how to even interview?

          I think players should be players, GM’s, GM’s and coaches coaches.
          Input should be relegated to the player sitting in on the interview and be an observer.

        2. Having input is fine, but apparently Watson was allowed more than just giving input.
          I’m not blaming Watson for how this has turned ugly. The blame falls completely and solely on the Houston management.
          And now it has backfired on them.

          Either the new regime caves into Watson by promising to run every FO move through him or they move on from him even at the certain fallout of players and fans.
          Houston dug their own hole on this.

          1. “Having input is fine, but apparently Watson was allowed more than just giving input.”

            Really? First I have heard of that. Please share this info.

    2. I don’t get the last part, but if he wants to come to SF, we should organize a parade. Oh, I forgot, we can’t do stuff like that anymore. We’ll be jailed. Mama mia. : (

    3. Raz,
      Are you OK with players being given the position to make a determination on who the front office should hire?
      I’m with Prime on this. Players are signed to play. Houston set a bad precedent for themselves by giving a player this kind of voice.
      And now they are in a bad situation.

      I certainly hope that the 49ers FO never puts themselves in this position.

      1. Generally I agree with that, but you can understand his frustration. As Scooter said, If the 49ers started making moves like the Texans have these past few years I imagine quite a few players would have concerns. Watson obviously wants to win championships, and that’s a guy we should want imo.

      2. Since when was Watson complaining that he didn’t get to make the decision on who was hired? I think you and Prime are mistaking the issue. He is upset because he was told by McNair that he would be kept in the loop and his input sought. It then wasn’t. He isn’t upset he didn’t get to choose the GM. He is upset his input on the decision wasn’t sought, after he was told it would be.

        Also, if you don’t think key players should have their voices heard by the organisation they play for, that organisation is going to struggle to attract and retain players over time. Happens everywhere.

        1. Dane Brugler
          @dpbrugler
          ·
          20h
          Mike LaFleur + Zach Wilson would be a VERY interesting match. #Jets
          Quote Tweet
          Adam Schefter
          @AdamSchefter
          · 20h
          New Jets’ HC Robert Saleh is expected to take 49ers passing game coordinator Mike LaFleur as his offensive coordinator, per sources. twitter.com/adamschefter/s…

          They can have Wilson if we can have Watson.???

              1. They might give Rosen an opportunity to compete in training camp, but I would vote against giving up any high value assets for Darnold….

        2. Agree. McNair said he would be kept in the loop and then he wasn’t. If McNair wasn’t going to seek his input, then he shouldn’t have said he would. I haven’t heard anywhere that Watson demanded to give his input.

        3. Houston promised Watson that he would have input, but what exactly does that entail?
          Was it input to recommend available players that could help the team or was it input to recommend FO moves? It certainly seems like the latter holds true.
          But again, this mess falls on management.

          1. Input entails input. Being given the chance to provide his thoughts, and having those thoughts heard (not just lip service). Not decision making.

        4. So you then think Watson wants out because they didn’t ask for his input? That makes him a prima donna. He is a culture buster.

          1. Lol! Another person that just wants a bunch of yes men, good little soldiers I see.

            How dare the face of the franchise feel like he should have a voice! Especially after a number of really bad FO decisions in recent years and then being told his voice will be heard! The gall of the man to then be upset.

            Culture buster? Sounds more like someone that actually cares what happens with the franchise he represents and the direction they go. I like that sort of culture.

            1. Scooter imagine if every player wanted input? What would happen then?
              And then let’s suppose for a minute, that they asked Watson for his “input”. Would that not slight other players on the team who maybe wanted to give their input? Like maybe JJ Watt.
              If any organization decided to let this happen just imagine the snow ball affect either way.

              1. Prime, a few things re this post:

                1. How do you know Watt wasn’t asked for his input? Tbh, I expect he was. Imo the opinion of key leadership figures should have been sought WRT to what they thought the issues with the previous regime was, things to correct in the next hire. Especially WRT to the next HC. That is common practice in pretty much any industry, tbh.

                2. There is a difference between getting the opinion of your key players and every player. And I think it is pretty clear who the key people are.

                3. McNair could have avoided a lot of the issue by not telling Watson his opinion would be sought and heard. The key issue here is Watson was told his input would be considered, then it wasn’t.

                4. Reading between the lines my understanding is this is largely more to do with the HC hire than the GM hire, and revolves around Bienemy not being included in the initial list of HC interviews. If I had to make a guess, Caserio put together the HC candidate list without consideration of Watson’s input, which is where the issue has all stemmed from. It all could have been very easily avoided with more open dialogue, which appears to be an ongoing issue for the Texans, and is an issue I expect will be resolved without Watson needing to be traded.

  111. Houston is one of the few meccas for piss poor culture and we have established ourselves as one of the premier culture destinations in the NFL. Doesn’t bother me one bit. In fact, I’d be much more concerned if a player like Watson just rolled over, stayed in his lane, shut up and did what he was told! I think it makes me want him more if I’m being honest….

      1. You’re jumping the shark by thinking in those terms. The owner promised his consultation and he reneged. He has every right to be upset, and put him outside his circle of trust….

        1. I understand Watson’s anger, but I don’t agree that it is a reason to possibly be traded.
          The only one who stands to win in this situation is Watson.
          Either the Texans find a way to appease Watson or they trade him. It’s a win, win for him.

          Input entails input. Watson’ anger goes beyond the scale of not making a decision.

          Aaron Rodgers was upset that the team drafted QB Love. I wonder if he had input in that decision. Isn’t he the face of the Packers franchise? Good soldiers don’t abandone their post. Rodgers sure didn’t.

          1. Watson’ anger goes beyond the scale of not making a decision.

            Yes it does. It includes having to deal with several bad decisions made by those above him, including the one decision that sent Hopkins to another team.

            1. Watson’ anger stems from Houston’s broken promise not to involve him or ask for his input.
              This is on Houston, as I’ve stated throughout this thread.
              At this point it might be in both party’s best interest to cut ties.

      2. Talk about throwing the baby out with the bath water.

        Sounds to me like you feel players should just be yes men. Keep quiet and be good little soldiers.

        I think players should have an open dialogue with the FO. If they have genuine concerns they should be heard. And the input of your key guys should be sought on key FO decisions as that directly impacts them. That isn’t to say they should have decision making powers, but their opinions should be considered.

      3. The problem is McNair told Watson he would have input and then didn’t take it. Watson has a right to be angry and looks like McNair realized it and apologized very publicly today.

  112. Tony Pauline Retweeted
    Pro Football Network
    @PFN365
    ·
    Jan 14
    Doug Pederson convinced the front office they needed the speed on the field of Jalen Reagor instead of Justin Jefferson.

    1. To be fair, many weren’t high on Jefferson. Not a smart move on their part at all, but I digress. ?

  113. Seb
    Does the CHARGERS FO know they’ve hired Seleh and Mike LaFleur? For you, looking at the world thru
    your belly button, then post “SHEET,” appears to be an obsession! We should add OCD to Narcissist and
    delusions of grandeur! YOU WIN, I’VE LEARNED MY LESSON….”IF” you had a brain, you’d take it out and PLAY WITH IT! ROFLMFAO…”SHEET” LESSON LEARNED!

      1. OK HC EXPERT! At 6′ 6″ X 270, just how much more “UP,” would you like me to grow?
        * Please do the blog a favor and stop making a fool out of yourself.
        BTW: To show my appreciation for your “SHEET” opinion(s), here’s an invitation for you! I’d like to invite your attention to the mistletoe on my coat tail. Do you need a stool to stand on?

          1. “Oh, threats? I hope you are banned forthwith.”

            LOL. And as usual, you’re trying to play the VICTIM! Except there is NO THREAT, just an invitation to a whining, narcissistic, know-it-all key board warrior, pretending to be a man. A wimp who’s only accomplishment is exposing his incompetence and ignorance. This is where you say, “I WIN,” “I must be living in your head.” Right SLEB? If SLEB goes over your head, Google it. It fits you like a glove!
            LMAO…”BANNED?” WHO is the Narcissistic clown that’s alienated the majority of people on the blog? You’re “PROTECTOR” is gone, learn to live with it. No one is getting BANNED because of you whining about being picked on, NOT WHEN YOU’RE THE PROBLEM!

              1. “Really, Please grow up.”
                REALLY? That’s it? That’s the best you can do? You don’t deny there was no threat, just you trying to play the victim! You sound like a broken record….The mouse that roar-eeer whines and snivels!

              2. I knew it was you all the time.
                .
                It really must burn you up to no end, to see that I was proven correct, and KS finally hired an OC.
                .
                I just read back your screed about ‘SHEET’, and realized- I won again. ;p
                .
                Oh, and please learn to spell.

              3. * “I knew it was you all the time.” That’s because you know I’m living in your head!
                * “it really must burn you up to no end.” Yea SLEB, You’re right…Laughing at your pathetic, anal posts, gives me heartBURN!
                * “I just read back your screed about ‘SHEET’, and realized- I LOST again. There, fixed it for ya.
                * I guess you still haven’t learned your lesson yet…See what I did there SLEB?
                BTW: How did you like my INVITATION? Have you found something tall enough to stand on?

              4. Maturity is an earned character trait. Ya gotta act mature.
                .
                I am now controlling your emotions. It is not reflecting well on your mental health. Please calm down and go away.

    1. * An old fool says: “Maturity is an earned character trait. Ya gotta act mature.” LOL!
      Maturity is earned? No fool, RESPECT is earned and you’re flat a$$ broke! Maturity is when you have reach OLD AGE. Trump being a good example, is he what you consider “an earned character trait?” See how you insist on making a fool out of yourself?
      * “I am now controlling your emotions.” ROFLMFAO! You can’t even control your wife, let alone my emotions!
      * “It is not reflecting well on your mental health?” So now you’re not just a obtuse, narcissist old cretin, but a mental health expert also? You’re a funny little wimp Sleb, you really are suffering from delusions of grandeur and I’m ALMOST beginning to feel sorry for you! You and your pathetic drivel is boring me! In a battle of wits, you’re unequivocally disarmed!

    1. How long have you been trying to convince Shanny to hire an OC? He finally listened to you. ㊙

      1. McDaniels goes to Shanny and says ” I’ve designed these plays that I want to run.”
        Shanny ” I like this one, this one, this one and this one. Throw those others out, I wont use those.”
        Mike “But I am the OC, and I want to call them.”
        Shanny ” Yeah, I am still calling the plays.”
        Mike “So what does my new role entail?”
        Shanny, “It’s the same as it was before, but you get to put OC on your business card.”

        1. Mike McDaniels has gotten a richly deserved raise. He could have gone to Miami, and given control of calling plays. He stayed because KS is ceding some of his authority. McDaniels acts as the OC and does the OC Duties and preparations. In the game, he is the one implementing the system, and calling down plays, after analysis. KS can then take that play, or call a different play that is unexpected. KS gets final say, so he is heavily involved in the planning process, and Mike McDaniels can coach like he is the Offensive Coordinator. Of course, I do not know exactly what is their arrangement, or how the play calling duties play out, but KS did promote Mike McDaniels to OC.
          .
          All I want to see is KS focusing on the moment, upping his game management, instead of sticking his nose in a play sheet.

          1. Seb,
            The filtering the plays through the HC system does not work. It results in numerous delay of game penalties. I see McDaniel putting together the game plan (he was already doing half of it) and KS doing the play calling, remember he likes to be in the QB’s ear as long as he can. I believe this move is just a way to give McDaniel a raise to keep him around. imho

            1. I respectfully disagree. If the Niners run the No Huddle, Hurry Up offense with quick varied snaps, they will consistently get off the plays before 10 seconds are left on the play clock. They will never incur a delay of game penalty, if they are competent and efficient.
              .
              I still think that KS will be the final say while calling the plays, but Mike McDaniels is the OC, and should perform all the duties of an OC, so KS can concentrate on being the HC. imho

              1. OC,

                Kyle is not giving up play calling duties. I would be shocked if he did so. It will still be a slight promotion for Mike as he will likely he will also be asked to take over more of the passing game responsibilities.
                However, as long as Kyle is calling the plays it’s largely just a title change to keep his staff together.

                In my company they renamed “managers” in the financial sector to “Vice President’s”. It sounds better, and might even look like a promotion on you’re resume but neither the pay or responsibilities changed.
                This is only slightly better than that but it allows Kyle to protect him from other teams trying to poach him as an OC. Which would be likely. However, it’s highly unlikely that someone would try to take an OC who doesn’t call the plays away as a Head Coach.

              2. The board has told Seb this for years but no, he’s is right and knows everything.
                Actually, the 49ers organization apparently reads this blog and takes all these ideas into consideration into their planning.

            2. Yes, it is just a title, but KS needs to delegate authority. As HC, he has a myriad of duties to attend to. Game management is not accomplished while looking at a play sheet.
              .
              KS has become smarter, because he now has some one to help him succeed. As OC, Mike McDaniel has a myriad amount of duties to execute and accomplish. He can perform those tasks, and still let KS have the final say.
              .
              Despite the snarking of the ill informed, there is no negative to hiring an OC, just positives. Of course, some may want to make it twice as hard to win, like PT.

              1. It’s not a negative either. The only reason McDaniel was given the OC tittle was so he could not get hired by another team looking for a coordinator.
                You’re so clueless.

              2. When he starts calling plays he’s a real OC. Until then he’s not.

                I do believe Kyle will relinquish play calling at some point, when he feels the assistant understands his offense well enough. This would be similar to Bill Belichick who has gone without a DC multiple times then handed over the DC roll when he was satisfied with how well they know the D, and how he wants it run.

              3. No, he is a real OC and he gets paid like one. You are making assertions that I do not think reflect reality. Mike McDaniels could have gone to several teams that do not have an OC right now. They would give him the authority to call plays. It would be a promotion. It would enhance his career. If KS said that McDaniel would not be given any authority to at least present possible play scenarios, He most certainly would leave. I do not know for certain, but I expect that KS has ceded some authority, in order to retain him.
                .
                Maybe you think that Mike McDaniel is as clueless as Prime, and would be content to be powerless and insignificant. I think that Mike McDaniel is smart, and will make choices that will further his career.

              4. “ I think that Mike McDaniel is smart, and will make choices that will further his career”

                You know this how? Smoking your bong and you had an epiphany? Or did your crystal glass pipe give you some insight into the life of Mike McDaniel?
                GTFOH

              5. You are not even an American. In America, there are few limitations, and people are free to pursue happiness. Of course, you are content to dwell in your misery, so happiness eludes you, but believe it or not, there are hard working ambitious people in America.

              6. If KS said that McDaniel would not be given any authority to at least present possible play scenarios, He most certainly would leave.

                He already does that as the run game coordinator. So that wouldn’t be a change.

                Let’s just wait until the press conference when Kyle answers who will be calling the plays.

              7. He only presented running options. Mike Lafleur presented the passing options.
                .
                Mike McDaniel could have been a candidate for many teams, so KS retained him by promoting him to OC. It is not out of the realm of possibilities, that he may want to take on all the duties an OC is tasked with.

              8. Yeah, I stated that above. I just don’t consider anyone to be a real OC that is not calling the plays and I doubt Kyle is going to be giving up those duties.

                In essence as I stated, I suspect that Kyle just combined two jobs into one, and gave the guy a title promotion and pay raise to keep him.

                If that is the case, if anything it will force Kyle to take on more responsibility rather than lesson the load.

  114. Shhh, don’t tell Prime that. He might go ballistic! ;p
    .
    Back at ya, Razor. Demeco Ryans was your call for months.

    1. Yeah the organization is reading what we say on this blog. Just like they were listening to Grant.
      Delusional!

  115. Orwell 1984: “The point is that we are all capable of believing things which we know to be untrue, and then, when we are finally proved wrong, impudently twisting the facts so as to show that we were right. Intellectually, it is possible to carry on this process for an indefinite time: the only check on it is that sooner or later a false belief bumps up against solid reality, usually on a battlefield.”

    1. Hopefully the relationship is so damaged that the Texans are forced to take less picks.

      1. The relationship seems fractured beyond repair. The only question left is who gets him and for how much?

        1. It likely depends on Watson telling the FO he’s willing to set out the 2021 season, like T Williams did. Then seeing which side blinks first.
          Q: I know the Texans would still be on the hook for $21.6 million in 2021, even if Watson isn’t on the team, but does anyone know if Watson will get paid, if he sets out the season?

    2. Although it probably doesn’t mean much, Bruschi is proposing Jimmy G as the perfect fit for the Patriots. His reasoning is that Jimmy G could handle the pressure better than some (such as Cam Newton) as the guy that is to follow Tom Brady – because Jimmy G has done it before. Newton might not have been able to handle the pressure. Newton said:

      “We are depending on a lot of people who are not used to the pressures of being a New England Patriots player,” Newton said. “And honestly, if I am being honest and candid, I am one of those players.”

      So, who knows. Could be a good fit for Jimmy.

      https://sports.yahoo.com/tedy-bruschi-proposes-qb-thinks-184412449.html

    3. Hate to be seeming to rain on the Watson parade, but have we figured out how to accommodate Watson’s $39M/year salary within the cap limits? Just asking for a friend named Paraag :)

      1. Mood, they’re paying Jimmy $27, isn’t that the number? And MidWest’s article says,
        “Watson’s salary cap charge in 2021 would be just $10.54 million for the team acquiring him. . . . The tougher part of Deshaun Watson’s contract for the team acquiring him comes in 2022 and beyond. Watson’s salary cap hit jumps to $35 million and above in 2022 and 2023. It does drop back below $35 million in 2024 and 2025.”

        Also, I buy into Scooter’s guess that Warner will be “Bucknerized.” Might he be traded to the Jets as part of some draft pick swap? And might that be the path to securing Watson?

        And then there’s Williams. There has to be a cheaper but effective way to replace him at LT, don’t you think?

        One last point: Most assume the salary cap will rise after this year, but I think it’s more likely it will stay the same or even decline. Viruses mutate and vaccines must be updated. This would seem to equate to continued lockdowns and withering revenues.

        1. Also, I buy into Scooter’s guess that Warner will be “Bucknerized.” 

          I would throw in Samuel and Greenlaw into that scenario as well.

          1. Samuel and Greenlaw aren’t yet up for contract extenions, nor all pro players. That’s why I said Warner could get the Buckner treatment this offseason.

      2. Ok, good to know the numbers. Aside from the $35M (20% of the cap), there are the draft picks that will be lost. The trade is possible but seems unlikely to me. We’ll see.
        Also, Jimmy G’s salary in 2021 is $24.8M.

  116. GGN had Saleh potentially signing several 49er FAs. They mentioned Sherman, Hyder, K’Waun Williams, Verrett, DJ Jones and Ronald Blair. Unfortunately for the Niners, the Jets have a 70 mil cap space to sign players.
    .
    I wonder if Mike might want CJB, Bourne, Dwelley, Compton and Wilson.
    .
    It will be interesting to see who wins today. It will have 2 Cal players squaring off, so I guess Cal will win, no matter what. Some may diss Goff, so for that reason, I am going with the Rams for this playoff game.

  117. Soff Goff will go to his happy place better known as his fetal position after he’s been hit a few times, lol.

    1. Well, I hoped they would do well, but the loss of Cooper Kupp , just made it twice as hard to win. At least a Cal QB won. The Packers look like a complete team, with no weaknesses.
      .
      Ravens were driving to get a tying TD, when disaster struck. Then, Jackson becoming injured did not help. However, Tyler Huntley opened some eyes. He seemed to be as elusive as Jackson was in the pocket, and made some throws.

      1. What did I tell you about Lamar Jackson?
        That style of QB doesn’t win championships. Just like your hero Kap.

        1. The Ravens just met up with a superior team. Sure, blame Lamar Jackson for snapping the ball over his head. I will not. Sure, blame him for getting a concussion, that is obtuse.
          .
          Yes, Kaep is a hero, and they ALL knelt before the game. Now that your hero is slinking away, Kaep should be able to play again.
          .
          Remember, Kaep took the league by storm, just like you said.

          1. Yeah yeah yeah. You conveniently forgot what you said about Jackson. That’s ok. Just another example of how little you know about this game.

            1. I knew enough to advocate that KS hire an OC. You derided that notion, so you really need to stop being wrong all the time.
              .
              If you are constantly wrong, you prove that your football knowledge is miniscule.

  118. More evidence that Watson is headed to the bay:

    “But sources close to Watson say this is bigger than firing Jack Easterby, the front office executive whom McNair says he won’t fire. He says — this source says — that unless Cal McNair can fire himself, Deshaun Watson is not about to change his mind that he does not want anything to do with the Texans going forward.”

    “He is one unhappy camper and has no plans to be with the Houston Texans anytime soon — if ever,” Adam Schefter said Saturday on ESPN’s “Postseason NFL Countdown.”

    He controls his own destination with the no trade clause, and his decision was made public with his tweet wearing Montana’s #16 jersey! Word on the street is surreptitious negotiations between Lynch and the Texans has been ongoing for the past 2 days….

    1. He doesn’t 100% control his destination. The Texans still need to find compensation they accept. And if Watson doesn’t want anything to do with the Texans he would be silly to refuse all teams but the 49ers. Because sitting out just costs him money – the Texans will call his bluff if they aren’t able to get reasonable compensation. If he doesn’t want to play for the Texans it is in his best interest to accept a move elsewhere, even if it isn’t his preferred destination.

      1. Lynch’s compensation package will be fair for both parties. I’d expect an announcement within the week.

        1. A trade can’t be finalised until the new league year, so I would be surprised if any trade is sorted well in advance of that.

            1. There’s really not much incentive for the Texans to get a trade agreement in principle in place quickly.

              1. If both parties are in agreement as to compensation within a framework of a deal, why would any further incentive be necessary?

              2. The Texans don’t want to trade Watson, so they don’t want to rush a trade. They will do whatever they can to appease Watson first, and part of that will not be making decisions while emotions are high. They will want to slow play it as much as possible to see if they can de-escalate the situation.

                Then, if they can’t appease him, they will do whatever they can to encourage a bidding war. Rushing a trade makes no sense for the Texans.

  119. ” Word on the street is surreptitious negotiations between Lynch and the Texans has been ongoing for the past 2 days….”

    C’mon Razor, you gotta provide more details than “word on the street”. Where did you hear that from?

  120. For those worried about Watson’s contract.

    Watson costs less than JG in salary owed over the next two seasons (in aggregate). The structure of Watson’s deal means most of the cap hit will be in 2022 for those two years. Lynch has already indicated that if money gets tight (and it likely will) that restructuring JG’s contract is an option – without a pay cut or extension that would likely put the timing of cap hits more in line with Watson anyway, but still higher overall. If JG then were to get a new contract after those two years he is likely to get over $30M per year, as QB salaries increase across the league. So from a cap perspective Watson is actually cheaper the next two years and probably not much different longer term.

    1. Scooter,
      Thanks for cutting through the red tape on Watson’ contact vs JG.

      My only concern and question is if Watson is a legitimate elite QB?
      He hasn’t been able to get his team past a Divisional playoff game while on the other hand, Garoppolo has made it to the Superbowl.

      But that said, I like Watson a lot and pushed for him back in his draft year. He would really flourish under Shanahan.
      TBD

      1. Look at Watsons stats vs Jimmy’s for 2019. Almost identical. Is he a better athlete than JG. Yes. Is he a better QB? TBD. Is he a better leader? No. I don’t think the Niners would trade away their future for Watson.

        1. Agree. Shanalynch and Paraag seem to stress on the long haul and not mortgage the future to any great extent, especially on the draft considering that the Niners have to sign their young emerging stars and starters to extensions. The may need draft capital to replace some of these young starters who may not be affordable in a couple of years.

    2. So it may come down a poison pill terms by Houston on the draft capital — something like three first rounders.

  121. Matt Barrows
    @mattbarrows
    ·
    10h
    Breaking down Kevin’s stat by player:

    LT Trent Williams, 6 (1 declined)
    RT Mike McGlinchey, 5 (1 declined)
    TE Ross Dwelley, 4
    OL Justin Skule, 2
    OL Daniel Brunskill, 1
    G Laken Tomlinson, 1
    TE George Kittle, 1
    WR Brandon Aiyuk, 1
    WR Richie James, 1
    Quote Tweet
    Kevin Seifert
    @SeifertESPN
    · 10h
    Most offensive holding calls, 2020*

    1. 49ers (22)
    2. Bills (20)
    3. Vikings (20)
    4. Colts (18)
    4. Packers 18)

  122. Yes, the Niners need to do their due diligence, and explore all options. Being objective, I would have to admit that Watson is superior to JG, but JL should not negotiate from a position of weakness.
    .
    If DW is demanding a trade, the Niners should offer a ham sandwich for him. Maybe it has gotten so toxic, they will just cut him.
    .
    With a calm confident stance, the Niners should offer JG for DW, straight up. Maybe the Niners should sweeten the pot by additionally offering Mike McGlinchey. The Houston Texans just shot themselves in the foot, so they do not have a leg to stand on.

  123. Scooter:

    Ojulari moves into the top 20
    Georgia OLB Azeez Ojulari moves into the top 20 in the player rankings of my NFL Draft big board, jumping ahead of Miami’s Gregory Rousseau. It’s a combination of Ojulari showing great playmaking skills and the ability to impact games in a variety of ways on defense coupled with Rousseau’s inactivity this year based on his decision to opt-out. There is concern among league scouts that Rousseau is a one-trick pony and purely an edge rusher who exploited college-level opponents.

    -Tony Pauline

      1. It will be the guaranteed money and the number of years that will matter. Per year pay is smokescreen that Paraag can play with.

    1. This is why I have been leaning away from wanting the 49ers to resign Williams. If Williams is willing to sign on for an average of $20 million/year, then the team should so; however, if Williams is wanting more than $20 million/year or to be the highest paid OT, then the 49ers should let him walk.

      1. Yeah, I brought this up a couple weeks ago. Giving Williams a massive payday for perhaps 2-3 years of productive football seems to steep for me.
        If we weren’t strapped down by our cap space signing him would be a priority, but such is not the case.

        There aren’t any Trent Williams’ in the draft, but I believe that we could find one or two Olineman that can give the team 8-10 years of sustainability. Given extra draft picks it’s very possible to find a gem or two this year in the draft as well as a FA.

        If some of our defensive secondary decides to follow Saleh we will be looking at having to sign some FA.
        Letting Williams walk allows us to keep many of our players intact and keep JG while still being able to draft a future QB to groom for 1-2 years.
        Pulling up Brink’s trucks to satisfy Williams when there are other needs on the team could financially hamper the 49ers for years to come.

    2. Villanueva played on one of the worst run blocking units in the NFL, and was part of the problem. I don’t see the fit.

      But yeah, if Williams prices himself out of a contract with the 49ers then signing a guy in FA makes sense.

  124. Jack Hammer thinks the Niners should sign Michael Davis, CB. I hope they re-sign Verrett and K’Waun Williams.
    .
    JL should stay away from Michael Davis because of his red flags.
    .
    Hammer also thinks the Niners should re-sign Aldon Smith. I do not think the Niners should touch him with a 10 foot pole. He has so many red flags, he looks like a semaphore. If JL starts to look at All Done, some one should scream- Reuben Foster! in his ear.
    .
    Grant thinks that TW will not sign with the Niners. I am glad he agrees with me. Other teams will throw money at him, and the Niners just do not have enough cap space to sign him, and 10 other Niner FAs.

    1. Who cares what Grant and Jack think the Niners should do? This isn’t their blog dummy!

          1. January 17, 2021

            Primate says:
            ” I’m a nobody.”
            How are those 12 steps working for you, Primate?
            You know you’ll have to publicly apologize for all your name calling and doxing me!

              1. Falling of the wagon already.
                January 15, 2021 at 3:10 pm
                Primate says:
                ” I’m a nobody.”
                Nah, you’re a foulmouthed loser who’s Seb’s Biatch!

  125. It is being reported that Watson requested for the Texans to interview Saleh for the head coaching position but had his request ignored.

  126. Hmm, some may speculate that JJ Watt is not happy with the owner, too.
    .
    Maybe the 49ers should offer JG and Arik Armstead, for DW and JJ Watt .
    .
    Sure, it may seem one sided, but the Texans may be forced to release them, if they have legitimate reasons to file a grievance. DW does not hit 10 with no reason at all.
    .
    I would not be surprised if Caserio backs out, now.

  127. Watt is starting to fade, and trading for him when the Texans are expected to cut him would be a very bad move. And while I am not as down as Garoppolo as others are, there is no question Watson is a much better QB, so it will take much more than just trading Garoppolo for the 49ers to get him. Finally, Armstead has a dead cap of over $28 million next season and $16.5 million in 2022.

    1. Not sure how anyone can predict what percent of the salary cap a player will make in 2022 at this juncture. Could potentially be more than 15%… or less (though that is unlikely I think). Either way, no way would you do the trade for a one year rental.

      1. And why are people assuming the cap is going down 30 Million this year?
        No one knows the number but somehow people are saying we can’t sign this guy or that guy.

    2. That’s not his dumbest idea but it ranks right up there with bringing Kaepernick back.

  128. For those who might be interested, just saw that the Alex Smith comeback story will be on 60 minutes tonight.

    1. In my opinion, Watson will be traded from Houston, but it won’t be to the Scarlett & Gold.

      The Jets and Dolphins have more to offer I’m trade compensation — and, from an article I read, Miami is Watson’s preferred destination.

      The way I see it, best case scenario is Watson goes to Miami, Tua goes to Houston, the Jets stick with Darnold, while the best QBs fall a couple picks in the draft.

      Wether Shanahan is smitten by said QBs is another story

      1. Why did Watson tweet out himself in a 49ers jersey the other day then if his preferred destination is Miami?

        No way Texas wants him in the AFC. It’ll be an NFC team.

  129. There is a lot of moving parts. I think SF will put an offer in. Will it be better then Miami’s? I don’t think so. The only way he comes to SF is if he declines to go to other places. But the rumor has it he wants to play for a black HC. He has been pushing Houston for a minority hire. Plus will he want to go to SF when they passed him up? Will Kyle admit the mistake of not taking him. At the end, I don’t see it happening. I just don’t.

    1. If he wants a black HC, why did he tweet out himself in a 49ers jersey?

      The Texans won’t trade him to an AFC team.

      Kyle’s made mistakes but he’s never been wrong.

      1. Razor,

        Watson didn’t tweet out himself in a 49er jersey.
        Another user tagged him in a photo and he commented “dope pic”.
        Hardly a reason to think he doesn’t prefer Miami

        Not saying he doesn’t want to to come to SF (or that I wouldn’t want him to join the team). Just that it’s not as black and white as you say it is.

        Valid point about trading him to a NFC team, though.

        1. The “farm” being 2021 #12, 2022 #32, 2023 #32. You can keep the farm, Jerry. I’ll take the promiseland!

          1. And what about his contract? I’m on the draft and develop your own QB bandwagon.
            Keep Jimmy for another 2 years but draft your QB of the future this year.

            1. Let, Paraag worry about the contract, and instead focus on building a bigger trophy case.

            2. January 15, 2021 at 3:10 pm
              Primate says:
              ” No George I would never tell anyone what to do. I’m a nobody.”
              “I’m a nobody.”

          2. I agree I would not sell the farm for a guy like that. Not with that mentality! Obviously that would have to be true. I’m not convinced that’s his mind set. But if he goes to Miami I will question his character.

          3. So you’re predicting 2 super victories with Watson. I wouldn’t do that even if we were talking Rogers. I know he has a big arm but there’s a lot more to being a great QB and leadership is one of my big concerns.

      1. I think it’s likely they could have a framework in place for a deal, but it wouldn’t be official until March 17.

    1. But if I were the 49ers I would want to have a “deal” in place to move Jimmy G first. You want to get as much as possible for him. If a trade for Watson happens first, then the 49ers would seem to be in a weak bargaining position unless there is a bidding war for Jimmy G, which is highly unlikely.

      1. Are the Texans not in a position of bargaining weakness as well?
        They have a Eli Manning situation on their hands.
        This is so awful for sports. I hate when players do this kinda stuff.

      2. If they trade JG first, won’t that put the 49ers in a position of weakness in negotiating for Watson?

        1. I should have been more clear. They need to have a trade in place that they feel comfortable will go through. They should try not to announce it prior to a deal for Watson, imo. Is this doable in reality? That I don’t know.

          How do you think they should go about it? Because if they get Watson, Jimmy is gone and everyone in the league knows it. As far as I can tell, they can’t keep him under any circumstance.

          I guess I’m thinking that the team will have to give up a lot of picks for Watson, and I would want to try to mitigate that by getting the highest pick I could for Jimmy.

          1. It’s hard to keep it quiet because to shop JG around you are talking with people that are outside your building and some likely won’t have a vested interest in keeping it quiet. Let’s say one of the parties is also a party that is thinking about making an offer for Watson – what is the benefit of not leaking that JG is being shopped?

  130. No, Grant, the Niners will not cut JG. JL has too much class for that, and would not stab JG in the back.
    .
    JL would not pull a Baalke, and dismantle a SB team. Until a better alternative comes around, JG gives them their best chance to win a ring.
    .
    Yes, If they can trade away Buckner, nobody is untouchable, so JG could be traded away for the right compensation.
    .
    Instead of cutting JG, and letting him go back to NE for free, The Niners should trade JG to Bellichick for at least 2 first round picks and a second round pick. However, that may be giving Bill more rings, thus less possible rings for the Niners. JL needs to think the whole scenario through, and weigh the costs and benefits.
    .
    Now some are saying that DW wants to play for a black HC. Then why did he wear a JM jersey? KS is not black. Maybe DW was just sick of white HCs and white owners lying to him. Maybe he felt disrespected as a black QB. Fortunately, KS is a straight shooter, and will not leave DW out of the loop, if promised to include him.
    .
    This is a cluster flock that Houston is totally at fault. They deserve to lose DW, and they will not get 3 firsts and 3 seconds for him. Maybe they will get a couple day 3 picks for him.

  131. I told Grant a few weeks before he bounced that the Inside the 49ers Blog could do well without him and it has.
    Over 1000 comments on this thread.

    But, that said, we could use a reset with a fresh topic. Hopefully, CW can help with this.

    1. AES,
      This board is amazing. It resiliency has proven to be even stronger than I thought, which is quite a testament to the community that has been built here. I really wish the PD would at least offer itself to be run by a fresh grad or 2 as a freelance gig where the “blogger” promises to write 2 posts per week. It could be a great way for a young up and coming writer to get their foot in the door.
      Hell, they might even be able to do this as a paid internship given that the blogger could be anywhere in the world.

  132. 1. If a QB falls to 12 snag him.
    2. Better to trade the farm for proven talent then it is for unproven talent such as the draft.
    3. Its not that hard to put together a deal involving three teams or more. Its called escrow. The NFL may have another name or system in place to accommodate multi team trades, I don’t know. The only criteria needed is the desire to make it happen.

    A ‘possible’ scenario might look something like this. Escrow opens up…

    The Niners trade JG to Patriots for a 2nd round pick. JG is better then when the Niners gave up a third for him. BB knows JG and vice a versa. JG has SB experience.

    Niners acquire Watson for this years first, next years first, this years second and the second from the Patriots. If that’s not enough, they can throw in Armstead or maybe add the two three’s that Saleh provided the Niners with. Lots of ways to make Watson happen. (the above was only an example in no way do I adhere to it or dismiss it).

    A scenario like above is handled simultaneously in escrow where a neutral party handles the transaction and if any party fails to uphold the deal then it falls apart. Its quite simple really. All three parties are dealing from strength.

    So now hypothetically Watson is the new QB and the Niners gave up a lot for him, do they really want to let TW get away after such a huge investment? Injuries them blasted injuries…

  133. Rich Scangarello is the new QB coach.

    Foerster is the new OL coach.

    Both upgrades in my mind. Now, can we upgrade the special teams coach too please?

    1. Houston is gonna hire Leslie Fraser to be their next head coach. This is a guy Tony Dungy has supported and someone Watson respects tremendously.

      1. The Texans are going to interview Bieniemy today. Frazier is not going to be the HC, according to this new report.
        .
        Wrong again.

    2. Just bluster. ‘As soon as Caserio talks with DW…..’ You mean he has not even talked to DW? No wonder DW is furious. ‘I am sure that he will smooth the waters.’ Don’t bet on it.
      .
      Now, Schefter just posted-‘ There have been internal discussions about trading DW’. Guess DW is going ballistic.
      .
      Sigh, they just informed DW that they will not fire Jack Easterby. The Texans just told DW that he should shut up and play. That seems to be going over like a lead balloon.
      .
      I predict the hiring of Frazier is not going to matter. DW will disprove the rumors that he will only play for a black coach, especially with a white racist FO.

            1. Primate says:
              ” I’m still a nobody.”
              And you always will be.
              Tells US about your November 3rd prediction!

              1. Oh Dee. I can’t wait to hear you cry how you have no money, no job and no life when Biden cripples the USA.
                Good luck idiot!

              2. Dee, just go ask your governemnt for a hand out. Thats all your good for. That and chirping from the bleechers!

              3. Primate, you must speak from personal experience about hand outs.
                How long have you been on the dole now?
                That’s why your mantra is: “I’m still a nobody!”.

              4. Even though my brother avoids nobodies like you Primate, I’m sure he’ll make an exception to get a “tough guy” like you arrested. Check him out!
                I’m surprised though you haven’t run into my cousin, who has a grocery store in your hometown.
                He does carry. Check him out too!
                Let them know that you’re “still a nobody!”

              5. HAHA, So you don’t even know my brother’s name!
                Shows what a smart cookie you are….
                Yes, you still are a nobody!

              6. You of all people can’t find my cousin’s store? LOL
                His name is John with the same last name as me of course.
                If you can’t figure out where his store is than you are dumber than you look and it will be evident why your motto is : ” I’m still a nobody.”

      1. Rib, I’ve enjoyed the hype as much as anyone. But when a Houston beat reporter throws water on my face, it’s time to wake up from the dream. Puts us back into the pickle we were in.

  134. Barnwell refutes the Houston Chronicle reporter:

    I can tell you that I don’t love either of the most obvious destinations for Deshaun Watson. The Dolphins are the easy pick. They have the draft picks. They have the cap space to trade for Watson. They have the possible quarterback to trade in Tua Tagovailoa.

    They’re going to have their third offensive coordinator in three years. They don’t have very much in the way of weapons. And they’re still a middling line after sending Larmey Tunsil, coincidentally, to the Texans.

    The Jets have that franchise left tackle in Mehki Becton, but they have a bottom-five roster elsewhere and they would trade away most of their future draft picks just to acquire Watson. It would be very similar to where he was in Houston where they have a good top-level talent core, but very little around those four or five star pieces.

    Barnwell believes the Colts would serve as the best landing spot for Watson but believes Houston is smart enough not to trade him within the division where they’d face him twice a year. Bill O’Brien ain’t walking through that door.

    Given the various options. Given who has the cap space, given who is likely to make this sort of deal, I like the 49ers. As a team who has a great offensive coach, weapons across the board, and a solid offensive line.

    The Niners were a Super Bowl team last year with Jimmy Garoppolo. Watson would be a major upgrade. On top of that, we know how much the Texans love former Patriots. This would be a chance for them to add another one if they do decide to give into Waston’s wishes and hit the reset button.

      1. The reporter is talking out of his ass. This is the same guy that said he would never be traded, meanwhile the internal discussions of a trade have been ongoing. All he is doing is doubling down on his misreading of the situation from the beginning!

        Texans have had internal conversations about possible trade partners for Deshaun Watson and what their quarterback position would look like in the future without him, per ESPN’s
        @sarahbarshop

        Multiple people in and around the Houston Texans organization believe Deshaun Watson has played his last snap with the team, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

        1. Not so fast, sir. In the video interview with MM, I saw the guy’s lips move. If he was talking out of his ass, he’d have to also be a ventriloquist.

            1. So that’s your proof about the Houston beat reporter? Looks like Jim Carrey’s ass to me.

    1. Vince Casserio needs a nose job. Maybe he’s a space alien.

      Anyway, this article just shows how it can be done.

    2. Dude give it a rest it’s not happening lol. First Wilson now Watson lol. It’s not happening. Niners are not giving up premium draft picks they got 40 unrestricted Free Agents. Plus the article you posted is from a nobody. Until Adam Schaffer or Matt Maiacco report anything involving Watson and SF, it’s not remotely accurate. Those are facts.

      1. The soul will only be at rest when it stops hoping.

        For a nobody he sure laid out what I’ve been saying in a more eloquent and succinct fashion. I’d say I’m the nobody, and he’s the somebody with connections to sources around the league.

        You have no better idea what is remotely accurate than anybody else, and that also is a fact my friend!

  135. The problem you have is that you follow your heart not your brain. Which is weird because your a smart dude when it comes to football. I’m looking at things realistically, if there is a year to go all in for a QB, it’s in 2022. With 37 unrestricted free agents, SF will get a very good amount of comp picks on top of an extra third rnd pick from Saleh. They could easily have 12-15 picks in the 2022 draft. But let’s forget about that and go back to Watson. Why the F*uck would Watson wave his no trade clause to go to a state with 13 percent income tax??? Mind you Texas has Zero and so does Florida. I will go a step further, Watson plays a style that Kyle does not care for. Back yard football. Play off structure all the time. He didn’t like a healthy RG3. He certainly won’t give up his next two drafts for a QB he passed on in 2017… Lots of facts in there for you :)… If you want to move on from Jimmy, focus on getting Stafford. Much more realistic and a much better fit.

    1. 2022 draft class of quarterbacks isn’t as good and it’s not close.

      Taxes? Or winning SB’s, culture, history, 1st class treatment, weather. Last I checked, it’s a popular destination.

      Shanny was very interested in Josh Allen. Here’s a direct quote on what he wants at the position:

      “So, I evaluate quarterbacks in terms of trying to find people who can have a chance to be one of those elite-type guys and there’s lots of different ways to do it. You can see now there’s plenty of different ways, so I don’t think that’ll ever change. I don’t think you have one certain thing you’re looking for. You’re just trying to find a guy who is better than about 98 percent of the people on this planet or in this country and when you find that, you get him and you adjust to him.”

    1. Josh Allen couldn’t hit the broad side of a barn when he came out. 66 mph ball velocity is unique, and credit the kid, Daboll, and the GM for his development.

      The only reason I discounted, Watson during the draft process was due to his 49 mph ball velocity, which was well below the pro tolerant. Lesson learned.

  136. It a little silly talking about the draft until T. Williams signs or doesn’t sign with the 9ers. If he signs they can draft any position they want, if he doesn’t sign and they don’t sign a exceptional FA OT they must draft a OT in the 1st round. I still think they can trade back to around #18 and draft a OT and pick up an extra 2nd round pick. If they trade back and pick up a 2nd they could end up with 1 first, 2 seconds and if Martin Mayhew leaves to become a GM 2 third round picks. Those picks along with their other picks will allow them to do a mini rebuild as well as get their cap under control.

    1. Yep, this year more than most, what they do in FA will have significant implications on what they do in the draft just because they have so many guys, including some key guys, off contract.

        1. Williams’ “value” could possibly peak at 20m. That would create stress on the cap and hamper the team in signing their own FA’s if they choose to keep him.

          Coach is right. Let’s see what happens on this front first.
          If Williams really wants to stay with the 49ers, he and his agent will work out something that satisfies both parties. But, if he can get 20m elsewhere why not go for it. I just hope that the 49ers aren’t a suiter at that price.

    1. I saw this on Saturday. I wonder if the NFL Network will air the Pro Days of each of the top prospects.

  137. I think they should have an urgent priority, to re-sign TW if they can get a home discount. Since he is a Pro Bowler, and considered one of the tops in the game, he will command 22+ million.
    .
    Still, the Niners need to draft an O Lineman, and some prospects have shown their versatility. Fortunately, this is a draft deep in O Line talent. Even if the rookie has to sit for a year, that means a superior option is available, so he can learn while working out to get stronger.
    .
    I am glad that the Niners got Foerster and Scangarello. It will help with the continuity, since they were former Niner coaches.
    .
    Since Saleh went to the Jets, maybe the Niners and Jets can make a deal, that benefits both teams. Maybe throw in a defensive player to sweeten the pot.

  138. https://www.ninersnation.com/2021/1/19/22237893/florio-the-49ers-should-explore-a-trade-for-kirk-cousins

    As much as many here hate this idea, I suspect KS will explore it. We all know he’s always wanted Kirk. Three factors in favor of Kirk:

    1) He’s only missed one start in 6 seasons
    2) His deep ball accuracy is significantly better than Jimmy’s so he would open up the offense
    3) He’s already pretty familiar with KS’ offense, so he could pretty much step right in.

    But Cousins definitely has his downsides. In the end, working with KS, he might be a small upgrade to Jimmy G.
    The attached article is written by Posey over at NN even though Florio proposed the trade. Posey does a nice analysis of the pros and cons.

    1. Cousins has already cost us Mahomes and Watson. If he’s still infatuated all he has to do is select, Mac Jones in round 2 and he’s got himself, Cousins 2.0. Younger and much cheaper….

      1. +1.
        Cousins is not a long term QB that the team can hang their hat on for the next 5+ years. Also, unlike JG, Cousins can’t get beyond a Divisional playoff game. The only plus that I gives Cousins is his availability over JG.

        1. Availability and Cousins is a much better deep ball thrower, as well as having a stronger arm. If memory serves me, he tested out around 59 mph ball velocity. I think Jimmy was around 55 mph….

          1. What has 59 mph done for Cousins?
            He hasn’t proven anything to me. The one big playoff game that stands out for me is the last second miracle catch by Diggs. Nothing of any big significance after that.

            It’s become the norm lately to create different scenarios of QBs who could replace JG.
            One week it’s Watson then it’s Cousins, heck, I’m sure that next week there will be a new flavor.
            How about another QB that Shanahan is familiar with in RGIII?

            My question is what have these guys done?
            At this point I would just keep JG and hope Jones or Lance could fall to #12 and groom either one for a couple of years.

            1. “At this point I would just keep JG and hope Jones or Lance could fall to #12 and groom either one for a couple of years”

              That seems to be the best plan moving forward. If your mandate is “brick by brick” then continue forward with that. You have to draft and develop in this league.

            2. Jerry Rice, on 95.7 The Game (sports radio).
              “Do you want the Ferrari or do you want the Mercedes?” Rice said on The Morning Roast. “I choose the Ferrari, and the Ferrari’s going to win you playoff (games), and the Ferrari is going to win you Super Bowls. So, I’m all-in on that.”

              Rice acknowledged the relationship between Cousins and Shanahan, but still would “take the Ferrari any day, and the Ferrari is Deshaun Watson.”

              As much as I would hate to give up heavy draft capital, Watson would be a better get than Cousins, imo.

            3. I’ve watched Cousins throughout his career. He used to connect deep with regularity to Garcon and friends. Ball velocity is critical if you play half your games in Buffalo or New York. I like having that additional capability. It’s not a deal breaker as we’ve learned with Watson….

              1. I agree that a QB with superior arm strength is an asset, but it doesn’t guarantee Championship.
                It takes a total team effort to win. I watched Aaron Rodgers play at Cal before playing in the pros, and can attest that he has a strong arm. Yet, he’s only won one SB.
                Cousins, Stafford and other big arm QBs don’t always win SBs.

                You have to have a stout defense and a very good running game to go along with your QB. Had our defense held up in our last SB we’d be celebrating trophy number 6.
                JG didn’t have a problem throwing the ball far enough to Sanders for the possible game winning TD, his problem was having Chris Jones in his face.

                Better blocking by the Oline might have given JG enough of a clear view to to hit Sanders in stride.
                It would have taken a team effort to win the SB. On the flip side, it was a team effort in losing.
                Garoppolo has enough arm strength to get the job done. And he proved it in 2019.

          2. According to Ourlads Jimmy tested out at 56.
            The problem is that ball velocity isn’t the most accurate measure of how strong someones arm is, because they are not testing that. They are measuring to when a qb is throwing to their targets… which is cool but qb’s tend to scale their throws to hit their receivers. Mahomes was a case in point as he has one of the strongest arms in the NFL but his velocity only reached 55 mph at the combine. Does anyone really believe Kirk let alone Jimmy has a stronger arm the Mahomes?

              1. It would be yes, but really only if they were actually testing for that. Checking the ball velocity of QB throws when they are playing catch to with unfamiliar receivers is hardly an indicator of how hard they “can” throw.
                If the NFL actually tested for that and told the QBs they will get 5 throws at target, and to throw it as hard as they can and he only hit 49mph then it’s a major red flag. The problem is that’s not what they do, so it’s essentially like measuring a players 40 time based on how fast they run a fly route. The readings wouldn’t be an accurate test of capability, only an average measure of how throw or run in a set env.

              2. I was never concerned with Watson’s arm strength because on film it was clear he had no problem airing it out accurately to all areas of the field and fitting balls into tight windows when needed. I actually recall having this argument with you about it.

              3. Yep, like I said earlier, lesson learned. Still, are you going to draft Watson if you’re Buffalo?

              4. Allen is getting a lot of love and rightly so – he’s been great this year. He didn’t look great his first two years. Amazing how giving a talented QB a good supporting cast helps. Watson has looked good from the get go, and this year showed he can continue to play well without much help. I know who I would take, but both are good.

    2. Regardless of whether you agree with him, anyone that has been paying attention should be aware that Shanahan considers Cousins one of those elite guys. He’s the QB he wanted. The traits he has as a QB are traits that Shanahan believes are elite and you can win with. He has also been clear that those aren’t the only traits you can be successful with, but those are the ones he covets.

      If Cousins became available I am sure Shanahan would explore that option. It is his desire to have Cousins that also makes me think Mac Jones is a real option for the 49ers this draft.

      Jones has now accepted an invite to the Senior Bowl. I am really looking forward to the reports on him out of the week in Mobile.

  139. Congratulations to The Bosa Novas for earning the 2020 Poke Salad Shanny League Championship.

  140. You don’t need ball velocity to confirm Wilson’s arm strength. The eyes never lie and his balls zip through the air like a knife through butter.

    1. JaMarcus Russell and Jim Druckenmiller had titanic arms as well, but couldn’t stay afloat.

      It takes more than velocity to win in the NFL. It takes strength at every position. Just ask Aaron Rodgers (one SB win) and Mahomes, who had not won until last year.

  141. I am hoping that one of the later teams in the draft like the Steelers, Colts, Saints, Bears or Washington, may want to leapfrog past the Patriots to select the next best QB. The Niners may trade back, maybe even a couple times, and garner additional second and/or third round picks.
    .
    If the Jets draft Penei Sewell OT, with the second pick, they may want to move up to select a QB, moving from 23 to 12, with their second -1st round pick. The Niners could trade back, and obtain two- 3rd round picks. They could target the sweet spot of the draft; finding starters in the top 100 picks.

    1. Seb,
      The Jets have the #2 pick in the draft and there are 4 top 10 QBs. Three of them (Fields, Wilson and Lance) will be there when their turn comes around.

      Unless Saleh decides to roll with Darnold (his first mistake as HC), I just don’t see the Jets passing on a QB at #2.
      Fields or Wilson will be the Jets top pick.

      1. I beg to differ. If the Jets can shore up their front line, Darnold may have enough time to pass. Saleh may not give up on Darnold, and solidifying the O line will help in the run game. I fully expect Saleh will try to sign Jeff Wilson Jr. He would also help Darnold, because a lot of the problem with their offense was having Frank Gore as their best RB. I also think that they will sign Juice, because they have over 70 mil in cap space.
        .
        Saleh may draft Penei Sewell, a player who may anchor the line for 10 years. Fortunately, they have a second-1st round pick at 23. Saleh may collaborate with JL, trade up, and possibly select Lance, Jones or Newman. They would still get a QB in the first round, and none of the early QBs are slam dunk/can’t miss prospects. Just look at Joe Burrow, Kyler Murray, Dwayne Haskins, Mitch Trubisky, Daniel Jones or Josh Rosen.
        .
        Trey Lance, Mac Jones, Kyle Trask or Jamie Newman, may have better careers than Trevor Lawrence, Justin Fields or Zach Wilson. It all depends on which team drafts them, and if they have enough support, and coaching.
        .
        Saleh will draft a QB, but improving the O Line should be his first priority. I also do not think that Mike LaFleur will give up on Darnold. He is light years better than Gase, who did not have a clue.

      2. I just read a chart on GGN, that showed the Jet O line allowed around 14 pressures per game. No Bueno.

  142. The only way I would consider trading for Watson is if we sign a top 15 OT first. Then I would not give up any more than 2 number 1’s and a player (Armstead, Greenlaw and or Jimmy G) With a 2nd and possibly 2 3rd’s this year and a 2nd and possibly 3 3rd’s next year I think they would be in very good shape going forward. The big problem with this scenario is for the 9ers to get Watson for that price both the team and Watson will have to play real hardball and the trade might not take place until late june/early July. Which may be to late.

    1. Some one mentioned a 3 way deal between the Niners, Texans and Patriots.
      .
      My ideal scenario would have the Niners trade JG to the Patriots for two- firsts and a second round pick. Since the Texans are being forced to trade away DW and he can dictate where he goes, the Niners have all the leverage. They should offer the Patriots two- 1st round picks for DW. They would end up with all of their picks, DW, and the Patriots second round pick. The Texans end up with 2- first round picks, but since they are at fault, they are operating at a bargaining disadvantage. Their only salvation would be to find a Franchise QB with one of those two- first round picks. BB would be happy re-uniting with JG since he is light years better than Cam. Maybe the Niners could sweeten the deal by adding Josh Rosen to their offer.
      .
      Another possible trade would be just with the Texans. The Niners would offer JG plus Arik Armstead, for DW and JJ Watt. Many sources mention the Texans wanting to move on from Watt, so it is not an impossible dream.

  143. Nobody to my knowledge has said arm strength is the sole determining factor for success, but it sure doesn’t hurt.

    Football is the ultimate team sport and I know what’s best for my team and that’s the best qb you can possibly find. If that’s Watson or Wilson or someone else, fine with me. Just don’t try and tell me it’s Jimmy Garoppolo or Kirk Cousins!

    1. Im not telling people to choose JG or anyone for that matter. I’ve simply stated that when you cut through all the discussion about Watson, Cousins and now Wilson, neither of them have taken their teams to a SB. Wilson obviously is exempt from this.

      It takes strength from the coaching to the players to create a championship team.
      We have been one big play away from winning our last two SBs and I don’t blame either QBs for the loss.
      They were team losses, not QB losses.

      1. Yes, it is a team sport. Even the best QBs won’t win lots of games or the SB without talented players around them.

        But, without wanting to state the bleeding obvious, a really good QB increases your chances of winning over a good or decent QB, where the surrounding roster is the same or similar. Nothing controversial there.

        When it comes to Watson vs JG (in fact any QB vs JG), the argument comes down to how much better is the team with Watson compared to JG in consideration of the strength of the supporting cast you can put around them. Which then begs the question of how many wins is the QB worth relative to other positions?

        My argument last year was that with a rookie QB you can have a stronger supporting cast than with JG due to the salary cap saving of moving on from JG. But, rookie year, the QB probably is going to be a fair bit worse than JG so the downside is you are probably taking wins away in 2021 by going this route. More a longer term strategy. If they can make it work keeping JG and getting a rookie to groom for the future while also maintaining a strong roster, even better.

        With Watson, it very much comes down to whether Watson brings more wins than JG relative to the draft assets/ players traded to get him. Which of course is a big question.

        The basis for my belief that Watson/ rookie QB makes sense is that the past two decades have demonstrated how hard it is to win a SB without either a really good/ elite QB or a 1st round QB on his rookie deal. Also how hard it is to maintain success (i.e. consistently make the playoffs) without an elite QB or QB on a rookie deal.

        1. The problem with trying to get Watson or one of the top 4 QB’s is the price.

          To get either of those, the 49ers will be weakening their team for many years. Yes they will have a great QB but it won’t be enough to shade the loss of depth and talent at other positions.
          I think that’s why a lot of 49er fans want to roll with Jimmy G.

            1. I think so. Stay the course, pick the best player available at #12.
              We have 10 picks. Trust your scouting staff and pick they guys you need to stay competitive.
              My opinion is bold draft day moves rarely work out.

              1. I strongly disagree. If Shanahan, for instance, believes Lance is a good fit and has elite potential then moving up a few spots to get him makes a lot of sense to make sure they get him. Most important position on the team.

                Now I want to be clear here, because I think some people are misinterpreting some of what I am saying – that should only be an option if Shanahan actually believes in the player. Don’t trade up to get one of the top 4 QBs just for the sake of it. But if he does believe in a guy and he falls to within striking distance (and it doesn’t cost an exorbitant amount to move up), yeah, go get him.

              2. The problem is it is most certainly going to cost an exorbitant amount of one or both, draft capital, money and roster players.

              3. If Shanny green lights a move for a quarterback, you go up and get him. Lynch did just that for Beathard because he wanted to make sure he got him. He’s not gonna just sit there if Lance falls within striking distance if Shanny identifies him as the one….

              4. Yeah, not following Prime.

                To move up to 7 or 8 you at most probably need to give up your 2nd round pick. Not exorbitant.

                In terms of salary cap space, QB on a rookie contract is not exorbitant. Very cheap for a starting QB in fact. Which is why it helps in putting a strong roster around a QB on a rookie contract.

                So yeah, don’t understand your point.

              5. I thought you wanted one of the top 4 QB’s? My assumption was if you wanted one, you had to move into the top 5.
                My bad.

              6. I said a move up to 8 in my post.

                If the top 4 QBs go in the first 5 or 6 picks, too bad, so sad, move on. But I doubt they all will.

  144. As the 1,200th post, I would like to point out when so many declared that Kaep was away from football too long, and could never return.
    .
    Then we have Chad Henne, who had not started since 2013, come in and lead his team to victory.
    .
    Maybe the Chiefs should sign Kaep, if Mahomes is on the concussion protocols. I do not think he would be fired if he knelt again.;p

  145. Jerry Rice wants Watson. Steve Young says to give up whatever it takes to get him. Bowman wants Watson. Folks, the way Watson has interacted with the 49ers nation, I’d say higher taxes isn’t gonna be an issue….

    1. The issue for me is not getting Watson. It’s what we have to give away to get him.
      Btw, we already have a winning QB who will come back healthy next season. Drafting Jones or Lance without selling the farm makes good sense for me.

  146. Is that the same Jerry Rice that was wanting AB in SF last off season? Is that Steve Young who couldn’t get the monkey off his bat until he was surrounded by the most stacked team in NFL history in 1994 when there wasn’t a salary cap? Love them as players but there not credible sources ?.

  147. Yea, I’m not gonna be that guy that’s going to question Jerry or Steve’s football credentials but by all means, you go right ahead.

    1. A lot of people would love to see Watson in SF. The issue is that he would cost too much. Here is the thing, we pay Kyle a ton of money to be this suppose offensive Genius. It’s time for him to identify the next Watson. Best way to do that in the draft. Don’t move up to #2. Move up to 7-8… One will be available.

      1. 100% it’s time for Shanny to pick one but if he can get Watson, I won’t hold it against him!

    2. These guys all think Watson is a better QB and maybe their right but none of these guys has ever coached or been a GM or had any responsibility for an organization so from my perspective their knowledge fans.

  148. Yeah not at all. Watson is a stud. Something to keep an eye on if Houston hires McDaniels. If they do watch out. He loves Jimmy.

    1. Watson will likely want Bieniemy as HC. I didn’t know that Luis Riddick was in the running for GM, but apparently he was one of Watson’ favs.

      If the Texans can appease Watson by hiring Bieniemy, DeShaun might reconsider. We might have better optics on Watson after the new HC is hired.

  149. “Trey Lance ran the most complicated offense out of any draft-eligible quarterback, and it’s not even close…This is a guy that called out his protection at the line of scrimmage every play that he started in his college career…He’s a mobile quarterback, he protects the ball like crazy, his ceiling as far as athleticism is as high as anybody not named Trevor Lawrence in this draft. I’m a big Trey Lance guy.”

    https://www.ninersnation.com/2021/1/19/22238965/niner-nate-tion-podcast-is-trey-lance-the-best-fit-for-the-49ers-system

    1. Wilson runs Shanny’s offense at BYU.

      If Shanny wants him he’d be worth moving up for. Could probably move up to #9 with our newly acquired 3rd.

    2. This is the thing I struggle to understand cubus. I keep hearing how Lance would take ages to get up to speed in the NFL, and is super raw. What he is is inexperienced. But that NDSU offense asks a lot of its QB as far as a college offense goes. And a lot of the concepts are similar to what Shanahan would be asking him to do. We know QBs out of that offense can hit the ground running as we have a recent example of it.

      1. It’s been my contention for some time that Lance has the best odds of still being on the board at pick #12. This would be the perfect storm for his success, similar to the blueprint for Mahomes. He’d get to sit behind Jimmy for as long as he lasted, hopefully at least 8 games but preferably the entire year. Then they could address the edge position at the top of round 2 and cb position in round 3, while filling out the rest of the roster with the remaining draft picks to pair with their F/A’s….

  150. I see you moved Gregory Rousseau down on your big board. Do you think Rousseau made a mistake opting out of the 2020 season? Any NFL rumors that he could fall out of the first round?

    He won’t fall out of the first round, but Rousseau made a big mistake not playing in 2020.

    He’s a terrific edge rusher and very athletic, but that’s where it starts and ends. He’s not a strong run defender and needs a lot of work on his game. I felt he was overrated from the get-go.

    -Tony Pauline

    1. I think the edge class in general is bit overrated tbh. Not anyone I think is a top 15 prospect. But there is a bit of depth in that next tier of guys.

      1. Scooter, that top half of the 2nd round is going to be loaded with edge rushers. That’s why I’m so reticent on giving up this years 2nd round pick. You’re talking Oweh, Basham, Weaver, Jones, Phillips, not to mention a slider or two.

        I think they should take 2 edge rushers. One early and one late. A developmental prospect with some upside like, Malcolm Koonce outta Buffalo in round 6….

        1. Yeah, late first through second round is where I see the strength of the edge class. Though I think some guys will get overdrafted due to need/ value teams place on the position.

          1. Agreed the top end proven talent isn’t there but there are so many guys with high end potential it’s rediculous.
            The second round could provide pro bowl level talent at three areas of need Edge, db, or center. If the QB Shanahan wants isn’t within striking range then I want to trade back and get as many picks advantage possible between 30 and 100 as possible.

            1. We’ll sign a center and cb in f/a and add a cb with our 3rd round pick by selecting a player like, Ifeatu Melifonwu outta Syracuse….

              1. Razor, you keep saying this but have you truly looked at how bad their corner situation is?

                Of the 11 cb’s we had on our roster last year, the only one signed for 2021 is Tim Harris. Given SF’s cap space, and the cost of Free Agent Corners, this team could easily be outbid for anyone that is of starting quality.

                There is a decent possibility, they are not able to retain Verrett or K’waun or sign anyone that is as good as either of them. Are you really cool with rolling into next season with E-man as your number 1 and your 2 and 3 being something like Dante Johnson and Tim Harris?
                The only cheap option other than drafting a starting corner, is going after a corner coming off a significant injury or signing an old corner that is at last stage of their career.

                I would have some guys targeted in that range, and if corners fell great, but if the guys I like start coming off the board, then you better believe I’m trading that 3rd and a 5th to move up. As drafting a potential starter is my preferred cheap option.

                That said, all things being equal I also would wait until round 3.

  151. It will be hard to assess players for this upcoming draft. Covid19 cut short the season, and made practicing difficult when entire position groups were prevented from playing. There were uneven levels of competition, so player assessments may be skewed.
    .
    The combine has been shut down, so now, players will be assessed from sparse game tape, and school Pro Days. Some players who opted out have no recent playing film at all. This might promote the importance of the bowl game tape of players even more. This Senior Bowl takes on more significance.

      1. I believe he may go top 5. Some team may move up to draft him, since he showed he can win the big game.
        .
        I will disagree with Razor, and predict Mac Jones goes before Zach Wilson.

        1. Jones is more of a known quantity, so in the context of what you’ve mentioned above, I think this would be a plus in considering him over another QB.

          1. That was the longest 4 years of my fricken life! Like a nightmare, that finally came to an end! G B America!

            1. Now we have TWO pandemics to overcome as a nation: COVID-19, and the pandemic of Fake News and Disinformation!

              1. TYVM, AES. You have demonstrated high class and strong character. A true American.
                .
                We are all in the same boat, and I hope for calmer waters.

              2. Cheers to that, AES! Back at you, brother. Your post put a smile on my face, and I haven’t been smiling much lately, so thanks for that.

                E Pluribus Unum – out of many (states), we are one (nation).

                Unfortunately, I believe those strong divisions have more to do with our broken system of governance, than any one person, but maybe Biden will prove me wrong. I sure hope so!

                GO NINERS!

              3. Unity goes both ways. One place to start would be if the majority of those the identify as Republicans , including that majority of them in Congress, to admit Biden was legitimately elected. It’s a low bar, but come on, you guys can do it. For unity.

                This is some of what our country and this new President is up against in his quest for unity

                If you read his speech and listen to it carefully, much of it is thinly-veiled innuendo calling us White supremacists, calling us racists, calling us every name in the book, calling us people who don’t tell the truth.”

                —Senator Rand Paul

                AES, others here who have demonstrated their political stripes, call out your like minded representatives, tell them to stop the BS, for our country’s sake.

          2. Yeah, stock market up 262 upon swearing in of new president and taking out the trash. keep embarrassing yourself prime turdd LOL

            1. It is just probably one of your catfish burner accounts. Maybe you should do what you promised, and leave. Then, it will stop.

              1. No it’s not me. A lot of people on here don’t like you so take one for the team and leave.
                All you are is a cancer on here!

        1. I am a liberal and I am fat. I’m not sure why you have an issue with weight, but I don’t and shame on you.

          1. 1. Every Niner fan knows Bubba Paris’ infamous quote on Walsh’s retirement

            2. Trump self declared himself “stable genius”

            3. Trump was definitely pushing that figure.

            Add 1 + 2 + 3. This sh!t writes itself.

  152. in his final ac troompie pardons bannnooon for defrauding troompies army of POS mindless followers into paying for a border wall which supposed to be funded by Mexico. There was no plan for the wall and the money was stolen. This sums up both the fraud and corruption of troompy and also the stupidity and desperation of his flock. Good riddance you corrupt POS @asshole crook.

  153. Oh, and the stock market performed better under Obama and Clinton than it did the last 4 years. Womp womp

  154. I told you to keep an eye on the Panthers. They just hired Watson’s qb coach from his first two years in the league, Sean Ryan.

    1. They were bought by a billionaire hedge fund guy, David Tepper. Guys like him are young and aggressive. I’d think he’d want to make a big splash to increase the value of his investment. So, yeah, I can see it.

    1. I wish to calmly disagree with every player he thinks they will retain.
      .
      TW- Gone for 22 mil to a playoff team.
      Juice- Poached by Saleh to the Jets.
      Bourne- Poached by Saleh to the Jets.
      Thomas- ACL, damaged goods.
      Willis- Maybe, but superior alternatives may be found.
      Dontae Johnson- Too old and slow. They need to re-sign Jason Verrett, who may stay with the Niners because the Niners were the one team that gave him a chance to rehab fully, and come back strong. K’Waun Williams and/or Sherman may be poached by Saleh to the Jets.
      .
      I think every one of those players will go to greener pastures, in order to make hay. I hope they retain Moseley, Harris, Wilson, Verrett, Tartt, Blair, Dwelley, Brunskill, Gardner and Jennings.

      1. I agree. I think the emergence of Aiyuk and a healthy Deebo will adequately represent that position group. Also, Hurd may come back, Richie James should get more snaps, and I hope they find a diamond in the rough on the third day.
        .
        Bourne does have skills, but he makes too many drops, so a superior alternative exists.
        .
        The Niners need to count their pennies, in order to re-sign as many FAs as possible. They will be bidding against the Jets, who have over 70 mil in cap space.

      2. As to our WR situation Bourne has one thing in his favor. He is the only receiver on the roster that has shown he can stay healthy.

        In regards to Deebo, I hope SF brings in someone that can fill in for him. Who in the draft might be able to play the Deebo role, given the near certainty that Deebo misses some time?

        1. Rondale Moore. Not as big but they use him the same way and he’s got similar vision and burst to the lane.

          1. Thank Razor,
            Ill check him out. A potential late rounder/udfa is UCLA’s running back is Demetric Felton. He’s a rb who is an excellent receiver. Could be used in similar role as Deebo in a pinch or similar to how they wanted to use McKinnon.

            1. A day 3 prospect from the same school as Deebo, Shi Smith is a kid to keep an eye on in the Senior Bowl too.

    2. George,
      Thanks for the link. Posey’ article is interesting and well thought out.
      I would not agree with all of his takes, but I agree 100% that we keep JG and explore the possibility that Lance could fall on our lap.
      Lance is a possibility, and Mac Jones’ availability at #12 is much stronger.
      I’ve hung my hat on this thought process weeks before the season ended.
      Like all articles connected with the draft and JG, these decisions are TBD.

        1. I’m really looking forward to reports out of the Senior Bowl on Jones and Trask. We’ll have a much better handle on the players after that.

        2. I didn’t say that the 49ers should draft Jones, I said that he would be there at #12.

          Now, if the 49ers can acquire a Wilson or Fields without handcuffing their next few drafts, I’d be good with that as well.

          I read one article (sorry forgot the site) where the writer said that the Chiefs gave up future draft picks to move up to pick P. Mahomes. He mentioned that although the Chiefs made such an aggressive move, that no one is complaining now.

          Hey, if Wilson or Fields can bring about the same results that Mahomes has done in KC, then go for it. But it better work, because if it doesn’t the 49ers will be desperately seeking to find talent for years.

    3. If it gets to a worst-case scenario where Garoppolo is injured, then Lance comes in, and then he has to learn on the fly. That situation still beats what the 49ers trotted out under center this past season.

      A rookie as the prime backup to JG? Yeah, that’s not a good idea. Not when the team has used 3 QBs per season 3 out of the last 4, and lost seasons resulting from each.

      1. Rib,
        I agree. It’s a tenuous position to put a rookie in.
        Lance (if he’s the pick) could be a year or two out from fully grasping Shanahan’ offense.

        If he was asked to come in to replace JG early into his career I’d be concerned that he would rely more on his athleticism (running) than learning to vital nuances of working in the pocket.

      2. I usually agree with you rib, but I tend to disagree with this one. The only way I would consider holding onto JG for one more season, would be going on the theory of maintaining a Super Bowl contender while simultaneously grooming the QB of the future. I suspect that, simply due to the law of averages, the 49ers are primed for a much healthier run in 2021. Trey Lance’s skill set allows Kyle to design a Taysom Hill role for Lance tight out of the gate, which makes it easy to justify carrying a 3rd QB (or a quarterback 2a & 2b) which leaves the door wide open for backup QB – Josh Johnson, to fill the experienced backup role that you are envisioning. This would give Kyle an opportunity to really get to know Lance, and gain an understanding of where he excels, which would be an advantagous.

        That’s two birds with one stone, giving the 49ers a chance to remain a genuine threat in 2021 while setting the team up for sustained dominance beyond next season.

  155. More draft capital. Another 3rd round pick:

    Ian Rapoport
    @RapSheet
    ·
    43m
    #49ers VP of Player Personnel Martin Mayhew is headed to the Washington Football Team as a high-ranking executive with a title to be determined, source said. He’ll work with coach Ron Rivera and Marty Hurney as WFT restructures its organization.

    1. I wish him well. Now, maybe the Niners do not need to trade back, and can get a stellar player at 12. Instead of 2 picks in the first 3 rounds, the Niners may have 4.

    2. Only a 3rd round pick if he is the head of operations I believe (i.e. GM). Sounds like he’ll be working for Hurney.

      1. NFL Media initially reported that Hurney will be the new G.M. in Washington. Now, NFL Media reports that Martin Mayhew will be the new G.M. in Washington.

    3. An article on The Athletic from Barrows states the 49ers are not expecting a third round compensatory pick from Mayhew going to Washington since he will not be become a GM or “primary football executive”.

    4. Razor, are you sure about that? I believe there is only draft compensation if current personnel leaves for a managerial position

      1. Edit:

        Like I was saying, 49ers will not receive compensation for Mayhew unless he is hired as a manager ~ but as it turns out, Mayhew is the new GM for WFT!

        49ers add to their draft picks ??

  156. In December of 2017, Nick Wagoner of ESPN wrote an article entitled, “QB coach Rich Scangarello a key to Jimmy Garoppolo’s hot start for 49ers.” In the article, Garoppolo is quoted saying, “Rich doesn’t get enough credit, in my opinion. There’s a lot of moving pieces, but Rich has been with me since I first got here. Literally the first day I walked in here we were going over stuff after I did all the interviews and whatnot. I think a big part of our relationship was that bye week, though. A lot of one-on-one time. We only had a couple of receivers here so we got to know each other pretty well. He’s a smart coach and he makes it a lot easier for me to go through my reads when he explains things how I understand them.”

    Hmm…

    1. Yeah, this touches on something I said a few weeks ago – I thought they needed to replace Day as the QB coach. Obviously Shanahan agreed. Bringing back Scangarello is low key but a pretty big hire.

  157. Since Phillip Rivers has retired, the Colts will most likely be drafting a QB. They might want to leapfrog ahead of Washington, Chicago and NE, to get possibly the 4th or 5th best QB.
    .
    Maybe the Niners and Colts could make another trade. The Niners would trade back 9 spots, for the Colts 21st and second round pick (54). The Niners would still be almost guaranteed to be able to select a starter at 21, especially an O lineman, with all the depth in talent. At 21, they could go with a pass rusher, or CB. Lance may last until 21, especially if there is a run on O linemen and WRs.
    .
    With Picks 21, 43 and 54, the Niners could draft an OL, DE and CB, in the first 2 rounds. It does not have to be in that exact order, but those are 3 critical needs for the Niners.

        1. Seb,
          No need to apologize, I know that you’re better than that.
          I agree that the PD IT Dept. needs to protect their posters.

          1. Looks like CWN is the new writer who has gone AWOL. They do not pay him enough.
            .
            I wish you or George could apply to be the blog master. We need more than one blog post every 17 days.

            1. Exactly what do you mean by blog master, Seb? This blog runs itself as people post new articles and raise new questions, isn’t that true?

              1. George,
                You are correct that this blog runs itself. But, it would be nice to have the PD reset and refresh the blog at some point before it extends beyond 500 posts.
                The PD doesn’t even need to post a topic. They could just post something like “New Day” to refresh the blog and allow the posters to drive it from there – pretty much what we’re doing now.

              2. Just think of what Grant did. Posted something, and let the commenters post away. He really did not engage much, but this blog needs some one who can post topical and salient news about the 49ers.
                .
                One post every 17 days is just admitting that they do not care.
                .
                This place could be so much better, but I agree, right now, it seems to be working well.

            2. I respectfully decline, lol.
              George, Scooter, GEEP and Razor would be my choices.
              They’re much more adept at finding the stats and numbers.

              1. GEEP? Please, he would be the last blogger that I would think of.
                .
                AES, I truly believe that you would be an excellent 49er blog master. I really respect your football knowledge.

              2. AES
                Thanks, but no thanks!
                A) I don’t have the time. Both Razor and Scooter provide more insightful info than myself, as well as others…
                B) BUT IF I DID, both Prime and Seb would end be asked to tone it down, or spend time off the blog. Yea, I know I’ve had my fair share of run ins with Seb, but who hasn’t? He can be an obnoxious a$$.
                C) Hopefully, Seb will cut his know-it-all, arrogant BS, that Prime will accept it only enables him AND THAT WE WOULD ALL APPRECIATE IT!

              3. You are just bent that I have been advocating for years that KS hire an OC, and he just did.
                .
                On the other hand, that idea never crossed your tiny mind, so you are incapable of thinking of something salient or cogent, like that.
                .
                I predicted that his presidency would not end with a bang, but a whimper. Looks like I was proven right about that, too.

              4. Sleb: “GEEP? Please, he would be the last blogger that I would think of.”
                * I don’t see where AES asked for your opinion Sleb, DO YOU? Another example of a need to expose your know-it-all arrogance.
                * If I’m “bent over,” It’s so you don’t need a stool to stand on, to kiss my G SPOT. (Gluteus Maximus).
                * Sleb: “You are just bent that I have been advocating for years that KS hire an OC, and he just did.”
                LMAO: Nothing has changed, other than the title. KS will still be calling the plays.

              5. Poor pitiful GEEP. I was responding to AES, after he respectfully declined.
                .
                We were having a civil conversation, so you should not butt in, because I certainly did not invite you.
                .
                Thanks for proving my point. We need a blog master who is knowledgeable about football, and can be civil and polite. You, by being an immature potty mouth, would be the second to the last (Prime is the first) poster on this site to be possibly given the authority to run this blog. It is not a high class move or shows any strong character to have you behave like a spoiled brat. Please grow up.
                .
                Yep, feel the burn. I was proven right about KS hiring an OC, and nothing you can say can make it untrue. You certainly do not know if KS will delegate authority to call plays. I said that he, as HC, can have the final say on calling plays if he wants to, but having an OC could help him in many other ways. Hopefully, KS will not have his head buried in the play sheet, while needing to perform his Head Coaching duties, like game management.

              6. Seb,
                “Poor pitiful GEEP. I was responding to AES, after he respectfully declined.”

                Seb, I was just being a sport by humoring your notion about me being the blog master.
                I know that neither of us or anyone on this blog can decide who anchors the PD’ “Inside the 49ers Blog.”
                My response to you a couple of days ago was pure hyperbole.

              7. AES says: January 21, 2021 at 11.29 am
                “George, Scooter,((((( GEEP )))) and Razor would be my choices.
                * Sleb says: “January 21, 2021 at 9:14 pm
                “GEEP? Please, he would be the last blogger that I would think of.” Did I miss your invitation Sleb? NO I DID NOT, because there WAS NONE!
                GEEP says: January 21, 2021 at 9:59 pm
                AES
                “Thanks, but no thanks!”
                Sleb says: January 22, 2021 at 8:44 am
                “Poor pitiful GEEP. I was responding to AES, after he respectfully declined.”
                Is your name GEEP now Sleb?
                Sleb: Aren’t you the bloviating Narcissist that claimed you were controlling me?
                Looks to me like you’re the one being controlled. I post something and YOU RESPOND! All I need is a bell and you’ll start salivating like Pavlov’s dog….
                WHO’S YOUR DADDY SLEB?

                .

  158. Looks like Saleh tried to poach Scarangello.

    https://www.49erswebzone.com/articles/144288-49ers-officially-agree-terms-rich-scangarello-jets-steal/

    “The New York Jets may have nearly poached another talented coach away from the San Francisco 49ers — this time before he was officially a part of Kyle Shanahan’s staff. Tom Pelissero reports that San Francisco officially agreed to terms with Rich Scangarello to return to the team as its quarterbacks coach. However, Robert Saleh and the Jets made a “hard push” to steal him away.”

    1. Hard push to steal him away? He was just fired from the Eagles.
      .
      Maybe Saleh should have hired him as OC, and let Mike LaFleur stay. But then again, he or Mike McDaniel would have most likely been poached by another team needing an OC. Pete Carroll would almost certainly had poached him . That is his MO.

    1. Hmmm such a scandal, catfish. It looks like the Trumpers still can’t read. The Executive Order says to follow the CDC recommendations: “…include wearing masks “when around others” and “indoors”

      Don’t lose it when the President turns up in a tan suit, k?

      1. You’re such a laughing stock around here.

        What’s even better is knowing your MAC address matches Bruce Lee’s.

        You and KD are not very good at burner accounts.

        And the icing on the cake? Today’s White House presser:

        President Biden has “bigger issues” to worry about than following his own rule about wearing a face mask on federal property, according to White House press secretary Jennifer Psaki.

        1. You’re such a laughing stock around here.

          What’s even better is knowing your MAC address matches Bruce Lee’s.

          You know that huh? ?

          And the twitter profile of your scandal revealer:

          We are all sinners saved by Jesus

          Tell me, “Christians”. Is one of Christ’s commandments “thou shalt be a douchbag”?

          1. I’m not Christian. I don’t believe in any religion. All I know is you are the ultimate hypocrite. It’s going to be fun watching you play left tackle for Grandpa Biden these next four years. Can’t wait!

            1. I may be a hypocrite, aren’t we all. But I don’t lie through my teeth. You have no evidence of BruceLees and my computer being one and the same. None. You wouldn’t know a MAC address if it bit you in the @ss. Take your lies and f right out of here, piece of infantile trash.

  159. As the 1300th post, I wish to go OT. I had been impressed with the writing of Grant, Phil and CWN, but I was blown away by Amanda Gorman.
    .
    She is verbose. Indubitably.

    1. Verbose, but with purpose (hint for your stint here). Lin Manuel Hamilton-esque for you, definitely not haiku.

  160. Martin Mayhew: I wonder if the Niners have been planning to replace him and suggested he look elsewhere. Anyone have any thoughts on this? Understood, it would be pure speculation.

    1. That speculation may be unwarranted. Mayhew was Senior personnel executive in 2017-2018 and was promoted to Vice president of player personnel in 2019.

      With 8 years of experience as GM, Mayhew must have been very helpful to Lynch while the latter got familiar with the GM role. He’s an old friend of Lynch who played with him with the Bucs. He helped pull off the trade for Tomlinson in 2017. He will probably have more responsibilities and decision making powers with WFT. Good luck to him.

      Hurney’s hire by Rivera for GM job is mostly a relationship thing. Washington also hired a bright young team president with somewhat similar background as Mayhew – Jason Wright. Ex NFL player, strong academic background, worked in consulting, but no prior front office experience. It’s likely that much of Mayhew’s function could be similar to transitioning the new team president into the NFL, similar to what he did for Lynch. Mayhew seems to prefer positions out of the limelight.

  161. Has the Press Democrat made an announcement regarding what they are going to do with this site now that the regular season is over?

    1. Good question Old Coach. I don’t have my hopes up, we are still being polled as to whether the 49ers will win this Super Bowl this season.

    2. Old Coach, please make an offer with the PD. I think you would be a great blog master, with your extensive football acumen and civil disposition.
      .
      It would not take much. Just post more than once every 17 days.

          1. I should become a landscaper like you and make $12.00 an hour and smoke weed all day. The American dream!

            1. You’re on the dole, does it get any better than that?
              Free hand-outs to Nobody.
              .
              The Canadian life!

            2. And YES, you should smoke weed all day instead of harassing people on this blog all day!

              1. Yes Dee Pee your pants, we know I’m a nobody.

                But I am an employed nobody who earns a pay check. You, are a dead beat probably not working anywhere, waiting for Biden to send you a stimulus check.

                Why don’t you come work for your cousin up here and bag some groceries?

              2. Primate, either I’m a landscaper making $12 or I’m a dead beat waiting for a handout like you!
                Can you make up your mind!
                There is no way you are employed with the amount of time you spend to post your garbage!

    1. Jimmy should take a page from the Brady playbook. Find a spouse whose income is greater than his own.

      1. Yeah that helps lol. The two aren’t comparable. Brady played many years and earned a crap load of money before he started taking cap friendly deals. Garoppolo’s contract is middle of the pack for QB’s now, but I think he would be open to an extension to help the team. It’s the team that doesn’t seem to want to do that unless they have to. We will get an answer on how they feel one way or another because this would be the season to redo his deal to try and keep some of the higher priced FA’s.

        1. Well, as we’ve discussed, last season would have been the time to do it. Imagine how much easier this would all be if they had extended JG last year, and could have cut Ford, Richburg and Alexander for very little cap hit.

          1. I’m trusting these guys have a plan. Cap and personnel wise they have not strayed from their “brick by brick”roster construction.
            One thing is clear, they’ve been very consistent in their confidence in certain players.

            1. As the saying goes, “Everyone has a plan — ’till they’re punched in the mouth”…

              And the OL was frequently “punched in the mouth” metaphorically speaking — that is, during the ’20 season…

              I’d suggest more focus on the “Bricks” along the OL…(but I think Foerster will help, Benton never seemed to get the best from his crew, IMO of course)

          2. Sure but at that time they weren’t facing 30+ FA’s and a reduced salary cap. This offseason is the one where his extension will probably be needed to keep a large percentage of the team together. If they wind up letting some key players go without redoing JG’s deal then there is no question he probably isn’t in the long term plans.

  162. A few questions to peak the interest of the collective.
    #1 Who would you trade up from #12 to draft and who/what would you give up?
    #2 Who would you draft if we stay at #12?
    #3 if we traded down to around #20 give or take who would you draft?
    #4 what are the 49ers 4 biggest position needs going into FA and the draft. You can make one list if TW signs with the 9ers and another one if he doesn’t.

    1. Four biggest needs are CB, OT, OC and Edge. I think in that order, though OT is the one I would prioritise (Williams). QB is also a need but more from a backup/ QBOTF perspective – as an immediate starter isn’t needed I would place that below the above (though I would prioritise drafting one higher given position value).

      Player I would trade a lot to move up for is Lawrence. I would be fine with a small trade up for Wilson or Lance. Other positions I would let the draft come to me at 12 or trade back. I would also trade up from the 2nd round pick for Jones, pending what happens at the Senior Bowl.

      If 49ers stay at 12 and don’t take a QB, I would take Caleb Farley (if he is there), or an OL.

      If they traded back to the 20s, I would take Mac Jones or an OL.

    2. 1) No.
      2) That depends on whether the 49ers are able to resign T. Williams. If they do resign him, then the 49ers should target CB Caleb Farley or Patrick Surtain II. If the 49ers cannot resign T. Williams, then the team should draft OT Christian Darrisaw.
      Another factor to consider is if the 49ers intend to release or trade Garoppolo. If they are, then QB becomes the top priority position to fill. If this occurs, then I would be fine with QB Trey Lance (even though I feel like he is being overrated) as long as the 49ers sign a free agent QB who understands Shanahan’s system.
      3) QB Mac Jones, OT Alex Leatherwood, RB Najee Harris, WR Jaylen Waddle, or edge rusher Gregory Rousseau
      4) If the team signs T. Williams, then the top five position needs are edge rusher, cornerback, center, depth at wide receiver and tight end, and quarterback If the team does not resign T. Williams, then the top five position needs are offensive tackle, edge rusher, cornerback, center, and depth at wide receiver and tight end. Both lists could change if the team moves on from Garoppolo.

    3. 1. Nobody. There really isn’t a player I would trade up for after Lawrence based on what it would cost to do so and there is no way Jax would trade that pick.

      2. This one is tough because I’m not sure who will fall to #12 but my first choice would be Surtain. If he’s gone which is likely, I’d take an OL like Slater or Darrisaw. The wild card choice would be Kyle Pitts. Not a need per se, but a player Shanny would have a tough time passing on if he fell for some reason. A combination of Kittle and Pitts would be very appealing.

      3. Horn or possibly one of the Edge players like Ojulari or Paye if they happened to be there.

      4. If TW re-signs then it’s: CB, IOL, Edge and S for me. If he doesn’t then it’s: OT, CB, IOL and Edge.

    4. * Pique. Sorry, I could not resist. ;p
      1. Devonta Smith. He made Ohio State look slow.
      2. 11- Caleb Farley CB, 12- Trey Lance QB, 13- Patrick Surtain CB, 14- Gregory Rousseau DE, 15- Wyatt Davis OL and Rashawn Slater OL, may all be candidates. If they go BPA, Patrick Surtain may be the best long term choice.
      3. 19- Christian Darrishaw Ol, 20- Trey Smith OL, 21- Travis Etienne and 25- Mac Jones QB. It all depends on who they manage to sign as FAs. Just looking at who may be available, Darrishaw may be a good option.
      4, OT if TW signs elsewhere. CB since almost all of their4 DBs are FAs. DE depending on Bosa’s rehab, and if they can re-sign Blair. IOL may be their biggest need, but they may be able to get a decent FA and the draft has many third round IOL prospects.
      .
      If TW re-signs, CB, IOL, DE and QB may all be needs in free agency and the draft.

    5. 1. This depends on if Jimmy is traded or not. I would make a small trade up for Lance or Wilson but I am not giving up a ton to do it.
      2. I’m only staying at 12 if we draft a qb. So see above.
      3. I would trade out of the first entirely but if I am picking at 20, I am taking one these 4 (Horn, Darrisaw, Ojulari or Rousseau)
      4. Biggest “needs” are currently ( 1. CB, 2. Center 3. QB 4. Edge ) note this is not the order I would draft them in as some needs are easier to fill than others.

    6. OldCoach:
      I would need to know three things before I could answer your questions
      1) What is the 2021 Salary Cap…. 2) What are the 9er plans for JG …. 3) Do the 9ers resign T. Williams?
      USING CBSSPORTS.COM DRAFT BOARD:
      I WOULD NOT TRADE UP FOR A QB OR ANY OTHER POSITION
      A) If the 9ers do NOT keep JG: Draft N. Dakota QB Trey Lance at #12
      If Lance and the top 4 QB are off the board: Trade down for extra picks and draft Ala. QB Mac Jones.
      B) With the extra draft pick(s) from trading down to #25

      C) If the 9er DO keep JG and DO NOT keep T. Williams: Trade down for extra picks and draft #19 Virginia Tech OT Christian Darrisaw

      9ERS TOP POSITIONS OF NEED IN 2021 DRAFT:
      Left OT if T. Williams does NOT sign: Trade down to pick #19, plus more draft picks,
      Rd#1 pick #19: Virginia Tech, Christian Darrisaw
      If 9ers keep JG and T. Williams DOES sign:
      Rd#1: Draft pick #13 Ala. CB, Patrick Surtain II…..A Shut down CB to replace Sherman

      Rd#2 Draft pick #43: Trade down for extra draft picks and draft #54 EDGE Chris Rumph II, Duke

      Rd#3 Draft pick #61: Trade up for Oklahoma Center, Creed Humphrey
      Rd#3 Draft pick #comp: Michigan DE, Aidan Hutchinson
      Rd#3 draft pick #comp: Trade down to #136 plus extra draft picks: Pick #136 CB/DB S. Carolina Israel Mukuamu

      Rd#4 Draft pick # 107:

      Rd#5 Draft pick # 138: OG Trey Hill, Georgia

      1. This salary cap reduction is such a scam. The top 25 team owners have a combined net worth of $120 billion. Surely they can take a minuscule hit to their fortunes to account for reduced 2020 gate receipts. Is there anything the NFLPA can do to hold fast?

        1. ribico
          While I don’t disagree, the owners can afford, and should spend their own money to help mitigate the decrease in team Salary Cap…..But what do you think the odds are on the owners doing so?

          1. But what do you think the odds are on the owners doing so?

            Unless forced to by legal or other means (a player work stoppage?) somewhere between zilch and none.

    1. MWD
      GB’s David Bakhtiari signed for $23 Mil P/Y, how much do you think TW will settle for? Anything less than $23 Mil?
      I would guess someone will offer him more then $23.5 Mil., especially if there is a bidding war for him.

        1. Not worth it in my opinion. Way too much money. Let some other team sign him.

          BTW: If another team does sign him, do the 49ers get a comp pick?

          1. Cubus
            The number of compensatory picks allotted each year is limited to the number of teams in the league (32), per the collective bargaining agreement. However, compensatory picks are not divided up equally among the teams, and no team can receive more than four compensatory picks in a single year.

          2. The 49ers would get a comp pick if another team signs Williams and they don’t sign more FA’s than they lose. The pick itself wouldn’t come until 2022 and would be determined by a combination of Williams contract number, performance etc.

            1. Also age/ seasons. Like Sanders, the highest comp pick they could get is a 5th as he is a 10 year vet.

    1. George,
      Thanks for the link.
      A nice read from Jack, and I agree with him that no rookie QB is going to become a starter at the outset.
      I also feel that if we are going to pay a heavy price to move up to number two or three for a top 4 QB, why not pay more and move up one more slot for Lawrence who could start on day one.

      As Jack noted, Wilson will need time to assimilate himself to the speed of the game. Lawrence is a plug-in play starter.
      If people are adament about letting JG (a proven winner, as his head coach and Fred Warner have asserted) walk, at least go after the best QB in the draft to replace him.

  163. Good news – looks like Mayhew will be hired as GM for the WFT, which should mean the 49ers are eligible for another 3rd rounder.

      1. Yeah I wasn’t sure on the timing. A shame it is so far out, but still, better than a poke in the eye.

  164. One thing Is clear, Niners have some ammo to move up to about the 7-8 pick or move back into the end of rnd 1. Niners can locate a QB if they choose too relatively early.

  165. Flashback quote one year ago 1/22/20 troompy: (re Covid) ” we have it totally under control, It’s going to be just fine”.

    LOL

  166. It was bound to happen. They proud little d!ck boys have abandoned their leader. After a half decade they figured out that troompie was a fraud and a conartist. Back to mommies basement losers. LOL

    New York Times: “As Mr. Trump departed the White House on Wednesday, the Proud Boys, once among his staunchest supporters, have also started leaving his side. In dozens of conversations on social media sites like Gab and Telegram, members of the group have begun calling Mr. Trump a ‘shill’ and ‘extraordinarily weak,’ according to messages reviewed by The New York Times. They have also urged supporters to stop attending rallies and protests held for Mr. Trump or the Republican Party.”

    “On social media, Proud Boys participants have complained about his willingness to leave office and said his disavowal of the Capitol rampage was an act of betrayal. And Mr. Trump, cut off on Facebook and Twitter, has been unable to talk directly to them to soothe their concerns or issue new rallying cries.”

  167. Hey buddy no one gives a Fu*ck about your political stance. We come here to get away from that bulls*it. We get it your a sheep. Talk football that’s what this site is.

    1. Rebuild, I used to bitch at Lee all the time. One of the reasons I left the blog for a while. Now when I see his posts, I tell myself he has dementia and thinks he’s on Facebook. This actually works for me.

      1. I don’t get it. We have to slog through walls of postings consisting of nothing but prime and Seb hurling insults back at each other. But Lee’s OT stuff, maybe .001% of the volume, have you running for the hills? That says to me, it’s not so much the off-topic, but the slant on the off-topic you guys find objectionable.

        1. I ignore that too, Rib. There was a time I wouldn’t. With them, though, it’s not about politics. This is a sports blog and between the too they keep it that way. So when Lee decides to enter the room and drop a political grenade, I use a different strategy, so for me now he can do it all he wants if he likes.

          1. The things that most annoy me on this site, in descending order:

            1. Sociopaths who grab someones else’s screen name and avatar (catfishes) to broadcast some vaguely pornographic or explicitly insulting posting.
            .
            2. Hit and run cowards with different screen names for each posting.
            .
            3. Years long dick-waving feuds.
            .
            .
            .
            .
            500. Off-topic political postings.

            Given the primitive nature of this blogging site software and the vacant moderation that allows the above to flourish, it’s amazing this is still among the most comprehensive of Niners opinion boards.

  168. Considering the recency bias of draft mocks and player ratings (e.g., Brugler’s ratings in the Athletic), it seems this is the year when competent front offices will really make a big difference in the draft on third day. A large number of prospects played a small number of games in the past abbreviated season. Many prospects who were injured in the 2019 season did not get a chance to come back. On top of that there will be no combine. The mid rounds will have a lot more talent than found in typical drafts.

  169. So noted: after Sunday Tom Brady will have appeared in more NFCCGs in the last 25 years than the Dallas Cowboys. ?

  170. Vance “Hands of Stone” McDonald retires after 8 years in the league.
    With Niners: 4 years, 64 catches for 866 yards and seven touchdowns in 48 games.
    With Steelers: 4 years, 117 receptions, 1,170 yards and eight touchdowns in 53 games.
    IIRC, he was an average blocker. Should have been a 4th or 5th round pick instead of the second round where Baalke drafted him and anointed him to succeed VD.

  171. The Houston Texans do not have a clue. They are all dithering about DW going to the Jets, Jags or Miami because they have multiple first round picks. Too bad they are ignoring the No Trade clause.
    .
    DW does not want to go to any perennial losers. He is sick of losing. However, the Niners were recently in the Super Bowl, so the team has talent, and good coaching. DW may see the 49ers as a good destination, because they treat their players well, and are honest and forthright with them.
    .
    No, the Texans will not get 3 firsts and 3 second round picks for him. They will not get 2 firsts and a second round pick for him. They may be forced to trade him away cheap, because they have to make a trade, or DW will just sit and refuse to play. Maybe DW will file a grievance, and void the contract, because the Texans did not act in good faith. The Niners should start off the negotiations by offering a ham sandwich for DW. Caserio may be forced to cut his losses, and trade him for whatever he can get.
    .
    Since JJ Watt may leave, since he sympathizes with DW, the best scenario may be for the Niners to offer JG and Arik Armstead, for DW and Watt. Caserio may like JG enough to do that, since he helped draft JG.
    .
    The so called fans of the Texans are throwing shade at DW, so they do not deserve having his services. They diss him a lot and claim he does not want to play for a white coach. DW should go to the Niners, just to prove them wrong. I really like JG, but DW may be an upgrade at the QB position.
    .
    I have been perusing the BRB of the Texans, and they are not saying much. They saw DW wearing a Joe Montana jersey, but are too obtuse to understand what he is trying to say.
    .
    Easterby may invoke God all he wants, but he is blaspheming God to claim that God cares about who wins a football game. The Texans are standing behind a totally unqualified imbecile. No wonder some have called the situation a dumpster fire aboard a train wreck.

  172. COVID is no joke. One person who contracted the disease and survived, suffered so much brain damage that he keeps repeating that he won an election that he actually lost by 7 million votes

  173. There’s several in here that could take turns each week to write a guest blog topic relating to the 49ers at no charge to the PD. Not sure why they don’t pursue it until they decide on a dedicated, full time writer….

    1. This blog to them just gives them a place to stay active on the web. Pretty sure it doesn’t generate a dime revenue wise and it’s pretty clear no one wants to work for them.

        1. That grade 5 spelling level and grammar is starting to rear it’s ugly head.
          Time to hit the Dr.Seus again Dee Pee.
          Should not have a problem there since you have no job.

          1. Primate, I adjust my grammar to your level, how else would you be able to understand me?
            Now when are you going to see my cousin?
            Did you figure out where he’s at yet?

  174. Speaking of blogs, I thought Grant had one over at SI, but I can’t seem to find anything. Anyone know if he does?

      1. Actually, I should have been more clear. I meant a blog where posters can comment. He used to have that, but maybe SI shut him down.

    1. I’ve tried to read Grant and Jack and others over at SI and Twitter, but it’s an echo chamber of obnoxious sarcasm with the odd interesting article thrown in from time to time. I guess that is appealing for some but not for me. I haven’t checked their site out for awhile now.

      I didn’t click on the link but if it’s about trading for Rodgers it’s a non starter for the Packers. Rodgers has a number of years left and will be an MVP candidate every year playing in that offense. I read another suggestion today that the Niners should trade their first round pick for Stafford. What has Stafford ever accomplished in this league? He is a stat guy whose been to one playoff game in his career and lost it. but hey he has a great arm.

      1. Actually, some of Jack Hammer’s stuff is worth reading in my opinion. Yesterday, I was watching a video where Grant and Hammer were analyzing Wilson from BYU. Hammer was the one doing the analysis, but I thought it was pretty good. Only thing is that it looks like it was supposed to be a two-part video. I saw the first part where Hammer discusses Wilson’s flaws during a game against Houston. He mentioned that they would be discussing some really good plays that he made, but the video stopped about half-way through and I couldn’t find the “second” part. Maybe they completed it today – I haven’t checked.

        But Hammer sure looked like he was spot on in the first part by providing clear examples of plays where Wilson looked less than the hype that currently surrounds him.

        George posted the link above.

        1. Cool thanks for the heads up. That’s the kind of stuff I’m looking for, not crap about who needs to be dumped and replaced by the flavor of the week.

    1. Thanks for the link, MWD. I see he’s the one who drafted Antonio Gibson in the third round. As I recall Scooter nailed that one early.

  175. Razoreater says:
    January 15, 2021 at 9:49 am
    So y’all wanna live out the western stereotype by being settlers with Jimmy or by trading down for Jones? Ok. Forget Jones cuz you’ve already got a game manager in Jimmy. Keep him and with the 12th pick, give him another weapon underneath and see if he can leave opposing defenses in the Pitts….

    Jan 22, 2021 at 12:46 PM
    Daniel Jeremiah-

    Don’t freak out, people! I know the Niners already have an elite tight end. However, they have embraced the positionless-player movement, and Pitts would team up with George Kittle, Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk to give Kyle Shanahan an embarrassment of riches.

    1. I’d rather see them take Pitts than a QB. Pitts and Kittle in 12 formations would be ridiculous.

      1. Not to mention Kittle misses games and Pitts would reinforce the position. He’s better than Vernon Davis was coming out.

        1. Pitts is an exceptional talent. That said, I would have a hard time justifying drafting a TE in the first round having just made Little the highest paid TE in the league, and by a decent margin. The salary cap is always an important factor when it comes to roster building, and even under normal circumstances that would be hard pick to justify. Given that the 49ers have to work within the tight confines of a reduced salary cap over the next few seasons, it’s really just not feasible.

          I have been breaking down and working through round one of the upcoming draft for a couple weeks now, including numerous mock draft scenarios, and I am confident that Trey Lance will be there for the 49ers at #12. If he is, I think this is a dream scenario for Kyle to get his guy, and it’s probably a best case scenario for the 49ers for both the short and long term, IF ShanaLynch feel like the 49ers can remain a legitimate postseason threat in 2021 with Garoppolo as the starting QB in 2021.

          Under this scenario, the 49ers would once again carry 3 QB’s. Backing up Garoppolo would be Trey Lance (who may have the highest ceiling of any QB prospect in his class) whom will have his own package of plays, particularly in the redzone, and veteran QB Josh Johnson, whom would bring peace of mind with his wealth of experience (Lance and Johnson would both be valuable on the scout team, as they have similar skill sets with nuanced differences).

          This is a scenario that could potentially be very valuable this upcoming season, and would really give Kyle a golden opportunity to expand upon his playbook, and evolve his scheme, with an eye on the prize in 2021 AND beyond, and even potentially giving Garoppolo an opportunity to rebuild his reputation, and strengthen his trade value after the 2021 season.

          A dream scenario in which ShanaLynch can have their cake and eat it too. Trey Lance is the answer!

            1. You just never know for sure, but I think there is likely an 85% – 90% chance he will be there @ #12. If not, they can move to plan B.

              I am not going to lie, the idea of pairing Pitts with Kittle is a fascinating one, but given the salary cap situation, I would much rather re-sign Jordan Reed if he’s up for it.

              1. I agree that he’s the most likely to be the last of the big 4 to come off the board. In a normal year they’d probably have no shot at him at 12.

        2. Shanahan has been trying to come up with a legit second TE option pair with Kittle and Pitts would be the perfect option. I don’t care if he isn’t the biggest need either. You should always take BPA especially with the first round pick and Pitts would be BPA if he were to fall that far. It isn’t likely but Pitts is a blue chipper who I’d rather have than the 4th best option at a position of bigger need.

      2. notanexpert
        Still going to need an O-line to protect him, or whoever the QB is!
        * TW may take the $$ and leave.
        * Mike McGlinchey is having his own issues and not a sure thing.
        * C Weston Richburg & Ben Garland? Both are question marks! Richburg likely cut. Can either stay healthy?
        * OG Is Laken Tomlinson the best the 9ers can do? Brunskill and Skule may be starters…TBD?
        And then there’s the D and need for CB(s) who can / will start.

        SO BACK TO GEORGE’S QUESTION: Who will the 9ers draft and the F/A’s they will sign.
        QUESTION: If the 2021 Salary cap is ~$175 Mil., What’s the odds the 9ers let both JG and TW go and eliminate the problem?

        1. I agree they need to improve the Oline but not sure if OL would be the BPA at #12. They are going to have 10 picks so there will be opportunities to improve other areas. I think Williams will come back but if not there are other OT’s available in FA. McGlinchey struggled at times in PP but he is one of the best run blocking RT’s in the league so they’ll live with the odd miss and hope he improves his technic with more coaching. I can’t see Richburg returning but Garland is a possibility. Tomlinson is a good LG. Most of the issues inside were due to the C and RG position. Shanahan always places a huge importance on the C position so hopefully they get that worked out and everything else should fall into place.

          To answer the last question: The odds are slim to none that they let both of those players go. They have a team ready to win now and will operate as such.

    2. All those weapons are only effective if they have a good, healthy QB they can keep upright.

      1. Scooter
        That is the question, is is not? Can the present O-line keep any QB upright? And I might add, not just for a few games, but off IR for the entire season? Every 9er O-lineman has a question mark and with the number of 9er’s 2021 free agents (https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/free-agents/san-francisco-49ers/) and a reduced salary cap, it’s a big question / problem. (plus the 9ers would be backloading both JG and TW contracts).
        Is it better to bite the salary cap bullet this year and let both JG and TW go (solve a Salary Cap problem now). Then draft a QB (Wilson or Lance, in round #1 at pick #12? Or trade down for more draft picks and take Jones Rd.#1 at draft pick #25, if the top 4 QB’s are off the board? The 9ers would have cap space to sign both theirF/A’s as well as sign F/A’s other teams were forced to let go (a C, OT and CB) and draft picks for IOL, CB’s /DB, EDGE, and another OT.
        I admit I don’t have the answer, but it is possible it’s a better option and long term solution?

        1. That is the key thing they need to figure out for mine. What to do with the OL, as well as QB. Get those right and the 49ers will be a force in the NFL for some time.

  176. If the Niners keep Jimmy and they fail to make the playoffs, I’m guaranteeing we are here next year talking about hiring a new head coach.

    If they draft a QB, and he starts week one and we don’t make the playoffs, we are here next year talking about hiring a new head coach.

    If we trade for another veteran QB and we don’t make the playoffs, we are here next year talking about hiring a new head coach.

    Point is Shanahan has to be held accountable for any and all moves moving forward at the QB position.
    Enough free passes.

    1. Jimmy’s availability is the key to the playoffs. How is that Shanny’s problem? All I was saying over a week ago is if they keep him, give him Pitts because that’s where Jimmy excels; in the middle of the field.

      1. It’s Shanny problem because like I mentioned weeks ago, conditioning, fundamentals and developing his game all fall on the head coach and the player himself.
        He hasn’t done we ought in my opinion with Jimmy in his four years.
        A lot of people blame injuries to just bad luck but when you look at Kyle Shanahan’s tenure with the 49ers it’s not just coincidence that a lot of players have been injured.

          1. 1.Attention to detail in conditioning year round and recovery methods.

            2. Periodic testing

            3.Constructing practices to simulate games.

            4.Choosing guys without injury history.

            5. Getting it right after 4 years.

              1. January 22, 2021 at 7:58 pm
                Primate says:
                ” I’m a nobody and this is a pic of my pecker, it is this big”

            1. Prime Time
              Do you have anything that proves any, or all of the 5 things you posted have NOT BEEN DONE?
              Who’s at fault? And which one of these coaches (or all of them), do you suggest the 9ers fire?
              HEALTH & PERFORMANCE STAFF UPDATES
              Name – Title
              Ben Peterson – Head of Player Health & Performance
              Dustin Perry – Head Strength & Conditioning
              Shea Thompson – Director of Performance Monitoring/Assistant Strength & Conditioning
              Aaron Hill – Assistant Strength & Conditioning
              Mike Nicolini – Assistant Strength & Conditioning

      2. Razor
        After all is said and done, the question that has to be answered is: Is JG the same QB he was in 2017? I think the answer is no! The next question is, can his knowledge of the game make up for his physical decline? Can anyone on the blog say YES? We all know what they are.
        There is plenty of video tape out there to expose his tendencies, as well as his physical limitations. Unless the 9ers upgrade the O-line, is JG capable of getting the 9ers back to the playoff’s, let alone the SB?

    2. Shanahan signed an extension right before this season. Hopefully we get more of 2019 than 2020 but he’s the HC for the foreseeable future no matter what happens next season.

      1. True but that won’t stop people on this blog from wanting to get rid of the coach or the QB.

  177. Get rid of KS? Stop demonstrating your lack of football knowledge.
    .
    The Nattering Nabobs of Inane Natercisms, just blathered away. It really does not matter what any blogger thinks. Jed York knows what happens when they have constant turnover in the coaching department. There was a reason why he gave both JL and KS contract extensions.
    .
    JL and KS took a moribund dejected dumpster fire, and in 3 years, got back to the SB. Now, a know nothing like Prime thinks he is smarter than everyone else. No, he should not guarantee that KS may be fired, despite what happens. He is the true cancer on this site, trolling our HC.
    .
    I am happy that KS is the Head coach of the San Francisco 49ers. I feel fortunate that the 49ers have such a talented and innovative coach. He gets the most out of players. They play hard for him, and compete to the last whistle. He puts them in positions to succeed, and he utilizes their talents so they accentuate their strengths, and hide their weaknesses. KS has developed a very effective system, where he takes UDFA RBs and has the team rush for 200 yards. When healthy, JG is a SB QB. He allows Kittle to be an All Pro. No matter what happens, I hope that KS coaches the Niners for years, and helps them win more rings.

          1. January 22, 2021 at 7:58 pm
            Primate says:
            ” I’m still a nobody, all I do is play with my pecker, look how big it is.”

    1. * “The Nattering Nabobs of Inane Natercisms, just blathered away.”
      WITHOUT A DOUBT, YES HE DOES! See, it’s not all bad…I knew we could agree on something!

  178. Looking at the FA list, there are 3 FAs who I hope the Niners target.
    1- Alejandro Villanueva OT. He may be a lot less expensive than TW, yet is talented.
    2- Corey Linsley OC. They cannot count on Richberg coming back, and this would allow Brunskill to move to RG.
    3- William Jackson CB. The Niners should try to re-sign Verrett or K’Waun Williams, but William Jackson may want to leave the Bengals to come to a competitive team.

    1. I think they’ll be able to sign Williams. He wants to test the market to see what his true value is which is very understandable but he also doesn’t want to play for a team that isn’t a playoff team or isn’t professionally managed. I think he will sign for less than many people think because he’s already rich and values other things over more Money.

      It’s hard to predict what they’ll do on the other O line positions but I expect draft picks over FA’s. They need all their money to sign their own FA’s. I think they’ll try very hard to sign k’Waun and maybe a little less hard on Verrett.

      1. Buckner also loved the Niners, the organization and his team mates, but he left for a bigger payday.
        .
        Unfortunately for the Niners, TW played at a Pro Bowl level, so he will get Pro Bowl money. It’s just business.
        .
        Since the Jets have over 70 mil in cap space, Saleh will try very hard to sign K’Waun Williams. Verrett may re-sign because the Niners were the only team that believed in him.
        .
        I will agree, it will be hard to predict what happens in Free Agency. However, whoever they sign will directly affect who they draft.

      2. Jerry
        ” I think he (TW) will sign for less than many people think because he’s already rich and values other things over more Money.”
        Where did you get that information from? FACT: This is his last chance to get a BIG PAYDAY. ($23 MIL plus). His Salary with Washington was only $13.6 Mil.
        What makes you think he won’t take it? I’m not saying he won’t, but I do find it unlikely.

        1. It’s just an opinion based on comments he’s made. Sure he can get 23 Mil from some looser team but I think he will sign for less with the Niners.

          1. Jerry
            Define “LESS.” $20 Mil. P/Y? Correct me if I’m wrong, but you’ve also posted the 9er should keep JG? Can the 9ers afford to pay both JG and TW and still keep the F/A’s they need to resign? It’s unlikely and they won’t have the cap space to sign F/A cap casualties from other teams. Not if the 2021 cap is $176 Mil. P/Y. Even if it’s $186 Mil. P/Y it’s still going to be a problem IMO. (IE back loading contracts).

        2. If some team wants to pay that kind of money, by all means, T. Williams should go for it.

          If I were the 49ers, I would be preparing for plan B, which is life without Trent Williams.
          When Trent signed on, I believe that one reason was that the 49ers were highly favored to make another SB run.
          By game six the idea of the 49ers going to the SB became a fading dream.

          The 2021 season has so many questions when it comes to the 49ers. I see too much uncertainty at the moment to view the team as a top SB contender.
          Trent Williams might be thinking the same thing which makes a huge payday a viable reason to walk.

          1. AES
            $23 Mil. P/Y is the low end estimate. He could get offered as much as $25 Mil. P/Y, all it would take is for 2, or more, teams to get into a bidding war.
            The fact he wants to see what he could get, tells me he’s thinking about the fact he knows this is his last opportunity for a big payday and it would set him up for life after he retires!
            There’s a reason they’re called professionals……Right?

            1. GEEP,
              I agree. Trent has 3-4 yrs (and I’m being generous) of possible productivity left, getting all the bank he can as a FA would be prudent on his part.

              Unlike the 60′ and 70′ there isn’t any loyalty in professional sports.
              If owners want to pay exorbitant contracts the players should get theirs.

        1. Prime Time
          Why doesn’t Canada run their tar sands pipeline north of Vancouver, to the Pacific? What do you think about that? Then neither Canada, or you, wouldn’t have to worry about Biden and the Key Stone pipeline?
          PROBLEM SOLVED, RIGHT?

      1. US deaths are in line with many other Western European countries on a per capita basis. This is a world wide pandemic with millions of deaths world wide.

    1. Notahypocritedem
      Conveniently, you failed to mention the decision was made by the State Governors, not the Federal Government! The same policy as under the Trump administration…Or did you fail to read all of the article?
      If you’re incapable of restraining your need to expose politics, at least post the facts, not your bias.

      1. The same twit who posted some idiocy about Biden not following his own masking EO. He was too stupid to not be sucked in by RWNJs then, now too stupid again. These not so proud little boys are going to lose their sh!t the next 4-8 years.

  179. Grant still thinks he would be a good quality control coach.
    .
    Of course, he neglects to state what kind of advice he gave for free, and how impactful it would have been.
    .
    Too bad he was wrong too many times, and second guessing is just picking the low hanging fruit.
    .
    I would submit that KS should rather use me as the Quality Control advisor. I was the one who counseled him to consider time outs to be used wisely, and saved for legitimate challenges, and the last 2 minutes of each half. I also advocated for KS to hire an Offensive Coordinator. Since KS did stop wasting time outs, and did hire an OC, I am glad he took my advice, freely given. It was very heartening to see them run the no huddle with quick varied snaps, something I have advocated for years. When they flared out the RBs instead of keeping them in to block, to give the QB a quick safety valve, I thought they were reading my posts.
    .
    Grant needs to stop giving bad advice, and step up his game. Dissing JG is counter productive.
    .
    Grant seems to be delusional. He is rich and famous? He just got fired from his job, and took up with a echo chamber that states the obvious or concentrates on what is unimportant. I do not think they are paying them much, if at all. Famous? I think Lowell is famous, and Grant is just trying to ride his coat tails. Some day, Grant may emerge from under the shadow of his legendary father, but he is not going to achieve what his father did, in this era of the internet.

    1. Sleb
      A question for you: You constantly sucked up to Grant, agreeing with his articles and his opinions so he’d protect you while he was at the PD. But now I’ve noticed, that he’s writing for SI and you’re finding fault with his articles and his opinions? Care to explain why? Or is it just another example of your HYPOCRISY?

      1. I actually disagreed with Grant many many times. I made sure I disagreed with him, so I would not be labeled as a sycophant.
        .
        Grant protected me? No, he let me be fair game for every troll that creeped in. Sure, he liked the clicks, so he let me post with very little interaction. He probably liked that I was being attacked, so he was not being the target of attacks.
        .
        I had pushed back against the ad hominem screeds directed at Grant, because I found his writing style refreshing, compared to the same old, say nothing Pablum. I appreciate good writing, but that should be disconnected from the subject matter. Grant can have his opinion, just like I can have an opinion. Grant and I were diametrically opposed when it came to Kaep. He says controversial things to generate discussions.
        .
        You seem to be oblivious about my persistent critiques of his periscopes, because there is always room for improvement. So, no, I am consistent, not hypocritical.
        .
        Recently, Grant has returned to his wild assertions. He started off at SI trying to be an impartial journalist that can be negative, but in the real world, he learned to become a cheerleader. The problem with that is- being controversial is his forte.
        .
        I do not concede to any obsession about Grant. Actually, I have not signed up at SI, so I have left him alone there. However, he is relevant here because he ran this blog for around 9 years, IICRC.
        .
        I can throw a little shade at Grant. At least I do not call him a hack, and claim he got the job because of nepotism. He is a big boy, and can take it. If he wants to claim he should be the quality control coach, he is just leading with his chin.

    2. You claim that Grant is delusional for saying Kyle should hire him as a quality control coach and then promote yourself for the position. Do you see the irony there?

      I noticed another Grant post today where he called McGlinchy arguably the worst RT in the league. Nothing but click bait for this guy. Until he begins to write interesting posts I don’t see him succeeding. I think he will be out of this line of work soon enough.

      1. Well, at least KS hired an OC, something I have advocated for, many times, over the years. The irony is your predictable snark, that says nothing, then claiming that you are so superior, you can judge me.

        1. Sleb: “Well, at least KS hired an OC.” WRONG AGAIN! KS did NOT hire an OC, the 9ers promoted Mike McDaniels.
          * 49ers officially promote their run-game coordinator, Mike McDaniel to offensive coordinator. He
          replaces Mike LaFleur, who left to become the Jets’ offensive coordinator.

          1. You really are trying too hard.
            .
            I am factually correct. In December, the 49ers did not have an OC. This January, they hired an OC. Sure, they promoted him from the ranks, but they still gave him the OC title.

  180. The eye tells me Jimmy regressed. Scangarello + Pitts could get him back to the 2017 version.

    1. Razor,
      Is Pitts your final draft crush? I think he is an interesting choice if they sign a FA OT first. Do you think the 9ers could get him later in the draft than #12?

      1. No. Vernon Davis went 6th and Pitts is better. Jimmy likes the short to intermediate throws in the middle of the field. You know Kittle isn’t going to hold up all season and Reed is an accident waiting to happen. Pitts makes a ton of sense if you’re keeping Garoppolo….

        1. I find it a little interesting that many of these receivers, like Pitts, Tony, D. Smith and Waddle known for their college prowess, had pretty good QBs throwing them the football.

          I would be happy with either Mac Jones or Kyle Trask who are second tier QBs. And of course, you can throw out the phrase “sell the farm” for either of them which works fine for me.

          Pitts would be a nice piece to the offense. But coming out of the first day of the draft with a QB and a stud Olineman makes good sense to me.

  181. IF SF moves away from JG, keep a close eye on Sam Darnold in SF. Kyle was very high on him coming out of the draft. If Jets go away from him the first call will go to Kyle if he is interested. Makes a ton of sense.

    1. Rebuild:
      Sam Darnold signed a 4 year, $30,247,715 contract with the NYJ. IMO: his an annual salary of $7,561,929 is a little expensive for a backup QB, especially when compared to the salary of the 9ers drafting a QB.

  182. A lot of Scouts prefer Darnold over any QB other then Lawrence. I don’t believe for a second Darnold couldn’t thrive under Kyle. By the way anyone would see Ghosts playing behind an organization and coach that Darnold had. I would much rather give up a second for Darnold then a project like Lance. That’s just me.

    1. Rebuild A Winner
      * ” A lot of Scouts prefer Darnold over any QB other then Lawrence.”
      * Since I find it difficult to disagree with unnamed sources, would you please name those “Scouts?”

  183. Darnold is the only NFL qb I’ve seen trip himself setting up in the pocket. I think it was against Denver. His feet are a mess, and he has a Gase of the yips….

  184. Looks like the Lions and Stafford are parting ways.
    While I think he would be an upgrade over Garoppolo, I question how effective he would be behind the 49ers OL and how much he would want on a new contract.

    1. I posted this earlier when it was being suggested but I will ask again: What has Stafford done to make anyone think he would be an upgrade at QB? He hasn’t won regularly, has been to the playoffs one time and lost and still makes some seriously boneheaded mistakes.

      1. Stafford is elite. Jimmy is slightly above average when available. Think John Elway before Big Shanny arrived.

        1. Razor
          “Stafford is elite.”
          In 2009, when he was drafted, I didn’t think so, but maybe he was? But a 33 Y/O QB with multiple injuries and a 5W – 11L 2020 Season, is NOT my idea of an “elite” QB. Apparently Detroits new new head coach, Dan Campbell and his new offensive coordinator, don’t think he’s an elite QB either. Good yes, but elite? He may however, be a good bridge QB for 2021?

    2. Don’t overthink it. He’s borderline elite.

      When he played with Calvin Johnson I used to question how good he was. Since he retired Stafford has gotten even better. Excellent QB.

      My only real concern is how the back will hold up. But I say go get him.

          1. That’s a better misdirection than any Shannie designed play.

            Stafford massively violates your criteria for elite-ness. The Lions were not perennial contenders while he was under center for them. Admit it. In your world it’s stats that makes the player, not ultimate results.

            1. Sure, calling him elite is overstating things, but he is very good.

              And I see we are missing the context on the perennial contender point – as mentioned when discussing Watson, you still need good coaching and a decent team around them. Just don’t need a completely stacked roster, which is impossible to maintain. But hey, nuance, who needs it?

              Stats make the player? Not at all. I just use my eyes and actually watch the players. If you think JG is a better QB than Stafford from watching the two play, happy for you, but I strongly disagree.

      1. Scooter
        According to a Detroit press release, Stafford injured a bone in his back last year and played thru the pain. Have you (or anyone), seen a medical report on his back? Do you know how sever the injury was and if it’s an injury that he can / will fully recover from?

      2. Don’t overthink it. He’s borderline elite.

        I’m not, but the reality is that Stafford could count $33 million against the cap or want a new deal that is bigger than the one he currently has. I’m not sure the 49ers can afford that unless they are fine with letting T. Williams walk and finding a cheap option at LT.

        1. His cap hit would be way less – around $20M. Lions retain the signing bonus hit. He’d be cheaper than JG.

        2. Scratch that. Stafford would only count $20 million against the cap on his current deal if he stays on it. However, he dealt with injuries to his throwing hand, ankle, and rib cartilage in 2020. Prior to that, he only played in eight games during the 2019 season due to a back injury, so the question is whether it makes sense to trade for a player so badly banged up the past two seasons.

            1. I’m not sure where you got that I was talking about his career when I mentioned his injury history the past two seasons.
              My overall concern is Stafford’s body may be breaking down on him and the past two seasons are a sign of things to come.

              1. My point is he is durable. He gets banged up every year but can play through injury and do so at a high level. Did it again in 2020.

              2. I won’t deny that Stafford has been durable, but how much more can his body take, and will the 49ers be able to field an OL that can protect him?

              3. There are no certainties in life Mid. But 32 (turning 33) is not that old for a QB (likely has 4-6 more very good years in him of he can avoid catastrophic injury) and he has historically been durable.

                He is also cheaper than JG, which helps free up cap space to improve the OL.

              4. 33? That ain’t nothing. They were evaluating a guy 10 years older just last year, Tom Brady. Internally, the front office must be buzzing at a chance to get Matthew….

              5. Where are you guys seeing me talk about his age? I am talking about the pounding Stafford has taken as the Lions QB and the injuries he has suffered because of it.

              6. Stafford has taking a beating and kept on ticking. We can’t say the same for Jimmy. Stafford is tough as nails and he’ll need to pass his physical before any trade is consummated anyways….

              7. Stafford has taking a beating and kept on ticking.

                But can he still continue to do so, especially if the 49ers OL continues to be suspect in pass protection?

              8. Stafford is renowned for his toughness and ability to play hurt. Why would that change?

  185. Matthew Stafford has requested a trade:

    https://www.profootballrumors.com/2021/01/lions-matthew-stafford-submits-trade-request

    “Having recently hired a new GM and new head coach, the Lions have met with Stafford over the past two weeks. In those meetings, the 32-year-old quarterback has requested a fresh start. The Lions are planning to discuss Stafford with teams in the coming weeks, Pelissero adds. The sides are expected to mutually part ways, Adam Schefter of ESPN.com tweets.”

    1. George / Anyone
      Other NFL teams Knowing Stafford wants a trade from the Lions, what’s your best estimate for what
      Detroit could get in a trade? Maybe a 2nd Rd?

        1. Prime Time
          OLD? yes, but IMO, at 33 he’s not TOO OLD! He’d make a good bridge QB for the 9ers, if he’s willing to work with a young QB the 9ers drafted.

        1. George
          IDK, you may be right? But I’d want to know a lot more about how well the broken bone in his back has healed….And will it be a problem in the future?
          I’ve looked online, trying to find a medical report on his back, but found nothing so far!

      1. Stafford, another of these “elite” QBs who’s never done anything because “he didn’t have the pieces around him”. And the only reason JG did anything is that “he had the pieces around him”. Ergo – does that logic make JG into an elite QB? Asking for an armchair coach.

          1. Geep, durability is my main concern about JG. Not his arm strength, footwork, or other “limitations” that are solved by the armchair GMs here with a QB that puts up 4500 a season but has proved incapable of winning a single playoff game.

      2. I’ve seen speculation that trade value is similar to a 32-year old Carson Palmer when he was traded to Oakland in October of 2011. A 2012 first and a 2013 second round pick.

  186. #12 for Stafford, trade Jimmy and sign Rosen as the backup to develop behind him. Draft Mond in round 5 as the 3rd.

      1. You never cease to amaze me, ignorance is bliss! Book smart, Street dumb and I wonder about book smart?
        I can’t help but feel sorry for you!
        ** NOT YOU GEORGE **

        1. Razor
          1) A. Rodgers and T. Brady and as much as I hate to admit it, R. Wilson are “ELITE NFL QB’s.
          2) P. Mahomes, L. Jackson and Deshaun Watson, if not considered elite now, soon will be.
          3) Some may argue that D. Prescott, C Wentz and maybe M. Ryan are also elite. I would not.
          Good, but NOT ELITE!
          Please explain how & why you believe Stafford compares to Mahomes, Jackson, or Watson, let alone Rodgers, Brady and Wilson?

      1. I just can’t see paying a LT as much as a QB. This year I think there will be more FA options available than in past years due to the salary cap decrease.

        1. I can’t either, but the team is going to need either him or a capable LT if they do go after Stafford.

      2. They could structure Williams so he’d only count for $11 million in 2021, and bet that the 2022 cap is bigger.

    1. I would give the Lions no higher than a second round pick or two. It is also highly unlikely that Garoppolo will want to go to Detroit.

      1. Who said anything about JG to Detroit? Razor just said trade JG.

        I highly doubt Stafford will be traded for less than a 1st, and the 49ers should be interested at that price.

        1. I misread what Razor posted, but I still do not believe Stafford is worth a first round pick.

  187. No way in hell you’re getting Stafford for a 2nd round pick. If we get him we instantly become the western favorite.

    1. Not likely. It has taken QBs in Shanahan’s system at least one year to learn it, and the pass protection is currently suspect.

  188. I will take it a step further, you get Stafford you become SB favorites. Kyle wouldn’t be bringing a knife to a gun fight. Stafford to SF scares EVERYONE!

  189. Sigh more of the same around here. Blinded by the big arm while ignoring the facts. Stafford is not elite. He’s won nothing his entire career so let’s dump the guy who has won and give up a 1st round pick while doing so. Sounds like a hell of a plan.

    1. Not, yeah you can see from my posts we are on the same page. But it does give the armchair guys who are experts something to chatter about. One thing for sure, they do have fluid criteria on what constitutes elite.

      1. Yep I think we’ve discovered that elite means a lot of yards and more deep shots to this group. Call me crazy but I prefer wins.

  190. Let’s be clear, Stafford in SF is winning the majority of the games like Jimmy. Talent wise those two are not in the same playing field ( I’m a big JG supporter too). Stafford under Shanny is in the conversation for MVP every year. Strike while the iron is hot.

    1. And nothing you said here is backed up by the facts. Just fanboy hyperbole. Stafford has a big arm and a lot of losses with better receivers than he’ll have here.

      1. Judging Stafford off of playoff wins is like comparing Dan Marino to Nick Foles and saying Foles is better because he won a Super Bowl. Stafford has never been on a team like the 49ers have and has never played with a play caller like Kyle.

        To see the difference in the level of play between Jimmy and Stafford, all you have to do is watch them play. The eye test says it all.
        .
        Put Stafford and Jimmy on the same team in the same exact conditions and Stafford would outperform Jimmy in all aspects.

        Stafford is better at maneuvering the pocket, better on the run (even at his age), short accuracy, intermediate accuracy, long accuracy, has better touch and knows when to adjust his throwing angle and velocity. Stafford goes through his progressions and reads the defense on a different level than Jimmy.

        In my opinion, there’s no comparison between the 2 in Kyle Shanahan’s offense.

        1. Ah, the old never has been surrounded by the pieces argument. Calvin Johnson, Golden Tate, Marvin Johnson, LeGarrette Blount, Danny Amendola…guys he’s played with over his career aren’t chopped liver.

        2. is like comparing Dan Marino to Nick Foles and saying Foles is better because he won a Super Bowl.

          “Better” is subjective. Ask Eagles fans if they’d prefer a Super Bowl Championship with Foles compared to what Dolphins fans would say about near 20 years with Marino and no championship. Sure, 10 years of playoff appearances, so that meets the Scooter criteria of “elite” – a perennial playoff team (with a HOF coach for most of those years, I’d hope so) . If you ask me that was just 17 long years of heartbreak.

        3. And with all due respect Chris your opinion is not backed up by the results. I have watched Stafford for years and he has physical ability but also quite often comes up small and makes big mistakes that cost his team games. He’s been the league for over a decade and has played with some great weapons and yet has only been to 3 playoff games and lost them all. I’m sorry but you don’t get to play the he doesn’t have a good enough team around him game. He’s the guy who is supposed to elevate them if he’s as good as you say he is.

          1. Notanexpert,

            In all reality, Stafford most likely will not be a 49er. I think Shanahan prefers looking to the draft to fill the spot.

            But yes, I think Stafford is a better all around quarterback than Jimmy ~ even if he “ quite often comes up small and makes big mistakes that cost his team games.,” he’s still a more talented quarterback and in my opinion, gives a team a better chance of winning than Jimmy.

            My preferred strategy does not include trading for Stafford though.
            Draft and develop.

            Sitting at #12 isn’t ideal for getting one of the top 4, but if Stafford goes to someone like Carolina or Denver, maybe one of them fall within range for a small trade up

    2. Rebuild A winner
      * “Let’s be clear, Stafford in SF is winning the majority of the games like Jimmy.”
      THAT MY FRIEND, IS WRITTEN IN THE SAND….And will wash away with the first wave.
      I’ll ask you the same question I asked Razor….

      1) A. Rodgers, T. Brady and as much as I hate to admit it, R. Wilson are “ELITE NFL QB’s.
      2) P. Mahomes, L. Jackson and Deshaun Watson, if not considered elite now, soon will be.
      3) Some may argue that D. Prescott, C Wentz and maybe M. Ryan are also elite. I would not.
      Good, but NOT ELITE!
      Please explain how & why you believe Stafford compares to Mahomes, Jackson, or Watson, let alone Rodgers, Brady and Wilson?

      1. Some people always fall in love with the big arm and forget about all the other things that make a great quarterback. It’s like walking along the beach and seeing this hot girl. Yes, she’s beautiful but….

        1. Ribico,

          In my opinion, the only fair way to judge Stafford vs Jimmy, is to project them both in the exact same offense, with the exact same weapons and backed by the exact same defense.

          With that being said, do you think a Jimmy led offense takes the team farther than a Stafford led team?

          1. I don’t know but I don’t think he is much of an upgrade if any at all. Certainly not worth paying draft picks and disrupting the chemistry of the team .

          2. Chris, does that same defense do a better job of holding a lead in the SB with 10 minutes to go? Does that same OL do a better job of keeping the likes of Frank Clark off of Stafford? Does the Stafford team even make the SB to find out? We already know that a Jimmy led offense is capable of it, the Stafford one is a question mark.

            1. “We already know what a Jimmy led offense is capable of”

              If Jimmy plays at the level he was during the super bowl, and nothing better, I don’t think this team is good enough to win a super bowl.

              The 2019 roster was stacked.
              2021 might not be as stacked.

              That’s why they need to upgrade the QB position.

              I’d prefer them doing it through the draft, though. Not trade

  191. Don’t take my word for it, after all I’m just a hack. Matt LaFleur,

    “Matthew Stafford, I think he’s an elite quarterback,” LaFleur said. “He’s a natural thrower. He’s extremely accurate and I’ve always – I haven’t really gone against him too many times on teams that I’ve been on but we all watch the same tape and he is just, I’ve always thought he is an elite quarterback.”

    Carson Palmer,

    Stafford is “the most talented quarterback that I’ve ever seen and just doesn’t get his just due,” largely because he plays for the Lions.

    Since Matthew Stafford’s rookie season in 2009, Lions receivers lead the NFL with 350 drops. Stafford had 7 consecutive seasons throwing for at least 4,000 pass yards from 2011 to 2017. That is the 5th longest streak in NFL history. He’s never had a running game, and has had to deal with a revolving door at HC(4) and GM(3). He became the fastest player in NFL history to 20,000, 30,000 and 40,000 yards. He holds virtually all the Lions passing marks. From 2011 to 2019 he started every single game. He’s played through all kinds of injuries. Put up big numbers. Made one Pro Bowl and led the Lions to three playoff games in three separate years. Sounds pathetic, but it’s actually more than any previous Lions’ starter in more than 50 years….

    1. I respectfully disagree. ML is just talking ‘Coach Speech’. He is praising an opponent to the high heavens. Bill Walsh employed that strategy so there would be no locker room fodder.
      .
      Sure Stafford holds all of those passing records, because he was losing, and had to throw the ball. Yes, he had Calvin Johnson to throw to, but did he win? Stats can be deceiving. I put him in the Dan Marino category. Very gifted, but never a champion.
      .
      This is nice grist for the mill, but there is very little chance of Stafford becoming a Niner. First of all, they have JG, a SB QB. Secondly, there will be several teams like NE, Atlanta, Carolina, Washington, Denver, Jets, Miami, NO and Indy, who may all want a new QB, and do not have a decent, proven QB. They will all be out bidding the Niners.
      .
      Stafford is good, but he will be 33 when he plays, so he is not a long term solution. He is not particularly mobile, and he had back surgery. The Niners would best improve their team in the first round by drafting an Offensive Lineman, so they O line will not give up so many sacks and pressures.

      1. Coach speech my ass.

        Dan Marino category? That’s a pretty damn good category to be in. I put him in the Elway category under Big Shanny if he gets to play for Shanny here in San Francisco.

        If several teams are outbidding for Stafford’s services, and his stock starts with 1st round compensation; your argument that he’s just a garbage time loser whose good and not elite becomes a non sequitur.

        33? 10 years younger than the qb they were interested in last year. There’s not a tougher qb in this league than Stafford. You think he gets signed without passing a physical? No way in hell….

        1. Dan Marino category? That’s a pretty damn good category to be in

          And you would have been satisfied with “wait until next year” for 17 straight years? Doubtful. About 5 or 6 years in you would have been, what can we get for Danny? 3 firsts at least, then we can draft a QB who knows how to win the big one!

              1. Sure am:

                Razoreater says:
                January 24, 2021 at 11:48 am
                Stafford will retire with 2 rings if he gets to play for Shanny.

            1. Last time I saw the Miami Dolphins, backup QB Earl Morrell won a SB.

              We don’t know, what we don’t know. We don’t know how a Cousins, Watson and Stafford would have done in a 49ers offense.
              Heck, after a few games at the beginning of last season, some people were adament that Nick Mullens should become the full-time starter even after JG was healthy enough to play.

              Here’s what we all do know and can’t debate – Jimmy Garoppolo IS a proven winner and unlike the above mentioned flavors of the week, he’s taken his team to a SB in the middle of a three year team rebuild.
              A high ankle sprang is a nagging injury that lingers for a while and is easily aggravated. Knowing this by personal experiences, it takes a couple of months of physical inactivity for this injury to heal.
              Point: JG should be fully healed by TC.

  192. please not another older vet with back problems. haven’t we learned our lesson about paying injury prone players.

  193. Oh, good. 33 is not too old? Chad Henne was not a starter since 2013?
    .
    Guess that means that Kaep should be eligible to play again. He is a mobile, dual threat QB with a rocket arm.

    1. Seb,
      Just stop it, my friend.
      Kaep is better at standing up for equality, than standing up in the pocket.
      Let it go ?

      1. With all the teams that really need a QB, and considering all the existing drek QBs, Kaep will/should be given a chance to compete. If he tries out and his skills are not at an NFL level, so be it.
        .
        Thankfully, he will not be fired anymore.

  194. Who will win today?
    .
    I think GB and the Bills. The GB defense will be too much for Brady, while Rodgers will carve up that secondary.
    .
    The Bills are the most complete team in the league. Josh Allen is peaking. Edwards Helaire has a high ankle sprain, so he will not be at 100%. Mahomes has turf toe, and is recovering from being knocked woozy last game.

    1. Rodgers is still pissed over himself and his team being severely manhandled multiple times last season by the team that jilted him. He’s on a mission from, if not god, then at least Chico.

      KC should win, they’ve been there before, Mahomes is a year ahead in his development over Allen. Still, I’m going with the Bills. Snowbelt SB, y’all!

    2. Why does everyone love GB?
      This reminds me of last year when GB got waxed by SF, then when played them again and people somehow forgot about it. GB is a team of also rans.

      1. Why does everyone love GB?

        Something about an elite QB ?. Looks like the Pack is meeting an elite-er QB.

          1. cubus, given the team injuries last season, I don’t think a cloned combination of Brady, Montana, Marino and Mahomes would have made a difference.

            1. I think we would have squeaked into the playoffs. Even with the injuries, Mullens was, to be charitable, unsatisfactory.

      2. Aaron Rodgers grew up in Northern California, and went to Cal.
        .
        Imagine where the Niners would have been if Nolan chose Rodgers over AS. They might have won a few more rings.
        .
        Guess I was wrong about the TB-Packer game, but Jones becoming injured and fumbling the ball was a crucial play in the game.

        1. I don’t know how you blow a coverage so badly with 5 seconds left in a half and 40 yards to go.

    3. I’m pulling for Aaron Rodgers from the Berkeley Cal Bears. And Josh Allen the Firebaugh Flame Thrower.
      Three Cali QBs vying for a SB appearance, not bad.

    4. “Who will win today? I think GB and the Bills…..Straight from our all knowing genius!
      Buf 24 TB 31
      KC 38 GB 26

      1. At least I made a prediction. You being a clueless gutless wonder, did not even venture a guess.
        .
        I was right about the Packer defense, that intercepted TB 3 times, but did not know that Bahktiari would not play. It also looked like CEH was fully recovered from his high ankle sprain, and the talk about Mahomes turf toe was just feigning weakness.
        .
        Yes, I was wrong, and it will not be the last time I am wrong. At least I can admit when I am wrong, but go ahead, snark away. It just means you are trying too hard.
        .
        Two things I learned from those teams are- Being bold, and going for it, can lead to a SB berth. Settling for field goals is a good way to lose.

        1. “Being bold” cuts both ways. Frank Reich, had he elected to kick the FG instead of boldly failing to get a TD at 4th and goal from the 4 likely would have changed the outcome of that game to the Colts favor.

        2. Sleb: “At least I made a prediction.” And as usual, like all arrogant losers, YOU WERE WRONG!
          Everything else is an excuse to hide the fact you’re a bloviating buffoon!

          BTW Sleb, how many others on the blog posted their opinion on who would win? And you just called all of then “a clueless gutless wonder, because they “did not even venture a guess!”
          WILL YOU EVER LEARN? LMAO
          .

          1. They did not snark at my picks. One poster gave me some good bantering chatter, while your immature screeds do nothing for this site.
            .
            Since you want to make some predictions, go ahead. I could use a laugh.

            1. Sleb: “Since you want to make some predictions, go ahead. I could use a laugh.”
              OK Sleb! I predict that before the end of the month, you will say something that exposes your an ignorant bloviating buffoon. Go ahead, Laugh away fool.
              WILL YOU EVER LEARN?

    1. Deshaun Watson has a pecking order of teams he’d like to play for. Dolphins aren’t No. 1
      * Quarterback Deshaun Watson, unhappy with his situation with the Houston Texans, apparently has a ranking for which new team he’d like to play: And, yes, he really wants to move to the AFC East. But he prefers to play for the New York Jets. And, second, he’d like to play for the Miami Dolphins. In that order.

      Watson this week told people the Jets are his top preference among the teams he’d like to be traded to because they hired Robert Saleh to be their coach and Watson values Saleh so much he wanted the Texans to interview him for their vacant head coach job.
      https://sports.yahoo.com/deshaun-watson-pecking-order-teams-183857602.html

  195. Has anyone on this blog analyzed Jimmy G’s interceptions systematically? I am curious who were the targeted receivers. One data I recall is that his interception rate fell by more than half in 2019 once Sanders arrived.

  196. All I hear around here is that KS and JL have to do something about all the injuries. The two ideas I hear the most are they need to change the way they condition and practice and they need to stop drafting or signing FA’s with injury history. Now we are talking about giving up 2 1st rd draft picks for a 34 yo QB who has been pretty banged up the last 2 years. He hasn’t missed too many games (with the exception of the 2019 season) but he is getting to that age where injuries just seem to happen. If he were healthier or younger I would give up this years 2nd and next years first and 3rd. What scares the hell out of me about this trade is we end up with Josh Rosen starting the 2nd half of next years season. imho

  197. “What scares the hell out of me about this trade is we end up with Josh Rosen starting the 2nd half of next years season.”

    Isn’t it just as likely or even more likely that Josh Rosen will start the 2nd half of next year’s season if Jimmy G is the starting QB?

      1. Cubus and Razor,
        At no time did I say I wanted JG to continue as the 9ers QB. L just made the point that after hearing all the complaining about injuries I was surprised at the positive reaction to Stafford.

    1. cubus,
      There’s a reason why Rosen hasn’t been able to stick with a team.
      There’s also a strong chance that he doesn’t even make it through TC.
      Counting on Rosen backing up JG is a long shot at best.
      Give me a proven winner any day of the week. Give me, JG.

    1. I can’t believe Rodger didn’t run the ball in on 3rd down. It was wide open but he through it back into double coverage.

      1. I Agree completely, and Brady tried to hand him the game but Rodgers couldn’t capitalize.
        That said, when you have less than 3 minutes and need to score a td to tie or win the game. I do not believe in giving the ball back. 3 pts doesn’t change the fact that I have to score a td… the math just doesn’t add up for me.

    2. I can’t believe Green Bay chose to give the ball back to TB rather than go for it.

      I can’t believe they couldn’t gain on a yard on 3 tries from the 8 yard line. That is the bigger failure. They had the same setup in the first half and didn’t gain anything on 3 plays that time either. My guess is Lafleur thought they would come away with nothing and figured at least with a FG and all the TO’s they’d have a shot to win it outright if they could make a stop and get the ball back. He still should have gone for it on 4th down, but I can see the logic in taking the 3 when your offense had proven it couldn’t score in that situation on 6 tries previously.

    1. “A lot of guys’ futures, they’re uncertain, myself included” – Aaron Rodgers

      GB is $32 M over the cap with only 46 players signed.

    2. Rib,
      2021 is the not the year for contemplating change in QB, IMO. It’s going to be another unsettled season with low cap. If Jimmy G has a mediocre season, and the Niners decide to move on from him next offseason, Rodgers may become an option. Based on this post-game interview yesterday I don’t see Rodgers wanting to restructure his contract for 2022 and 2023.

      1. I agree. I could see the Niners drafting somebody this season but I think they will retain Garoppolo over trading for somebody like Stafford or Watson. Rodgers isn’t going anywhere this year as you mentioned due to his cap charge, but he could be an option after next season if Garoppolo suffers through another injury marred season.

  198. I was just looking at some of the 2021 cap numbers assuming a salary cap of $176 M on overthecap.com. 13 teams are under water. The Chiefs are effectively $26M over the cap with only 40 players signed. The Saints are $103 M over the cap with 59 players signed (Wow!). If these numbers hold up, there has to be a lot of good talent hitting FA. Saleh and Urban Myer are sitting real pretty with high draft picks and all kinds of cap space.

    In our division, the 49ers are actually in the best shape – salary cap wise (barely over the Cardinals). Rams are $30 M over with 59 players signed.

    1. When looking at cap health you also need to factor in players signed and who is coming off contract. 49ers may look ok relative to other teams in terms of cap space, but when you factor in the number of players under contract and key players coming off contract they are not in good shape.

      But to your broader point, yes, a lot of teams are going to face some tough choices. In particular a lot of teams that are currently very good. It is why I have been saying I think 2021 will see a real shift in power.

      1. “will see a real shift in power”

        Exactly what I was thinking.

        Yes, you have to look at who is coming off contract – but my comment regarding the 49ers was limited to the NFC West. Admittedly, I did not check who is coming off contract for the Seahawks and the Cards. I can’t imagine that the Rams are in better shape than the 49ers.

        Also, if you combine available cap space and draft pick capital, the 49ers are probably in better shape than any other team in our division.

      2. I haven’t looked to see what the teams that are way over the cap have to do to get under, but I still believe teams will keep the players they most want to keep with creative deals to bridge them a couple of years. That is not to say there won’t be some big names come available but I don’t think it’s going to be a case of the teams with the most cap space hitting the motherload and restocking their roster with top players from other teams.

  199. Start now getting paid every month online from home more than $16k by just doing very simple and easiest work from home. As i have made $18583 last month from this very easy home based work. I am very happy now because i have made much money in very less time. Every person can now easily get this home base job and start making real cash online by just follow instructions on this website………..https://cutt.ly/IjBIWMs

  200. Looking at the Draft order, Jax, NYJ, Miami, Detroit and Denver may all be seriously looking for a QB. Atlanta, Cincy, Carolina Philly and Dallas all could look at upgrading their QB position. That is 10 teams who may select a QB before the Niners.
    .
    After the Niners, the Patriots, Washington, Chicago, Indy, Pittsburgh and New Orleans will be looking for a QB. Those 6 teams may want to move up to select a QB, so the Niners have good potential trade partners.
    .
    Unfortunately, there are only 4 top 10 QBs- Trevor Lawrence, Zach Wilson, Justin Fields and Mac Jones. Trey Lance and Jamie Newman may be first round QBs, so there may be 16 teams needing to upgrade their QB position, but only 6 QBs who may go in the first round. Sure, there will be some veteran QBs on the move, and some QBs may still remain starters like Darnold, Ryan, Wentz, Trubisky and Tua, so drafting a QB may not be an early round priority.
    .
    The Niners are in a good draft position. They could stay at 12, or there may be several teams who may want to move up, including the Jets and Dolphins, with their later first round picks. With Saleh going to the Jets, the Niners may want to make an advantageous trade that would be a win/win situation for both teams.

  201. This ones for you, Seb. And all of us.

    The big game is less than two weeks away, with the Kansas City Chiefs seeking to successfully defend their title against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The narrative will center on quarterbacks, and rightly so. Tom Brady and Patrick Mahomes aren’t just among the greatest to ever play, they are among the most captivating.
    But years from now, when historians assess the connection between professional sports and the state of the world in the current era, which N.F.L. quarterback will loom largest?

    I’ll bet on Kaepernick, once among the league’s most electric players, censured and shut out of the game since 2016.

    We’ve just endured a presidential term of brazen demagogy from a man many N.F.L. owners have considered a great leader and friend. We’ve seen the rise of white supremacy. The stream of police shootings. The killing of George Floyd. Protests, the coronavirus pandemic and the deadly storming of the Capitol.
    Kaepernick’s critique of America foretold it all.

    https://www.nytimes.com/2021/01/25/sports/football/kaepernick-kneeling-protests-super-bowl.html

          1. Did you know that many who now lionize Ali, vilified him for years? Ali was called uppity, unpatriotic, a traitor, a commie and a coward. Back then, many hated him. Now, all love him.
            .
            Kaep was vilified for kneeling, but now that the seditious mob beat a policeman with an American flag, we have a new standard about who is disrespecting the flag.
            .
            Kaep has finally been proven right, and history will not be kind to his detractors.

            1. Seb,
              When speaking on the level of fighting for justice and equality, there are many similarities. Heck, even Laila Ali recognizes that on that front Kaepernick is similar to her dad.

              My contention is that Ali was at the top of his Boxing career when he was stripped of his title.
              Keapernick was floundering when he got blackballed.

              The press and the American public in general was cruel to Ali and wanted him to serve the 10 years in jail for being a draft evator. He did spend three years jail.
              Kaepernick never spent one day in jail.

              Ali never had the opportunity to sue the WBA for the three years lost at the peak of his career. Nor did he sign a lucrative shoe deal, as Kaepernick did.
              Heck, the best Ali could do on the side to make money was get a rat commercial with De-con.

              Ali was unable to support his family for three years. Kaepernick has been living large since being ousted by his sport.
              Actually, I’m happy that Kaep has profited by his stance.
              The same can’t be said of Ali.
              If there’s such a thing as measuring sports hero’s, Ali stands alone.

  202. We need speed at cb to match up with the Chiefs outside wr’s. I think that means signing Verrett a priority, and adding another speedy cb like, Ambry Thomas outta MI. The bonus? He’s our starting PR….

        1. I can’t see the Lions taking on Garoppolo’s contract on top of the $19 million dead cap that will come from trading Stafford.

          1. MWD
            IMO the team that is most likely to trade up with the 9ers, to draft a QB at draft pick #12, would be the Chicago Bears. With the 9ers getting the Bears draft pick #20 and #52.
            Who, in your opinion, would be the team?
            NOTE: JG would not be included in that trade.

            1. GEEP,

              What QBs do you presume being available at pick 12 that would incentivize any team to trade up to that spot?

    1. I reckon best thing for him is to not participate in the SB anyway. Would highlight his deficiencies.

  203. For you armchair GMs out there: Who’d be better at the helm going forward, Stafford or Rogers?

    Please consider what we’d have to give up and how much longer each remains in his prime.

      1. I WIN SLEB! And it is not even the end of the month!
        1) After transferring from Wake Forest to Georgia, Newman opted out of the 2020 season. Do you know how many games he played for Georgia Sleb? QB Jamie Newman is a third round draft pick, why would JL draft him in the 2nd Rd?
        2) The 9ers should keep JG? And pay him for playing half a season….Maybe less?
        Like I said earlier Sleb, I feel sorry for you…..LOL, It’s kinda like taking candy from a baby!

          1. Chris Mac
            If you had ask me that question a week ago, I would have said Chicago for Trey Lance. But that was before Watson said he wanted to be traded to the NYJ and play for Saleh, and Matt Stafford said he wanted to be traded.

          2. Sleb: “Quit trolling.” REALLY?
            * Do you even know the definition of “trolling” Sleb? Apparently NOT, as you were factually WRONG about Jamie Newman and I corrected you! That’s NOT trolling, that’s WINNING a bet! Once again you’ve exposed your ignorance, but you’re Narcissism makes you too insecure to admit it. AND YOU ALSO LOST THE BET!
            Since that’s more than your fragile ego can handle, I suggest you take your own advice AND SCROLL
            ON BY.

            1. FYI, haunting my posts is a troll tactic, but it also shows how desperate you are.
              .
              I lost the bet? Quit making things up. That is a Trumpty Dumpty tactic.
              .
              Believe it or not, Jamie Newman may be low on the top prospect rankings, but after the Senior Bowl, I fully expect his stock to rise. So no, I am anticipating his elevation in the rankings, not betting where he is taken, like Prime.
              .
              You are trying too hard.

              1. * Since that’s more than your fragile ego can handle.
                * Sleb:”Keep JG, draft Jamie Newman with a ((( second round pick.)))
                * Sleb: “Believe it or not, Jamie Newman may be low on the top prospect rankings, but after the Senior Bowl, I fully expect his stock to rise.” “So no, I am anticipating his elevation in the rankings, not betting where he is taken.”
                * Pre SB: #79 QB Jamie Newman, Georgia
                * Post SB: #TBD QB Jamie Newman, Georgia

    1. That is an easy one for me. Rodgers and it’s not even close. Not sure what we’d have to give up, but unlike Stafford, Rodgers has been one of the best in the league since he took over for Favre and elevates his team every season.

    2. I think you only trade for Rodgers if you are after a short term option. Who knows how much longer he wants to play for? So for me he is an “all in for 2021” option. Given the uncertainty surrounding the 49ers squad due to salary cap I am not convinced an “all in for 2021” option is a great option. But he is the guy that moves the needle the most, easily.

      Stafford seems a far more likely option that shouldn’t cost the moon and one would expect can give you around 5 more years of high level play. In a vacuum it is my belief he is an upgrade over JG, and from there it just comes down to what is a reasonable price to pay for the upgrade.

      1. I think this is well-reasoned, especially, as you say, how much longer will he want to play. He already has a ring and a clear path to the Hall of Fame. Stafford ,otoh, must be chomping at the bit to feel like a winner.

    3. The easy answer is Rodgers but not when considering what you would have have to give up for him.
      Any conversation for Rodgers probably starts at 3 first and might end up closer to 4 vs Stafford who probably costs a 1st and a 2nd. The nice thing is neither one of them would cost SF that much if I am reading their contracts right. GB or Det would have to pick up a decent chunk related to their guaranteed money, I think. Please correct me if I am wrong.

      *Note* I also think Aaron’s Contract makes him nearly non tradable for GB.

      One other point is that while many hate giving up firsts, what happens when you give them a name. Kinlaw, Bosa, and McGlinchey… would you trade them for Aaron Rodgers?

    1. I’d like to take all the regulars and form a new website where we’d contribute a topic each week.

      1. That’s what I want to do with my blog Razor, but my execution has been rudimentary at best and hampered by my work life.

        1. I’ll try it through WIX but I can’t make any promises:

          Inspired 49ers

          Your go to source for fanbase news.

            1. Why can’t we just collaborate to get yours going? I didn’t know you were still committed to it.

    2. I don’t believe it has been abandoned per se Cubus. I think a combination of losing money and Assembly Bill 5 has caused the Press Democrat to limit the articles on here to one a week during the NFL season.

  204. Albert Breer is reporting, Jimmy Garoppolo’s name came up briefly when discussing trade talks with the Colts regarding Buckner.

    Somewhere in Egypt on denial, Notanexpert….

    1. Not in denial. I’m in results and facts and as far as I know Garoppolo was on the team this past season and remains there. You keep on doing you though.

  205. BREAKING – Donald Trump establishes the Office of the Former President.?????

    AES, Razor he needs you – send him some money…

  206. I wanted Stafford 2-3 yrs ago when Detroit hiccupped… make it happen and they are top 3-5 favorite for Super Bowl, draft for depth and value. I like JG as a person, but it is all about winning, sorry.

    I don’t think Rogers comes here w his family in the area. *Rogers f’d up on not running it in on 3rd…….. still needed the conversion though… and Pettine should be fired for his coverage call before the half- unacceptable. Yes- cost me $…

  207. I wanted Stafford 2-3 yrs ago when Detroit hiccupped… make it happen and they are top 3-5 favorite for Super Bowl, draft for depth and value. I like JG as a person, but it is all about winning, sorry.

    I don’t think Rogers comes here w his family in the area. *Rogers f’d up on not running it in on 3rd…….. still needed the conversion though… and Pettine should be fired for his coverage call before the half- unacceptable. Yes- cost me $…

  208. Couple of quotes from Eric Crocker, Former NFL quarterback who I’m sure most on here are familiar with. He’s developing into a great scout/analyst.

    “everything that you’ve seen from Matthew Stafford with the Detroit Lions, you almost have to throw that right out the window”

    “Is Matthew Stafford an upgrade over Jimmy Garoppolo? Yes. Yes. It’s not even a question. Everything that you’ve seen from Stafford, add x10 to that”… while playing for Shanahan

    I agree with Crocker from a talent standpoint ~ Stafford is better, hands down.

    Lynch and Shanahan want to have the best at every position on the team, including quarterback. Stafford is better than Jimmy.
    But how much would it cost to acquire him in a trade that would still make it worth it?

    1. Former NFL cornerback.

      I agree with much of what he has said. However, I think the bigger case for him is that he can allow Shanahan to open up his offense. The Boots, Rollouts and deep shots will help him stretch the D in every way.
      I don’t think he is “elite” but his skillset is better than Jimmy’s, yes.

    2. I trust the opinions of Crocker the Evaluator of DBs and Receivers.
      I don’t seriously consider the opinions of Crocker the Niners Fan.

      Everybody seems to have a very clear idea of how various QBs would do in Kyle’s system. Fans pretty much know which QB would “unlock” Kyle’s offense to what extent.

      The problem is that Kyle has a very clear vision of his QB — for better or worse. He’s also not going to get into a FA bidding war over any QB, especially this year. The star of Kyle’s offense is Kyle, not the QB — again for better or worse. Renick below has elaborated on this point.
      https://www.49erswebzone.com/commentary/2569-kyle-shanahan-doesnt-want-playmaker-quarterback/

      1. This topic has been brought up before but the fanboys don’t accept it. Shanahan favors QBs that will stand in there and get the ball into the playmakers hands rather than being the playmaker. Contrary to popular belief JG has done that pretty well.

        1. I think it depends on what you mean by playmaking QB, really. You are correct that what he wants is a QB that distributes the ball to the athletes in the skill positions rather than try and run the ball themselves. He also wants his QBs to be able to get the ball out in rhythm and within the structure of the offense.

          However, I believe he also wants a QB that is a playmaker with their arm. A guy that can make a play to any part of the field with excellent ball placement and timing. And I am sure he also would like (though not a critical element) a guy that can ad-lib if a play breaks down and still make something positive happen.

          1. Of course, every play-calling offensive guru would love to have a QB who can run his system to perfection within the pocket and improvise and make plays with his arms and legs when the play breaks down. Unfortunately, few of those QBs exist, if any, as Steve Young has observed.

            Some gurus like Reid has chosen to live with his QB going outside structure frequently because the latter’s sheer talent makes it worthwhile. Kyle does not seem to be one of them. He’s obstinate and wants the QB to be a chess piece who will run the plays he wants as he stacks up one play on top of the other. Kyle seems willing to compromise on QB talent on broken plays.

            1. Isn’t that pretty much what I said?

              That doesn’t mean he doesn’t want a playmaker at QB, though as I started my post with, it depends on what you mean by playmaker. If by playmaker you strictly mean someone that makes a play out of structure, then no, but I would strongly argue that having the arm talent and pocket presence to make big plays in the passing game (and be the main reason for their success) is also playmaking.

          2. By playmaker I mean a dual threat who uses his legs as much or more than his arm which is what some on here think we need in this new era of NFL football. Shanahan wants his QB to play within the system and get the ball to the playmakers. He wants a point guard that distributes. Not James Harden. Of course he wants a QB who can make a throw to any part of the field but most of his offense is short to intermediate passing so he wants a QB who does that well first and foremost. Garoppolo has done that at a high level. Could Stafford play that system at the same level or better? I’m not so sure and would say there is just as much of a chance he couldn’t as he could.

            1. By that definition I agree, that is not what Shanahan is after.

              JG does well getting the ball to his playmakers in the short game as well as to the intermediate area in the middle of the field. Outside the hashes and downfield, not so much. So that is what Shanahan builds his offense around atm. To say that is what Shanahan actually wants his offense to be is disregarding what his offense was in previous stops. In fact, even in his first year with the 49ers.

  209. Is Chris Foerster an upgrade over John Benton? Does Shon Coleman provide any leverage in a Trent Williams negotiation? How likely is it that Daniel Brunskill starts at center and Colton McKivitz at right guard? — Greg C.

    I take it you’re interested in the offensive line? I don’t know if Foerster is an upgrade over Benton. Benton deserves credit for helping the team navigate several 2019 injuries — to Joe Staley, Mike McGlinchey and Weston Richburg — with few hiccups.

    Foerster, however, has more experience as an NFL offensive line coach. And he has a significant background with Williams, which can only help the 49ers’ chances of re-signing him. No, I don’t think Coleman impacts the Williams negotiation since Coleman has yet to play a meaningful snap for the 49ers. But his presence would allow some other players — like Justin Skule? he’s probably best at guard — to spend more time on the interior this offseason.

    A depth-chart guess:

    Left tackle: Williams, Coleman

    Left guard: Laken Tomlinson, Skule

    Center: Garland, Brunskill

    Right guard: Brunskill, Colton McKivitz

    Right tackle: Mike McGlinchey, Skule

    1. With that Line they better bring in Michael Johnson to play QB because he will be running for his life.

      1. My questions for the great, Matthew Barrows! That’s two beat writers that agree with me that the offensive line of 2020 will for the most part, be the offensive line of 2021….

        1. Razor
          I’m not sure how two beat writers agreeing with you, that the “offensive line of 2020 will for the most part, be the offensive line of 2021” will keep JG, or Stafford, healthy and off IR? The O-Line of 2020 didn’t keep JG healthy, or off IR! Why do you think 2021 will be any different?
          Just asking for a friend.

        2. It’s possible they will run out the same oline but that line isn’t good. Williams is the only decent pass blocker in the bunch.
          If they decide to run it back with that oline, then they are better off not drafting or trading for a QB. There is just no point to it.
          I’m guessing they bring in a center.

          1. Oh, I don’t know, Shoup. Continuity is critical to the success of an offensive line. More than any position group. I’d be surprised if they don’t improve….

            1. Continuity is important but talent matters more. They were mostly just getting whipped, continuity does nothing for that.
              They lined up 3 guys that cant hold up one on one, next to each other, you can’t even scheme up help for that. That’s why our qbs were tops in pressure percentage Andy QBs hits on a per game basis.

              1. Like I said, I’ll be very surprised if their pass pro isn’t improved next year with basically the same unit. Maybe there’s a new vet center but I doubt it….

              2. Razor, we had the same argument last year and it didn’t work out for SF. So I don’t understand why we should expect a different result when going down the same path. Even if this line improves significantly, it would likely go from Garbage to just bad in terms of pass pro, and that is not good enough.
                I want them to get to at least slightly below average, and that requires a talent upgrade.
                Additionally, if SF wants their qb to take shots down the field from time to time, they can’t have them being scared for their life every time they drop back. They will start to panick and look for the check down too quickly.

              3. I think you’re a bit over the top in your assessments. They are a very good run blocking offensive line that will improve in their pass pro. Nowhere to go but up!

                We’d all like an upgrade and Williams was it. I wouldn’t expect any big time signings other than him. As far as being able to take deep shots, that’s what play action does. Makes the pass rushers hesitate, and draws the lb’s up. You gotta be able to hit ’em though, and Jimmy hasn’t been able to….

              4. Razor,
                Im not talking about their run blocking. That was good, but even with the threat of it, Play action wasn’t working last year because even with the threat of the run game the line was getting beat too fast.
                Also by relying so much on Play Action to give qbs more time, in any situation where they must pass they are at a major disadvantage.

          2. I’m with you there Shoup. I would be surprised if they don’t bring in a centre to replace Richburg.

              1. Another reason not to sign Williams. With the amount of free agents that should be available this year, they should be able to save $8 to $10 million by not signing Williams. I guess they could backload a contract and pay out a hefty signing bonus, but to me it seems like that strategy eventually gets a team into trouble.

                OTC has the 49ers at almost $8 million in dead cap (6th highest). The contract that Lynch restructured for Ford turned out to be bad and was very risky at the time given Ford’s injury history. To the casual observer, restructuring Jimmy G would have made more sense (at that time) although he is now proving to be oft injured. The fact that they would restructure Ford is telling about how they felt about Jimmy G at that time. I can’t imagine they feel more strongly towards Jimmy after this season.

                Paraag may be getting the blame from some, but in the end, he takes orders from Lynch. Paraag might just be trying to make lemonade out of lemons. Much like the lemon metaphore, I’m beginning to sour on Lynch, but let’s see how he handles this FA and draft season.

              2. “Making lemonade when you’re given lemons is leadership; making lemonade when you don’t have any lemons is great leadership.”

    1. They need to think this through. Trading JG to Belichick may give him a couple more rings. JG is proven to be a SB QB, and Belichick would know how to maximize his potential.
      .
      However, if NE is offering 2 firsts and a second round pick, that may be an offer they cannot refuse. Getting DW may be a boon, especially if he wants to go win a ring, not toil on a cellar dweller.

      1. Seb,
        I bet you a beer at the Barlow (post pandemic) that the 9ers get no better than a 3rd round pick for JG. Maybe a 2nd but I will stick with a 3rd.

        1. Old Coach, I will take your bet. However, how about a Hop Monk IPA? Of all the local brews, that is my favorite. If you are correct, I will recompense with a Crooked Goat Wander Lust- a Hazy IPA. or any other brew you deem appropriate.

  210. I think I am slightly changing my assessment of troompy. Last week troompy threw a hysterical tantrum after learning Lady ga ga would perform at the inauguration. troompy felt betrayed since one of her first performances was at one of his teenager exploitation events. This is who this man is in a nutshell. he desperately wants to be loved and accepted. I guess childhood was not that great for him. Troompy doesn’t care if it is rappers, kanye, b rated actors, dictators, russian mob, american mafia, Klan, proud little d!ck gang, daughterwife … He really has no ideology or belief system other than enrich himself using whatever unscrupulous means necessary and seek love and attention. If fact it was not that long ago he was a self professed liberal democrat. He is just a sad desperate little man.

  211. The NFL QB scene has undergone and is undergoing a dramatic change. More and more young QBs with athletic ability are coming through the pipeline and becoming productive starters. The older and/or dissatisfied QBs are realizing their outsize role in the team’s success and are more willing to flex their power to engineer trades or go into FA looking for teams that will tailor the offense to their strengths and get them the personnel they need. I expect this unsettled QB situation to continue for the next several off-seasons.

  212. the 49ers have 38 players with NFL experience who are not signed for next season, including 27 unrestricted free agents. And with a projection of less than $10 million in cap space,

    How the fvk did Parage allow this happened?

      1. This would have never happened under Baalke. He’d have a team of all 53 signed for under $150M! Shad Khan’s eyes must have lit up when saw the savings Baalke promised in his GM interview……

    1. The 49ers wanted to shoot the moon, and get back to the SB. Unfortunately, this MASH unit of a season squashed their plans.

  213. 45 GOP senators vote to dismiss the impeachment trial:

    “Bill Clinton lied under oath and they thought that… he needed to be removed from office for lying under oath. Donald Trump incites a terrorist attack and they have a different standard.”

  214. “I’m fully on board with StafFrancisco. I’m going to go ahead and make that a thing here. Those top four quarterbacks are going to be gone when San Francisco picks at twelve. That means you’re going to have to trade up if you want one of those top four guys. It’s going to cost you a lot more to trade up to get one of those four quarterbacks than it would cost you to get Matthew Stafford.”

    https://www.ninersnation.com/2021/1/26/22250944/is-matthew-stafford-worth-the-49ers-first-round-draft-pick

  215. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports teams are “already reaching out” to initiate Matthew Stafford trade talks.
    A trade can’t technically be completed until the start of the new league year in March, but it’s not uncommon for big-ticket deals to be agreed upon well in advance of free agency. With Deshaun Watson and a host of other starters potentially on the move, it is going to be an unusually explosive quarterback market this winter. So far, the only team has Stafford has been indirectly connected to is the 49ers, who are said to be “monitoring” the situation. 12 days shy of his 33rd birthday, Stafford will have a robust market.

    1. Basically what I was telling, Scooter. The framework is in place but the officiality of it is not. Basically the Redskins trade for Smith off the top of my head. There’s been every reason to believe that the 49ers are pursuing an upgrade to the quarterback position, no matter how tight, Notanexpert holds onto his Jimmy doll….

      1. Yes, but like I said in response (and this was re Watson at the time), there is no benefit to the Texans in rushing this as their preferred outcome would still be that Watson stays. Which is why the idea that something would be hashed out quickly always seemed a pipe dream.

        For the Lions, it is is still preferable to draw it out a bit in order to drum up a bidding war. Though not to the same extent as for the Texans – since they now know they will trade him they also don’t want to wait so long that teams start looking into (and securing) other options.

        I expect this to play out over the next month or so. Something will be done prior to the start of FA, but I don’t think it will be sorted in the next week.

      2. As I’ve said a few times now I don’t have a problem with an upgrade if it really is an upgrade. Rodgers would be an upgrade. Matt Stafford is a hope and a prayer with no indication of being anything more than a compiler. The 49ers had the #2 offense in points scored and 4th overall in yards with Garoppolo in his first full year as a starter. In 12 seasons with Stafford Detroit was top ten in scoring twice – 4th and 7th – and top ten in both scoring and yards…once. For most of his career they have been middle of the pack or bottom 3rd. That is with one of the best WR’s to ever play the game and a lot of other top notch receivers. Stafford has a strong arm and it’s enough to make a lot of fans and pundits believe he’s elite and will be an automatic upgrade in SF. Absolutely nothing statistically backs up that theory.

        1. Having the 2nd ranked rushing offense in yards and attempts (1st in TDs) certainly helped with the overall offense ranking. They were 13th ranked in passing yards, 10th in TDs. And as we have discussed many times, JG got a lot of yards (and TDs) in the passing game on what were effectively run plays and short dump offs.

          Stafford on the other hand has been helped by the 30th, 20th, 23rd, 32nd, 30th, 32nd, 28th and 17th ranked rushing offense the past eight years. In that span the Lions have had the 10th, 10th, 20th, 6th, 11th, 9th, 12th and 3rd ranked passing offense in yards, and 13th, 10th, 22nd, 4th, 16th, 8th, 17th and 8th ranked passing offense in TDs. Those passing rankings are pretty impressive when teams knew the Lions would be passing and defended accordingly. Unlike against the 49ers where teams were geared to stopping the run.

          1. Lol that is Shanny’s offense for goodness sake. That’s the point you continue to overlook in this whole thing. The short to intermediate passes, play action and running game are what he does and Garoppolo ran it at a high level. JG plays within the system which is why he is a great fit in it. Heck his first full year as a starter for Shanahan was better than Matt Ryan’s first season. Stafford had an offense built around his arm with big time WR’s and no real commitment to the running game. That won’t be the case here which is why I’m pointing out that this assumption that he is an upgrade is hype more than substance.

            1. “The short to intermediate passes, play action and running game are what he does and Garoppolo ran it at a high level.”

              That is what he does WITH JG AS HIS QB. It is not all that he did in his previous stops. It is not even all he did with Hoyer at QB. He was renowned for using play action for taking his deep shots prior to JG being the QB.

              And yeah, JG’s first year as a starter was better than Ryan’s. It was also his 3rd year in the system.

              Stafford had big time WRs. He had Calvin Johnson and not much else for a long time. Then he had Golden Tate for a few years. What else has he had?

              1. No that has been the main staple with all of his QB’s. The only time you see a higher number of deep passes is when he’s had a big time WR to scheme for like Julio Jones or a speed threat like Marquise Goodwin. Not coincidentally Garoppolo’s Intended yards per pass was much higher when Goodwin was here and went down once he left. So somehow someway Garoppolo threw deep enough to average 8.9 air yards per attempt in the 3 games before he injured his knee with Goodwin. The year before I can’t find but seeing as how Goodwin averaged 17.2 yards a reception my guess is Garoppolo averaged a similar number of air yards in the 5 games he started in 2017 as well. So it appears the number of deep shots increases when you actually have receivers who excel at that. Go figure. Garoppolo had rac WR’s the past couple of years and the air yards went down. Shocking.

                Something else I discovered by looking at ProFootball Reference.com was that JG’s YPA of 8.4 in 2019 was the third highest of any QB who has played under Shanahan. The highest was Ryan at 9.3. Second highest? Garoppolo in 2017 at 8.8.

                There is also a direct correlation between the success of his running game with the amount of passing yardage and attempts. When he’s had very good running games, the attempts and passing yardage have dropped. When his running game hasn’t been good and surprisingly he’s only had 4 seasons of top ten running games, then the attempts and passing yardage are higher. In other words he adapts to what the strength of his team is. It has nothing to do with Garoppolo’s throwing ability. I knew this was the case already but hadn’t really researched it. The numbers clearly show that Garoppolo led the second best offensive output of Shanahan’s coaching career with far lesser weapons than Ryan had to throw to in his MVP year.

                I call BS Scooter McG. Nothing backs up the claim that this offense is limited with Garoppolo.

                As for Stafford, He’s had some great receiving groups to throw to. Johnson for a decade half of that with Golden Tate, then Tate with Marvin Jones and Kenny Golladay. He’s had some good receiving TE’s like Ebron, Hockenson and Pettigrew. He’s always had backs to throw to which have accounted for a high number of completions. He’s a good QB with a big arm. He’s not elite and it would make no sense to give up draft picks while saving 5-6 mill in the deal on the cap. The picks are worth more than that small of a cap saving and that’s if he is ok playing on the rest of the deal which isn’t a given either.

  216. I fully believe that the Colts may be the best landing spot for Stafford. He would go to a team with a top defense, and best prospects for playoff advancement. They really need a QB, and Stafford would be worth a first round pick, like Buckner was. Kittle loves JG, so that is another consideration.
    .
    If one is cheap when weighing QB options, just expect cheap results.
    .
    DW is not saying anything, but posted a picture with a Joe Montana jersey. Some times a picture is worth a thousand words. DW may file a grievance, and void his contract, because they acted in bad faith.
    .
    Who knows? Now, Goff is now on the QB merry-go-round. Tannehill and Cousins should expect some speculation.

  217. Running back Jeff Wilson Jr., an exclusive-rights free agent, has signed his one-year tender with the San Francisco 49ers, the team announced on Monday.

  218. Don’t be surprised if Belicheck makes a pitch for Stafford.
    The Cam Newton experiment came to a massive fail. Newton is a FA and I don’t see the Patriots resigning him.
    Here are Cam’ numbers after 14 games.

    “In 14 starts, Newton has thrown for just 2,415 yards and a measly five touchdowns. He’s thrown twice as many interceptions (10) as touchdown passes in 2020. Newton ranks second-to-last among qualifying quarterbacks in passing yards per game this season (172.5), and he ranks 29th in QBR (45.1).”
    Reported: SportsCast

    With those sad numbers, Cam Newton will have a hard time convincing suitors that he’s still a viable NFL QB.

    1. I won’t be surprised if there are quite a few teams making a strong pitch to trade for Stafford.

        1. Colts, 49ers, Broncos, Patriots, Football Team, Panthers, Raiders, Rams, Texans and Cowboys.

  219. Yesterday I emailed the Press Democrat sports editor asking about this blogs future. After Grant left I contacted him and it took about a week to get an answer. Hopefully within a week we will know if the P.D. has plans for this blog.

    1. For what it’s worth, I whole heartedly would support you, George and Razor, to be blog masters of this site, with one of you writing an article per week so the posting and conversation can be refreshed.

      1. I do is well.
        I wouldn’t be able to contribute much…. but perhaps I could write an article a month if needed. Speeeling and Syntx be damned :D.

      1. Jack,
        Yes, I emailed J. Schlegel. I received an email back saying he was out of the office and to email his Asst. Corey Young. So I emailed him. I haven’t heard back yet…….OC

  220. honestly (like First Take Max) I was wrong about TBrady – I was on the side of “the Patriots and weak division made him look good” + he lost SB’s.

    Give credit where it’s due = Dude is a baller – the IT factor is real

    He beat 3 Division Champs (2 confirmed HOF QB’s) at age 43 on the road – I can’t argue the label G.O.A.T anymore :(

      1. yea good defense….. but 43yr old Tom did more than 29yr old JimmyG last yr on the run to the SB

    1. Thanks George – Mood also posted this earlier.

      As per my comments on the post from Mood, I disagree that Kyle doesn’t want a playmaker at QB, but agree he doesn’t want the type of playmaker at QB that the author of this article is referring to. He wants a guy that is a playmaker with his arm, from the pocket, that can operate within the structure of the designed play. A guy that can make a play successful due to their arm talent. To me that is still a playmaker.

        1. No problem, George. We are all here to share news about the Niners, advise the Niners brass or pass judgement on them, talk football and occasionally vent on things other than football :)

          Scooter and I probably agree that all QBs are playmakers based on how one defines playmaking I have the opinion that Jimmy G can make every “NFL throw”. He has shown in 2017 that he can play outside Kyle’s structure, and he has shown in 2019 that he can play within structure. The problem is that he has not even played 40 games in the NFL making it difficult to truly evaluate him.

      1. Yep virtual lock now that Grant Cohn has quoted his “source”. The most interesting part of the article is the reference to Stafford having thrown for 4000 yards 8 times like that is something to be revered. It’s all a product of the Fantasy Football age where the QB is judged by his stats more than his record. It’s really odd at least to me that Stafford is held in such high esteem and hasn’t won a damn thing.

  221. This kid from Western Michigan, Eskridge is looking like a rabbit among tortoises out there today.

  222. From what I have read it sounds like Mac Jones has impressed at the Senior Bowl through two days, especially on day two. Jamie Newman also looked good day one.

    Mac Jones also being praised for his attitude – Matt Rhule called him the alpha dog, and first on the field/ last off.

    Ian Book, on the other hand, is widely being criticised for his play through two days.

    1. Joe Person
      @josephperson
      Jamie Newman intercepted on back-to-back passes in team period.
      4:52 PM · Jan 27, 2021

  223. Matt Barrows
    @mattbarrows
    ·
    6h
    Shanahan has preferred veteran centers in the past, but this small-school center is getting a lot of praise at the Senior Bowl this week … #49ers
    Quote Tweet
    Dane Brugler
    @dpbrugler
    · 7h
    Whitewater OG/C Quinn Meinerz is impressing again today in 1v1’s. Patient, quick feet. Good timing with his punch.

    Love his play demeanor, finishing guys to the ground. He’s opening eyes around the league.

  224. The Niners may want to trade back with Chicago, who desperately want a QB before the Patriots and Washington select before them. The Niners would trade back 8 spots, and garner the Bears 20th and 52nd picks.
    .
    The Niners would end up with pick numbers 20, 43, 52 and the 3rd round compensatory pick for Saleh, around 100.
    .
    With those 4 picks, the Niners could select-
    20- Alijah Vera Tucker OL. Versatile, can play tackle or guard.
    43- Jaycee Horn CB. Shut down corner with good bloodline.
    52- Carlos Basham EDGE. May lose Ford, Hyder and Blair.
    100- Quinn Meinerz OC/ OG. Versatile, and could allow Brunskill to move to RG.

  225. 46?? ????????? ????? ????????, ???????? ??????, ???????? ????????
    Joe Biden promised to undo much of his predecessor’s legacy and restore what he refers to as “the soul of America” by proving that the past four years represented an aberration rather than an enduring rift in the national fabric.══════HERE►____http://www.eonline9.com

  226. Davis Mills threw around 90 passes and looked phenomenal. I’m hearing he’s a 3rd round gem in this class.

    1. Superior pocket passer with a very good arm and with decent athletic ability. Rated #2 pocket passer in the country coming out of high school. Have brought him a few times on this blog as a value pick for Niners drafting a QB in second or third day.

      Mood_indigo says:
      December 5, 2020 at 7:36 pm
      Davis Mills played an excellent game in Stanford’s win over the Huskies. Great footwork in the pocket, superb ball placement where only the receiver could get it. Stanford would probably be unbeaten had a botched COVID test not made him ineligible. A very good mid-to-late round pick.

      Mood_indigo says:
      December 29, 2020 at 11:53 am
      Davis Mills:
      https://thetouchdown.co.uk/davis-mills-the-dark-horse-qb-of-the-2021-draft-class/
      Not sure if he will declare for draft or return for another year.

  227. “To me, he’s an absolute upgrade over Jimmy G, and I like Jimmy G, but Stafford’s just better,” Cosell said on the Tolbert, Krueger & Brooks show. “… I would trade for Stafford way before I would draft a quarterback in the first round. Like if somebody says, ‘Oh no, I’m not trading for Stafford because I’m going to draft Zach Wilson,’ I would never do that. I would trade for Stafford in a heartbeat.”

    “I don’t want to overstate it, but [Detroit is] not a career-enhancing place,” Young continued. “… That’s why Matthew, in my mind, we all need to tip our cap to him, regardless of what he does, anything else, if he just retired today. I don’t tip my cap for everybody. I would tip my cap to that kid for what he’s been through, how he propped it up, how relentless he’s been, how much he’s gotten done.”

    “He’s [going to turn 33 in February],” Young added. “Unless there’s a shoulder (injury) I don’t know about, or a knee that I don’t know about, or something else that’s kind of degrading quickly that won’t allow him to play five or six or seven more years and get him close to 40, then that would change everything.

    “But let’s just say he’s generally healthy and can play into 39, 40 years old, there’s no question that he is one of those handful of quarterbacks that is generational.”

    1. Watch, SF will trade a 1st and a 2nd for him only to find out he needs Tommy John Surgery. Then instead of having him fail the physical they will extend his contract to give him more guaranteed money. :D.

  228. I certainly hope the Chargers decision to hire, Shane Day as their qb’s coach doesn’t stunt, Herbert’s development.

  229. DW just asked to be traded, and he can decide which team he wants to go to. The Texans will be forced to negotiate from a position of weakness, so it does not matter what other teams are offering. He also would certainly not want to go to the Jets, because Cal McNair and Woody Johnson are peas in a pod.
    .
    That post with him in a JM Jersey is possibly signaling his desired destination, without saying a word.

    1. Drafting Pitts pretty much guarantees Jimmy G. coming back, unless they start a later round draft pick and I don’t see that happening. I like the idea of Pitts but Jimmy G. behind basically the same O line as this season scares the hell out of me. I strongly believe that if Williams doesn’t sign with the 9ers #12 will be an OT.

    2. I’m not anti the idea of Pitts, but I don’t think it is likely. He isn’t much of a blocker, so he would effectively be a big WR for the 49ers. I get that Mike Shanahan used Sharpe as a big piece of his passing attack, but Kittle is already there as a guy that can be moved around and is also an exceptional blocker.

      Honestly, if they want a second TE that is highly athletic I would be looking at Tommy Tremble from ND. I think he could take over Juice’s role, but he could also be looked at as more of a move TE. Plus he brings excellent blocking to the table.

      Matt Miller on Tremble.

      https://notredame.rivals.com/news/nfl-draft-analyst-on-tommy-tremble-traits-are-what-you-want-at-tight-end

    3. That was thrown around on here a few days ago by Razoreater and I agreed with him that Pitts was a good choice at that spot if he’s there. Shanahan has been looking for a second TE to pair with Kittle for awhile and resorted to signing Reed last season to try and accomplish it. Pitts would be great in this system and take this offense to another level in the passing game. I do agree with OldCoach though. If they can’t re-sign Williams they are almost forced to use #12 on a LT which there should be some good options available.

  230. Not sure how good Javier Vega’s inside sources are, but he is reporting that a Stafford trade to the 49ers is almost finalised – just a few last things to hammer out.

    Betting odds of Stafford to the 49ers soared and bets were then frozen.

    Sounds very much like this is a done deal folks. But, still, until its official…

    1. Wow that would be really fast. If it does happen this fast I think the Lions are making a big mistake. If they hold out I think they could get a much better deal. If they do trade for Stafford they better damn well sign Williams. They will have to trade #12 and there goes a first round OT.

      1. Yeah, agreed. If the reports are true I am also very surprised it is happening so fast.

      2. OldCoach,

        I doubt this is true, but if it is then the 49ers are in the same kind of cap trouble they would be with Garoppolo. The difference in cap number is less than 5 million between the two and they would have no 1st round pick to get a replacement for Williams if they traded for Stafford.

          1. You really don’t like people disagreeing with you huh? I don’t claim to know anything Razoreater, just give my opinion based on the information we have and I’m wrong so be it. If you are confident in a report from Mr. Vega good for you, but nobody else has reported this including those who have large amounts of NFL contacts.

            1. Just messing with you dude.

              I didn’t need a report. I knew Jimmy was gone during his first press conference after meeting with Shanny at the conclusion of the season. I told, Scooter just that right afterward!

        1. I was skeptical at first, but when I saw that betting sites had frozen the market… that usually only happens when a lot of big bets start getting put on at once, and that usually only happens when insider knowledge is there.

        2. NotAnExpert,
          I don’t understand your thought process 5 Million would be a massive difference and would make resigning Williams quite easy. Not to mention that is just this year, Next year he would cost SF 23 M to Jimmy’s 27 M… that totals to 9 M difference. Not only does that upgrade the position but it does so at a discounted price.

    2. Notanexpert living up to his name.

      The framework for a deal has been going on for the past couple days. Of course it can’t become official till…?

    3. Scooter,
      If a deal for Stafford to 49ers is finalized, can it be announced immediately or does it need to wait until March?

      1. It can be announced and confirmed as soon as all parties agree to the deal. But it won’t become official until the start of the new league year in March.

    4. Who is Javier Vega and why is he the only one with this info? Get back to me when this is reported by Schefter, Rappoport or some other insider people have actually heard of.

            1. Sure ?and even if I accepted Grant as an NFL insider he didn’t report it as a done deal like Javier did.

            2. Just out of curiousity… do you know the source?
              *note* I know you can’t reveal it but I was curious if he told you off the rechord.

      1. Javier Vega is a 49ers podcast host and writer, who has been at the Senior Bowl this week.

  231. Another really good day of practice from Mac Jones. He’s the guy I wanted to keep my eye on this week – I really like him as a prospect but wanted to see if he could produce the goods without the Alabama supporting cast. Everything I have read and seen suggests he crushed it. Displayed his mentality, accuracy, anticipation, timing, footwork, pocket presence and understanding of where to go with the football throughout the week.

    I understand the concerns regarding the lack of elite athletic traits, but he’s a better athlete than people give him credit for. And his actual QB skills are really advanced for a guy coming out of college. To me he is a really safe guy to take and feel comfortable you are getting a guy that can be at least a decent quality starting QB in the NFL, with the QB skills to potentially be very good.

      1. Oh for sure – the 49ers won’t be taking Jones if they get Stafford. But, until that is confirmed I will be keeping an eye on the draftable guys.

        Regardless, I really think Jones has played himself firmly into the first round discussion at the Senior Bowl. And potentially a high first rounder. Everything I have seen and read indicates he has been showing why Prime is wrong to just assume he was a product of the players around him.

        1. Dane Brugler Retweeted
          Joe Person
          @josephperson
          ·
          2h
          Alabama QB Mac Jones rolled his left ankle today. Said there’s a chance he won’t play Sat. in Senior Bowl depending on how it responds.

          Dane Brugler
          @dpbrugler
          ·
          1h
          Wisc-Whitewater OG/C Quinn Meinerz broke a bone in his right hand today during practice, according to sources.

          He played through the injury and finished practice and still plans to play in the game on Saturday. Tough dude. #SeniorBowl

          1. Mac Jones has left a good impression among the NFL scouts to affirm his position as a viable mid to late 1st rd pick.
            It would have been to watch him in action this Saturday, but he has created a pretty good resume thus far.
            Not being able to play on Saturday will not hurt his status.

            1. “Not being able to play on Saturday will not hurt his status.“

              Exactly. The practices are much more important from an evaluation standpoint than the game.

  232. Been reading that the market for Stafford is not as big as the Lions and analysts thought it would be due to the level of QBs expected to be available in free agency and the first round of the draft. This in turn is expected to depress Stafford’s trade value.

    1. Tom ‘the Wrath’ Rathman was a ball’r!
      He left his mark on the field and on every one who tackled him.
      Wish him well.

  233. Justin Fields in 2020 looked off the primary target on just seven throws. That’s under 3% of his passes.

      1. It was a tweet – I think from PFN. Based on what they were told by one team that said they had charted all his throws in 2020.

          1. Nw. I’ve only had time to watch small bits of the vids you and Grant have been doing, but they’re good. Though I disagree with you guys outlook on Lance ☺

        1. That’s why teams are higher on Wilson. He processes information at a higher rate than Fields.

  234. If Michael Clay gets the ST coordinator job with the Eagles, does Niners get yet another 3rd comp pick in 2024?

  235. Deshaun Watson’s trade request sets up a feeding frenzy unlike any the NFL has seen before.

    Deshaun Watson has “formally” requested that the Houston Texans deal him to a new team which, barring some unforeseen restoration of relations, sets in motion what should be the biggest trade in NFL history.
    The NFL Network should make it a reality show: “Billion Dollar Listing: Houston.”
    Watson is a 25-year-old superstar with impeccable leadership skills. He’s the definition of a franchise quarterback — on the field, in the locker room and around the community.

    https://www.yahoo.com/sports/deshaun-watsons-trade-request-sets-up-a-feeding-frenzy-unlike-any-the-nfl-has-seen-before-174359088.html

    Watson has said he wants to be traded to the NYJ or Miami. So what happens between the HoustonTexans and all the NFL teams who want to trade for him, if he refuses to accept a trade to anyone other than the NYJ, or Miami?
    rade him and whatever dirty laundry may exist might remain hidden. Get in a war of wills and who knows what tales Watson has to tell. What’s that worth to the McNair family

    1. Maybe the networks can setup a LeBron like “the decision “ special.

      “…. in this fall I’m going to trade my talents to South Beach”

  236. Quinn Meinerz: If you haven’t heard of him before, you have now!
    NFL draft: Meet the D-III prospect (with exposed belly and broken hand) stealing the Senior Bowl show.

    https://www.yahoo.com/sports/nfl-draft-meet-the-diii-prospect-with-exposed-belly-and-broken-hand-stealing-the-senior-bowl-show-023339689.html

    One reason you might not have heard of Meinerz is that he played his college football at Wisconsin-Whitewater. Another is that he didn’t play last season.

    1. Same, but everything I am reading says it will take at least three first round picks plus some starters before the Texans even consider trading Watson. That is way too much capital for one player.

      1. Lets give them JimmyG + Ford + 2021 1st rd pick

        3 1st rds …hmm – the only reason i am doing this is knowing we will be picking btw 25 – 31

        but seriously – this will be huge news

  237. Oklahoma Center, Creed Humphrey has impressive day 2 at Senior Bowl. A top position of need the 9ers need to fill in the 2021 draft.
    https://soonerswire.usatoday.com/2021/01/28/oklahoma-sooners-creed-humphrey-senior-bowl-nfl-draft/

    Oklahoma Sooners center Creed Humphrey impressive again at the Senior Bowl…..
    Another day of Senior Bowl practice and another impressive day for Oklahoma Sooners center Creed Humphrey. After being near perfect on Tuesday, Humphrey spent some time at both center and guard in Mobile, Alabama, on Thursday.
    It seems as if Humphrey is one of the players that really made a name for himself after the first three days. This means he could have made himself even more money with the NFL’s rookie wage scale that is dependent upon where a player is drafted.

    Following the 2019 college football playoff exit, Oklahoma Sooners center Creed Humphrey was viewed as a first-round talent. He decided to forgo the NFL draft and instead return to Norman for one more season. According to Pro Football Focus, Humphrey produced his highest offensive and run blocking grades in his three years as a starter.
    He was solid in team drills whether run blocking or pass blocking, but he really shined in one-on-one drills as he stoned pass rusher after pass rusher. His hand technique is solid but his lower body base and anchor was tremendous on Wednesday. Teams needing help at center would be wise to move him up their boards.

    Listed on CBSSPORTS.COM as a late second Rd. draft pick at #61, IMO he’s who the 9ers should draft with #43 draft pick in the 2nd Rd., It would also free Daniel Brunskill from playing Center.

    1. I’ve mocked him or Meyers to SF in nearly every mock draft simulation ive run. Taking them near the top of the second round.

      I also like OSU Jenkins as a future candidate at OT if they can’t get a deal done for Trent (highly unlikely).

      1. I would be surprised if they address the offensive line before round 3, with one proviso; they resign Williams.

        1. 1) Assume the 2021 Salary Cap is $176 Mil., the Maximum you would you spend to resign TW?
          2) If the 9ers can NOT resign TW, Who would you draft to replace him?

        2. These are highly dependent on what SF does in free agency. In most of these scenarios I had SF trading back and picking up either a late first and a second or multiple seconds and 3rd.
          Of course there is a decent chance they pick up a free agent C which would make the selection highly unlikely. But we know Kyle values Center’s highly as he has tried to acquire a quality one a team every stop.

    1. I always have a special place in my heart for walk ons that make a name for themselves. Round 5?

    2. Scooter
      Would you draft Morrissey before Georgia center Trey Hill, and if so, why? I believe Hill received a 3Rd Rd. draft grade, although he’s listed as a 5th round draft prospect at #147. ESPN ranks Morrissey at No. 165 in the draft.

      1. Strange, I had responded to this but for some reason not showing up.

        Basically it comes down to scheme fit for me. And I also like Morrissey’s intelligence and work ethic/ mentality.

  238. They could easily sign Williams to only count $11 million in 2021 with the expectation that the 2022 cap goes up significantly. Something like a 4 year/$80 million with $62.5 million in total guarantees and $45 million fully guaranteed at signing. I expect they will do just that.

    1. Razor
      Not that I disagree that they could, but backloading contracts is a slippery slope to Salary Cap hell… Also, this is TW’s last chance at a big payday…Don’t be shocked it he’s offered in excess of $20 Mil. P/Y and he signs with the highest bidder.
      Hope for the best, but plan for the worst!

  239. This Senior Bowl may be very impactful, since the Combine is cancelled.
    .
    The Niners have a solid history, selecting players from the Senior Bowl. Dre Greenlaw, Fred Warner and Brandon Aiyuk were Senior Bowl participants.
    .
    The Patriots have interviewed Mac Jones and Jamie Newman, so their draft status may be elevated. Chicago may want to leapfrog ahead of the Pats, to get Jones, Newman or Lance.
    .
    It is nice to see several small school players shining so brightly in the practices. The Niners may be able to snag a few third day candidates that are flying under the radar. Meinerz is not even listed on the CBS draft board.

    1. Speaking of the Senior Bowl….How well has Georgia QB Jamie Newman done? IMO, about as well as I would have
      expected a QB who has NOT played a snap in over a year, after transferring from Wake Forest to Georgia, to do?

      1. Newman has the size, speed and arm to be an NFL QB. Belichick likes him.
        .
        Practices are nice for drills and one on one competition, but I want to see how he does in a game. If he does well, he may be a first round prospect.
        .
        Mac Jones may be a mid first round QB, too.

  240. Ten NFL 2021Senior draft prospects, who impressed at the Senior bowl:
    1. Mac Jones, QB, Alabama….Continues to prove his detractors wrong.
    2. Quinn Meinerz, G/C, Wisconsin Whitewater…..Biggest surprise of the 2021 Senior Bowl
    3. Richie Grant, S, UCF
    4. Carlos Basham Jr., edge rusher, Wake Forest
    5. D’Wayne Eskridge, WR, Western Michigan
    6. Dillon Radunz, T, North Dakota State
    7. John Bates, TE, Boise State
    8. Kadarius Toney, WR, Florida
    9. Quincy Roche, Edge rusher, Miami
    10. Jabril Cox, LB, LSU
    https://www.detroitlions.com/news/10-players-who-impressed-at-senior-bowl-practices-jones-basham-meinerz

  241. On youtube today (I can’t remember the writer) it was reported that the 9ers Stafford trade was basically done. The 9ers would give up 2 2nds and 2 3rds. If thats true I think its a steal. We can still trade back from #12 and pick up a 2nd and trade JG and pick up a 3rd. We would still have all of our picks as well as a top 8 QB. We could draft a OT in the first. A CB or edge rusher in the 2nd and in the 3rd we get the position we didn’t get in the 2nd. I believe it would make us preseason favorites to make the SB. imho

      1. Latest I have heard is the 49ers have been shopping him but so far no interest, and if they get Stafford are expected to just release him.

        1. I was afraid that such a scenario might develop. Maybe the Patriots would give a 5th rounder for him.

        2. Interesting if New England didn’t offer anything, unless there’s an “understanding” between the two.

    1. Based on the old trade value chart the sum of those picks would be less value than #12 on its own, so a great trade for the 49ers if they can pull it off. And yeah, can either take a top end talent at 12 or move back and recoup some draft picks while still having a 1st rounder this and next year.

    2. JG is a SB QB who needs better protection so he does not have pass rushers teeing off on him unblocked.
      .
      It does not matter what any fan thinks, Kittle loves JG, and he has been praised by both KS and JL.
      .
      JG is so accurate, he does not only hit small windows, he can thread the needle. He has a winning mindset, and is an effective leader.
      .
      Sure, he did get injured, but then, does everyone bail on Bosa too? He has an injury history.
      .
      As a starting franchise SB QB, he has way more worth than a third round pick. Stafford has not won a playoff game, and they are proposing first round status for him. Stafford has also been injured, and is 33 years old. JG has way more upside than Stafford. Stafford does not make the players around him better. JG took a dispirited moribund team, and took them on a 5 game winning streak, while beating playoff teams. He recovered enough from his ACL injury to lead his team to the SB.
      .
      It was not his fault that the Niners planned on having Weston Richberg as the Center, only to have him not play a single snap all season. The interior O line allowed unblocked shots at JG, so one of the the first things the Niners need to do, is improve the O line, through Free Agency and the draft.
      .
      I do not think it is wise to make a trade when the DW situation is still fluid. DW wore a Joe Montana jersey, so he could easily designate the Niners as his preferred destination, and the Texans would have to make a deal with the Niners.
      .
      Caserio says he has zero interest in trading DW. Maybe he should have said he has zero leverage when trading DW. Watson will file a grievance, claiming that he never would have signed if he had known they would have lied to and ignored, him. That will void the contract, and make him a FA, with no compensation for DW.
      .
      Maybe the Niners should offer JG and Arik Armstead, for DW and JJ Watt.

  242. Snead, the desperate GM that he is, is trying to inflate the price of Stafford by acting like he could actually offer anything of value to the Lions. Lmao, he knows if we get him it’s all over but the singing….

  243. In addition to the billowing smoke around Stafford to the 49ers, I’ve seen a few people saying the 49ers made an offer for Watson previously but Texans not interested in the offer.

    I know it is all rumours, but man, there is just way too much smoke for the 49ers to not at least be actively exploring trades for a QB. If they end up missing out… it is going to be a fun chat with JG at the start of the offseason program.

    1. I was going to ignore it as noise – but you are right too much smoke – it’s like a coordinated attack from all the talking heads –

      Sucks being Jimmy right now – Dude is just too soft – BMayfield shot back at the Watson -CLE rumor – Jimmy just takes it –

      I really don’t think Jimmy is bad ….but Waston would be fun with Aiyuk and Deebo

  244. Rappaport on the Watson frenzy

    “We’ve seen some big quarterback deals. Jay Cutler in 2009 went for two ones and a starter. It is expected to be more than that.

    A cautionary tale if there ever was one.

    1. Sherm and Fred Warner play GM on Chris Collingsworth podcast earlier this week, and they make a case why Jets make be the most likely landing spot for Watson. Fred also talks negatively about turnovers in the context of Wentz’s future which may unintentionally have revealed how the Niners D feels about Mullens this season :)

    1. That one seems like a bit of BS being leaked. Rams probably would love to trade for him, but they are jammed against the cap already, Goff’s contract makes him basically untradeable/ uncuttable, and the Rams have very limited draft capital to trade with to get Stafford.

      1. They might just trade him and start Wolford. The rumors of their talks with multiple teams suggest that they may be willing to eat $22.2 million in dead-cap money, plus the new quarterback’s salary. They also could trade Goff after June 1 for a smaller hit of $6.8 million in dead money in 2021 (plus $15.4 million in 2022). Brad Holmes is now in Detroit and Stafford has apparently said that Rams are an option for him. They may find a way to make it happen.

      2. Also first round picks can be traded 4 years in advance which Snead would probably have no problem taking that route.

        1. They haven’t made a 1st round pick since 2016. They can’t keep giving them away year after year.

          As for Goff, if they are trading him can’t simply designate it a post June 1 trade like they can a cut. So to push some of the cap hit they would need to find a trade partner that is happy to wait until then – seems unlikely a team would be fine waiting that long to get their starting QB – and take on his very large salary. That would also mean they don’t get any draft capital in return until 2022. In the meantime they would need to carry two expensive QBs on a roster that is already expected to be well over the cap.

          And he costs more to cut than to keep.

          It just isn’t a realistic option.

          1. As for Goff, if they are trading him can’t simply designate it a post June 1 trade like they can a cut.

            Is there a rule against it? If there is none, there is no reason that two sufficiently motivated parties cannot have an unofficial agreement and execute it on June 1, especially if the deal involves only future draft picks. Considering the unprecedented cap crunch in the NFL, I won’t be surprised to see unprecedented trade deals this off-season, perhaps involving three teams.

            1. So then, as per my last part of the paragraph, the Rams would need to carry two expensive QB contracts until June 1 on a team that is already really cap strapped. Not realistic.

      3. I would agree given Goff’s enormous salary cap hit if he is traded, but now The Athletic is reporting that the Rams have contacted several teams about acquiring Goff. So there is apparently something to the earlier report.

        1. C’mon, man. The Rams have a millstone around their necks and it’s name is, Goff. Nobody is trading for him. First clue,

          the Rams have contacted several teams about acquiring Goff

          ….If you have a product others desire, you don’t need a sales pitch.

  245. First, James Bettcher, now Cory Undlin. Looks like the Niners are really helping out Demeco Ryans, hiring 2 former DCs .
    .
    When the Niners hired former DC Joe Woods, he really helped Saleh improve.

  246. THE COLTS MAY BE THE 9ERS COMPETITION FOR A MATTHEW STAFFORD TRADE
    * NFL TRADE RUMORS- DETROIT LIONS RUMORS
    * Latest Matthew Stafford trade rumors: A lot of smoke coming from 49ers, Colts
    https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2021/1/29/22255947/latest-matthew-stafford-trade-rumors-smoke-colts-49ers

    * Colts owner Jim Irsay didn’t come right out and say that he wants Matthew Stafford, but he sure as hell sounded like someone prepared to go out and get him. Here’s what he told Zak Keefer of the The Athletic about their quarterback situation:
    “Our belief is we’re close, that we have a tremendous nucleus of players that are capable of competing for the Super Bowl very soon. Ideally if you can get someone to come in this year who’s ready to go, it gives you your best opportunity.”

    1. Geep, in the same article

      Over the past 48 hours, the 49ers have overtaken the Colts as the team with the most favorable Vegas odds to win the Stafford sweepstakes. There has been a ton of smoke specifically pointing to San Francisco as a team already pitching deals to the Lions. I’m not going to bother signal boosting those as they’re coming from wishy-washy sources.

      They read Grant in Motown too? :)

  247. There is a looney , Q Nutty, racist, anti-semitic , school shooting denying , shooting survivor harassing whack job in congress. Not surprisingly , troompy called her a future repooplican star. LOL

    1. Razor
      “Stafford will be traded this week before the SB.”
      Do you mind sharing a link to your source, or is it a ….”Dalle labbra di Dio alle tue orecchie….source?

      1. Ian Rapoport
        @RapSheet
        ·
        2h
        The interest is significant. Expect a trade before the Super Bowl
        Quote Tweet
        Dave Birkett
        @davebirkett
        · 2h
        Talked to Dan Campbell this morning. He said trade talks for Matthew Stafford have gotten “hot and heavy,” and he outlined his vision for the Lions’ future QB. You’ll be happy to know the Lions are taking a long-term approach to this rebuild https://freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2021/01/30/matthew-stafford-trade-talks-detroit-lions-rebuild-dan-campbell/4323287001/ via @freep

  248. Most of you out there believe Jimmy G has little or no trade value. Ok lets be honest now how many out there thought the 49ers would get two 2nd round picks for Alex Smith?

    1. Harbaugh rebuilt his draft stock and we had our starting qb already on the roster. You trade for Stafford and everybody knows you have to release Jimmy G. That’s the difference, OldCoach. Unless he’s part of a 3 way trade, you’ll be lucky to get a draft pick for him….

      1. OldCoach
        Both the Bears and Colts will need a new QB for the 2021 season
        BEARS HAVE DRAFT PICK #20: and little chance of drafting a top QB in the draft unless they can trade up! The Bears declined Mitchell Trubisky’s fifth-year option, so he won’t be back in 2021.
        Options: A) Go with Nick Foles (doubtful). B) Hope Mac Jones is still available. C) Trade up for a QB (Trey Lance?), or D) trade for (Carson Wentz or Sam Darnold?)
        NOTE: If the 9ers dreaft Mac Jones, the bears may be desperate enough to give up pick # 178 for JG with a
        clause that the draft pick becomes a 4th -5th round pick in 2022, if JG becomes their starting QB! It’s doubtful he Bears lack the assets to be a contender for Stafford.

        COLTS HAVE DRAFT PICK #21: Like the Bears, the Colts have little chance of drafting a top QB unless they can trade up for one. With a good QB, the Colts are a SB contender.
        Their starting QB, Phillip Rivers, has retired, that leave Brissett, Jacoby. If Mac Jones is still available at pick
        #20, The Bears will likely draft him. The Colts do have the assets to trade for Stafford. But if the 9ers trade for him, the Colts will also be left trying to trade for Carson Wentz or Sam Darnold.
        NOTE: If the 9ers trade for Stafford, the Colts may be believe JG is a better option than Wentz or Darnold
        and be willing to give up draft pick #211, plus a clause that the draft pick becomes a 4th – 5th round pick if JG
        becomes their Starting QB?
        WHO KNOWS?….it’s been a crazy season and IMO, anything is possible…Hope springs eternal!

        The Patriots and Bronco’s will try to trade for Stafford, but lose out to the 9ers. Then they may be willing to give up a 6th – 7th Rd draft pick for J? Possible, but I doubt it.

  249. There are a lot of teams that need to upgrade at quarterback so even if the Niners are interested in Stafford, they will get outbid pretty quickly.

    1. Jerry
      Actually, with the #12 first Rd draft pick, 3rd round comp pick for Seleh, and HC Shanahan, the 9ers have the assets and strongest chance to complete a trade for Stafford.
      Farrar wrote this of the Stafford/49ers potential in his piece at Touchdown Wire,

      * From San Francisco’s perspective, it seems that the Jimmy Garoppolo Experience has run its course. Moving on from the quarterback is a smart decision both on-the-field (as it seems that the team has run into a bit of a ceiling with Garoppolo under center) and financially. Trading Garoppolo, or cutting him outright, would generate a savings of over $24 million according to the handy salary cap calculator at OverTheCap.com.
      * From Matthew Stafford’s perspective, think of what he saw this season. He saw Aaron Rodgers enjoy a career-year – and likely win another MVP – playing in a system that is an offshoot of the Sean McVay/Kyle Shanahan system. Play-action heavy, quarterback-friendly, designed to put quarterbacks in a position to succeed. Such a system might be a huge boost to Stafford’s production at this point in his career, and after languishing in Detroit for so many years now he’ll finally be in an offense that is totally committed to the quarterback, and has made even some poor quarterbacks look good. Imagine what Stafford could do in San Francisco?
      * Doug Farrar Touchdown Wire editor Doug Farrar has also covered football for Yahoo! Sports, Sports Illustrated, Bleacher Report, the Washington Post, and Football Outsiders. His first book, “The Genius of Desperation,” a schematic history of professional football, was published by Triumph Books in 2018.

      * Farrar’s breakdown makes a lot of sense, and this should probably be considered one of the most viable options.

      * THERE WILL BE SEVERAL TEAMS COMPETING FOR STAFFORD, BUT TOO MANY THING IN THE 9ER FAVOR….DON’T BE SHOCKED WHEN IT HAPPENS!

    2. Jerry, you have been ridiculing and condescending towards those that have said the 49ers will look to move on from JG this offseason, so interested in your thoughts on what is happening at the moment. Do you think the 49ers are actually involved in trade talks for a QB?

      Not trying to be funny, genuinely interested in your perspective as someone who has been quite vocal against the idea of the team moving on from JG.

      1. Not Jerry, but I have also been ridiculing and condescending towards those that have said the 49ers will look to move on from JG this offseason.

        My answer is, window shopping of course, then shock at the sticker. Unlike the the internet in general and this blog in particular, Niners brass isn’t interested in playing the anyone but Jimmie game. Not at the outlandish price to pay for a marginal upgrade, over a perfectly functional and proven piece in the Shannie scheme.

        1. Yes, you certainly have been ridiculing and condescending.

          So to clarify, is your opinion that their interest is merely along the lines of due diligence, and not really trying hard to find an alternative? Or is it they will upgrade but only if an obvious upgrade presents itself at a bargain? Or are you saying they want to upgrade but won’t overpay for it?

          1. I wouldn’t go so much with ridiculing and condescending as a rigorous cross-examination of so-called truths being presented here.

            The team is on record of it’s desire to improve every position where opportunity presents itself. However with so many other teams willing to bid on the same asset, with the the belief that that one player will put them over the top, there won’t be any bargains to be had at this not so silent auction.

            So yes to all three which are essentially variations on the same theme.

            1. It is all on the same spectrum, but to varying degrees of how much interest the 49ers have in chasing an upgrade. Which I guess really comes back to how the team really views JG – as a high level starter or as a competent QB that Shanahan can develop a successful game plan around but one that is ultimately limiting what Shanahan wants to do with the offense?

              It is my opinion that the 49ers are very interested in seeking an upgrade, but also won’t be held to ransom to do so. The luxury of having a QB they feel confident can execute the offense competently means they don’t need to overpay. But I definitely believe Shanahan does not have JG in his long term plans and wants to upgrade the position, and that there is truth to the 49ers pursuing Stafford and having made an offer.

      2. I don’t think the Niners are seriously in any trade talks to answer your question. I think many of the statements about Jimmy G are ridiculous. They obviously do their due diligence but why would they give up so much for someone who probably isn’t much better than what they have. Yes I acknowledge Stafford had a stronger arm.

        1. Thanks Jerry. Going to be interesting to see how it all plays out.

          Do you believe the team thinks JG is the long term answer?

        2. Jerry
          I also have questions for you.
          A) Do believe a major ability of a QB is AVAL-ability?
          B) Is JG worth $27 Mil. P/Y if he plays ~8 games a season (if lucky and he’s not on IR)?
          C) If you compare JG to Stafford, for 2021, who do you believe will spend more time on IR?
          D) Compare the Lions 2020 O-line to the 9ers? Was the 9ers about the same, worse, or better?
          E) Do you agree / disagree Stafford is an upgrade over JG? Yes or no?
          F) Do you believe JG is the same player he was in 2017?
          * Jerry: “I don’t think the Niners are seriously in any trade talks to answer your question. I think many of the statements about Jimmy G are ridiculous.” Like Scooter, I’d like to understand your thinking. Why are many of statements about JG “ridiculous?” Could / would you be more specific?

  250. Jerry, has it occured to you that it’s possible a qb bidding war could
    be emerging for the right to take the 49ers back to the SB and win it?

    1. No. They have a quarterback who took them to the Super Bowl. It wasn’t all JG fault that they lost it. If QB are the only answer to winning why have Houston and Detroit been so lousy.

      1. Washington has a strong, young defense and a budding offense, so I can see the appeal. Of the three however, I would want to go to the Colts if I was Stafford, especially if he wants a new deal.

              1. We both know that doesn’t mean Stafford would be knowledgeable of how Shanahan’s offense run.

              2. Oh, I don’t know. I hear the conversation can get pretty offensive at the dinner table.?

  251. I like Stafford, but if the 49ers sign him won’t his contract look very simular to Garoppolo’s?
    On top of that, we will need to give up draft capital as well.

    Stafford will be under pressure to win a SB in 2021 because anything short of that (given what we give up for him) will be a failure for me. And I certainly hope that excuses aren’t given if Stafford gets hurt.

      1. Mid,
        Garoppolo and Stafford’ annual pay are very similar. It would be a stretch to believe that he comes in at a bargain price, especially given the fact that he’s a hot commodity at the moment.
        I’m not big on the Stafford potential signing, but there’s only one thing that will justify his service and that will be a Superbowl win.
        No pressure, right?

    1. Way I see it is that if the 49ers do end up moving on from JG this offseason it is more about Shanahan’s vision for the offense and how he feels JG fits that vision rather than about how good the QB is that replaces him. Because they have had success with JG. You only move on if you don’t believe he is the guy long term to give you sustained success.

      And everything the 49ers have done for the past 12 months or so with JG would suggest Shanahan isn’t sold on JG long term.

      1. I don’t see that at all. Please explain your conclusion that they want to move on from Jimmy. They could have had Brady last year and now you think they want to move on and pay up for Stafford?

        1. I’ve laid this out numerous times in the past. And to avoid confusion, I am saying I don’t think they see JG as the long term solution, but will roll with him if they can’t find someone they see as their long term solution.

          The crux of it comes down to how they talk about JG and how they literally have restructured every other large contract on the roster bar JG’s to create cap space last season. They don’t act the way you would for your franchise QB.

          Combine that with how the offense is structured around JG relative to what Shanahan has done in the past, plus Shanahan’s exasperated looks at some of the things JG does, it gives a lot of credence to the rumours.

          1. Scooter,
            ” And to avoid confusion, I am saying I don’t think they see JG as the long term solution, but will roll with him if they can’t find someone they see as their long term solution.”

            Sure, I can get behind that. But without having to give up so much for Stafford, why not just get a 2nd tier QB in the draft to groom behind JG for a year?

            We know that JG can win when he’s on the field. In this scenario we keep JG, grab a QB in the draft without having to get Stafford who will require almost the same contract paid out for JG, and keeping our draft picks.
            The high-bar for Stafford will be a SB win or bust, from me.

            1. Well, I have been saying they should draft a QB and if the cap space is sufficient to allow it let them sit behind JG next year, so no argument from me on that end.

              But if they trade for Watson/ Stafford it isn’t a “SB or bust” sort of situation as I see it. If they make such a move it is more a case that Shanahan sees that QB as giving the team a better chance for the forseeable future.

              1. The reason I call it a SB win or bust is because that high bar was set by Garoppolo.
                JG got us to the SB but couldn’t get the win.

                If we’re going to get either Stafford or Watson, and if we are signing one of these guys on the premise that they are better than JG, a SB win is the justification.
                Nothing less for me.

                The only smoke I see is the smoke swirling around a couple QBs that haven’t done anything.

              2. Right, AES. It’s not only SB or bust. It’s SB win or bust. The team is going to go sideways for a couple of seasons? After acquiring the guy who was supposed to be the last piece of the championship puzzle? Get real.

              3. Scooter, do you think the Rams plan is having a “better chance in the foreseeable future”? An immediate future ~$30 mil over the cap and foreseeable with no 1st round picks for 7 years? Or are they in a different “or bust” boat now?

              4. They see Stafford as giving them a better chance of winning the SB in the forseeable future. Just like the 49ers did. It is as simple as that.

              5. Then the Rams should hire your opinion as GM. With huge contracts to jettison or rework into an even more uncertain future, and little draft capital to replace with lower cost rookie contracts, their foreseeable future has a 3-5 hour window.

        2. Jerry
          “They could have had Brady last year?” Correction, the 9ers could have TRIED to trade for Brady last year.
          OPERATIVE WORDS: COULD HAVE…

          1. No Brady was a FA and apparently wanted to come home to the Bay area but the Niners stuck with Garoppolo.

  252. After his senior bowl MVP, where is Mond going to end up getting drafted? 49ers in the 3rd round?

    1. OldCoach
      Texas A&M’s Kellen Mond would be a nice choice as a QB for Shanahan to develop. Before the SB he was listed as mid 5th round…The 3rd round may be early, but the SB MVP absolutely helps him move up and it makes him some money!

      1. Mond looked good, and Newman was 10 for 14, 118 yards with a TD and pick. On the pick, it was a back shoulder throw that the receiver batted up in the air.
        .
        Ehlinger and Franks made some throws, but Book threw a lollipop that was picked off.
        .
        RB Michael Carter may be a a good pickup. He can run and catch the ball.

        1. One less bidder ratcheting up the price. When those other suitors set the (artificially depressed) value, Niners slip in at the last minute with an offer that slightly exceeds that.

          Or something like that.

        2. Jerry: “Explain their motivation for lying.”
          * RED HERRING! something, especially a clue, that is or is intended to be misleading or distracting….
          It happens every year and ever team dose it, hoping it gets them the player they want.

    1. But Javier and Grant said he was going to be a Niner. Razoreater said the framework for the trade to the Niners was setup over the past couple of days…

      Thank goodness it was BS because that was a major fleecing the Lions just put on the Rams.

      1. Razoreater says:
        January 30, 2021 at 7:37 am
        C’mon, man. The Rams have a millstone around their necks and it’s name is, Goff. Nobody is trading for him. First clue,

        Another egg on his face – Mr. Clueless

        1. This was obviously an emotional issue for him for some reason ( maybe he doesn’t like porn stars) and he got over his skis quite often. Time to eat crow.

        2. Hey, credit where credit is due!

          Razoreater says:
          January 30, 2021 at 10:40 am

          Stafford will be traded this week before the SB.

          Now if Razor had said traded before thePro Bowl that would have been something :)

    2. Lol! Being outbid and not being interested are two very different things. I’m glad the 49ers didn’t get him at that price though.

      1. What evidence do you have that they were interested other than from the same people who were saying it was a done deal?

        1. Nobody said it was a done deal that I am aware of. Just that it was close.

          Multiple national reporters have said the 49ers were one of the teams involved in trade discussions.

        2. Matt Barrows Retweeted
          Chris Burke
          @ChrisBurkeNFL
          ·
          1h
          Per league source, the Lions had seven or eight teams in the bidding, all with first-round picks on the table. They viewed the Rams’ offer as far and away the best one.

          Sure, Jerry the 49ers weren’t one of those teams.?

            1. Multiple national reporters said the 49ers were involved in trade talks. In fact, even now it is a done deal with the Rams multiple national reporters are still saying the 49ers were one of the teams involved.

              I doubt we will ever know for sure, but when there is as much smoke as there was regarding the 49ers interest it is very hard to believe it was completely baseless.

              1. Peter King of NBC Sports reports that the Panthers were “very interested” in Stafford, and “competed for him.” Other teams, per King, who were interested in Stafford include the Broncos, Colts, and 49ers.

      2. Apparently the team with the best offer besides LA was Washington. Other teams with interest including Niners but certainly not in the best position to make the deal /working on the framework/whatever other bogus statements were made.

        1. The trade talks apparently heated up significantly in the last 12 hours, well after it was being reported the 49ers were close to a deal. Sounds to me more like the 49ers were active early in the piece but had a price they weren’t willing to exceed (a lot of talk about not wanting 12 to be part of any deal) and so talks stalled and the Lions found other parties that were willing to pay more.

          The point of note here is that it was and still is widely reported the 49ers were interested. To the point where it is hard to believe they weren’t. This is significant because it means not only are they actively looking to upgrade at QB, it also means they saw Stafford as an upgrade.

          1. well after it was being reported the 49ers were close to a deal.

            Which reputable national writer reported this? Maybe I missed it. I don’t want to conflate Grant, Javier and other marginal writers’ “sources” conflated with meaningful insider stuff from Schefters and Rappaports…

            I’ll bet Shanalynch did their due diligence and made enquiries. But I have not heard any major national reporter saying that they were serious and got into the bidding war. I followed Schefter’s Twitter on this issue and once he re-tweeted Jeremy Fowler’s tweet yesterday about Rams getting hot and heavy, I figured that the Rams were going to throw the kitchen sink at it and mortgage their future well into the middle of the decade.

            1. I would have to go back through the twitter timeline to find the tweets, but there were national reporters saying the 49ers were closing in as well, after Javi and Grant made those claims. It wasn’t just them.

              Breer and Peter King have also said the 49ers were involved in the past few hours.

              I agree that Javier and Grant likely overstated how close the 49ers were to a deal (though I doubt it was intentional, more the info they were being given was more bullish than it should’ve been), but I think we can agree the interest was real.

              1. Javier and Grant likely overstated how close the 49ers were to a deal (though I doubt it was intentional)

                Oh it certainly was. Even yesterday, Grants take on the Niners flat denial was a ploy to build market value for the inevitable JG trade.

              2. Breer actually doubted that Niners and Rams were in the running. So Breer was out of the loop
                https://twitter.com/JoeO670/status/1355644256610897923

                , but I think we can agree the interest was real.

                Completely agree that the Niners are always looking to get better at every position at reasonable prices. However, Shanalynch’s evaluation of which players make them better may be different that of the fans :)

              3. https://twitter.com/JosinaAnderson/status/1355585954627678209

                Some pretty hilarious commentary, in hindsight, in that thread

                “Been saying that since day 1 of the Stafford trade saga. People thinking the lions are getting some haul including multiple first round picks, late round throw ins and a player to be named later have been drinking way too much koolaid.”

                “Every team knows they will trade Stafford before they have to pay him $10 mil. Lions are trying to get someone to overpay and no team is buying it.”

                “Colts trade 21 for Stafford, done deal”

              4. Yeah Mood, by yesterday I had come to the conclusion the 49ers getting him was unlikely to be the case for the same reasons you outline. It sounded like the 49ers had drawn their line in the sand and the price was now beyond what they cared for.

          2. The point of note here

            Is that the market value of these Jimmie replacements were severely undervalued by the GMs on this blog. So what does Watson bring? 3-5 1sts? A few 2nds and 3rds thrown in as well?

            1. Not necessarily. An important reason for Rams needing to shell out so many picks is the salary dump. Only because the Lions are planning a long-term rebuild with picks did they agree to pick up this huge contract in a cap-challenged year. Rams are a very good team trying to be a Super Bowl contender which means late picks likely in each round. Also Rams giving future year picks adding to uncertainty which increases the price.

              Watson could cost comparable first rounders depending on the team involved. Jets could get him for 2 firsts and 2 seconds. Jet’s second round pick in 2021 is almost a first round pick.

  253. Along with the outstanding receivers that are in the West, the Stafford trade just made the case for the need of high quality corners. Sign Verrett, yup.

    1. Depends on what he’s asking for. There is a lot of angst about Garoppolo’s injury history but Verrett’s is even worse.

  254. I WONDER….DOES THIS MEAN ANYTHING?
    Lions’ Matthew Stafford trade: Projecting the quarterback’s value in a potential 2021 deal
    * A look at recent veteran QB deals, plus the floor and ceiling for a Stafford trade. So we set out to explore the market value of the longtime Lion.
    * To start, here’s a look at the last 10+ years of trades involving established starting QBs, and what they fetched in deals

    SEASON QB (ACQUIRING TEAM) COMPENSATION
    2020 Nick Foles (Bears) 4th-round pick
    2019 Joe Flacco (Broncos) 4th-round pick
    2019 Ryan Tannehill (Titans) 4th-, 7th-round pick
    2018 Tyrod Taylor (Browns) 3rd-round pick
    2018 Alex Smith (Washington) 3rd-round pick, CB Kendall Fuller
    2016 Sam Bradford (Vikings) 1st-, 4th-round pick
    2015 Sam Bradford (Eagles) 2nd-round pick
    QB Nick Foles, 2nd-round pick
    2013 Alex Smith (Chiefs) Two 2nd-round picks
    2011 Carson Palmer (Raiders) 1st-, 2nd-round pick
    2011 Kevin Kolb (Cardinals) 2nd-round pick, CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie
    2011 Donovan McNabb (Vikings) 6th-round pick
    2010 Donovan McNabb (Wash.) 2nd-, 4th-round pick
    2010 Jason Campbell (Raiders) 4th-round pick
    Some trades centered on a QB’s long-term upside (e.g. Kevin Kolb), while others were finalized out of desperation (e.g. Sam Bradford’s move to Minnesota). The most comparable to Stafford, in terms of relative age and career production, are probably Alex Smith, Carson Palmer and Donovan McNabb, when he went from the Eagles to Washington. Each of those deals netted at least a second-round draft pick, and always an additional piece of compensation, whether in the form of a pick or player.
    The biggest difference, of course, lies in Stafford’s contract, which is a much greater percentage of his team’s salary cap these days. Signed to a five-year, $135 million extension in 2017, he’s still got two years remaining on the deal and is due $33 million — the seventh-highest total among all QBs — in 2021. In 2022, the number falls slightly to $26 million, but that still ranks 12th among QBs. On the surface, that sounds like a hefty contract to absorb, especially if it also requires surrendering draft picks. But in reality, it’s extremely palatable when compared to the rest of the QB landscape.
    https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/lions-matthew-stafford-trade-projecting-the-quarterbacks-value-in-a-potential-2021-deal/

    1. The most comparable to Stafford, in terms of relative age and career production, are probably Alex Smith, Carson Palmer and Donovan McNabb,

      Not if you listen to the voices here. Stafford had 10+ years of MVP like seasons and is the final piece for any team wishing to hoist the Lombardi after acquiring him. I’d like to hear who said that about Alex Smith.

  255. Wow. The Rams really hate 1st round picks. At that price I’m glad the 49ers didn’t get him.

    Very surprised someone agreed to take Goff’s contract on. But I guess this kind of makes sense – as part if getting the Rams to overpay for Stafford the Lions agreed to take on a bad contract.

    My apologies Mood, you were right.

      1. To me this makes the Rams a heavy favorite to win the division.
        Kyle’s job just got exponentially harder. If everything stays the same and Jimmy stays healthy we’re competing with the Seahawks for second and Russ gives them the edge there.

    1. No need to apologize, Scoot. You bring great insights and your arguments are always consistent and well reasoned. It’s going to be the most interesting off-season in my 35 years of following the league.

      On the Stafford trade, I bet on Rams being non-committal on Goff’s status, McVay’s dissatisfaction with Goff, Snead hellbent on not wasting the best years of Donald and Ramsey any further, Lions stating that they were building for the long haul, and Brad Holmes being a powerful connection to the Lions. In my reckoning, Niners were not in the top 5 among Stafford’s suitors.

      Stafford will cut down on the silly turnovers Goff made at inopportune moments. But Niners fans will overestimate the improvement Stafford is going to make to the Rams offense.

    2. The Rams really hate 1st round picks.

      Rams first round picks over the years and the future:
      2012 Michael Brockers
      2013 Tavon Austin
      2014 Greg Robinson
      2014 Aaron Donald
      2015 Todd Gurley
      2016 Jared Goff
      2017
      2018
      2019
      2020
      2021
      2022
      2023

  256. Yep, no wonder they bailed out. Way too much to give up for Stafford. Makes you wonder if it might take four 1st rounders for Watson! Looks like we draft one in round 2 and hold onto Jimmy for another year and build up his stock.

    I’m in shock that the Lions took on Goff’s contract.

  257. QUESTION FOR THE BLOG:
    * So what does the Stafford trade to the Rams do to the Bears and Colts, who both still need a QB?
    1) Do the they now try to trade for QB’s Carson Wentz and / or Sam Darnold?
    2) Both try to trade up with the 9ers for draft pick #12 and draft Wilson or Lance (if either is still available)?
    3) Both the Bears and Colts take a QB on day two of the 2021 draft?
    4) One of two bites the bullet and trades up with the 9ers for JG, and a 3Rd or 4th round draft pick?

  258. Looks like the Rams are in a SB or bust mode. Getting out from under the Goff contract, was a major coup for the Rams. .
    Giving up 2 firsts was tough, but they were future first round picks in 2022 and 2023, and maybe the Rams were counting on only having to give up late first round picks.
    .
    Sure am glad the Niners avoided giving up too much, and now, the DW deal may be possible.

    1. Seb,
      As much as I like Watson, the asking price is ridiculous for me.

      The Texans GM has announced that they won’t trade Watson. But that could be a ploy to garner more draft capital in case a team wants to hmm, really sell the farm ala Mike Dikta for Ricky Williams back in the day.

      The asking price for Watson is likely going to be more than what the rams gave up for Stafford.
      I hope we pass on Watson like we did on MS.

      1. The asking price will be huge and yet for all his talent Watson was on a 4 win team. It’s not about one guy. You need a good team around the QB to compete.

      2. AES, there will be something hitting the fan pretty soon. Caserio is blowing smoke, and the No Trade Clause cut him off at the knees. He has no leverage at all. The Niners should first offer a ham sandwich for DW.
        .
        DW was deliberately lied to. McFail made promises, then listened to Littlefinger. That contract is not worth the paper it was printed on. They are now threatening to fine him, so that will just add to his grievance.
        .
        Just watch. The inmates are running the asylum, and once Caserio sees that he may lose DW for nothing, he will take whatever he can get.
        .
        You know me. I really like Kaep. However, I said that I am so happy with JG, I do not want Kaep back on the 49ers. Now, the Niners may have the opportunity to get a dual threat QB, something I have advocated for years. I do like JG, but just think that DW would be an upgrade. He may be able to get the Niners back to the SB, and win it all. I just want the Niners to achieve their Quest For Six. JG got them to the SB, but did not achieve greatness.
        .
        Caserio likes JG, so he may go for a straight up swap of QBs. However, since they seem likely to move on from JJ Watt, Swapping JG and Arik Armstead for DW and JJ Watt, may help both teams.

        1. Seb,
          Are you certain that every team who is interested in Watson is willing to give him a critical voice in the front office when making management decisions?

          I believe that Houston opened up a can of worms by allowing a player to have this type of autonomy.
          I don’t blame Watson for the turmoil surrounding the present state of the Texans, I blame their FO.

          Given what is happening in Houston, would you be ok with the 49ers giving a player this kind of voice?
          I see it as a dangerous slope.
          ***
          Kaepernick is a neighborhood kid (I’m a neighboring city to Turlock) who made good. So, I feel like he’s our local hero. I still appreciate Colin for his steadfast cause, but he can no longer play QB in the NFL. His skills were already diminished before he was ousted from the league. Sorry Seb, but I just don’t see how he could have improved at his craft after nearly a 4 year absence.

          1. It was a self inflicted wound. McFail should never have made a promise he would not keep.
            .
            You need to put this in context. DW was at level 2 because they traded away Hopkins with none of his input. They promised to keep him in the loop in order to placate his anger. They then stabbed him in the back by hiring Caserio, and twisted the knife by not even interviewing Saleh or Bieniemy.
            .
            That put DW at level 10. His words, not mine.
            .
            Look at the Chiefs. before they drafted Clyde Edwards-Helaire; they sought Mahomes input. Did it cost them anything to have enough respect for Mahomes that they sought his input? No.
            .
            Yes, I totally agree that the FO is to blame, and Littlefinger Easterby deserves much of the blame. I do not know why he has so much influence, when he has zero qualifications.
            .
            On your last note, I wish to respectfully disagree. Kaep, now that he has been proven right about protesting for social justice, will get a chance to compete. There is no reason to keep blackballing him. The NFL has struggled with drek QBs providing poor play, lowering the quality of play, so ANY decent QB should be given the chance to at least try out. Thankfully, your argument about Kaep not playing for 4 years is blown up by the fact that Chad Henne had not started since 2013.

  259. Rams’ current roster salary is $212M for 2021. Some serious restructuring and bloodletting to begin…

    Meanwhile, the need for the Niners to bolster the pass rush in the draft gains greater importance.

    1. Mood , how viable a team will the Rams be after having to jettison nearly $40 million of talent, no matter who the QB is? I wouldn’t crown them with the division yet.

      1. Mood_indigo / Ribico
        Question to both: Who do you believe the Rams cut to get under the 2021 salary cap, especially if it’s $176 Mil.?

        1. Donald? Now that the offense with Stafford will be outscoring opponents 2 to 1? ;)

          Really, have no idea. I imagine offensive playmakers are safe – the Woods, the Kupps, the Higbees – those are the pieces that Stafford had never been surrounded with before, right?

        2. Looking at their cap numbers, it seems that they will need to jettison Whitworth and draft a tackle.
          I think they do a bunch of restructuring including Donald, Ramsey and Stafford’s contracts.

          One defense, they could lose both Leonard Floyd and Darious Williams in FA. I think they will try hard to get at least one of them back. On offense Austin Blythe and Gerald Everett may re-sign because most teams have no money to spare.

          Their biggest challenge will be to put a serviceable O line to protect Stafford.

      2. How viable are the Rams? They are a good team that got better for next season. They have had 4 straight winning seasons and gone to the Super Bowl. They will be a contender for the NFC West winner next season for sure.

        They will find a way to get around the cap for next season.

        However, they are also a team of stars and scrubs. If Donald or has a serious injury they will not be a contending team.

  260. My thoughts are as follows.
    1. This is a good deal for the Rams. Yes, they’d paid a heavy price but they got rid of Goff’s contract. That alone might be worth a first this year. That said they are in win now mode, and they swung for the fences. This should make them heavy favorites to win the division.
    2. I wonder if the move won’t doom Kyle. SF now has the worst QB in the division and it’s struggles against mobile qb’s are well documented. Knowing major upgrades elsewhere are unlikely, this team may well struggle to complete within its own division which means he’s probably looking at a 9 win season unless he kills it outside of the division.
    This would put him on the hotseat the following season with no guarantees at the most crucial position.
    I might be overreacting but I do feel this team now might as well start rebuilding a year early.

    1. *note*
      By my “rebuild” statement I think the odds of SF drafting a qb may have just gone up… as the team as presently constructed will struggle within the division imo.

      1. Shoup
        * By “rebuild,” do you mean try to trade or cut JG, then draft best QB left on the board, or restructure JG’s contract and then draft the best day two QB left on the board?
        * How about T. Williams? Resign him to a back loaded contract if it’s less than some number, (say $15 Mil. P/Y), or let him go to the highest bidder?

        1. GEEP,
          I think my biggest issue with this situation is how SF has handled it.
          They have been straddling the fence, neither willing to move on or commit to Jimmy. This approach lead them to re-upping Richburg and Ford for cap relief instead of Jimmy. As a result, SF kicked the can down the road but fielded a worse team than they should have. Restructuring Jimmy last year would have let them move off of Ford and Richburg this season and saved them more than 20 million, closer to 25 million I believe.
          Now they are doing the same thing and letting him twist in the wind… it’s bad all the way around. It’s neither good for their cap situation, Jimmy’s confidence or players respect for Jimmy.

          The problem is now, with a bad oline, no secondary, and little cap space to improve them coupled with probably the worst qb in the division I think they will struggle to compete in the west let alone the NFC. So Now, because they screwed up last year Kyle probably needs to buy time by bringing in his qbotf. Another losing season this year would place him on the hot seat unless he showed he had a plan for the future. So yes, I think he will be getting desperate.

    2. ” I might be overreacting.”

      Well that’s been a theme around here for most of the season so why stop now? We’ll see how these teams look once the off-season plays out but the Niners will contend for the division title if they can avoid losing half their team to injury.

  261. Hey all you Anybody but Jimmys , it ain’t over til it’s over. “Sources” say there is interest in a Garropolo for Goff swap ???

      1. Then how about this take for discussion. Considering, as everyone around here is predicting, those 1sts from the Rams will be in 28-32 range for the foreseeable future and now being stuck with the mother of overpaid busts, how well did the Lions actually make out?

  262. On Stafford my thoughts are similar to Shoup’s. You don’t let a QB like that get away from you. So the price is two firsts. You pay it. Look what Kyle and Lynch have done. And Jed. They were his experiment. The cost of coming back from this will be more. Plus they’ve strengthened the Rams. Unbelievable imo.

    1. So the price is two firsts. You pay it.

      Not only no, but hell no. For a Qb who’s done what over his lengthy career?

      I sure am glad there are cool heads in the Niners brain trust.

      They were his experiment

      An experiment that has and still leads to the SB. There are dozens of teams clamoring for just such an experiment.

      Ffs, the chicken littles here.

        1. I don’t believe they ever made an offer. Did they do their due diligence? Of course. They didn’t want Brady last year so they sure as heck didn’t want Stafford over JG.

          1. Fair enough. Will never be able to prove it definitively, but that seems like burying your head in the sand to me.

        2. Did they want Stafford over JG? Possibly but if they did they didn’t try very hard to make it happen and if you truly believe that Stafford allows you to run your offense the way you want and gives you a greater chance to win you probably do it right? Judging by what the Lions got from the Rams, I would imagine 2 1st round picks from the Niners probably gets it done considering it would have given the Lions a 1st this year at #12 and they wouldn’t have had to take on Goff’s contract. So if you are truly sure Stafford is an upgrade and the missing piece to the puzzle that doesn’t seem like to too much to give up does it?

          1. Huh? You make it sound like it is all black and white. Just because you believe it is an upgrade there can be no certainty. You have to figure out where you sit re: the cost vs the benefit. Obviously the team thought that price was too much as it means they lose out on other building blocks and there is risk involved. But they were interested, and you are only interested if you think he is better than what you have.

            1. If you truly believe Stafford is the better option and you can get him for a couple of first round picks you are compelled to do it aren’t you? Stafford counts less on the cap then Garoppolo this season so no issues there and another reason to make the deal rather than pass on it with them needing every dollar possible under the cap. As Mood Indigo said down below, there are different levels of interest and reasons for it. They were interested in Brady last off season but decided to pass after discussing it further. How do you know it wasn’t the same situation with Stafford?

              1. If you believe Stafford is a better option than JG + 2 1st round picks and a 3rd round pick, then yes, you are compelled to do so.

    2. This is a great example of how FF has distorted the way we look at players now. Stafford has passed for a bunch of yards but only went to the playoffs 3 times in 12 seasons and lost them all. Never elevated his team beyond mediocrity and yet he is viewed by many as one of the best QBS in the league. Garoppolo put up a good statistical season and went a SB but doesn’t have the big arm and doesn’t go deep enough for their liking so the same people can’t wait to jettison him out of town. It’s all about wins and losses for me.

      1. Notanexpert
        I ask either you or Jerry, this same question before.
        What is JG worth if he’s on IR for 8 games in 2021? And what, if anything, makes you think he won’t be with the 9ers O-Line, especially if T. Williams leaves!
        I also keep hearing about how JG got us to the SB, but with all the 9er 2021 FA’s and salary cap cutback, it will be difficult to put a 2021 team on the field that is as good as 2020? Even with all the injuries, the 2020 team may be better?

        1. Geep,

          It’s football. Every single player on the roster faces the possibility of injury and when it happens you fill the void as best you can. The 49ers need a better backup in case of another injury to Garoppolo but as I’ve said previously the injury prone moniker being used against Garoppolo isn’t accurate. His injuries have been severe but not to the same areas and not soft tissue or other random injuries which is the definition of injury prone. He started 19 games in one season. You don’t do that if you are injury prone.

          With the salary cap dropping it will be impossible to keep everybody but they can keep the players they feel are vital to them moving forward and pretty much every team in the league will be in the same position they are. The 2021 roster will be better if they can simply stay healthy. The 2020 roster was talented but almost half the team missed time with injury.

          1. Notanexpert Since JG will likely remain a 9er for the 2021 season, we’ll see how well your explanation(s) stand up to reality.
            Just one final thought…Since being acquired by the 9ers, JG has missed 23 games due to injuries and started 25.
            Like I said, if his history is an indicator of his future, how much is JG worth if he’s on IR for ~one half of the 2021 season?
            Those damn FACTS keep getting in the way of our fantasies…..But as a 9er fan, I’m hoping yours come true and reality does NOT!

            1. Garoppolo has started 33 games including playoffs. You can’t predict injuries they happen at random and that’s been the case for JG. One serious injury that required surgery and then one that is difficult to play with that was reaggravated because he played through it originally. If he was missing time with muscle pulls or concussions every year I’d agree with the injury label but that isn’t the case. He’s just as likely to play a full season next year as missing time due to injury and that is the way it’s been here for him.

        2. In my opinion, the Niners have the best roster in the division. We beat the Rams twice last year with a good portion of the roster on IR. As for the cap, everyone faces the same issue but the Niners are in better shape than the Rams. With a healthy team we’ll win the division.

    3. George,
      I don’t believe SF offered much. If they offered the 12th pick alone that’s gets it done imo. I’m guessing LA had to offer that much to unload Goff on them. Goff likely had negative value in that trade.

      1. Shoup, Goff is a viable starter. More than what the Lions would have had had they made a trade for picks only.

        1. Ribico,
          We completely disagree on that.
          Goff is a starter, but his cap hit (27 M this year and 25M next) makes him a terrible option for me.

          He has played behind one of the better pass blocking lines in the league, has a slew of good recievers and running game that annually ranks in the top 10. Throw in the fact that they had the best Defense in the NFL and you get the picture that he is a major reason why no one saw them as legit contenders. I don’t see any way he’s a top 15 qb and I am not sure I would put him in the top 20.

          I’d rather have Andy Dalton or Fitzpatrick as my bridge qb than him at half the cost.

    4. George, the 2 firsts are future picks. A 2022 first round pick is not as valuable as a 2021 first round pick.

  263. Far be it from me in being a Goff apologist (I’m throwing up a little bit even just posting this)… But for those of you in declaring Rams world beaters now, consider these career stats.

    Completion %:
    Goff: 63.4%
    Stafford: 62.6%

    YPA:
    Goff: 7.5
    Stafford: 7.2

    TD/Int ratio:
    Goff: 1.94
    Stafford: 1.95

    Team W/L % when starting
    Goff: 61%
    Stafford: 45%

    Lets not mention playoff wins and SB appearances.

    Just who made out better in that trade? I’d say the team that now has a lot more draft capital.

    1. Way to go Ribico. Ruining all the hyperbole and confirmation bias with facts. Stafford was the chosen one! They know he was!

    2. It comes as no surprise that those defending JG are now using the same approach to defend Goff. Yet the Rams couldn’t get rid of him fast enough.

      Almost makes you wonder if the HCs feel like QB wins isn’t a thing.

      1. How is it defending Goff? Ribico put up the stats that show the belief that Stafford is this great QB upgrade is questionable at best. No one here is saying Goff is a great QB, at least I don’t think anyone is. What we are saying is that your belief that Stafford is doesn’t hold up to the facts under scrutiny. Those numbers are very similar and the wins are heavily in Goff’s favor so if you feel like Goff is a marginal starter then why would you be so high on Stafford?

        1. Of course it is defending Goff. He is arguing that Goff is at least no worse than Stafford, and that Stafford isn’t an upgrade. Using the same approach used to defend JG.

          1. That’s not what I got from what he posted but if I’m wrong I apologize Ribico. What I took from that is the love for Stafford is hard to understand when the numbers are comparable to Goff who is a QB most believe is not very good. It’s confirmation bias based on the name imo. He also said the Lions made out better on the trade due to the draft capital, not because of Goff.

          2. I’m defending no one. I am attacking the idea, the truth, being presented here that a Stafford equipped Rams is going to somehow run roughshod over the Niners and division based on….such a statistically improved QB position? The only thing Stafford has going over Goff is the “eye-test”. Which is basically bunch of people seeing what they want to see, historical results be damned.

            Now, are we done with this “savior the Niners missed out on”?

      2. We’ll just have to see how the season plays out for the new and improved Rams. *Now with extra Stafford!*

        And if it doesn’t, I suppose there’s that “perennial contention” they now have in their back pocket.

  264. Like I said, Snead was a very desperate GM. This is what he ultimately had to pay for his mistake on Goff, who if you remember I said at the time would be a bust:

    Rams’ first-round pick (2016), two second-round picks (2016), a third-round pick (2016), a first-round pick (2017) and another third-round pick (2017). Two more first-round picks and another third-rounder.

    Somewhere in LA, Rocket thinks back to what might have been….

    1. Seriously dude you need to get some help with this obsession you have over Goff. If this is all about you holding onto a prediction you made that he would be a bust, you already lost. He wasn’t worthy of a #1 overall pick or the picks the Rams gave up to draft him, and he was waaay overpaid, but if you read what Ribico posted above he is not a bust. He’s been a middle of the pack QB who turns the ball over too much but he also put up some decent numbers and overall record. Stafford is a better QB but he’s never accomplished anything to earn this respect many are giving him. We are going to get a chance to see for ourselves this coming season.

    2. Razor
      * “Like I said, Snead was a very desperate GM”
      I’d agree, Snead was a very desperate GM and yes he made a mistake on Goff! But there’s more to it than that
      1) The New Ram owner, Stan Kroenke, Spent $5.5 Billion dollars of his own money, to build his new SoFi stadium.
      2) The LA fans are notorious for not supporting a sports franchise that’s not a SB contender. The reason the old Rams moved to St. Louis and Raiders could get enough LA fans support for a new stadium moved back to Oakland.
      3) The Chargers also share SoFi stadium and are playoff contenders. Kroenke’s smart to use the Chargers as a second revenue stream and likely uses them as leverage, to put pressure on Snead, reminding him they’re Snead’s and the Rams competition for fan support.
      4) Snead and the Rams FO knew Goff wasn’t the long term answer and as you pointed out, Goff’s contract was an albatross around the Rams neck.
      5) Snead, having put himself at the end of a limb with Goff’s contract, as well as other players the Rams had traded
      for, knew his job was on the line and bet the farm on trading for Stafford.
      6) In the end, it could be a brilliant move…Or it could be the straw that broke the camels back….The Rams still have a Team Salary Cap problem and they’ll be forced to cut some good players….Will Snead survive? TBD!
      Those are my thoughts, feel free to add yours…Anyone else, feel free to add yours also.

    1. Armstead + Warner and I’m all in!

      I think they now stick with Jimmy, and draft a qb most likely on day 2.

      1. I agree on all fronts. One thing the Goff- Stafford trade has shown is that huge dead cap hits and bloated contracts can be negotiated if the player(s) and capital fits the desire of the teams involved in the trade.

          1. You are correct Scooter. However, I have come to your way of thinking to due how well the 49ers have developed their linebackers. While another player may not reach Warner’s high level of play, I believe they can coach one up enough to where the defense does not miss having Warner in it.

      2. I’m so very glad you aren’t the GM because that is a ridiculous amount to give up for Watson. I pity the fans whose team pays that price.

        1. Honestly that is a bargain compared to what was first rumored that the would want for Watson.

    1. The 49ers are currently where the Rams were a year ago. They’re a year removed from losing a Super Bowl they would’ve won with a better performance out of their highly paid quarterback.

      Yeah, no. The Rams “highly paid quarterback” managed to put up all of 3 points in that game. Our “highly paid quarterback” put up a 10 point lead the defense couldn’t hold.

      1. Rib:

        I mostly agree with what you say as the defense deserves a lot of blame for giving up the lead in the SB and I think Jimmy G sustained a concussion and should have been pulled.

        Having said that, what has soured me on Jimmy G is that I feel he showed no growth whatsoever in 2020 from the previous year. I know he was injured most of the year but the few games that he did play were underwhelming for where he should have been in his third full season with KS. Further, I don’t think KS and JG have the synergy that is needed. In 2017 JG was dynamic because he was unconstrained/unfettered. Since “learning” the offense he looks corralled. At the same time he doesn’t have the skill set to allow KS to open up his offense.

        1. I know he was injured most of the year but the few games that he did play were underwhelming for where he should have been in his third full season with KS.

          Do you not see the contradiction in this statement? If he’s playing injured what are you expecting for improvement? We all saw how badly the pass protection was for a good chunk of the year which is what got him injured in the first place and you expected improvement while he was playing behind that suspect unit on a bad wheel? Your belief that he was better in 2017 compared to where he was at later on is also not supported by the facts. He was better in 2019 in pretty much every category with the exception of YPA which was influenced by not having Goodwin to take deep shots to like he had in 2017.

          1. He played a few games where he was not injured and he was underwhelming as well. So, no, I don’t see the contradiction. And even if he was coming off an injury, if he couldn’t throw the ball his normal way, he should have not played if excuses are to be made. His mental processing wasn’t injured, was it? QBs play hurt all the time, Stafford, Mahomes, etc. Their mental processing is what keeps them playing at a fairly high level still. Jimmy showed no improvement whatsoever in mental processing in 2020.

            I made excuses for Jimmy G in the past, but after 3 years with no improvement in the last year in mental processing, it’s time to move on.

            1. He played 5 quarters before getting injured not a few games and he came back because he was willing to play through it and Shanahan felt he was the better option injured than the other two were healthy. He went 3-2 playing through injury and I don’t pretend to be proficient in knowing if he improved in mental processing because I’m not the HC but you go ahead and make that assumption if it makes you feel better.

              1. And you keep living in a cocoon if it makes you feel better. There is a lot of smoke even from seasoned reporters like Maiocco that the team is looking to upgrade. Doesn’t that tell you something?

              2. I’ve never said they weren’t looking to upgrade. I’ve said more than once that if they can get a clear upgrade without completely mortgaging the future I’m ok with that. Where I completely disagree is this anybody but Jimmy crusade that has taken hold because he’s shown he can be very good in this offense and win a lot of games and that is still worth something in my book.

              3. I think you’re overstating what the majority of people are saying. It isn’t anybody but JG. More an acknowledgement that the team does want to upgrade and is actively exploring options.

              4. It’s been an anybody but Garoppolo mentality around here and on twitter from many chiming in.

              5. I’ve said more than once that if they can get a clear upgrade without completely mortgaging the future I’m ok with that.

                Watson is a clear upgrade and yes, the team will have to mortgage its future to trade for him. No two ways about it.
                Rodgers could be an upgrade available next off-season.

              6. Agreed. The idea of Watson is exciting but it’s a fantasy. I don’t think Houston will trade him but if they do the compensation will be severely detrimental to the team that acquires him and as good as Watson is he went 4-12 this year so he still needs a good team around him. Rodgers is the one I was hoping for based on GB drafting a QB in the first round but they’d be crazy to let him go.

              7. ABJ got slapped upside the head with the market that was set with Stafford. So no Watson. Is now looking at Ryan. And, for heavens sake, Rodgers in 2022 as if 2021 is a foregone conclusion.

              8. edit to add, Fritzpatrick and Cousins are now in the ABJ sights. Who was saying there’s no such thing?

      2. Absolutely. Why don’t these people remember how the game was actually lost. It’s bizarre.

    2. Cubus
      What 9er fan wouldn’t like to see the 9ers trade for Warner? But not at the expense of trading top team player(s) to Houston do it.
      The 2021 9ers have 37 free agents. They need to resign several critical veteran and back up players. They also need to address the O-Line and CB situation. With a $176 Salary Cap, unless you know something I don’t, I doubt that’s going to happen. It’s more likely they keep JG for the 2021 season as a bridge QB and draft the best QB available.
      Your thoughts on what the 9ers do?

      1. I agree, forget Watson. The reported trade demands are outrageous.

        Given what we know now, keep Jimmy and draft Mac Jones.

        However, if other QBs become available things could change. If Matt Ryan is made available at a reasonable cap hit, the team should look into it. Of course, it’s not a long-term solution, but it keeps the team competitive. As things stand right now, the 49ers are at the bottom of the division and every game in the division is going to be brutal.

        1. Oh please. They aren’t at the bottom. They have the best roster and if healthy they’ll compete for the title.

          1. The main reason the 49ers failed to squeak into the playoffs this last season was inadequacy at backup QB. At a minimum let’s hope that the backup QB position is upgraded. Also, IIRC, special teams was the worst or near worst in the league; that should be relatively easy to fix.

          2. Jerry: “They have the best roster and ((( if healthy ))) they’ll compete for the title.”
            * With JG on IR for 8 games (one half of the 2021 season), “they’ll compete for the title”….of the worst team in the division! Maybe if they draft Mac Jones and use JG as a bridge QB, they’ll compete for the title in 2022?
            FACT: Since the 9ers traded for JG, he’s missed 23 games and only started 25!
            FACT: That’s ~one half of all the games. Don’t believe me? Look it up!
            FACT: The 9ers may HAVE HAD the best roster in 2019, maybe 2020! BUT with JG on
            IR for 1/2 the season, they’re not going to win many games. (IE 6W – 10L season).

          3. “They have the best roster and if healthy they’ll compete for the title.”
            I can’t agree with this… I currently rank them.
            Qb – 1. SEA 2. LA 3. AZ 4. SF
            OL – 1. LA 2. AZ 3. SF 4. SEA
            RB – 1. SF 2. LA 3. AZ 4. SEA
            WR – 1. AZ 2. SEA 3. LA 4. SF
            TE – 1. SF 2. LA 3. SEA 4. AZ
            DL – 1. LA 2. SF 3. AZ 4. SEA
            LB – 1. SF 2. SEA 3. LA 4. AZ
            DB – 1. LA 2. AZ 3. SEA 4. SF(currently they don’t have one)

            I can’t see anyway you can rank SF as the best team in the division talent wise.

  265. Well the Stafford trade to the Rams pretty much ends all of the who will replace Jimmy G. discussions. Now we can get down to some serious talk. The 49ers now need to deal with the shrinking cap better than the other NFC west teams. If they do they could come out the other side (2022) in position to be SB contenders for the next 5 years. They need to sign Williams, Trade back from #12 and pick up an extra 2nd round pick, draft an IOL, pass rush specialist and 2 CB’s in the first 3 rounds. The rest of their draft picks should be used to pick BPA’s. Then in the 2022 off season they should take advantage of a ballooning cap and sign/trade for a QB as well as 2 or 3 B level FA’s. Then its off to the races….

    1. Lol! OC, I know you are sick of it, but if you think this ends the discussion on replacing JG you are kidding yourself. The 49ers just tried to replace him. The discussion is going to continue until he is replaced.

          1. Scooter / Cubus
            After playing well, Ryan Fitzpatrick was benched and replaced by Tua Tagovailoa.
            Ryan Fitzpatrick did not take being benched with a smile, he wasn’t a happy camper!
            Ryan Fitzpatrick signed a 2 year, $11,000,000 contract with the Miami Dolphins, including $7,000,000 guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $5,500,000. With his salary he may be a bridge QB the 9ers could afford to trade for? At the worst he’d make a good back up QB and at best, a starter and a bridge QB for Mack Jones (or a QB the 9ers draft). Your thoughts?

            1. I’ve been thinking about Fitz, but as a backup; unless KS is able to draft the QB he really wants and needs a bridge QB.

              Don’t be surprised if somehow Cousins winds up as the starting QB.

              1. cubus
                Not sure Cousins is much of an upgrade over JG? Haven’t check his salary, but would guess
                it’s comparable to JG’s? Fitz is cheap at $5.5 Mil P/Y, is already a backup and is capable of
                being the starter when JG is hurt and on IR again.

          2. Scooter, listen to yourself. What team, what QB, isn’t effective without a complement of good players?

            1. Where did I suggest otherwise?

              I didn’t think my point was that nebulous. Teddy B, when surrounded by good players, can run an offense effectively though it won’t be anything amazing. A bit like a poor man’s Alex Smith.

      1. The 49ers just tried to replace him.

        Scooter,

        I wouldn’t go that far to say that the Niners tried to replace Jimmy G.

        John Lynch has clearly said multiple times in interviews that they are always interested to look into the price and viability of talented free agents who become available. Or when players reach out to them thru their agents (like Brady did).

        More often than not, they are doing what good front offices do in doing due diligence — establishing and nurturing channels of communication and relationships with other front offices, understanding how other front office evaluate players, etc. These trade talks are an opportunity to learn about the other team. It’s common business practice. Rarely are they actually interested in trading for a hot commodity when they have a viable starter in place.

        Fans are displaying tremendous amount of confirmation bias in asserting that the Niners nearly pulled it off and were outbid by the Rams and WFT, or something to that effect. Unless I hear that from Lynch, I won’t believe it. Recall that Lynch wistfully described how they tried to trade for Khalil Mack but got outbid. This team is pretty open because they are confident and competent, and I tend to take them at their word on most things.

        1. “Unless I hear that from Lynch, I won’t believe it.”

          Yes, there are a few people that will feel this way. But there is very little to be gained by Lynch ever admitting they were active in trade talks. It isn’t like with Mack – that is a position that you need a stable of guys. This is a position where they have a starter and only one guy starts – admitting they tried to replace him does nothing but hurt the team.

          There was way too much smoke for me to believe this was all fantasy.

          1. You’re smoke all came from hack writers who quoted unnamed sources. These are guys, like Grant , who are trying to make a living and have to spice it up or no one will read them. Everything they write has to be taken with a huge grain of salt. John and Kyle have reputations for being upfront and honest and if they put in a bid it’ll come out when someone asks them directly IMO.

            1. The 49ers were one of the teams that submitted offers for Stafford, and also reportedly are among the teams pursuing a trade for disgruntled Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson. Although Stafford seems to have reset the market, the Texans’ asking price hasn’t changed for Watson, the Houston Chronicle’s John McClain reported Sunday morning.

              -Alex Didion

            2. No, it wasn’t just those guys, as much as you would like it to be.

              What I find funny is that pretty much every local 49ers reporter, including the very well respected ones, believe the 49ers were part of the talks. Even Maiocco has said he fully is of the belief the 49ers were involved early on but pulled out once the offers started getting really hot. That doesn’t happen when there is nothing there.

              Yet the JG “truthers” want to believe the team isn’t looking to move on so they will deny everything they hear to the contrary. And accuse those that believe the overwhelming number of reports the team is actively looking as being gullible.

              1. Even Maiocco has said he fully is of the belief the 49ers were involved early on but pulled out once the offers started getting really hot.

                What does involved mean? Due diligence enquiry like I wrote, or making an offer? Huge difference. Just curious, can you post the link to his tweet or article where Matt may suggest that Niners were negotiating with Lions on Stafford? I read his tweets and his articles pretty regularly and I have no seen anything like that. I might have missed it. He has quoted other Lions beat writers who cite ‘sources”. Matt’s latest article does not say anything about negotiations either.
                https://www.nbcsports.com/bayarea/49ers/49ers-rams-take-different-approach-same-goal-nfl-excellence

                May be all this smoke was being blown by Grant and his pals like this Alex Didion that Razor is quoting?

              2. Thomas
                @Lphs01
                ·
                Jan 29, 2021
                Replying to @VincentFrankNFL
                Thoughts that this gets accomplished?
                Vincent Frank
                @VincentFrankNFL
                49ers offered 2 second round picks and 2 third rounds picks. From what I know.
                5:12 AM · Jan 29, 2021

              3. Maiocco had a tweet where he said he fully believes the 49ers were involved in trade discussions early on.

    2. Scotter McG is right OldCoach the JG must be replaced by insert name here talk isn’t going away so strap yourself in for an offseason of hubris from all the arm chair GM’s who believe they have all the answers.

      I like your draft idea and that would be the way to try and offset the losses they’ll take in FA, but if there is somebody like Pitts sitting there at #12 I’d have a hard time passing on him. BPA should always take precedence in the first round imo.

      1. You do realise you are just as guilty on the hubris laden armchair GM front, don’t you? Believing your opposing view is 100% correct is just the same same but different.

        1. No it’s quite different actually. I’m responding to the criticism of Garoppolo with facts that counter that criticism. I’m not making them up or ignoring dissenting information like some of you have in regards to Stafford. I also don’t pretend like I know something about every player that gets mentioned around here or believe I can read Shanahan’s mind in regards to what he wants from his QB. I deal in relevant factual information, not speculation based on what fringe writers on the internet throw out to get attention.

            1. Tell me where you don’t agree then. Tell me where I have gone off believing something that isn’t supported by facts and I’ll agree with you.

              1. The “facts” you use still have context that can be ignored or manipulated. Don’t pretend you are the point of truth – you have an opinion and you use information to support your opinion, but it remains an opinion.

              2. Show me where I’ve manipulated the facts then. Show me where I’ve made claims or speculations based on internet rumors or personal bias. I’m not arrogant enough to pretend I know the truth but I sure as hell will put in the research to present that argument with facts to back it up.

              3. You have repeatedly belittled arguments that the 49ers would be interested in moving on from JG since midway through the season, and arguments to suggest that JG may not be providing what Shanahan wants from his QBs. Yes, you support this with information and stats. But you don’t accept there is context involved that mean those stats and that information does not prove your point.

                By belittling the opposing view you are inherently saying your view is the only view that matters or can be correct.

              4. If I disagree I argue just like everyone else. My point about hubris was this attitude that Shanahan/Lynch are not telling the truth and have ulterior motives despite constantly supporting Garoppolo among other things. The “we know the real truth” armchair GM’s who won’t accept anything other than what corresponds with their confirmation bias. I have never claimed to know anything about the inner workings of the team or what their real intentions are and don’t pretend to.

              5. Yes you do. You did it again with Stafford. You are pretending to know the team wasn’t that interested and ridiculing those that believe it.

              6. Scooter: He can’t see other valid points of view. His argument is good and up to this point he isn’t wrong (no one is), but other valid points of view do not enter his perception. Hence the condescending attitude coupled with a false modesty avatar.

                Personally, I don’t mind reading his posts because I try to keep an open mind and I want to hear other points of view. I always felt the same way about Rocket even though a number of posters thought Rocket was condescending. But Rocket was right well over 95% of the time and if you asked him questions, his reasoning was almost always very well thought out, even if his position wasn’t the only viable one. Now that Grant’s gone, I’d like to see Rocket come back. There used to be some really good lively debates that usually included you, Rocket, Hammer. Razor, Mood and others.

              7. I really enjoy Notanexpert’s comments. He makes great arguments – as you say, he reminds me of rocket as well who I always enjoyed discussing the 49ers with.

              8. Ok if you both feel that way I’ll wear it. That’s not the intent but intent doesn’t matter if that’s how it’s perceived. My apologies.

                Funny you reference Rocket because Razoreater accused me of being him awhile back based on an argument over Jared Goff that he had with somebody else but thought was me. It would be good if he came back along with a number of others who used to be regulars here but this place may be dead in the not to distant future it appears.

    3. Old Coach, I agree with your take that the QB speculation will die down, but until DW is traded, it still will be alive.
      .
      I sure hope they resign TW, but I think he will leave for greener pastures. The only hope is that the lowered salary cap may prevent other teams from throwing money at him.
      .
      The Niners should re-sign Verrett, so they do not need to draft 2 CBs in the first 3 rounds. I hope that Quincy Roche or Carlos Basham can make it to 43.
      .
      Ben Mason FB, may be a good late round pickup, since Juice may be signed by the Jets, who have a ton of cap space.

  266. Reply to Shoup:
    “George,
    I don’t believe SF offered much. If they offered the 12th pick alone that’s gets it done imo. I’m guessing LA had to offer that much to unload Goff on them. Goff likely had negative value in that trade.”

    Shoup, perhaps — and I say “perhaps” because I’m searching for rationality —

    — they have a verbal deal in place to trade for Matt Ryan for a later round pick and will target Lance or Jones in the draft, or
    –they plan to go after Jacoby Brissett or Andy Dalton and target Lance or Jones, or
    –in combination with one of the above, they like what they’ve seen from Josh Rosen.

    We’ll just have to see.

    1. George,
      It appears I was wrong and they actually valued Goff based on some of the other reported offers. As to why, I have no idea other they are the lions and that is what they do.

      1. Yeah, that one baffles me. But based on what Breer and others have said, getting Goff was actually something of a clincher.

        It makes me think the Lions won’t be drafting a QB round 1.

      2. Why? Confirmation bias not confirmed?

        ribico says:
        January 31, 2021 at 10:01 am
        Shoup, Goff is a viable starter. More than what the Lions would have had had they made a trade for picks only.

        1. To be fair Rib, I admitted I was wrong on how the Lions viewed him.

          Of note is that Lions GM was with the Rams when they drafted Goff, so he must view him differently.

          That said, nothing has confirmed he is viable starter to me yet… only that Lions see him as such. I still believe he is not good and will be something akin to a Mitch Trubisky level starter in Detroit.

          1. he was a 2x Pro Bowl player and went to the Super Bowl……. if McVay called a good game (dink and dunked down the field w screens, quick slants, etc), I think they win and then maybe not bailing on Goff.

            He has issues, but I am anxious to see how Stafford performs in LA and Goff does in Detroit. Personally, I really wanted/like Stafford, but I surely believe Lions fleeced LA on the deal- and the GM knows what Goff is good at (intermediate throws) and struggles with (pressure in the face). But my thinking is that the inclusion of Goff cost them the 3rd.

  267. Notanexpert
    * I know he was injured most of the year but the few games that he did play were underwhelming for where he should have been in his third full season with KS.
    * Notanexpert: “Do you not see the contradiction in this statement? If he’s playing injured what are you expecting for improvement?”
    * The problem with your comment Notanexpert, is you overlook the FACT that Since being acquired by the 9ers, JG has missed 23 games due to injuries and has started only 25.
    You can call it what you want, but that’s his history of being injured and on IR! So how do you justify his Salary? Are you making excuses for him, and don’t tell me how everyone gets hurt, unless you also believe the 9ers should continue paying Dee Ford’s salary, as well as Weston Richburg’s?

    1. Geep he’s started 33 not 25 and I acknowledge he has missed 23 due to injury. What I’m saying is that if you start making decisions based on one off injuries then you won’t be able to build a football team. Kittle has missed a lot of time due to injury are you ready to move on from him? Deebo Samuel, Jimmy Ward, Arik Armstead, Nick Bosa…and many many more. This is football and guys are going to get injured that’s part of the game. As I said previously if the injuries are chronic and the player never gets on the field that’s a different story but that isn’t the case here. As to your last question, there is no doubt in my mind that if Ford and Richburg were completely healthy and looking like they could play at a high level this coming season the Niners would keep them.

      1. Of course the counter to all of this is that the 49ers are 28-25 since he has been named the starter.

        Yes, he’s been hurt often in that stretch, but that is a major part of his Legacy. As in the 5 years where he was expected to get major playing time he was hurt in 3 of them… at some point those injuries stop being freakish and start being expected. Some players get hurt a lot more often than others due to luck bone structure, stretching routines whatever, and at this point you can’t help but put him in that injury prone category.

        Then there is the cap side that really hurts SF in contract negotiations. You would like to get his cap number down so you have more space, but to do so you have to give him more guaranteed money. No one wants to give much guaranteed money to guy that’s past performance indicates he has around a 50% chance of not suiting up.

        1. Well I’m not a doctor but I don’t buy the suggestion an ACL and high ankle sprain are due to not stretching enough or bone structure. Those are both injuries that are very common in the NFL unfortunately and it’s just plain old bad luck.

          1. A lot of guys got hurt playing on the Jets homefield. I’m wondering if the cleats that were chosen contributed to the injuries.

  268. Jimmy when throwing to the outside receiver: #25 in attempts, #36 in completion percentage (last), #36 in independent passer rating (last), 1.1 TD% (last), 6.7 INT% (3rd most)

  269. Sam Farmer of the L.A. Times reports that the Rams made a run at Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

  270. I am glad the Stafford drama is over. I am also glad to see that a starting QB is worth 2 firsts and a third round pick.
    .
    Since JG, by his age alone, is superior to Stafford, who is 33, he should garner even more than Stafford. JG has a 24-8 win loss record and is a SB QB. Stafford has never won a playoff game. Speaking of weapons, Stafford had Megatron, and could not win. Sure, he padded his stats in losing causes, and had to throw because his RBs were pedestrian. However, with Aaron Donald, Stafford should do well in LA. He might be the last piece to the puzzle, on their march to a ring. They are going all out to win now, with no thought towards the future, since they have no first round pick until 2024. At 33, Stafford could be in the prime of his career, and now, he will have enough weapons, and a stout defense, to compete in the playoffs.
    .
    It was a win/win for both teams. Detroit sent him to a team of his choice, with a good haul of draft picks, along with Goff. The Rams got out of the Goff contract, and may have a superior QB in Stafford.

    1. Yes, yes I know I am a first class moron.
      .
      Apologize for my comments. They were made under duress as Christine had me a bit stressed this morning.

        1. Why don’t you just use a diff avatar?? Also, didn’t you reveal yourself and blamed her for it or something? I forget the details..

  271. Albert Breer just outlined that the 49ers did not make an official offer for Stafford. However, they did discuss a trade.

    Takeaway: the rumours of being close to a deal was most likely misinformation/ massive exaggeration. However, there was interest there.

      1. Now, the counter argument to what I said.
        It is that it’s highly unlikely that SF would admit that that they were majorly after Stafford and lost out to the Rams. Them saying we called and asked but made no offer also sounds fishy. Why make the call if you’re not really interested and if you’re interested why would you not make an offer.

        1. We can endlessly re-arrange tea leaves until we come up with a pattern we think we to recognize. Or, to drastically switch metaphors, sometimes a cigar is just a cigar, no matter how much “smoke” is produced.

        2. Them saying we called and asked but made no offer also sounds fishy.

          It may sound fishy to you, but many front offices it do it all the time, especially Schneider’s team with the Seahawks. I posted my guesses about why these calls are made in a response to a Scooter earlier in this blog.

    1. Don’t worry. There’s still a league full of backups, former starters, unaccomplished stat kings, end of career big names the blog can froth over next.

      Condescending? Yes. How many 100s of breathless posts had been made in thrall of this ultimately non-story?

      1. There are reliable sources whose views are available to the public but are ignored by fans looking for reaffirmation of their views and wishes. It’s very much confirmation bias — like getting news from political echo chambers.

        One reputable and reliable source is Adam Schefter, who I believe broke the news of the trade. Early last week, he made his weekly appearance on Murph and Mac’s show on KNBR. IIIRC, he had stated that about a third of the league had enquired about Stafford (I take that as 11 teams). He said that Lions had opened negotiations with 8 of them. Murphy asked Schefter point blank whether Niners were one of the eight. His answer was: “I am not hearing that”.

        So there were about 3 teams that enquired about Stafford but backed away after getting an idea of the parameters of the negotiation. I figured Niners were one of those three.

    2. It’s called the internet where misinformation is passed around by fans/wannabe football analysts trying to gain cred and become relevant enough to acquire followers on Twitter. Another “Big move” on the way from the 49ers will appear shortly…I heard it from a source.

    1. I’m guessing that Rams were desperate for a starting QB who would not turn the ball over at critical moments. Stafford may be the only quality starting QB available this off-season for whom they could conceivably (over)bid.

      Neither McVay’s horizontal stretch schemes nor his personnel are set up to leverage Stafford’s deep ball capabilities with Kupp, Reynolds and Woods all of who run 40 yards in 4.5+ seconds. Only Van Jefferson runs a 4.4. If Niners can get 80% pre-ACL Bosa and a decent edge on the opposite end on third downs, they should be able to manage Stafford.

    2. George
      The article states: “those first rounders are future picks, and the trade market has traditionally discounted future picks significantly.”
      * While I don’t disagree that future draft picks are discounted from present draft picks, It doesn’t account for the fact that 1st round draft picks are more important today, than previously, if teams are to both acquire and retain talented players and still meet the $176 Mil. P/Y team salary cap requirement(s).
      Teams, including the Rams, can renegotiate player contracts to stay under the salary cap, but Goff wasn’t their only bad contract.
      Case in point: There are salary cap ramifications of trading away a quarterback set to make $33.5 million. But this deal won’t hurt the Rams financially, largely because Stafford’s deal is affordable. So instead of paying Goff $34.75 million in 2021 to be on the team, he’ll cost the Rams $22.2 million. It’s bad business to pay a player that much to be on another team, but Les Snead knew exactly what he was doing, just like with Brandin Cooks and Todd Gurley.
      With no future 1st round draft picks as trade capitol, Snead bet the future of the Rams (and his job), on the Goff – Stafford trade.

    3. This is a major gamble by the Rams that could wind up costing Snead and McVay their jobs in a couple of years. With their cap situation they won’t bring back the quality of team they’ve had previously so they are relying on Stafford to be enough of a difference maker to make up for it and nothing in Stafford’s history suggests he is going to elevate his team enough to overcome weakness’ elsewhere on the roster. If they suffer an injury to any of their key players they are in big time trouble because their depth will be minimal due to their lack of cap space. This is really an all in move by a team that doesn’t have a good enough hand to be trying it imo.

  272. Hi all. It’s been great, but I am receiving threats against my family.
    .
    I’m going to find other forums with actual security and admins.

  273. Notre Dame EDGE Daelin Hayes met with 31 teams formally at the Senior Bowl, noting that the #Rams weren’t present.

    Said he had great meetings in particular with the #49ers, #Chargers, #Dolphins (who coached him), #Raiders, #Seahawks, #Steelers, #Falcons, #Bills and #Packers.

    Looks like a replacement for Hyder in round 6ish.

    1. I mentioned yesterday to not be surprised if it happens. KS has always wanted Cousins. Where did you read/hear about a swap?

    2. oneniner
      Buckle up my man, it that time of year! Lying Season, a Plethora of Red Herrings and it’s still early….Only going to
      get worse…..
      Believe nothing that you hear and only 1/2 of what you think you see….lol

  274. Mel Kiper and PFF have the 49ers selecting Patrick Surtain III in their latest mocks.
    Of course, everything is pure speculation at this point, but I like the idea of PS3.

    After the championship game, I said that Patrick Surtain lll reminded me of the old AFC star CB Mike Haynes.
    Haynes was a great lockdown CB who played against the oppositions best WR.

    Surtain shut down one side of the offense in the championship game which limited Ohio St.
    Not sure what Surtain’ 40 time looks like, but I do know that he owns his side of the field.
    The last great lockdown CB we had was Dion Sanders, and we won a Superbowl. Drafting the top CB in the draft might not be a bad idea given the very good QBS in our division.

      1. Thanks Coach.
        T. Williams will be an important re-sign, but if he doesn’t get the money (value) he wants it’s bye bye.
        As someone recently said, this is his last chance for a huge payday. I would go for the big bucks if I were him.

        But the reason why I brought forth the Kiper and PFF mocking P. Surtain to the 49ers is because I feel it made good sense considering the QBS and WRS in our division.

        At some point the need for a very good CB will need to be addressed against the likes of Metcalf, Hopkins and the rams WRS.
        I like Surtain a lot, but as Scooter said, Farley could be a good pick as well.
        Things will get very interesting around here come March/April.

    1. I’d prefer Farley. Surtain is the solid, safe choice. But I don’t see him as a lockdown CB in the NFL.

      1. I’ve heard Farley’ name mentioned a few times, but have not seen any film on him. IYO, do you believe he’s a #12 pick?
        Most analysist have Surtain as the top CB.

        1. Farley has the most upside imo. He’s the best athlete of the group – not just fast but really fluid. However, the downside is he is very raw still. Technique is not great, to be kind.

          I think he is worth pick #12, but he’s a riskier pick than Surtain.

    2. As is well-known, ShanaLynch like to build from the trenches and drafting a DB in Round 1 has not been their MO. An edge rusher appears far more likely, perhaps trading down a few spots to pick up a second. I can see them pick up a CB on the second day and another on the third day.

      The two best rookie corners this past season were drafted at #138 (Snead, KC) and #89 (Dantzler, Minnesota).

      1. Yes, I think a trade down would be their preferred option before taking a CB. But can’t guarantee a taker. And I think the top CBs are better prospects than the top edge guys.

        1. Scooter
          NO FA EDGE Trey Hendrickson. Young (26 Y/O), Tied with A. Donald with 13 sacks, 2020 Salary was < $800K P/Y!
          NO is in salary cap hell and can not afford to keep everyone! Offer him a 5 year $45 – $50 Mil. deal and he is still a steal…

  275. God, I hate this kind of sh!tty journalism.

    Garoppolo’s second-half struggles in that game (Super Bowl) generated more questions about whether he could evolve into the quarterback the Niners need to get over the hump.

    https://www.espn.com/blog/san-francisco-49ers/post/_/id/38151/san-francisco-49ers-quarterback-jimmy-garoppolo-focused-on-durability

    Does he mean the 2nd half struggles where he threw for more yards than Patrick Mahomes did in the 1st half? The 2nd half where he led the team to a double digit lead. After which that vaunted defense collapsed giving up 21 straight points? That second half? Just asking.

    1. Not to mention the fact he was dealing with Chris Jones and others collapsing the middle of the pocket most of the time. Replacing Jimmy will continue to be the focus of those who think another QB is the answer, but what this team probably needs most is to reinforce the middle of the OL. Holding up against DT’s and blitzing LB’s would be very helpful toward Garoppolo taking the next step as a QB.

  276. Think of the Rams picks surrounding Goff. In 16 they gave up two 1sts, two 2nds, and two 3rds to move from 15 to 1st overall and a couple of Day3 crumbs. Then this recent haul to swap him out with Lions to dump his contract. And don’t forget the Ramsey deal as well with high picks. The ghost of George Allen!

  277. Looking at the draft, if one of the top QBs doesn’t fall to pick 12, I think the best value will be OL, WR or Pitts. Maybe Farley. Which is actually making me think the 49ers may not make as strong a run at Williams as I thought – at least not to the point of being willing to overpay for him. I think they would be just fine letting Williams walk if he wants a massive pay day, use that money elsewhere, and take an OT at 12.

      1. Yeah, I like him. But there are quite a few good looking OL in this draft.

        I actually really like Slater, but I understand the reservations scouts have regarding his NFL prospects as an OT. Probably will need to move inside. Though Zack Martin is just as good an OT as he is an OG, so if I was an NFL team I would at least try him at OT first.

        1. That’s probably my early call for who they draft actually, assuming he falls to #12 and a top QB prospect they really like isn’t available. I think Slater makes too much sense for this offense, no matter what position on the line they put him.

          1. What are your thoughts on, East Carolina’s, D’Ante Smith day 3 developmental prospect?

    1. They have gone out of their way declaring how much they want to keep Williams and I’m sure they have a good idea of the market. I’m optimistic they will be able to sign him but time tell.

      1. Yeah, I think they will look to re-sign him, but if it gets into a bidding war I think they will let him go.

        1. If it’s just about money, then Niners loose out but I don’t think it is. He’s said he wants to play for a good team and a team with a good culture.

          1. Sure, but the 49ers are hardly the only team that applies to. He has also been very upfront that this will be his first time ever testing the FA market and he is looking forward to seeing what his true value is. Those aren’t the words of someone that is thinking money doesn’t matter.

            LTs of his calibre rarely hit the open market. There is going to be a bidding war. It will be interesting to see how far the 49ers are willing to push that bidding war and whether Williams would be willing to take less to stay.

    2. Scooter:
      * Assuming the 9ers keep JG…..
      The Max the 9er should pay TW is $18.5Mil., and backload $4.5 – $5.5 Mil. If TW leaves then Virginia Tech OT Christian Darrisaw, (draft pick #19) is who IMO, the 9ers should trade down for…Plus a mid 2nd Rd. pick.
      I was think EDGE with 2nd Rd. pick #43, but the Rams traded for Stafford, so S. Carolina press CB Jaycee Horn. Is my pick #43…I also believe the 9er FO should resign CB’s Jason Verrett and K’waun Williams.
      My mid 2nd Rd. pick, from OT Darrisaw trade down, is Oklahoma Center Creed Humphrey.
      EDGE Rusher to replace Dee Ford: N.O. free agent 26 Y/O Trey Hendrickson. With the Saints in Salary Cap Hell, they will be forced to cut players! Hendrickson had a breakout year with13 sacks, and his 2020 salary was less then $800K P/Y! The 9ers should offer him a 5 year $45 – $50Mil contract.

  278. 1. Needless to say I’m pleased we did not acquire Stafford. Jimmy is better. I am confident that Jimmy would have been capable of throwing jump balls to Megatron . The Lions have had poor defenses and lackluster RB performance so Stafford has had ample opportunity to pad his stats with junk time production.
    2. I am somewhat curios about Watson but I think we roll with a healthy Jimmy . If we fix our interior Oline we should be back in contention for the Superbowl . NFC is soft.
    3. GO Chiefs !!!

      1. I agree. Verrett and K’waun must be resigned. I feel like EMan regressed a bit this year and Witherspoon improved a bit. I’m not sure what happens with them. We definitely need to draft someone.

    1. Heh. ?

      But woah, is that going to air in its entirety? At nearly two minutes that’s some beau coup bucks! Then again, with Anheuser Busch, Coke, Pepsi and other big names sitting out this asterisk bowl, maybe bargains to be had.

      1. I wouldn’t see why they would shorten it; there have been long commercials like this one before. With that said, I think the commercial will air during the pregame show and not during the actual game.

        1. My favorite commercial at the moment ; “Scoop there it is.”
          Worst. Taco B. – “I consume you.”
          To psychotic for my taste, no pun intended.

  279. ** Now that the Stafford Circus is over **
    What will the 9ers do about JG’s backup QB for 2021 season?
    * Keep Beathard? Keep Beathard and Rosen? Draft Mac Jones and let Beathard go?

      1. If the QB room is JG, Rosen and Beathard in 2021 I will seriously question what the heck ShanaLynch are doing. That backup QB situation does not inspire confidence behind a guy that has struggled to stay healthy and the FO words and actions have made it pretty clear that while he is a QB they are fine with as a short term option, he is one they can upgrade on and is not a guy they are confident in as the long term option.

        We know Beathard is awful and Rosen has done nothing in the NFL to warrant thinking he is either a viable backup QB or a QBOTF. I’m fine having Rosen on the roster as a flyer, but the other backup has to be a guy you feel confident turning to if JG goes down again and that is not Beathard.

        If they stick with JG, which I think they will, the team should be looking to add a QB they think can potentially be the long term guy to push JG. If JG balls out in 2021 then great – you then have two guys you really like and feel confident in for a few years, and one can be used as a trade piece down the line.

        1. Sam Darnold would only cost SF 5 mil in 2021. Would be a great back up with upside to be the future Qb. A 2022 second rnd pick could get it done. Have him learn the system and he can be the guy in 2022 imo. Just one option.

          1. You should be able to get Darnold for a day 3 pick. I wouldn’t give up anymore than that for him.

          2. Bringing in Darnold to be the backup if they miss out on a QB rounds 1-2 would make some sense if it doesn’t cost much. He obviously has way more talent than the backups they have had in recent years and could genuinely push JG.

            But he would only be on a 1-year deal (as you wouldn’t pick up his 5th year option), so it would really be more a short term solution for the backup position. If JG stays healthy, chances are Darnold wouldn’t play much unless JG stinks it up. So you wouldn’t get much opportunity to evaluate him as a potential long term option.

            1. That’s a big “if”. I’d throw a 5th at the Jets if they really wanted to get rid of him.

        2. Scooter
          If they do resign TW, IMO they draft Lance or Wilson, if either are still there at pick #12. If not, they trade down and draft mac jones. If they lose TW, then my guess would be they draft OT Darrisaw and draft a QB day two. Hopefully not Trask. I’d also like to get Miami’s Ryan Fitzpatrick

          1. I think they won’t force it when it comes to QB, but if a guy they really like is there at 12 I don’t think they hesitate. Or even a few picks earlier, with a small trade up. Same goes for any round, tbh – maybe Jones is there at the end of round 1/ early round 2 and they really like him at that range, I think they would try very hard to get him. Basically, if they really like one of the QBs and they find themselves in striking distance, yeah, they will look to get him.

            But as to whether they will really like any of the QBs I honestly don’t know. Maybe they look at Wilson, Fields and Lance and think those guys aren’t it, not worth using pick 12 on. Maybe they look at Jones and Trask and think backup, mid round QBs. I have no idea.

  280. Shanny could have blocked Oden’s lateral move to the jets but chose not to. Guess he and Ryans have someone lined up.

      1. Undlin’s record in Detroit does not exactly inspire confidence but in Shanny we trust — except, of course, on his choice of QBs and in his head coaching in general :)

        1. To be fair, his record as DBs coach at the Broncos and Eagles isn’t bad and he has been the DBs coach on two SB winning teams.

  281. Just came back to check in on all the magaT trumptards…how yall doing now suckerrrrssssss?

    And f-ck, 2200 comments. This should show to the PD that this site is worth getting someone to monitor, administer and, most importantly, write articles for…and not once a week.

    1. I’m doing fantastic!
      Why? Because I’m not dominated by hatred.
      It’s a beautiful (well needed) rainy day in the Central Valley.
      Love it!

      And yes, I agree with your PD comment, even though that idea has been brought up on here several times.

    2. magaT trumptards…how yall doing now suckerrrrssssss?

      The previously most vocal here have pretty much kept their heads down. I guess the events around Jan 6 was a bridge too far even for them.

          1. Rib,
            I called it a horrible episode.
            Not making any excuses.
            I’m pretty sure that they won’t be nominated for the Noble Peace Prize.

          2. You’re a moron. We’re still here, and working on recalling your Nuisance governor. Not my governor!

  282. If they really keep Jimmy and one of the four they like doesn’t fall within striking distance, and assuming they sign Williams; I think they’ll trade down and take a DE. If they don’t sign Williams, they’ll trade down and take an OT. I’ve seen nothing to indicate they place 1st round value at the CB, Safety, and IOL positions as far as the draft is concerned….

    1. The counter argument I would have to that is the 49ers draft history under ShanaLynch is they really value taking the player with a premium pick rather than accumulating later picks. The trade downs they have made were back one pick.

      In fact their draft history is more one of being aggressive in the draft and moving up to get the guys they want.

      I think they will be happy to stay and pick at 12 (or if a guy they really like is available a few picks earlier potentially move up a bit to get them). And if a couple of guys they really like are there they may make a small trade back only.

      1. Yep, small trade back into the high teens. They should get value at both positions there, whether it be at DE or OT.

        1. Moving back to the high teens would be a significant move back relative to their draft history, and one they would only do if there was nobody they really liked at 12 I would imagine.

            1. That’s hardly the high teens. But yes, if a couple of guys they really like are on the board at 12 I could see that.

              1. Thirteen, Fourteen, Fifteen. What the hell do you mean that’s hardly the high teens? Maybe I should have said, early teens….

              2. If that is what you meant then yes, you should have. Or low teens. High teens is literally the opposite.

              3. Of course that’s what I meant. When have they moved down more than a couple spots?

                Would you give up what Marino did for Wilson?
                San Francisco 49ers trade No. 12, No. 44, No. 116, and a 2022 first-round pick to the Houston Texans for No. 3 overall.

              4. Cool, I agree that small trade back would make sense. Can hardly blame my confusion though- I can only assume you mean what you say and high teens is not 13-15! ?

                If Shanahan/ Lynch truly believe Wilson is going to be a great QB then sure, that trade package makes sense. But only if they truly believe he will be that guy. That isn’t a trade you make for a guy you like but have some reservations about when you have a decent QB already. Reid made his move for Mahomes because he truly believed he would be great.

                I wouldn’t make that trade because I don’t have that level of conviction regarding Wilson – he has talent but also enough question marks to give me pause.

              5. The command of the offense, the accuracy, moxie, the NFL throws that he makes look easy. I don’t know what more you need to be convicted about. Interviews. That’s all I need. Let me sit in on the interviews with Mooch on the NFL Network!

                I could have been clearer, Scooter. When I used the term “high” teens I meant with respect to the draft. I wouldn’t say high teens if I’m referring to the price of something that is $13,000-$15,000. My bad.

              6. The things that give me pause on Wilson (aside from potential character questions which we have no way of knowing) are (1) was his play in 2020 a byproduct of being very well protected? (2) what happened in 2019? (3) what is his pocket presence like in muddier pockets? (4) what is his mental processing like when he is put under duress more frequently? (5) why does he bail on clean pockets sometimes? (6) will he handle taking more hits in the NFL, both mentally and physically?

                None of the above are big concerns for me, but they are enough that I would not put all my chips in on him.

              7. You can’t win a championship with Jimmy, Kirk or Mac if you’re going up against a Mahomes. I don’t care how good of a team you have built around them. First off it’s unsustainable, and secondly, Jimmy left a lot more plays out on the SB field than just the bomb to Sanders. At some point Shanny/Lynch have to ask themselves, are we here to win NFC championships or Super Bowls?

              8. I am 100% convinced they know they can improve on JG, and that sustained success is a lot easier with a great QB. Heck, they have basically said as much.

                That’s not an excuse to panic buy, and to overpay for a QB you aren’t that sure of out of hope they can be the guy. Nor is it an excuse to be held over a barrel for a sure thing – because even great QBs need a good supporting cast to win SBs.

                There is a fine line between being bold and being reckless.

              9. It feels like we’re in a quarterbacks arms race in the west, and we need our own badass.

              10. The luxury of having a capable starter already is they don’t need to try and shoot the moon in trying to find their QBOTF.

              11. San Francisco 49ers trade No. 12, No. 44, No. 116, and a 2022 first-round pick to the Houston Texans for No. 3 overall.

                There is no way in hell I make that move. It’s a bit too steep… if I was wiling to pay that much then I would have been willing to offer the 12th pick to Det for Stafford. That makes it really tough to shore up so many other holes. Additionally once you get to a certain point, you’re better off just upping the ante and going for Lawrence or Watson.

    2. If the 49ers are going to trade up, the only suitor could be Cincinnati.
      The Bengals could trade the 5th pick for a truck load of present players and future picks.

      This moves the 49ers in striking position for a top QB, and gives Cincy the opportunity to shore up their Oline to protect Burrow.

      But at pick #5 the only QB’S available might be Fields and Lance. Lawrence and Wilson could be gone before the 5th pick.
      In this scenario, I’d go with Fields.
      Lance is too risky, imo.

      1. The Bengals are currently in position to be able to draft OT Penei Sewell to protect Burrow’s blind side, so I doubt they will be trading down unless on of the teams ahead of them draft Sewell.

      2. AES,
        I wouldn’t trade up for either one of those players. I don’t care how badly we need a qb… giving up 2 first for either one of them makes no sense given they were not willing to give up one first for Stafford.

        1. Shoup,
          I hear you. It’s a steep risk giving up this much for either Fields or Lance. But if these guys are as good as has been touted by some here and many professional analysist, then it makes sense.

          A healthy team in 2021 could put the 49ers in a 10-12 win scenario. Losing a 1st rd pick won’t carry the same sting as losing a top 12 pick.

          As athletic QBS, Fields or Lance my be the best on the board. That seemed to be the consensus around here the last couple of months.
          I wasn’t crazy about giving up that much for Stafford because his ceiling may have been reached and longevity is not on his side.

          If the FO is serious about making such a deal, Watson is the better candidate because of his age and athletic ability.
          But Watson would need to get us to the SB and win, unlike a rookie QB.

  283. interesting – a legit knock on Jimmy

    the book on Garoppolo: He can’t move, throw deep or outside the numbers. So when it’s clear he’s going to throw, play Cover 1 with a safety in the deep middle of the field and a linebacker in a shallow zone over the middle. Pack the middle. Dare him to throw outside the numbers. He won’t. Or dare him to scramble. He won’t.

    Cover 1 is the Garoppolo beater. Everyone knows this.

      1. After re-thinking the games Jimmy played, I agree with the quote – When have we ever seen Jimmy throw the ball outside the numbers or deep consistently -?

        @ George – I swear this was not intentional – I did read the article but did not pay attention to the writer name – after you asked – Grant Cohn said it.

          1. I agree Grant is no-legit—-what about the quote do you find not legit?

            I have noticed “we” the fans have not really dissected his plays – we focus more on his body language, Kshan play calling, Receivers ability to catch and YAC.

            We have enough data to objectively judge JimmyG’s results – Pack the middle. Dare him to throw outside the numbers. He won’t. -is it a lie?

            1. It is well known that JG doesn’t throw outside the numbers or deep very often. If anyone has seen his passing heat map, it literally looks like he is giving the finger – it is a red line up the middle for about 15-20 yards, with a red fist near the LOS.

              1. That heat map is precisely why Pitts would give Jimmy the best chance for success this year.

              2. Won’t be any top notch OL if they sign Williams. I don’t see how they view this team a contender without him….

              3. Pitts is gonna be long gone anyway by pick 12.

                Probably going to continue the trend by giving first year DC, Ryans their top rated DE. If his medicals check out and there aren’t any character concerns, Phillips could be a surprise choice….

              4. They will definitely be adding edge guys in FA and the draft. My guess is it won’t be a 1st round edge though.

              5. There’s actually quite a few pretty good edge guys in FA, and will likely be more once teams start cutting players to get under the cap. The 49ers should be able to get a decent edge guy or two to complement Bosa and Armstead in FA.

            2. Pack the middle. Dare him to throw outside the numbers. He won’t. -is it a lie?

              So? The team won 15 games in 2019, more than any other team in the league save one, ignoring our former junior DC’s prescription. You know where Grant can take his football tactics.

        1. Probably to Kittle just before the half in the Super Bowl. Too bad the refs ruined a beautiful play and execution.

  284. ** Houston may not be the only one with QB problems **
    Ex-teammate says Aaron Rodgers is ‘hellbent on some revenge’ against Packers, wants new deal…..
    https://www.yahoo.com/sports/former-teammate-says-aaron-rodgers-is-hellbent-on-some-revenge-against-packers-154410325.html

    The Green Bay Packers could be in trouble if Aaron Rodgers really wants a new contract. Rodgers is reportedly “hellbent on some revenge” against the Packers, and will “make them pay” in any new deal, according to Rodgers’ former teammate, T.J. Lang.
    Lang made those comments while appearing on WXYT in Detroit on Monday, according to Radio.com. Lang — who is reportedly still close with Rodgers — said Rodgers was not happy the team took Jordan Love in the first round of the draft last season.

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  286. It sounds like Alabama QB Mac Jones had a strong week in Mobile. Is he now destined to be a first-round pick in April?
    I believe Jones ends up in the first round and think he deserves to end up in the first round. I do believe it will be the bottom half of the round, however.-Tony Pauline

    Yep, someone’s gonna trade up for him. I just hope and pray he’s not the apple of Shanny’s eye.

  287. Was there any truth to the NFL rumors that the 49ers were heavily involved in trade talks for Matthew Stafford? Do you think SF will move on from Jimmy Garoppolo? If so, who might they turn to next?
    I heard nothing in Mobile that would lead me to believe the Niners were “heavily involved” or “close” to trading for Matthew Stafford. There were several teams — including the Niners — interested in Stafford, as they feel he can push them over the top.-Tony Pauline

    1. Razor
      Every report coming out of the Senior Bowl, that I’m aware of, says the 9ers were interested in Stafford, but NOT willing to give up #12! End of discussion…..From there it was Washington and the Rams and Snead bet the farm to seal the deal and get Stafford.
      There are also reports that Washington’s offer was actually better than the Rams.
      https://sports.yahoo.com/report-washingtons-offer-matthew-stafford-034546551.html#:~:text=Report%3A%20Washington's%20offer%20for%20Matthew%20Stafford%20'was%20better'%20than%20Rams

      1. Geep,
        From what I have read most other offers were better but the Lions new GM wanted Goff and Stafford also apparently made it known he wanted to go to LA.

    2. The Niners talked to the Lions in Mobile, but at the time were a little lukewarm and never made an official offer. They’d planned to circle back with Detroit after the weekend, but when things escalated Saturday and the Lions called back, the price had gone beyond what they were willing to offer (in part because they’re fine going forward with Jimmy Garoppolo). My sense is the 12th pick was never going to be offered.

      https://www.si.com/nfl/2021/02/01/mmqb-super-bowl-week-matthew-stafford-trade-negotiations-los-angeles-rams

      Lengthy, informative article. Get away from the bloggers and tweeters, still some pretty good long form reporting out of SI.

  288. My frustration lies in this fascination with these system quarterbacks that Shanny seems to have. Trading for Cousins would be one system qb for another. Drafting Jones would be a system qb in waiting. All lateral moves. If they truly want to get over the hump like KC did, they gotta find their own badass….

    1. Just out of curiosity… what do you consider a system qb?

      Is it just a stationary QB or is there something more to it? ie would Tom Brady or Peyton Manning be system qbs?

    2. So what are the elite traits of tje likes of Tom Brady, Peyton Manning and Drew Brees that make them more than system QBs?

      1. Intangibles in the form of leadership, football acumen, and competitive nature. Also extremely accurate.

          1. You think Mac Jones is Brady, Manning or Brees? You wanna roll with Jones against the Mahomes’ of the league? What exactly does Jones give us that Jimmy doesn’t? Nothing. More average and more of the same.

            1. The bottom line for me, Scooter is can you thrive in chaos out of structure as well as you can when you’re in rhythm of the offensive structure. That’s the upgrade we need to compete with the elite passers of the league, and that’s what we are missing….

            2. You are falling into the trap teams used to fall into with mobile QBs, only reverse. Thinking there is only one way to be successful.

              Pure pocket QBs can still be very successful. For the same reasons they have been for years. And as has been the case for years, the great ones are successful because of their intelligence, pocket presence and accuracy.

              I’m not going to say Jones is a Brady, Manning or Brees. That is a crazy lofty comparison. But the path for his success is playing the way those guys play the game.

              As to what he provides better than JG – until he proves it in the NFL, nothing. But his accuracy to all levels of the field and command of his offense in college were better than JGs in college.

              1. Ok. Say we move up for Jones using our 2nd round pick or we trade back to 15 and take him; what does he give us that a Mills couldn’t in round 4, as opposed to what an Ojulari could as a situational pass rusher, a la Aldon Smith?

              2. Man, the disrespect for Jones is real. When Mills displays the same level of accuracy, reading defenses, understanding his offense and going through progressions as Jones, lets talk.

              3. Yep, Jones would be sitting behind Jimmy just like Mills would be, while Ojulari would be hunting qb’s on obvious passing downs….

              4. Lol! So now we are only interested in what they provide in 2021?

                Ok, I will play, in 2021 if JG gets hurt again I would feel more confident in Jones keeping the team competitive than Mills. Same goes for every year thereafter too.

              5. If we’re keeping Jimmy that means they believe they can win now. I’m not as convinced as you that Jones’ ceiling is that much higher than Mills’….

              6. The bottom line seems to be you like Jones’ toolbox more than Mills’, while I feel the opposite.

              7. Yes, it would appear so.

                I would not draft Jones before the end of round 1 (tbh I feel he is a 2nd round QB, but I have no problem taking him end of round 1 to get the 5th year). Mills is a day 3 prospect imo. The key difference to me is how quickly Jones processes information, as well as the consistent accuracy Jones displays.

              8. Hey, Mills was pretty accurate in the short game. Could stand to improve downfield, but his feet are clean. Good timing on the top of his drops and delivers on point to his receivers. Nice pocket presence. Pressure doesn’t seem to bother him. Good internal clock. Not rushed. Willing to take the hit as he throws. Excellent arm. Quick delivery. Think he’d fit the offense quite well too….

  289. Razor
    You may be under estimating how good Mac Jones is? And Wilson has never played against a top team, so you
    may be over estimating how good he is? I’m not saying you are wrong, but it’s Not like you’ve NEVER been wrong before.
    If the 9ers sign T Williams, don’t be surprised if they trade down for Jones! If one of the top 4 QB are still there
    at #12, then who know what ShanaLynch will do. It all depends on how KS sees them fitting his system.

    1. If Ojulari does run a 4.6 Forty, it will be on his pro day. No combine this year, so it will be hand timed and it won’t be recognized as an official time. (It also means it’s more like a 4.67s to 4.685s 40).
      * The measured differences between the hand held and the FAT (Fully Automated Electronic Time), timer ranged from 0.10 seconds to 0.25 seconds. The time differences were evenly distributed between 0.10 and 0.25 seconds, with the average being 0.175 seconds.
      https://www.zybeksports.com/hand-timed-versus-electronic-timed-40-yard-dash/#:~:text=The%20time%20differences%20were%20evenly,the%20average%20being%200.175%20seconds.

    1. It looks more and more like Jimmy is coming back. Now lets give him an O line that isn’t terrible.

      1. No, let’s give him another weapon in the middle of the field cuz that’s his strength. Pitts makes sense for that reason alone. It’s not like he’s gonna need time to let it rip outside the numbers or air it out. He’s a short to intermediate passer that needs to be surrounded by talent….

      2. OC
        Yes, second that! And some CB’s that can help the D keep the opposition from scoring in the 4th Qtr.
        I’d also like another EDGE rusher to replace Ford….Get them and the 9ers are a contender again.

        1. Geep,
          I think they can accomplish that with one trade back. Trade #12 to the late teens or very early 20’s and pick up an extra 2nd round pick. If they don’t sign a quality OT then draft Christian Darrisaw, if they sign a FA OT then draft an edge rusher or CB BPA. Then use their 2 2nds and 3rd for edge rusher/CB/IOL

          1. They have never traded down more than a couple spots. I would be extremely surprised if they did what you’re suggesting….

            1. Razor,
              12 to 18 isn’t much more than “a couple” of spots but If there is a player at 12 who they see as a can’t miss future star its tough to trade back.

              1. It’s more than they’ve ever done before. Most spots they’ve ever gone down were 2, not 6. I just don’t see it.

              2. I think the most they have moved back is actually 1 spot. In 2017 (2 to 3) and last year (13 to 14). This is a team that has in the past four drafts shown they are more inclined to move up to avoid losing out on a guy they covet rather than move back to accumulate picks. The only way I see them moving back more than a spot or two is if there is literally nobody they really like available at pick 12 (at least not more than they like, say, another 5-10 prospects).

      3. Coach,
        A healthy Garoppolo is a winning Garoppolo.
        My preference would be to keep JG and draft a QB in the 2-3 rd to groom for a year or two.

        I still like Mac Jones and Kyle Trask, but I doubt that they drop to the 2nd rd.
        The Colts and Patriots will be looking for a QB and either of these guys might end up on one of those teams.

        If these guys are gone, do we look at someone like Jamie Newman if he’s available with our 3rd pick? I view him as a 3rd tier QB. Which makes him a project.

        1. I’d rather take Mills in the 4th and call it a day then waste a high pick on either of those qb’s if we’re keeping Jimmy.

          1. I will go with Book in the 5th. He reminds me of J. Garcia but his maturation under KS will take a couple of years.

              1. Razor,
                If you are asking if I would have used a 5th round pick on Garcia? I say hell yeah. He was a pretty damn good QB. Bill Walsh wanted the 9ers to sign/draft Garcia out of college.

              2. It pained me to watch Garcia play the position after watching Brodie, Montana and Young.

              3. I think Garcia is massively underrated by 49er fans.
                This might be due to the fact that he immediately followed Young and Montana, but he did go to 4 pro-bowls and no 49er qb since him has gone to one.
                Additionally he was great at making off schedule plays, and Wilson reminds me quite a bit of Garcia.

              4. Garcia’s arm strength and ball velocity was nowhere near Wilson’s. Not to mention his awkward delivery was painful to watch.

              5. Wilson’s arm is better than Jeff’s was yes, but neither has a howitzer…. if SF drafted him they would still have the qb with the weakest arm in the division. Additionally it’s not like Jeff had a crazy weak arm either it was similar to Montana’s… nothing special but it got the ball there and didn’t limit him.

                As to their comparison, I was talking more about their semi frenetic playing style, their ability to adlib and make plays on the move… and how sometimes they make you go mental by breaking from a clean pocket or running into pressure. They are both more good than bad in this regard but also very frustrating to watch sometimes.

              6. Dude, Jeff Garcia’s balls did not have anywhere near the zip or velocity of Wilson’s. It’s not even close. He’s got one of the best arms in this draft class imho….

              7. I’m not arguing the Jeff had a huge arm… or that it’s as good as Wilson’s. I wasn’t even using that in the comparison.

                That said, since you seem to be hung up on the arm angle comparison, I think he has a good arm but it’s not elite.

                Among NFL starters it’s probably somewhere in the upper middle group, ranked between 10 – 15. It’s not in the same class as Rodgers, Mahomes, or Allen and would be the weakest arm in our division. I would probably put him in the same group as Baker Mayfield. To me his arm isn’t what makes him special. The trait I like most about him is his accuracy on the move.

              8. My eyes tell me Wilson has elite arm talent.

                Zierlein, “Wilson has significant arm talent.”

                AJ Torres, https://twitter.com/ajtorres1230/status/1341561337818787840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1341561337818787840%7Ctwgr%5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fsportsnaut.com%2Fzach-wilson-solidifies-qb2-status-2021-nfl-draft%2F

                Brad Kelly, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K0LJgQUTNAk

                I don’t know what y’all are smoking over there in Prague but it must be some good $hit! If I took the time to post everyone of the scouts that agree with me I wouldn’t be able to take care of my plants today….

              9. I don’t know what y’all are smoking over there in Prague but it must be some good $hit! If I took the time to post everyone of the scouts that agree with me I wouldn’t be able to take care of my plants today….

                Ok, I’ll bite.
                How many if any of these players are you going to say he has a stronger arm than?
                Allen, Mahomes, Rodgers, Herbert, Wilson, Murray, Stafford, Brady, Jackson, Wentz

              10. Depends on what you mean by significant/ elite arm talent. If you mean he throws a rocket, then no, I agree with Shoup. His balls have some zip, but they are by no means laser beams. In fact I would say of the top 4 QBs in the draft he is number 4 in terms of arm strength. That’s not a knock on Wilson – his arm strength is fine, but the other 3 have very big arms.

                If you mean he has a great ability to throw accurately downfield off platform and from different arm angles with decent zip then yeah, I agree with Razor, he has significant arm talent. Of the top 4 QBs in the draft he is number 1 in this regard imo.

          2. I usually just pass on any article written by Grant as the headline almost always identifies it as just click bait. Today I opened one with a somewhat sensible headline about River Cracraft. After a couple of sentences in, I realized my error and quit reading the stupidity within.

        2. OldCoach
          Operative words: “When JG is healthy.”
          * With JG’s history of availability to play (~50% of the time since the 9ers acquired him). The 9ers need a backup QB that’s capable of winning games when JG is injured! Even if the 9ers draft one of the top QB’s in the draft, it will take time for a rookie to be ready to play, let alone win games in 2021.
          * Miami QB Ryan Fitzpatrick started the 2020 season (5W -3L) as their QB before being replaced by QB Tua Tagovailoa. (3W-5L). Note: Fitzpatrick replaced Tua in some games late in the season that Tua had lost. NOTE: Fitzpatrick’s 2020 Salary was ~$5.5 Mil.
          * Fitzpatrick let it be known that he was not a happy camper after being replace by Tua. * What’s your opinion, with respect to the 9ers acquiring Fitzpatrick to be JG’s backup QB?

          1. Geep,
            If we can afford him, I say go for it but he might be a little too expensive for our cap situation.

  290. Wow … what a week! Last Friday I was on the verge of posting my strong belief that QB Mathew Stafford would be the starting QB for the 49ers in 2021, and now here I am, wondering exactly what went wrong for the 49ers and asking myself where I think they should go from here.

    In order to avoid posting one ridiculously long-winded opinion about the blockbuster trade which sent QB Mathew Stafford to the LA Rams in exchange for QB Jared Goff and a few high value draft picks. In order to keep this post from breaking this blog, I’ll break it up into 4 parts:

    1) Mathew Stafford becoming the starting QB for the Rams, not the 49ers
    2) How the 49ers got here
    3) Why I think they have botched the search for their “franchise” QB from the get go
    4) Where I think the 49ers are 4 years into the ShanaLynch regime and where do they go from here

    1) It was late in the evening this past Saturday night (at least in terms of NFL news) when the news broke …. That the Detroit Lions and Los Angeles Rams had finalized BLOCKBUSTER trade! That’s right, one of the Niners’ divisional foes was able to swoop and land Stafford, who had been rumored to be heading to northern California to replace Jimmy Garoppolo. Perhaps just as importantly, the Rams were able to unload the contract attached to the former #1 overall pick – Jared Goff. Yep, one year after the Rams were able to unload Todd Gurly’s unwieldy contract (bad knee and all), the Rams had done it again, only this time the Rams were not only able to unload an extremely bloated contract, but they were also able to upgrade the most important position on their entire roster. And the Rams prevented the 49ers from upgrading theirs QB position as well. It’s a blockbuster deal that sent QB Mathew Stafford to the LA Rams in exchange for their former 1st overall pick – QB Jared Goff (and his absurd contract), a 2021 3rd round pick, and 1st round picks in both 2022 & 2023. The Lions are on the hook for $17.8M in dead cap money for 2021, while the Rams will be on the hook for Goff’s $22.2M in dead cap space in 2021 as well.

    Ouch! We can argue about whether or not the Rams paid too much for Stafford until the cows come home (and I think they did, although unloading Goff’s contract was a big deal), but it’s hard to argue that the Rams aren’t a significantly better football team heading into this season, at least in terms of their starting roster. Sure, it’s going to be vital that they continue to remain healthy, and make the most of their remaining draft picks, because they basically have ZERO room for error now. But, we’ve been expecting the salary cap to catch up to the Rams and drag them down for the last couple years now, and they just finished the regular season at 10-6, and made it to the divisional round of the playoffs as well, so …….

    Stay tuned for part 2.

    1. Trading for Garopollo is a mixed back at the point, and unfortunately, the kid can’t stay healthy, as he has missed almost half of the 49ers games, since being acquired at the 2017 deadline. The player’s best ability is his availability (not to be confused for viability, which is also important, and you also can’t have viability without availability). Look, I do believe injuries have a certain matter of randomness to them, but you have to ask yourself just how confident in Jimmy suddenly stringing together even a statistically average treak for a top caliber NFL QB? How does it look to be 4 years into a HC tenure and being rather uncertain about who you have at the QB position. Do they draft a QB at #12? Do they really want to spnd the next 2 years developing a young QB?

      I do think Stafford gives the Rams a better chance of winning over the next couple years. Naturally that may very well hurt the 49ers at this stage, and if it’s going to be Jimmy, the sooner you commit to him the better, and you obviously re-negotiate his contract. Sending Kittle out to vouch for Jimmy seems a little superficial. It’s clear that Kyle is trying to replace his QB, or they wouldn’t keep getting tangled up in these potential deal, because you find yourself on the wrong end looking like you want to ditch your guy.It’s not a great look! I know …. it’s easy to play armchair QB, I get that. But the fact is, 4 years in and Kyle Shanahan doesn’t seem to have HIS MAN at the helm, that much seems clear. Jimmy just hasn’t been the same guy – POST INJURY. It’s real shame when you see an injury like this just completely derail a career. Especially because it was a cheap, non contact injury, not completely unlike what we saw again this season with the “multiple high ankle sprains.” Kind of weird that it was supposedly two separate injuries, and Kyle was clearly unhappy about it.

      Kyle Shanahan is the best HC in the NFC West, IMO, and certainly my pick of the 4 Head Coaches in the West, and as a division, it’s likely the best group of HC’s of any division. That said, I am starting to get a little nervous about the QB position, and wondering if this is the big test, a test that may define Kyle Shanahan as the top dog.

    2. it’s hard to argue that the Rams aren’t a significantly better football team heading into this season, at least in terms of their starting roster.

      You can’t say that definitively until you’ve seen these cap prunings.

      1. I don’t think its going to be as bad as you think Ribico,
        although admittedly I thought the same at first.

        They can restructure Donald and Ramsey, Woods or Kupp then extend Staffford in deals that would allow them to get under the cap. No pruning of any major pieces are needed. It was disheartening to learn.

        I always thought Goff was a major anchor for that team as he left a lot of throws on the field.

        1. Shoup
          Rams backloading a bunch of contracts is trading 2021 cap problem for possible cap hell later….Like the problem they just got out of with Goff and Gurley before! And no 1st round draft picks until 2024, plus the Rams are still responsible for $22.2 Mil. left on Goff’s signing bonus.
          In the long run, are the Rams really that much better off?
          Going to be blood and guts to pay if the Rams don’t make it to the SB in 2021 and 2022!

          1. Geep,
            The only problem is we’ve been saying the same thing for a few years. Yes, the Rams are paying a ton to get Goff of the books but if they can get through this year then he is off.
            The draft picks are a killer though.

    1. He should change his name to Captain Obvious. If he’s there they should jump all over him. Way higher ceiling than settling for Jones….

      1. Razor,
        I think there is a major difference in that Jones is a guy you are hoping to draft at the end of the fist or top of the second… this would allow you get say Azeez Ojulari and Mac Jones. Additionally while Mac, isn’t great he probably would allow Shanahan to run his offense at a fairly high level should/if/when??? Jimmy goes down. Such a move would be more like hedging your bet, some upside there with the added benefit of security.

        I think someone (Scooter?) compared Jones to Matt Ryan and I think it makes sense, both are good at moving in the pocket, intelligent, and very accurate to all levels without major arm talent or mobility.

        1. Yep, that’s my thinking on Jones. A fully maximised version of Jones probably looks a lot like Ryan.

          Basically, at worst I think he’ll be a highly competent backup QB/ low end starter (or at least a very low chance he’s worse than that). And I think there is a good chance he is better than that, that he is a highly competent starter within a few years.

          But, in order for him to become a top tier QB he’s going to have to become a top tier mental processor/ reader of defenses and pocket manipulator. I think he is highly advanced for a college QB in those areas, but whether he can take it to an elite level I don’t know. He’s never going to be a guy that is great because of his ability to escape pressure, play sandlot football, or make ridiculous throws.

          1. I agree Scooter,
            and the more I think about it, the more I think Jones makes a lot of sense for this team precisely because of his high floor and what he provides Kyle with in the event Jimmy goes down.

            Now, I still maintain he is a guy you get in the 2nd or Late first or you take a project later on.

            With him, it allows SF to run it back with Jimmy and (possibly renegotiate his salary for cap relief) for another year without wasting a season IMO. If Jimmy does great, you get to keep him and you have a solid backup… if Jimmy does good but lacks something his trade value could be rebuilt so long as he stays healthy, allowing sf to get something for him albeit with some cap hit. If he does poorly or is injured you cut bait and move off him still with some cap hit but an overall savings.

            In the immediate term the trade down allows you to add higher end replacements for Edge, C, or DB which if they hit, should keep the team highly competitive within the division. Additionally, by maintaining a higher overall talent level, they might be able to move someone like Bosa for a 1st or 2 1sts, thus allowing them to add their QBOTF with loaded roster.

            The hope being to Build a superbowl team in 3-4 years but maintaining an outside shot at competing for it in the interim. A lot has to go right (especially in the draft), but I am loathe to blow everything up again given the number of 10 loss seasons this franchise has suffered in recent memory.

        2. “I don’t know if I’d say the NFL is generally low on Jimmy Garoppolo,” Breer wrote Wednesday. “More so, I think he’s seen in the class of guys like Jared Goff and Derek Carr. Fair or not, those quarterbacks are seen as players who succeed if everything’s right around them — but not the type who can lift teammates up and make up the difference for holes on the roster. That’s not an insult, either. But it’s not as good to be that guy as it used to be.”

          Breer sums it up. “…it’s not as good to be that guy as it used to be.” Jones and Trask fall into this category. Is it possible they develop into a Brady, Brees or Manning? Sure it’s possible but not probable….

              1. Of course. But I’d rather have that guy than pay through the nose for a guy that ain’t it.

                We get it, you love you some Wilson. But he is not a slam dunk. 49ers don’t need to risk it and I highly doubt they will risk it. If Wilson falls within striking distance of a small move up then sure, go get him if the 49ers really like him. Blockbuster trade for him? Really don’t see it happening, do you?

              2. Of course. But I’d rather have that guy than pay through the nose for a guy that ain’t it.

                Right and I’d rather have that guy in round 3 or later.

                We get it, you love you some Wilson. But he is not a slam dunk. 49ers don’t need to risk it and I highly doubt they will risk it. If Wilson falls within striking distance of a small move up then sure, go get him if the 49ers really like him. Blockbuster trade for him? Really don’t see it happening, do you?

                Never said he was a slam dunk. No such thing. I do not believe the 49ers have any shot at him. I’ve stated numerous times that, Lance will be the most likely one of the four to still be on the board where the 49ers could use very little draft capital to move up a couple spots to get him, or just sit and wait to see if he falls into their lap….

              3. “Right and I’d rather have that guy in round 3 or later.”

                Problem being that there are significantly more Beathard’s in round 3-4 than Cousins’. Using a late 1/ early 2 to get a guy you think has a very good chance of being a decent starting calibre QB makes sense. And if that is all he is he will get you a lot more in return when you trade him a few years later.

                “Never said he was a slam dunk. No such thing.”

                No, but you have said multiple times you want the 49ers to move heaven and earth to move up and get him. Even if you accept it is very unlikely to happen. Taking that kind of risk makes little sense to me in consideration of where the team is currently at.

                “I’ve stated numerous times that, Lance will be the most likely one of the four to still be on the board where the 49ers could use very little draft capital to move up a couple spots to get him, or just sit and wait to see if he falls into their lap.”

                Yep, me too. And as I have said, that is the route I would take. Lance at 12 (or a small move up) over Jones late round 1/ early round 2. But if they don’t get Lance, Jones late round 1/ early round 2 makes perfect sense.

              4. I wouldn’t be able to move heaven and earth to get him unless I had your approval. I won’t deny he’s been my draft crush before he was a thing, and I won’t apologize for my conviction that he’s the guy. No risk it, no biscuit….

              5. I’m not asking you to apologise for thinking he is the guy. And as I have said, if Shanahan truly believes he is the guy he should try and move up to get him.

                What I have been trying to say is that the team is not in a position where they need to take that sort of risk on a guy they have any sort of reservations about. Yes, take calculated risks. Don’t take reckless risks. Swinging big and missing would be way more damaging than standing firm and waiting for the right opportunity, as they have the horses currently to be very competitive.

          1. How many QBs can succeed if everything isn’t right around them? Watson is being talked about as a generational QB and led his team to a 4-12 record. Too much emphasis is being placed on the need for an elite QB now because of Mahomes but he’s the exception not the norm. For the rest of the league it’s still about the need to build the team around the QB.

            1. I think the discussion around elite QBs providing sustained success has been taken out of context by a couple of people. I don’t believe anybody is suggesting you can win a lot of games with a rubbish roster, no matter how good your QB is.

              But it is no coincidence that teams that have had sustained success over a long period of time all seem to have one common ingredient – a really good QB.

              It is also no coincidence that of the last 15-20 SB winners, the vast majority either had a great QB or a 1st round QB on a rookie contract.

              Finding sustained success with a decent QB earning starting vet QB money is very difficult, and that makes winning a SB with that QB very difficult too.

              1. I just want one of those guys that you don’t want to leave any time left on the clock when the game is do or die, win or cry….

              2. We all would but not many exist so you figure out how to be effective with a good QB which Shanahan has everywhere he’s been.

    2. Yes, I think they should draft Trey Lance.

      Trey Lance (6′ 4.5″, 235 LBS) Career Awards:

      Walter Payton Award (2019)
      Jerry Rice Award (2019)
      2x FCS champion (2018, 2019)
      First-team All-MVFC (2019)
      MVFC Offensive Player of the Year (2019)
      FCS First-team All-American (2019)

      I think Lance has the highest ceiling in this class, and he has a chance at being really dynamic as a rookie because Kyle is very good at getting the most out of a limited playbook. I guarantee Kyle can scheme a wide open Samuel, Kittle and Aiyuk with a ultra mobile QB at the helm, and Lance was “elite” at protecting the football in college (Passing :318 Attempts, 30 TD’s,1 INT.), all things considered.

      Bonus: Rookie Contract

      1. Yeah, I get what Jack is saying, and don’t really disagree. However, I do think he (and Grant/ Coffee) are under valuing how impressive what he did was as a RS Freshman. It is very rare for a guy as a RS Freshman to display top end field vision, etc. Of course he will have areas in his mental processing he needs to improve. But what he did as a RS Freshman was impressive.

        It is a real shame for him that he didn’t get to play a season this year. But wasn’t his fault. He is only a 1-year starter due to circumstances outside his control.

        In terms of base natural talent he has it. He also has the intangibles I think will hold him in good stead to develop his game, based on everything I have read about him. He is no doubt a risk, and ideal scenario is he doesn’t need to play much as a rookie, but you draft for what you think he will/ could become, not what he is now.

        1. He looked awful in his lone start this season against Central Arkansas: Having the season get cancelled actually helped his draft stock.

            1. That’s fine. He’ll do ok as long as he isn’t asked to read the defense post snap. He’s unable to make basic reads that are asked of high school quarterbacks, but that makes sense considering that he ran the wing-T in high school.

              The vision thing is the biggest problem because that’s not really something that can be taught. You see it or you don’t.

              He’s a tremendous athlete, definitely one that should have been at a top FBS school, but that won’t work in the NFL like it did against the UC Davis’ or Southern Illinois’ of the world.

              He needs to go somewhere that he can sit for at least a couple years which is why I wrote that going in the top 1/2 of round 1 is setting him up for failure. Those teams need a QB and don’t have someone to hold the place for 2 plus years while he figures it out.

              I agree with Razor that his ceiling is higher than Jones. The issue is that his floor is much lower as well.

              1. I think it depends on the coaching staff he ends up with as well. A coaching staff that is willing to tailor their offense to him can get him on the field quicker.

                As for field vision, not something that is taught, but definitely something that can be developed with more exposure. The idea if you don’t have it as an inexperienced college player you’ll never have it is not an idea I really accept. But it is definitely a risk with him. He is a risky pick.

              2. Zierlein has the 49ers taking Lance at #12 with Fields coming off the board at #15 to the Pats. Ojulari comes off the board next, with no sign of respect for Jones in the first round….

              3. Given I expect Jones to be a late first/ second rounder, that makes sense.

                Lance at 12 I can see. All comes down to how Shanahan views the QBs.

    3. I believe he will be there at 12.

      I love his traits and don’t mind drafting him at all, as I think Shanahan can get him in the field and make him very productive by the end of his second year. Honestly, I think you can design a scheme that he will be productive in year 1 but it would be more like the offense Kyle ran vs RGIII.

      While, I definitely understand taking due to his upside, I think I’m firmly in the trade back camp this year. This team is losing a lot of players to free agency and it needs multiple players and depth.

    1. There’s always room for more, Dave. Although I have no idea what happens to the page once it reaches 5 figures postings. I think it’ll implode in on itself, like the inevitable contraction of the universe.

    2. Dave,
      To paraphrase Hal – “This mission is too important for the Cub of 12 to allow you to jeopardize it. ”
      This is prime time for Madden GMs to construct trades that range from unlikely to outrageous, propose draft picks that contradict every trend of the front office in past years, and quote random Twitter accounts as scouts in support of their arguments. Get with the program, Dave.

    3. Dave, several have been here from the onset. Not me. Guess I’ve been here about two years. But if you have something to say, please say it. No assholes around here.

  291. Looks like the cap genie could grant us all another $10 million, making it a $185 million. If true, Williams will be a 49er for the next 3 years….

  292. The 49ers add some seasoning to their roster by signing Pepper. He’s not a Dr. but he did long snap for the 49ers last year!

  293. Clearly, the attribute that fans care about in a QB’s performance is his passing ability. Unfortunately, EPA per play does not take into account the quality of the supporting cast for the passers. I’m surprised that there is no metric that considers the role of pass catchers and the pass blocking ability of the O line in elevating or depressing the QB’s performance metrics. These are two areas where Niners have had serious shortcomings during Jimmy G’s run as the Niners’ QB.

    How would Mahomes do without Kelce and Hill? Brady without Evans, Godwin, Brown, Brate and Gronk? Is it just coincidental that Packers, Bills and Chiefs had top 10 pass blocking O lines for the season (see ESPN Pass Block Win Rate — Niners were ranked #22 )?
    https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29939464/2020-nfl-pass-rushing-run-stopping-blocking-leaderboard-win-rate-rankings

    For me, the lasting impression of the 2020 season will be the end of the season opener against the Cardinals. Jimmy G was driving the offense with a chance to win the game. The Niners failed to score and lost. IIRC, the top pass catchers on the field were Bourne, Taylor and Dwelley with all the starters out with injuries. (Recall how dramatically Jimmy G’s passer rating increased in 2019 once Sanders came on board in October).

    A healthy Aiyuk and Deebo would go a long way, as would getting Bourne back as #3 or #4 receiver. However, Niners really need to focus on revamping their receiving corps with a rookie deep threat who can open up the field. A fast boundary receiver who can cover 15 yards+ in 2 seconds would help beyond just deep passes. It will be easier for underneath receivers to run crossing routes more easily. They have not replaced Goodwin. Travis Benjamin won’t cut it, IMO. Any candidates in the middle rounds?

    1. I mentioned this above a few days ago in regards to the lack of downfield throws and drop in air yards the past couple of years. When Garoppolo arrived and started those final 5 games he threw a number of deep balls to Goodwin. In 2019 he had no deep threat after Goodwin went down until Sanders arrived and then had to adjust on the fly. As you mentioned he didn’t have anyone to throw to that would be considered as a NFL 1or 2 WR in he game against the Cards to open the season and still had them in a position to win.

      1. “When Garoppolo arrived and started those final 5 games he threw a number of deep balls to Goodwin.”

        My memory may be a bit hazy on this, but I seem to recall reading after that season that he had only 6 deep passes in those 5 games, and completed 2.

        1. You’re probably right. I don’t recall Jimmy G making that many deep passes in 2017.

          IMO, fans are too obsessed with deep passes. These passes are lower percentage passes and need a number of things to happen for them to be successful for a pocket QB — starting with the O line keeping a clean pocket for sufficient time. The QB needs to have a good rapport with the receiver, needs to look away the safety as necessary, and the receiver has to be good enough to make adjustments to compensate for slight placement inaccuracy when the QB is under duress. Deep passes are not Jimmy’s forte but the lack of good receivers has nor helped, not has the lack of sufficient off-season time spent with the receivers.

          While Kyle’s play action calls use deception to set up for the deep plays, he has a variety of plays in high-low and other concepts that may be mid range in air yards (10-20 yards) but can get very large chunks. Last year, Rich Madrid put together a bunch of plays from Kyle’s days with the Browns for a young Travis Benjamin where he was limited by Hoyer’s arm. Jimmy G surely is better than Hoyer on those throws :)
          https://twitter.com/richjmadrid/status/1242885098875179008

          Until Aiyuk who I think plays faster than his 40 speed of 4.5s, Kyle had made a decision not to invest in burners like Tyreek Hill and Mecole Hardman (both 4.3 s for 40). If they draft another sub-4.5s receiver (or if Benjamin rediscovers his old form) and Jimmy G gets full off-season to work with them, I think Niners will have many more chunk plays next season. I don’t see Deebo in that role, though.

          One thing I am pretty sure, pass protection on third and long will always be an issue because Kyle would rather have his athletic linemen speeding downfield on run blocks than anchoring solidly for pass blocks – and there is only one Trent Williams who can do both.

          1. Sure. The counter argument to that is if teams feel confident the QB isn’t going to make certain passes, they can increase their focus on taking away other options. Basically, by not feeling threatened by the deep ball it makes it easier for defenses to condense the space and make it easier to defend the shorter stuff and run game.

            Now, in 2019 Shanahan, JG and the offense were able to make it work despite defenses condensing the space. They would often bring 8 man boxes, etc, and the 49ers would still find explosive plays in both the pass and run game. So it isn’t a death knell by any means. But in previous iterations of Shanahan’s offense he has definitely preferred to open things up for the run game and underneath passes by threatening deep (and vice versa).

            1. Not only that, there’s this:

              “Yeah, to play in this offense, you’re going to have to be able to push the ball down the field,” quarterbacks coach Rich Scangarello said.

            2. Basically, by not feeling threatened by the deep ball it makes it easier for defenses to condense the space and make it easier to defend the shorter stuff and run game.

              So why didn’t that work for opponents in 2019?

              1. Because they found a way to make it work regardless, through trickery, misdirection and good old fashioned execution. Like I said, it clearly wasn’t a death knell in 2019.

                But I’m assuming the general premise of what I said is something you are able to recognise makes sense. It isn’t exactly an out there statement. Though your love of riding my nuts makes me think you might argue about it anyway.

              2. Because they found a way to make it work

                Scooter: this is the way things are. Ribico: except for….

                I’m not riding your nuts, that’s very Seb – like of you to say so. But when the sort of “truths” you post time after time can easily be refuted by a single sentence, one has to take a swing at that low hanging fruit.

              3. And therein lies part of the problem Rib. You genuinely think your comments refute what I am saying. For some reason you have decided you desperately want to prove how much smarter you are but continually prove the opposite.

                Just because Shanahan made it work in 2019 doesn’t make the idea it is easier on defenses less true.

              4. Scooter, l don’t claim to be smarter than anyone here. But anyone who is capable of basic observation can see that things that are positioned as “accepted truths” have beaten down time and time again.

                I sure am glad this team has a coach who thinks outside the boxes most other analysts and pundits live in.

                but continually prove the opposite.

                I bow to your immense superiority.

              5. So just to confirm, you believe the idea that defenses not feeling threatened by something doesn’t impact on how they defend or make things easier for them?

                Just want to make sure the accepted truth I presented that got beaten down was the right one.

              6. Sure, DCs gotta do what they gotta do. Follow the trends, strategize against the opponents perceived weakness. Coaching 101, right? Yeah, it usually works. The next thing you know Mike Pettine’s Packers D is utterly embarrassed, blindsided by 220 and 4 from who? Raheem who?

                So sure, pontificate on this is the way things are done. “Don’t worry about the deep ball” “He doesn’t have the arm to make the outside throws” “Pack the the middle, it makes our job stopping the run that much easier “ Devising a game plan around platitudes will get you fired. Don’t believe me? Just ask Pettine.

              7. Geez, its almost like there may be a difference between making the job easier vs making it 100% infallible.

        2. The point was he threw some when he had a deep threat and they haven’t had a burner since Goodwin. The offense has been built around RAC receivers. Whether that’s by design or because of Garoppolo I don’t know but it worked very well in 2019 with the #1 target being the TE so if they can get the TE and 2 top RAC WRs on the field for an extended period of time together I think it could lead to another top 5 offense.

          1. And my point is I think you are misremembering. He didn’t throw many deep passes even when he had Goodwin.

            1. To my point, Goodwin averaged 21.4 yards per reception in games 1-11 in 2017, then 13.2 yards per reception the final 5 games with JG. And in those five games he only had one reception of over 30 yards (32 yards).

              1. Got it but as I said they haven’t had a deep threat to throw to since Goodwin and have built the team around RAC receivers so that is the focus of the offense and it worked pretty well in 2019.

              2. Goodwin was still expected to be a big part of the offense in 2019, and they traded for Sanders midseason to help provide that with Goodwin out. And they drafted Aiyuk in 2020 in part because of his ability as a downfield threat, while also signing Benjamin. It isn’t like Shanahan hasn’t been looking to include the downfield element to tie in with the RAC element.

            2. Yep looks like I did. I remembered Goodwin having some big games when Garoppolo took over and thought they had connected on some deep passes. My bad.

  294. Just to comment on the QB thread. I do not have confidence in this front office when it comes to identifying a franchise QB. They passed on not one but two franchise QBs in the 2017 draft, and Mahomes may be one of those once in lifetime players, when this front office was building brick by brick. Sorry, no excuse.

    1. I agree with you. As I see it, the problem is Jed and Kyle. We needed an experienced GM with a history of success or someone he mentored. Imo Kyle’s essentially an offensive coordinator leading the football operations.

      1. Really? I’m stunned! They took the arguably worst roster in the league. In 2017and in their 3rd year they played in the Super Bowl. So how do you explain that with an inexperienced GM and a head coach whose really only a OC.

    2. They passed on a QB in 2017 because the plan was to sign Cousins after the season. You can question the plan but it wasn’t a case of not knowing those young QBs would be good. They knew Watson especially would be good.

    1. Was wondering the same thing. Could it be they are one of the same? If so, that person is perhaps the strangest I’ve ever encountered. Baiting themselves constantly. Split personality? Wow if true. Whatever the case, the blog is better without the noise between them.

    2. Coach,
      Sorry, but I haven’t noticed.
      I believe Prime goes into a mini hibernation period during the off season. And Seb was here a couple of days ago. I commented on one of post.

    3. OldCoach
      I have to admit, I never even thought of that as a possibility? That would be one seriously messed up dude that would do anything for attention! But Fhat the Wuck…..I guess anything is possible?

    4. If true, it’s disgraceful what happened to Seb…Stalking his family? Threats? It’s frightening to realize that level of sociopathy haunts these boards.

  295. I think a fair price for Williams would be $17.5 million average a year. He’s kinda got them over a barrel though.

    1. They will make it happen. This off-season is all about re-signing Williams, Williams and Juice — and hopefully Verrett….

      1. Mood
        I hope you’re right about TW. But I don’t put a lot of faith in it! Two things give me pause.
        1) He said he wants to see what the market offers. (it’s his last chance to cash in on a big contract B-4 retiring)
        2) There will be several teams with the cap space to compete for him…I’ll be surprised if he doesn’t receive offers > $20Mil. per year, that will set him and his family up for life after he retires. Hard to turn down?

        1. Of course, he wants to test the market to gauge his market price. He said that in the context of the rarity of a franchise tackle becoming available. I suspect it’s part of the negotiating process as laid out by his agent.
          There are only 6 teams with cap space greater than $12M — one of them is WTF.
          Niners won’t low-ball him, He’ll take a longer-term contract with good guaranteed money. Paraag can work with it and turn into signing bonus and push back the cap hit.

          1. I believe when TW signs, it will be for $20Mil P/Y or more, be it the 9ers or another team. Just my opinion, but if he wanted to play for the 9ers, why not take his Market price of $18.2 Mil. P/Y and let Paraag do his thing? Why go thru the exercise if you don’t want to get the highest bid? Then the question becomes will the 9ers compete, or let him walk? If they keep both JG and TW, the 9ers are then in a position they have to restructure JG’s contract, as well as backload TW’s. Either that or let some of their own FA’s walk. Then what do the 9ers do for backup talent when starters get injured? Like who you just mentioned,Talent like T. Rathman
            But maybe you’re right, maybe I’m missing something? TBD

  296. Did anyone listen to Schefter on KNBR? I didn’t listen, but Jack tweeted he said Dalton is an option for the 49ers. Would be keen to hear from someone that heard it as to what the context for that was (if any).

    Was it just spit balling, or something he had heard? As a backup, or potential starter?

    If they sign Dalton my immediate thought would be as the backup and they aren’t drafting a QB high unless great value falls in their laps.

    1. I heard it. It’s just Murph stirring the QB pot and Schefty getting tired of this same topic over and over again, especially during Super Bowl week. He just threw in Dalton’s name in the same breath as Darnold, Wentz and Tyrod Taylor. Take it for what you will.

      1. Mood,
        I heard the interview on their website. I agree with your assessment. It was merely small talk and bereft of substance.

    2. Definitely feel niners need to go with a proven winner vet who won’t be a starter as a backup, release Mullens and CJ, and draft a QB in the 3rd (Ian Book). I like Dalton as that vet.

      Jimmy will be the starter but you get a vet who can step in and win as many games as needed, not just 1 in 6.

      You get a rookie who could be a starter in the league, but you don’t need him to be a starter now.

  297. I didn’t hear the interview, but it sounds like another QB flavor of the week story.
    I’ll try to get the interview on their website if they put it up.

  298. I wonder if Tom Brady will secure another PPE small business loan even though his estimated net worth is north of 200 million. Reminiscent of when troompy received a small business bailout from the 9/11 fund intended to help restaurants in lower Manhattan. What a degenerate . #fakebillionarie

  299. Biden approval at 61%. troompy never got about 47 , LOL. I guess most people prefer competence , stability and dignity to incompetent clownish bufoonary.

    1. He’s fast, but yet doesn’t make many plays downfield. Used more as a gadget guy. I think the 49ers have enough of those. My concern is why wasn’t he used more as a vertical threat? Was it just the offense, or is he simply not good at it? I think it might be a bit of the latter – not a great route runner and not exactly a “my ball” guy.

      1. The late round WR that really intrigues me is Mike Strachan. Small school, DII guy, but very productive and great size/ speed combo.

        I also like Dazz Newsome.

        Tbh, this is just another really good WR class. Quality/ good value guys should be available right throughout the draft.

  300. Round 1 Pick 12: Trey Lance, QB, North Dakota State (A-)
    Round 2 Pick 11: Azeez Ojulari, DE/OLB, Georgia (A+)
    Round 3 Pick 38 (COMP): Tommy Tremble, TE, Notre Dame (A+)
    Round 4 Pick 12: Greg Newsome, CB, Northwestern (A+)
    Round 5 Pick 11: Amari Rodgers, WR, Clemson (A+)
    Round 5 Pick 28: Michal Menet, C/OG, Penn State (A+)
    Round 5 Pick 37 (COMP): Elerson Smith, DE/OLB, Northern Iowa (A+)
    Round 6 Pick 10: Talanoa Hufanga, FS/SS, USC (A+)
    Round 7 Pick 2: D.J. Daniel, CB, Georgia (A+)
    Round 7 Pick 12: Kenny Randall, DT, Charleston (WV) (A+)

    1. I would prefer to get a center earlier but I must admit I would be thrilled with this for the most part.
      Azeez and Smith could provide major heat off the edge. Tremble replaces Juice. Newsome has a promising amount of talent.
      Rodgers gives us some Deebo injury insurance ( Was Felton available here? He’s my mid round draft crush).

        1. Razor,
          Yes he is the running back out of UCLA that was being used as a wr at the senior bowl and by all reports was extremely hard to cover. What I like about him is I think he could be what Kyle envisioned McKinnon being in addition to providing a backup plan should Deebo miss any games and be worked in as a Kick Returner.

          I really like how he projects in this offense.

  301. Raz,
    Looks good. But I don’t think Lance will fall to #12. His potential is ridiculous and probably higher than that of Fields and Wilson.

    If he’s still on the board at 12, then it’s a no-brainer, we should grab him.

    Also, with this mock draft you seem to have accepted that the 49ers are going with JG in 2021.
    So, you don’t see an 11th hour run for Watson?

    1. So, you don’t see an 11th hour run for Watson?

      5% chance. Jimmy is under contract for 2 years. That seems like perfect timing for a player like Lance. The thing you’ve got to remember is Lance didn’t play but one game, and it kinda left a sour taste in some mouths. That and this universal thought among scouts that he’ll need to sit a year, may work in our favor for him to fall right into our laps….

      1. Raz,
        I got you.
        Not sure if “sour” is the right term to use regarding Lance’ lack of play when his school shut down the sports program due to covid.

        There’s two things that intrigue me about Trey Lance.
        1. Judging from his 2019 stats his potential is off the charts.
        2. Not being able to back up those stats with a 2020 season (no fault of his own) gives me pause.
        Sitting behind Jimmy for a year or two would be a very good scenario.
        But like Wilson, he’s going to be selected in the top 10 because of his potential.

        1. It was his lack of play in the one game he played this season, AES. Not his fault the school shut down.

    2. AES,
      I actually think Lance will be there. The only draft I can recall with 4 qb’s gone that early was 2018 with Mayfield, Darnold, Allen and Rosen and they were all quite a bit more proven.
      Lance, right now projects to something more along the line Lamar Jackson… great athlete, big arm, has some flaws but there is a lot to work with. I could be wrong, but I think he falls into the teens.

      1. Shoup,
        Much respect, but I see him being selected before #12.
        But I’d be far from upset if he’s there at the 49ers turn.

  302. If the NFL finds Gruden guilty of tampering, the Raiders will lose a draft pick. Do the 49ers receive that pick?

      1. Well in that case I wan’t to thank Chuckie and encourage him to tamper with Witherspoon, Thomas, Coleman, McKinnon and CJ Beathard along with a few others.

    1. A last gasp attempt to make the Jaguars pass on him. Unfortunately Baalke is in charge over there, and no torn labrum will put him off.

      1. I don’t think even Lawrence being in a coma with no signs of ever waking up would keep Baalke from drafting Lawrence.

  303. The more I watch and read about Mac Jones the more I feel he has what it takes to be a good to very good QB in the NFL. I get that he doesn’t have elite physical traits, but the accuracy, intelligence, anticipation and pocket awareness are right up there for a college QB. And his arm strength is plenty good enough to make all the throws, in part because of his excellent ball placement.

    Combine that with the reported competitiveness, work ethic and leadership he has, I feel pretty good about his prospects.

    I think I like him to the point I would now prefer him over Lance for the 49ers, though pretty close between the two. And I don’t mean that in terms of consideration of draft pick you may need to use – I would be very tempted to take Jones over Lance (with only Lawrence and Wilson ahead of him). Jones just seems such an obvious fit for Shanahan’s offense.

    Razor, I am certain you will strongly disagree with this take, but to me I think when people say they don’t see any elite traits with Jones I think they are forgetting that first and foremost the most important traits for a QB are still accuracy, intelligence and pocket awareness/ movement. Not physical traits. And Jones checks those boxes with high marks.

      1. Lack of athleticism should then be limiting the likes of Brady, Manning, Brees, etc. Imagine how good they could have been…

        As I said, the most important traits for a QB are the ones he showed at a high level for a college QB. Too much emphasis being placed on athletic ability.

    1. Scooter,

      I’m also a very big fan of Mac Jones and think he would succeed in this offense almost immediately. That said, if I am choosing between him and Lance at 12 I am going with Lance there.

      As a pure prospect Lance is better, but its not by as much as people think imo. Mac’s accuracy rating are either the highest in recorded history or second highest and it doesn’t matter if he is under pressure or throwing into tight coverage. The problem comes when projecting what he can be vs what he is. His peak upside is probably something similar to Matt Ryan but his likely upside is probably something closer to Andy Dalton or Alex Smith.
      With Lance you are looking at a much higher peak upside, something between Wilson and Newton imo, while his downside is probably more like CK.
      Part of the Reason I prefer Lance there is because his rawness would allow the team to transition from Jimmy with little to no issue and either move off him or Jimmy depending on how it shakes out. A commitment to Mac that high I think means you have to move Jimmy as he would be ready much sooner.

      Additionally, with Lance if he fails its likely going to be spectacularly and the team could move off him… While if Mac fails it’s likely to be with performances resembling something between Jimmy and Mullens… just enough promise to keep the team holding on. Which I really don’t like… luke warm qbs, tend to linger and hold franchises back far longer than they should because of the initial investment.

      Lastly, if I could trade back and take Mac in the late first and pick up a 2nd, I would choose that over taking Lance at 12 but maybe I’m overthinking things :D

      1. Yep, you’re over thinking cuz Lance has a much higher ceiling and the 2nd round pick has little chance to equalize the distance between the two….

        1. It’s definitely possible… his upside is much higher but so is his bust potential. I like him a lot but with him I think there is a near even money chance hes out of the league in 6 years or less. While I think Jones is likely to have 10+ year career though not necessarily as a starter for that entire period.

          1. His bust potential? Under, Shanny I’d think it would be much, much lower and if he did wash out I’d put it on the coaches. No risk it, no biscuit and I think the risk under, Shanny is infinitely less than say under a, Zimmer or, Kingsbury….

      2. I fully understand why people think this.

        However, I disagree that Jones’ upside is at best Ryan – I know I have said that previously but there are pure pocket passers that are better than Ryan that have the same sort of physical “limitations”. I think Ryan is more the likely upside. And as you say, the likely downside is more Smith/ Dalton.

        With Lance, I feel his upside, if he continues to be a guy that runs a lot, is McNair. Newton was fine for a bit but always a bit limited imo – McNair was better. The problem with both those guys is their peak years were in their 20s. That style of player has a shelf life.

        If he develops into more of a passer that can run when needed, I don’t see his peak being like Wilson. Maybe more like Josh Allen but without quite the bazooka he has. Though I don’t love that comparison.

        Either way, I am not of the belief it is as clear cut as just saying Lance’s ceiling is higher. It is higher from the point of view that if both guys had the same accuracy, intelligence, anticipation, pocket presence etc as a passer then Lance’s mobility and arm strength would give him an advantage. But… they aren’t equal in those other areas.

        As for your concern about Jones being more likely to be just good enough to convince you to stick with them, the FO has to be strong minded and realise it. This FO has indicated they are not blind to the fact JG can be upgraded. I would trust they could see the same in any QB.

        1. Lance is an elite athlete. Reminds me of Andy Luck. I don’t see him as a runner first, and his shelf life should be no different than the Herbert’s or Allen’s. He’ll be coming into the league better prepared mentally than both those guys imho, plus he’ll have at least a year to hone his mechanics. I’m sure, Shanny could have a few designed plays for him to run down on the goal line as well if he fancied….

          1. Yes, he’s as athletically gifted as any big bodied QB to enter the NFL. But it is clear that in college he was primarily a one read and run QB. Doesn’t take much film watching to see that. He relied on his legs way more than Allen or Herbert in college. Now that isn’t to say he never went through progressions, nor never used his legs to extend a play and still pass, but that was definitely not what he was primarily asked to do.

            He will need to change that to become a player more like Allen.

            As for being more mentally prepared… maybe more than Allen. Maybe. But Herbert was a senior with significant starting experience and good pocket QB skills. No way is Lance ahead of Herbert in this regard. Though I do believe he is underrated in some circles in this area.

            You know I really like him. Very intelligent player that showed a lot of really impressive skills as RS Freshman. But he has a long way to go to become a really good pocket QB.

            1. I don’t think Shanny will draft him even though I know he liked Allen. If he drafts a qb it’s gonna be, Grayson Lambert…er, I mean Mac Jones.

              1. I know you’re being funny, but I really don’t get your disrespect for Jones. You have 100% bought into the recent narrative that QBs need to be elite athletes.

              2. Yea, I’m just ribbing ya, Scooter. I just don’t want another system manager, but I realize that’s all Shanny wants. He doesn’t want a phenom behind center, and it might come back to bite him….

              3. But this where I think you are wrong. It isn’t that he doesn’t a want phenomenal QB, nor a guy that is just a “system manager”. It’s that he doesn’t buy into the idea only an elite athlete can be a phenomenal QB, nor that all phenomenal QBs can sling it 60 yards downfield on a rope while running flat out.

              4. It’s all about where you are drafted. That determines if a young QB is successful. Rosen was put in the opposite position. Rosen will be brought back and he will be given an opportunity to win a spot. Rosen has been kicked down. Gone through adversity. That’s a kid i wouldn’t bet against.

              5. Rosen’s been a Cardinal, a Dolphin, a Buc, a Bruin, a Niner and a king. He’s been up and down and over and out, but RAW knows one thing. Each time Rosen finds himself flat on his face. He’ll pick himself up and get back in the race….

            2. People sleeping on Josh Rosen. Only 23 years old. Much better physical tools then Mac Jones who I like by the way. Rosen is very smart too. Very nice fit in Kyles offense. That’s the guy to invest in developing.

              1. We’ll see if they bring him back, but if he was so Eucking good why has he put everyone to sleep?

              2. Agreed. I’m sure they will give him a long look and a chance to compete. He was a high draft pick who played on a crappy team for a crappy coach. This could potentially turn out to be gold mine.

        2. Scooter,
          I understand what you’re saying, and if I had to bet on who will be the better pro, I would bet on Jones. In fact I would even say he is more likely to make the pro bowl in his career.
          But if the bet was who is more like likely to make multiple pro bowls or be an All pro. Then I would say Lance.

          As to letting go of qbs to upgrade Beathard gives Kevin some cause for pause. He wasn’t even a major investment and Kyle wouldn’t clear his spot.
          Btw I like your McNair comparison.

  304. Love Frank Gore’ recent comments on the 95.7 the Game interview.

    “Oh, oh, I’d come back fast,” Gore said. “Man, I’d love to wear that No. 21 jersey one more time. If that was to happen, that would definitely be my last year, if I could come back and sign with the 49ers. I respect Jed, I respect the York family, I respect Kyle, I feel like one of the best play-callers in the game right now. You gotta tell Jed and Kyle, just bring me back.”

    I suddenly have this vision (or maybe it was the hot sausage I had for breakfast) of the 49ers comfortably leading in the Superbowl as the waning minutes come to a close, and the old heart and soul war-horse Frank Gore getting his last career carry as a SB winning 49ers!
    That would be a perfect scenario.

  305. Troompy was kicked out the Screen Actors Guild. Because he is an insecure petulant child he wrote the below letter. How the F did such a whiny little BeeeAtch become president. 100% real and unedited:

    “I write to you today regarding the so-called Disciplinary Committee hearing aimed at revoking my union membership.Who cares!While I’m not familiar with your work, I’m very proud of my work on movies such as Home Alone 2, Zoolander and Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps; and television shows including The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Saturday Night Live,and of course, one of the most successful shows in television history, The Apprentice–to name just a few!I’ve also greatly helped the cable news television business(said to be a dying platform with not much time left until I got involved in politics),and created thousandsof jobs at networks such as MSDNC and Fake News CNN, among many others.Which brings me to your blatant attempt at free media attention to distract from your dismal record as a union.Your organization has done littlefor its members, and nothing for me–besides collectingdues and promotingdangerous un-American policies and ideas –as evident by your massive unemployment rates and lawsuits from celebrated actors, who even recorded a video asking,“Why isn’t the union fighting for me?”These,however, are policy failures. Your disciplinary failures are even more egregious.I no longer wish to be associated with yourunion.As such,this letter is to inform you of my immediate resignation from SAG-AFTRA.You have done nothing for me

    Donald Trump”

    1. Dude, maybe we can start a go fund me drive to get you a therapist (lol).
      You’re letting Trump live in your head for free. Please get some help.

      1. AES, how about this theory: Seb, Prime and Lee are the same person. Very weird dude behind them. Triple split personality.

          1. Sorry Prime. I just read AES’s comment below and remembered that’s right. I apologize and will stop.

        1. But but …some drive-by troll said he had MAC address evidence Lee and myself were one and the same! George, don’t dismiss such incontrovertible evidence.

    2. Bruce, for the first time in my life I actually agree with Trump. On anything further to do with him, “who cares!”

    1. Comment from same thread

      Remember that this is the guy who said that the Cowboys should take Tony Mandarich over Troy Aikman in 1989.

      ???

  306. Leon Spinks has passed away from cancer.
    Howard Cosell once asked Leon about his boxing strategy. Leon responded (paraphrased) ‘I don’t have a strategy. I just walk forward punching a guy in the face until he falls down.’
    I was reminded of Leon when Marshawn uttered his famous “I just run through a
    m———ucka’s face. Pretty soon he gets tired of it.’

    1. Leon grew up in a hell hole. He was abandoned and beaten by a father who essentially called him a loser. He had a tough life. By comparison I feel blessed and grateful.

    1. Tom Brady / Joe Namath
      Your mama’s need to remove you from their basements, take their computers away from you and put you in a corner for a nice long time out! You appear to be better suited to playing with your blankies, than your mama’s computers

  307. Richard Sherman, in an interview with Matt Maiocco on NBC Sports, said he believes the teams highest priorities this offseason “will be re-signing T. Willams.” After that, the highest priority will be the CB position,
    “resigning Jason Verrett” And then, after Verrett, “you have to work on Fred Warner this offseason.”
    Regarding Verrett, Sherman said he could see his veteran teammate “receiving a lot of interest as a FA and earn a big pay day this offseason.”
    So here’s the question: If the 2021 Salary Cap is $175 Mil., Can the 9ers afford to resign free agents TW, J. Verrett and F. Warner? If the 2021 salary cap is $185 Mil., then the answer is yes.

  308. Mike Garafolo is reporting that the Niners have decided to extend Rosen per “sources” and will soon make him an offer. That leaves only Bethard as the last question in the QB room.

    1. Niners will not be drafting a QB in the first 2 rnds. Maybe a guy like Davis Mills or Ian Book latter in the draft. Rosen is the guy to develop. Very smart pick up that could be viewed as very fortunate too.

    2. Of course they are bringing him back. He’s an ERFA that costs next to nothing to bring back on a team that has no backup QBs.

      But what, you honestly think this means they see him as their backup? Or their QBOTF?

      He was available all of last year on the Bucs PS. The 49ers literally signed Josh Johnson before they turned to Rosen, and they only brought him in because they needed a 2nd QB suited up and they were in a position where it had to be a guy off somebody’s PS. That doesn’t exactly say “we believe in you Josh!”

      He’ll get his shot in TC, but he’s nothing more than a guy they are kicking the tyres on.

      1. The past means nothing. This is a guy with a lot of talent and they’ll kick the tires hard and if he shows potential he’ll make the 53 and they’ll continue to develop him. How far he goes is up to him.

        1. I don’t disagree. It is a very low risk with potential high reward type deal. But as I said, this should change nothing of their plans for the QB position. This isn’t a signing that should have the team thinking he’s going to make the 53 so that is one less spot to worry about.

  309. Matt Barrows of the Atlantic, views Florida’s TE Kyle Pitts as an intriguing option for the 49ers at #12 in the 2021 Draft in order to create an offense that can “run and pass explosively” without changing personnel.
    * Barrows admits that Pitts is a “luxury pick” given the 49ers need for an edge rusher and corner back.
    * Barrows believes if the 49ers stick with JG as their QB, the 49ers top 3 priorities should be resigning TW, drafting a Center like Wisconsin-Water Quinn Meinerz, and finding another pass rushing DE.
    * Barrows believes the 49ers should trade down from #12 and names Georgia LB Azeez Ojulari and Alabama-Birmingham DE Jordan Smith as players to keep an eye on.
    * As for the 49ers CB position, Barrows believes they should resign free agents Verrett, E-Mann and Johnson and draft another CB in the first 3 Rds.
    The problem I have with the 9ers drafting Georgia LB Azeez Ojulari is, he’s listed as a late 3Rd. pick, but IMO will be a top 15 draft pick and likely off the board before the 9ers #12 draft pick.
    * Wisconsin-Water Quinn Meinerz has played L Guard, not Center and is a raw prospect, more comfortable in a man/ gap/power scheme. As a blocker, he’s best suited in a downhill scheme that allows him to perform quick pulls and kick-out blocks frequently.
    * UAB EDGE Jordan Smith: If the 9ers feel his participation in a credit card fraud scam, while at Florida was “poor judgement,” as a teenager and has learned his lesson, then he could be a day 3 steal.

    1. The one thing in favor of Pitt’s is related to Jimmy.
      He likes to throw over the middle of the field and SF has had to keep a TE in on obvious passing downs due to their poor pass blocking. Double Tights could allow them more flexibility in this regard. Even if it would greatly aide Jimmy, it probably should still be considered a luxury pick.

      Azeez and Jordan Smith are both prospects I like a lot especially Azeez due to his get off.

      As for the Center I like Humphrey and Meyer (who I think is a 3rd rounder) and I absolutely think they have to pick up a good in FA or the draft.

  310. San Francisco still needs to tender Rosen an offer, but Garafolo said that’s expected to be done soon.

    Jimmy(until he’s not), Rosen, Johnson, Rookie looks to be the new 49ers QB room.

  311. Bingo Razor! It’s about time that we invest with guys that actually have legit upside. Rosen and a rookie gives us some light looking forward. Now it’s up to Kyle to develop them. It’s really that simple.

  312. * “Rosen and a rookie gives us some light looking forward. Now it’s up to Kyle to develop them. It’s really that simple.”
    * If he’s not cut before the regular season starts? Or, if he’s “DEVLOPED” on the practice squad!
    BTW: He was, and maybe still is, a better tennis player than a football QB.
    * A shoulder injury ended up keeping him off the court for an extended period of time, and the lull provided him the impetus he needed to stick to football full-time.
    UCLA WIN- LOSS RECORD:
    (2015 8W- 5L)….(2016 3W – 3L)….(2017 6W – 5L)….
    IS JOSH ROSEN FIXABLE, AND WHICH TEAMS COULD FIX HIM? Can KS and the 49ers? TBD

    1. Rosen is a guy that there is no real downside to giving him a look in TC, but you don’t make any plans for your team around. If they need a backup QB (which they do), they still need to progress as if they need one. If they are looking for a QBOTF then they should still be looking for one. If Rosen then looks good in TC and wins a job, that’s awesome and you have a much deeper QB room… of potentially a trade asset before cut down day.

        1. I would like him as a comeback project… but he’s a Beathard replacement with better upside.
          But as Scooter said, you are not basing any future moves on him.

        2. Scooter / Razor
          Just for sheets and giggles, what odds would either of you give that Rosen is one of the 53 player on the 2021 active roster?

  313. CBS Sports’ Jason La Canfora noted on the network’s Super Bowl LV pre-game coverage that the 49ers are among the teams “very interested” in acquiring Watson from the Houston Texans, should he become available.

    “Sources tell me 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan (is) very high on Sam Darnold,” adds La Canfora. “If that’s a match, follow me here, the 49ers would be trading Jimmy Garoppolo, and sources tell me Bill Belichick would love to have a Jimmy G reunion in New England.”

    1. Lol, imagine if they ended up with Darnold and Rosen, picks 3 and 10 from 2018 who both have flamed out so far, as their QBs in 2021!

      I really don’t see it happening, but it would be kind of funny.

      1. Imagine if we ended up with Watson and we compete for SB’s like we did in the ’80’s.

    2. Razor
      * “The 49ers are among the teams “very interested” in acquiring Watson from the Houston Texans, should he become available.” JUST LIKE HOW MANY OTHER NFL TEAMS THAT CAN’T AFFORD HIM?

      * “Sources tell me 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan (is) very high on Sam Darnold,” OPERATIVE WORD “HIGH!”
      I know, it’s legal now, but it’s still lying season and a “RED HERRING.” Believe nothing you hear, and 1/2 of what you see, especially when you’re “HIGH.” LOL

  314. I’m picking the Bucs to win… better Oline, better Dline… and of course Brady should it stay tight.

    1. I’m picking the Bucs as well. Chiefs are missing their LT, RT and Guard. Mahomes needs surgery on his turf toe, and he’s not running like his normal self. Andy Reid will be coaching with a heavy heart due to, Britt Reid’s accident. Finally, the Bucs have Brady at home with an excellent defense….

    2. Shoup
      I’m going with the Brady and TB also…..TB 31 – KC 24
      KC VS TB SPREAD: -3 KC
      OVER / UNDER = 56

      NOTE: Tampa Bay had no answer for Patrick Mahomes and Tyreek Hill when it hosted their regular-season meeting. The 25-year-old Mahomes threw for 462 yards in the victory, the second-highest total of his career. He accumulated 359 of those yards in the first half, the second-most by a player before halftime in the last 30 years

      1. GEEP/ Razor
        Looks we got it right.
        People always want to go with the sexy positions but they can rendered moot anytime there is a major advantage on both sides of the LOS and no major weaknesses in other areas. Does anyone really think SF wouldn’t have won that game last year if KC went into it with 3 backup olinemen? I think they would have won handily last year if their interior Oline wasn’t crap.

        1. Shoup
          Hopefully ShanaLynch will “fix the Oline crap” in the 2021 draft?

          * Assuming the 9ers resign TW: The 9ers fix the Oline.
          Third Round: Oklahoma Center, Creed Humphrey
          Fifth Round: Georgia C/G, Trey Hill
          Late Fifth / early Sixth Round: Wisconsin-Whitewater Interior Oline, Quinn Meinerz,

          1. GEEP,
            I agree, this team ignoring the necessity of pass blocking in their oline evaluations has made them incredibly specialized and vulnerable. This also places any investments made in the qb position at a greater risk than necessary. They don’t need to be great or even above average at pass pro… but they need to be at least average there.

          1. Bowles is really good but what do you think SF’s defense would have done last year going against the Cheifs SB oline of this year? The Circumstances helped the Bucs a ton, and KC is likely a better team when fully healthy. But SB’s are determined by health as much as they are by anything else.

  315. I think the 2019 Niners D is superior to the 2020 Bucs D and they ultimately couldn’t handle Mahomes. Chiefs 2-peat.

    1. Ribico,
      I completely agree here.
      As I stated to Razor above given these circumstances that DLine would have destroyed KC.

  316. * Penalties are KILLING the Chiefs and Brady is taking advantage of their mistakes, making them pay!
    * KC DB’s are too aggressive, the officials are throwing flags on everything and KC has lost control of their emotions.

  317. There can be no debating it anymore – Brady is the best QB of all time. Not that it was much of a debate anyway, but definitely confirmed now that he has shown it wasn’t BB making him look great.

    Man, 7 SB victories in his career. One player has more than any one team has ever won.

    1. Brady may be the greatest QB, but he could not have won the Super Bowl with the current Pats roster. Let’s give Bucs’ D some credit.

      1. No argument there. As has been discussed a bit on here of recent times, no QB can win a SB on their own.

        But the Bucs has a great D last year too. Brady is clearly the difference.

        1. They did not have Gronk and AB who caught TDs today nor did they have Fournette who was arguably as important today to the offense as Brady was.

          One of Brady’s biggest asset is the confidence he brings to all the players.

    2. Montana never threw an int or needed a kicker to win the SB for him. How many SB’s would he have won under these new rules? I’ll give Brady all the credit in the world, but if my life were in the balance on the outcome of a game, it’d be Joe Montana playing the position for mine….

    3. Dude competed in the most QB friendly league ever, and was the poster boy wrapped in bubble wrap.

      If he played in the 80s – 90s he’d have had a 12 year career.

      If guys like Montana and Marino played in the 00s and 10s, they’d have thrown for close to 5k and 50tds every year and played until 45.

      Brady’s SB wins are suspect at best. Wilson Int, Atl Defense disappearing, Rams offense doing absolutely nothing.
      Even his 1st sb win, that last drive the first two plays Leonard Little was held, both checkdown passes by Brady. Had the refs actually thrown a flag he doesn’t get that W.

      Not the best, not even close.

      1. Players play in the era they play in period. It’s impossible to put a current player in a previous era just like you can’t put a player from 40 years ago in this one. Every player who has ever played this game played it with the rules and training that was in place at that time. The only way to measure is how each did in their particular time and Brady has won the most by far in his. He is the GOAT.

  318. I really enjoyed watching Mahomes get battered, and Jones and Mathieu losing their composure. The peace sign back at Hill was fantastic. Definitely worth the penalty, given the circumstances in the game and the fact that he gets away with doing it and never gets flagged!

  319. 27 years without a Super Bowl win. Aaargh!
    Watson situation will drag into August as Watson may hold out. Jimmy G + Fred Warner + 2021 first round pick + 2022 first round pick + 2023 second round pick for Watson. Gotta do whatever it takes to win the final game of the season.

    1. You’ve kind of changed your tune. Serious or is that the SB libations talking :)

      I’d prefer the team not make that trade for Watson. It’s just too much. It’s hard not to think what might have been had the 49ers gotten Brady last year, but it is what it is.

      1. Nah, I generally never waste time recommending what front office should do — I only try to predict what they will do based on my understanding of their team building philosophy (or team-destroying philosophy, as in the case of Baalke).

        But watching Super Bowl without the Niners gets me frustrated and I lapse into playing GM. IMO only Watson and Rodgers are worth overpaying to replace Jimmy G. Not Stafford or any other QB potentially in the market.

        Brady may have limped into the playoffs with this injured Niners had the latter chosen to go with him. But exit would have been quick. People are underestimating the quality of the support group he has in Tampa, both on offensee and defense.

        1. “Brady may have limped into the playoffs with this injured Niners had the latter chosen to go with him.

          Agreed, as I said as much a week or so ago. But Brady brings a confidence to the whole team that can’t be replicated by anybody currently on the 49ers. They might have won a playoff game or two.

    2. Did not we watch this latest SB? You saw Mahomes out there running for his life right? You can have Watson, Stafford, Montana, Marino, Manning or a combination of them all, but without an OL to protect them you might as well be playing Beathard or Mullens. Put down the QB pipe dreams and hope the team focuses on OL,OL, and more OL this off season.

      1. Rib,
        I also saw another reason to believe that the modern day “mobile QB” doesn’t always guarantee a SB win.

        I’ve said it throughout that it takes a total team effort to win a Superbowl. The Bucs’ defense had just as much to do with the win as did Brady. The Oline was also outstanding.

        Total team victory.
        After the game, Brady indicated that he’s playing next year. He knows that the talent on the Bucs is capable of a return SB visit next year.

      2. This game should remind us that the game is won in the trenches. It doesn’t matter who is throwing the football if they don’t have time to throw it. Same thing happened to the Niners in last years SB when the Chiefs were collapsing the pocket right up the middle regularly. Brady had protection Mahomes didn’t. If the Niners fix the the C and RG spots the offense will return to the level it showed in 2019 or better.

        1. Yep, it won’t matter who the QB is if they don’t get upgraded play from the OL.

          Of course that doesn’t and shouldn’t preclude upgrading at QB.

          1. Yeah, but the tough part with this is the narrative isn’t really fair to the Cheifs.

            They didn’t choose this as their starting Oline, they were playing without, what, 4 starters on their Oline? I don’t think any team in the NFL is making it to, and winning a superbowl, with 4 backup Olinemen.

            As to the niners investment, yes, I want them to invest more there. In fact I am more of the school that I would prefer them to be average across the line, rather than great in one spot. That’s why , while I want SF to bring back Williams, that has to be weighed against how much I can improve the Oline as a whole. Having a more balanced Oline also leaves itself less susceptible to one injury devastating it. I still want Williams back, but there is no way I would pay him 20M or more per season.

          2. Last year’s Niners play in this year’s Super Bowl…It’s not even as close as 31-9. Even with our downgraded QB.

            1. Yep, that’s the real pity about losing that Super Bowl. A really strong roster that they are unlikely to match again in the near future.

        2. It’s too early to tell, but would SF have been better off drafting say
          Wirfs and either WR Higgins, Pittman, Shanault or a DT like Blacklock, Davis or Madubuike ?
          Certainly, their Oline would cost them much less and be easier to improve, but their receiving corps would look pretty bad right now.

          1. Shoup
            * “but their receiving corps would look pretty bad right now.”
            VERY TRUE…BUT, it matters little who the receivers are if the QB is flat on his back, or running for his life.
            KC QB Mahomes, as good as he is, should be proof that it all starts and ends in the trenches! Neither he, WR Hill, or TE Kelce, put points on the board………End of discussion.

        3. A different point of view on the OL. Yes, I think Brady would have, one way or another, made the offensive line look better.

          “Part of the misconception with QB pressures is a lot of that is dictated by the quarterback and not necessarily the offensive line. All these plays are timed. They’re very timing specific. If you don’t hit that timing, and then you’re searching for your next read or your don’t have your hot route indicated ahead of time, that throws everything out of control…49ers quarterbacks weren’t delivering the ball on time. They weren’t finding their hot reads, and they weren’t identifying blitzes and pressures.”

          https://www.ninersnation.com/2021/2/9/22274844/was-the-49ers-offensive-line-as-bad-as-some-fans-thought

          1. Cubus
            Yea, yea, yea. I hear all that. But how many times have you seen the 9er center get pushed back by an opposing DT, so the 9er QB can’t step up, or a pass over the middle get knocked down because the 9er Guard didn’t put a shoulder in his gut? JG does have limitations, but he has one of the faster releases in the NFL. Yet how many times does his throws get hurried, he gets sacked. or he’s not fast enough run away? Just once I’d like to see the 9er Center / Guards knock the opposing DT flat on their a$$!
            And yes, I’d like to have CB’s that do NOT give up 4th Qtr leads. The Bucks DB’s did knock several passes down that were TD’s if they didn’t. So I included two who IMO, the 9er should draft South Carolina Jaycee Horn in the 2hd Rd. and Israel Mukuamu in the 5th Rd. I was undecided on Mukuamu, but watching him on tape, and covering TE’s in the Senior Bowl, convinced me.

          2. cubus,

            I don’t think anyone would argue with the idea that Brady would have improved the Offense. Any half way competent qb that could stay healthy would have.

            That said, the one thing that Brady (and almost every qb) struggles with is pressure up the middle. And yes, qb’s are often responsible for pressures because they can help the oline by making line calls, or on the negative side they can often make a line look worse. They might make poor line calls.

            Or if they have poor pocket fundaments and retreat to far back or not step up, they will make tackles look terrible because they didn’t allow the tackle to run the edge rusher by and behind him.

            The problem is the interior oline wasn’t just getting pushed back they were getting beat. Which happens when you are starting 2nd string guards and 3rd or 4th string centers. Brady wasn’t going to fix that.

  320. Think of Brady in a 49ers uniform this past season. Team briefly did and passed. Another bad decision on top of so many other bad free agency, draft, management decisions under the Yorks. The Yorks and their Levis Stadium are cursed. The 49ers will never again win a Super Bowl while they are in charge and the team plays in Santa Clara.

    1. It would have helped for certain SF would have made the playoffs but he’s not winning the chip here.
      He likely loses to the Pack in the playoffs.

      Right now he has one of the top Oline’s in football and the best receiving core in football. He would not have had that here.
      Not to mention he had the best Pass Rush in the playoffs there. I still don’t know how they have such a low cap with all of those players.

    2. The,y went to the Super Bowl in year 3. Obviously they made a ton of good decisions. Wake up. Smell the roses.

    3. The York’s were “in charge” for the 2012 super bowl as well. Win? Well no, came up just short both times, but I bet most team’s fans would take 2 SB appearances in the last 10 years.

    4. The only way the 49ers make a run with Brady is if he had magical powers of restoration to bring back all the players lost to injury this season. The Niners weren’t winning anything this year with all of the injuries to key players they had.

      1. You mean rookie Aiyuk, a half-time Deebo and Bourne would not compensate for Godwin, Evans and AB??

        An interesting side note is that in Brady’s past 3 Super Bowls wins, the D has allowed an average of 11 points per game and 6 per game in the last two.

  321. Though the NFL’s salary cap is not expected to be officially set until next month, league sources believe it will be roughly $180-$181 million. Throughout the past season, many expected it to be around $175 million, but it now is projected to come in slightly higher, per sources.
    11:37 AM · Feb 7, 2021

  322. IS ANOTHER CIRCUS COMING TO TOWN? Chances are slim and none and old slim just passed away….
    * 8 potential landing spots if Eagles end up trading Carson Wentz:
    While Carson Wentz has not yet asked for a trade out of Philadelphia, the Eagles are now fielding calls from interested teams, according to the latest report from NFL Network.
    * The report says the Eagles aren’t actively trying to trade their 28-year-old quarterback but are taking calls. Perhaps, they’re hoping to drum up a market and eventually get more in return for the guy who was once their franchise quarterback.
    * If Wentz does get dealt, here are eight landing spots that might make some sense:
    Indianapolis Colts, Chicago Bears, New England Patriots, Denver Broncos, San Francisco 49ers, Carolina Panthers, Las Vegas Raiders and the Houston Texans.
    https://www.yahoo.com/sports/7-potential-landing-spots-eagles-202005327.html

    1. I’m fairly certain we are rolling with Jimmy this season.
      While Wentz’s skill set is really good, his team mates don’t appear to like him and honestly I don’t think he throws it as well as he used too.
      Deshaun is not going to SF unless he states I’ll only go to SF(and they don’t appear to be his preference), every other team in the mix should be able to make a more competitive offer.
      Darnold, while I like him, and think he has a chance, is not a guy you are bringing in to take over. He’s a guy that could compete with Rosen for a backup role with the idea being he could take over in the long term.

      1. Shoup
        * “I’m fairly certain we are rolling with Jimmy this season.”
        Yep, I agree. I think you can take that to the bank…JG’s the 9er QB this season! Put a better O-Line in front of him to keep him healthy, draft the best QB available in 2021. Draft a couple of top CB’s, plus resign the 9ers own free agents.
        * With 10 draft picks in 2021, the 9er should also be able to add an EDGE rusher and a TE.
        * No more excuses, no more chances! At a minimum the 9ers make the playoffs! * This is JG’s prove it year!

        1. Geep,
          I’ve already stated I’m firmly in the trade down camp. If Mac is there at the end of the first great, if not I’m grabbing some combo of de or cb. I’m not a fan of Kwitty Paye for SF at 12, as I would prefer more of a true pass rusher, but I admit should watch him a bit more of him.

          1. Shoup
            I actually like Paye but not at #12., 9ers have other needs! Trade down for Mac Plus a 2nd Rd. pick is IMO best use of draft picks. I would draft a TE but my 1st choice would be Georgia’s Tre’ Mckitty. His
            Senior Bowl convinced me he would be a better choice than BC’s TE Hunter Long. He’ll be a late day 2 draft pick. Check out McKitty…..https://www.profootballnetwork.com/tre-mckitty-nfl-draft-player-profile-georgia-tight-end/
            I’ve posted B4, Rd #2 pick #43: S. Carolina CB Jaycee Horn, a shut down CB to replace Sherman.
            The trade down for Mac Jones should give the 9ers another mid Rd #2 draft pick…I’d use it to draft N. Carolina’s RB Michael Carter, but I doubt KS will draft a RB that early. So I’d go with Georgia EDGE rusher, Azeez Ojulari. (If he hasn’t move up and is still on the board). He’ll need to add some weight to adjust from LB, but can be used in 2021 as a situational pass rusher.
            Rd #3, Use Rd 3 Comp pic, plus Rd. 5 #138 to trade up for Oklahoma Center Creed Humphrey.

            1. Geep,
              McKitty is a player I like quite a bit. Previously I was hoping to get him in round 5 but that looks like a pipe dream now.

      2. I actually like the idea of trading for Darnold, but as you say, it would be as a backup to JG and to push JG. You don’t trade for him to be your starter.

        I like the idea because he is talented, and you imagine he can be had reasonably cheaply. Basically get a 1st round talent for less than that. And you then have he and Rosen in that same boat – talented guys that have been put in bad situations. Let them compete to be the backup, and if either (or both) show well you potentially have a QBOTF.

        Only thing I don’t like about the idea is both he and Rosen will be on 1 year deals, which won’t give much time to figure out if they are potential future starters, especially if JG stays healthy.

        1. Joe Gibbs once said “the second most important position on a football team is the back-up quarterback.”

  323. Man. I know many people here have Grant a hard time but geez. At least he kept this forum up to date. Does the new guy ever update this thing?

    1. PD is letting this one die on the vine.
      I wish they would at least offer the blog as an internship role to a student or something.
      I’d like to go elsewhere but I really like this blog community… I just wish I knew what other blogs people on here frequent or recommend.

      1. I offered to help MWD with his new site, plus I’ve offered to participate in a weekly guest write up among posters on here. OldCoach has had some conversation with the PD and is currently awaiting correspondence regarding the issue at hand….

        1. After Grant left I emailed the P.D. sports editor John Schlegel, he reponded to me and informed me that C.W. Nevius would be taking over the blog. Approx. two weeks ago I emailed him again asking for clarification of what were the future plans for the blog. I haven’t received any response yet. I recommend we all email him daily until we get a response. johnschlegel@pressdemocrat.com If we bombard his email account he will have to provide us with some sort of explanation.

              1. I emailed the PD after Grant walked, but never received a response. Not long after that C.W took the reigns.

                His after games comments (a day or two later) were good and well written befitting of C.W’ outstanding writing style and reputation. But unfortunately, they came over as late news.

                The good news is that this platform has done well because of the keen football knowledge by this community.
                But we are only visitors to site in the sense that the PD can close the door at will.

                For me the answer is simple; the PD should allow the current community of bloggers to continue to drive this site, BUT, refresh the blog every Monday. This will help to minimize the overload of comments and keep the platform fresh with new subjects and 49ers news items.

            1. Just got my email back with a “permanent error” and two attached files that I didn’t open.

          1. I will email him once I’m off work. I agree the regulars keep this blog alive. A lot of knowledge here. MWD if/when you get yours up and running please share with everyone.

          2. I will email him once I’m off work. I agree the regulars keep this blog alive. A lot of knowledge here. MWD if/when you get yours up and running please share with everyone.

        2. Sorry Razor. There has been some unexpected turnover at the business I am working at. My work hours are currently a mess, so I do not have a set schedule right now. However, I do have the next couple of days off (sans a conference call I have to attend), so I am planning on typing up a new article and setting up an email account for the site that you can reach me through.

      2. Shoup
        * Someone, I believe it was George, posted that he’d contacted the PD concerning the blog? I don’t know what, if anything, become of it? George, if you read this, would you mind explaining what the PD’s response was?
        * ALSO, I believe MidWestDynasty has posted that he’s working on setting up his own blog? If that’s still true MWD, would you mind posting an update?
        * At this point, at a minimum, if the PD would just let someone post a new subject, on a weekly basis, the cost should be minimum and would keep the blog up and running.

        1. * ALSO, I believe MidWestDynasty has posted that he’s working on setting up his own blog? If that’s still true MWD, would you mind posting an update?

          See my response to Razor above.

  324. Mahomes’ career could be in jeopardy, because it’s not like turf toe hasn’t ended careers before.

    Surgical Treatment of Turf Toe Surgery is generally only needed for serious grade three injuries, and are performed if there is a major plantar complex tear or a sesamoid fracture (a hairline break caused by repetitive stress or overuse) to one of the two small bones found below the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint.

  325. Most yards from scrimmage by a Running Back at the time Roger Craig retired. Including post season.

    1. Walter Payton 22,074 yards

    2. Tony Dorsett 18,079 yards

    3. Franco Harris 16,467 yards

    4. Eric Dickerson 16,211 yards

    5. Marcus Allen 15,409 yards

    6. Jim Brown 15,052 yards

    7. Roger Craig 14,547 yards

    How is Roger Craig not in the Hall of Fame yet?

    1. I agree with you regarding Craig deserving to be in the HOF but where you are statistically when you retire isn’t a good measure. I believe Ken Willard was the number 6 or 7 all time rusher in NFL history when he retired but he has never gotten a sniff by the HOF. What other 49ers do you believe should be in the HOF?

      1. If every one of the players ahead of Willard in rushing yards made the HOF then he should have been considered.

        I would pick Jesse Sapolu if the 49ers could get one offensive lineman in the HOF from the Super Bowl years. If he had only played guard or center he might have got in.

        If zero O-Linemen are deserving of the HOF from the Super Bowl teams then OL coach Bobb McKittrick needs to be in.

        1. Other players I believe should/could get in.

          DT Bryant Young
          LB Patrick Willis
          LB Navorro Bowman
          OL Joe Staley
          RB Frank Gore

          1. My choices would be
            Charlie Krueger
            Len Rhode
            Keith Fahnhorst
            Randy Cross
            Rickey Watters
            John Taylor
            Brent Jones
            I agree on Craig, Staley, Gore, Young and Sapolu
            Bowman and Willis may not have played long enough.
            The 49ers don’t get the HOF recognition they deserve. I call it the Walsh effect, many believe it wasn’t the 9ers talent as much as the genius of Walsh

            1. Watters should have been in. Top 10 in yards when he retired, has 3k more yards than T Davis (he’s only in because he’s a media guy). He has a ring, he has production in the SB (3 tds?).

              Also, maybe Cowboy would be in too. Craig, Gore, Watters, Young are the guys who should be in without debate, the rest are debateable.

            2. OldCoach,
              I would definitely put in Willis, his case is the opposite of Gore’s though. His career isn’t as long, but if you are in the league 7 years and you are a pro bowler for all 7 of those years and a AllPro for 6 of those years, you have to go in. He was never, not a top 5 player at his position and was recognized as the best or 2nd best at his position for at least 5 years.

              In my mind, his career, while shorter, was better and more accomplished than Craig’s, or anyone else we have spoken of with the possible exception of Bryant Young (who gets the nod due to the SB win)

          2. Frank is a lock.

            Young should be a lock but voters focus too much on Sacks yet the guy was a dt/nt, so he wasn’t a rush the QB player, he was a lock up two guys and let Stubbs or the DE get the sack. Dude still had 90 sacks.

            Willis is next on the list, 7 Pro Bowls & 5 AP, and DROTY. What will hurt him is he didn’t play to 10 years, he only played 8. Had he gone 10 and played as great he’s a lock at that point (but not 1st ballot). Also, never was DPOTY.

            Staley is right there with Willis, but I think we as Niner fans give him too much credit. He’s great, and was an amazing teammate, but I don’t think he was ever close to being a top 5 LT in any year he played. He was top 10 no doubt, but never top 5 or an Orlando Pace, Trent Williams type who have been considered at points in their careers to the best at their position without doubt. He could be a year 7 entry.

            Bowman, never. Played 8 years, didnt start his rookie, missed one season completely, and missed 12 of 16 games another, so he had a 5 year career, where he was very good, but he was a benefactor of playing next to PW. If he had a 2nd career post 49ers, either with Oakland or somewhere else, where he had 5 great years, probowl every year, all pro majority, then yeah he’d get some run, but Nah, he was done after his half season in Oakland.

    2. Guy was also one of 4 RBs on the ALL-80s Decade team, all but Joe Jacoby, Jim Covert, Bill Fralic (all Oline) and Roger Craig are not in the HOF for the offensive team. On defense Keith Millard, Dave Butz (dline), John Anderson & Carl Banks (Lbs), Fred Minnifield & Leyster Hayes (corners), Ken Easley, Deron Cherry, Joey Browner, and Nolan Cromwell (Safties) are not in the HOF.

      If you’re an ALL DECADES player, you should be in the HOF. Maybe you aren’t 1st or 2nd ballot, but damn, you were considered one of the 4 best (or even 2 best) at your position for the decade you played the majority of your career. You go back and watch NFL films of the 80s, you will see each of these guys through out. You can’t talk about the 80s NFL without these players. If thats not what makes a HOF-er, I don’t know what does.

  326. * Oklahoma DE Ronnie Perkins: A talented player that failed a drug tests last year and again in 2020.
    Question for the blog: Would you make him a day 2 draft pick, a day 3 draft pick, or not at all?
    A Perkins comparison: KC Safety Tyrann Mathieu

    1. No thanks.
      Lynch and Shanahan have done well to build a good culture for the team.
      The last problem player on the team was Rueben Foster. He was regarded as the best LB coming out that year, and those glowing compliments didn’t help his off-field actions.

      Off-field actions should be just as important as on-field actions – at least for me.

  327. It seems as though the top of the cornerback board is not very impressive, which could leave NFL teams looking for diamonds in the rough. Who is your favorite sleeper cornerback in this draft class?
    The pickings are slim at the cornerback position, but my sleepers would be:

    Greg Newsome, Northwestern
    Kelvin Joseph, Kentucky
    Olaijah Griffin, USC
    Shakur Brown, Michigan State

    -Tony Pauline

  328. In the last 20 years 3 teams have lost the Super Bowl and returned within the next 5 years to win it. 2 of them were led by Tom Brady (Patriots), and the other by Peyton Manning (Broncos).

    1. Thanks Coach.
      Like you, I’m curious as to what plans the PD has for their long time supporters on this platform going forward.
      Their (PD) non communication is not a good sign, because it shows a disregard for their many contributors that have made this blog a daily community gathering.

  329. ElAttrache couldn’t go into the details of Bosa’s and Thomas’ injuries, but he said the damage was more extensive than a simple tear to the anterior cruciate ligament, which means their recoveries may take longer. The good news is that their surgeon is at the top of his field.

    That’s why I’ve said to not count on Bosa until November. We gotta draft/shop like he’s not gonna play another down.

    1. Yeah, saw that. I saw the surgeon also said their recoveries are ahead of schedule for the extent of the injury, the fact there was more damage than just the ACL is really not good for either guy.

      Eucking MetLife Stadium!

    2. Two things I have learned over the years of following this game.

      1. Never expect the same play quality from a player post ACL tear, and if they are able to return to form it’s almost always 2 years removed from the surgery.

      2. Don’t trust this staff when reporting on injuries… everyone has been “ahead of schedule” and on track to return, until they have a setback and have to miss another 6 weeks, the season, etc.

      In the case of Bosa, if someone offered me multiple picks for him including a first, I’m seriously considering it. If they offer me 2 firsts, I’m packing his bags for him. I like him, but I don’t want to pay him what he will cost on his second contract, especially given his injury history.

    1. I wonder how much they would sell just this blog site for? I’m prepared to make an offer they can’t refuse.

      1. If the PD sells it for what its worth, about $10 bucks! That’s paying more than it’s worth and likely why the PD doesn’t care about it…..

  330. https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-2021-free-agency-top-100-free-agents

    PFF takes a stab at predicting where the FA’s go and for what amounts. For those who don’t feel like looking through it they have the 9ers resigning T. Williams, Verrett, K. Williams, Taart, Witherspoon and bringing in Hooker from Indy as a low cost FA on a prove it deal. I have no idea if their contract numbers will be accurate but it adds to my belief that the Niners will be able to keep the guys they really want to.

    1. If K’Wuan Williams can be had for $4M per year I’d be surprised, but if so, sure, great signing. Also, worth noting they didn’t say Witherspoon was re-signed by the 49ers – just what his contract value might be.

      That would still leave a lot of holes to be filled.

      1. Holes left yes but they would have brought back the most important FAs on the list. I don’t see them bringing Taart back either.

        1. I actually can see that happening (re Taart). If he slips through the first and second wave of FA signings, which I think could easily happen, I can easily see the 49ers bringing him back on the relative cheap. Safeties have had a habit of getting ignored a bit in FA in recent years, aside from a couple of high profile guys, and with the cap tighter than usual this year I think safeties may be one position that really feels the cap squeeze.

          Main question for me is whether Saleh decides he wants him – if he does then I imagine Taart’s a goner.

          1. If this pans out as PFF predicts it would help SF a lot.
            They would still have a wholes in the secondary to fill but they would retain enough knowledge that bringing in a talented replacement for Sherman could actually upgrade it overall. Of course this is contingent upon them staying healthy… I’m still drafting a 2 corners in this draft if I am them.

  331. Orlando Brown wants to be traded, his niche is left tackle, the Ravens have one. Brown has been playing RT moved over to LT due to injury and has played very well for the Ravens. Might be something to look at in leu of T Williams. He would he be cheaper then T Williams much younger and on the rise. Ravens place a high value on him…

    1. Think he’s more of a power zone blocking ot, Dave. Do you think he’s capable of getting outside in this system?

      1. That I dont know, I throw s— out there and see what sticks. I leave the particulars for you and others to pick apart. :)

        1. He’d solve a lot of problems if he’s a fit, but I wouldn’t want to give up more than our 3rd round pick.

  332. My offseason plan for SF.
    Key Free Agent Resigns – T. Williams, Eman, Tartt, Blair, Reed
    Key Free Agents – C -Alex Mack, CB -Gareon Connelly

    With these signings SF goes into the Draft needing QB, IOL, DB’s and Edge Rusher.
    Draft Simulated on TDN
    I don’t want to go into all my trades but I traded down in the first to pick up extra picks, in doing so I gave up the opportunity to get Trey Lance which will be unpopular with many.
    Picks
    25 – Mac Jones – Backup for Jimmy who provides insurance and upside. Will be kept or traded in the near future depending on Jimmy.
    39 – Azeez Ojulari – Pass Rush Specialist
    46 – Aaron Robinson – slot cb – he will take over for K’waun who I expect will cost to much to return.
    64 – Josh Meyers – Center Prospect who will play guard in his first few years, while being groomed to tack over for an aging Mack
    68 – Tyson Campbell – He will hopefully take over one of the starting corner spots.
    136 – Elerson Smith – A bigger rotational pass rush specialist who could become an every down player as he fills out.
    155 – Dazz Newsome – He is a quick, speedster should take over for Trent Taylor
    193 – Alaric Jackson – an Iowa Tackle who will be slotted to play guard and as a backup swing tackle.
    226 – Ihmir Smith-Marsette – He’s brought in to take over for Bourne, but can also be used somewhat in a gadget roll.

    This draft didn’t break how I would have preferred.
    Guys I really wanted but weren’t there for me were UCLA RB Felton who I think would be a Deebo/McKinnon hybrid and Tommy Tremble who I had pegged to take over for Juice.

  333. We got a Kubiak on staff.

    Rosen is, Grant’s new angle to pump up clicks. Never saw that one coming.?

    1. Yeah, he’s been going all in in Rosen.
      – He’s better than Jimmy right now.
      – He’s got a cannon of an arm and can make every throw Zack Wilson can.

        1. Personally I don’t think you can. But I agree the trade proposed is too much for a guy that has performed poorly, no matter the circumstances.

          Imo he is worth using up to a 3rd rounder + late round pick on getting.

          But unlike OC, I am not completely opposed to the idea of swapping 1sts if that was the extent of it. I think it is too much (effectively the value of a high 2nd rounder), but I could stomach it. It is the future 2nd on top of that which I don’t understand.

          1. Schefter begs to differ, putting his value as a late 1st rounder.

            I’m with you. I wouldn’t give up anything more than our 3rd rounder.

            1. Yeah. a late 1st seems awfully steep for a guy that hasn’t performed well, no matter that he displays flashes of potential. But I guess it comes down to what teams believe the reason for his issues are – what degree was it Darnold or the Jets.

              End of the day I would prefer to have Darnold as my backup and potential QBOTF than Trask, Mond, Mills or any of the other QBs in the draft after the top 5 guys. But I would prefer to take a chance on Lawrence, Wilson, Fields, Lance or Jones, in part because you get the entire four years before needing to pay them big money. So where does that put his value? I guess based on that I could be convinced a 2nd round pick isn’t out of the question, though I wouldn’t be happy about it.

              1. Will, Ballard put his value as a 1st rounder? This is one of the more interesting offseasons I can remember. Shame no one is allowed to steer this blog through the twists and turns….

  334. Voltaire: “Anyone who can make you believe absurdities can make you commit atrocities.” Impeachment managers quoted voltaire today in summation. troompy was irate at his legal team’s performance. Maybe if he wasn’t a corrupt deadbeat he could hire non incompetent counsel. Everyone knows who and what troompy is. Unfortunately a sizeable yet shrinking segment of the population will never stop adoring their cult leader.

    1. Maiocco gets more respect than your typical talking head. It’s actually an interesting read.

      “The top-five winning teams over the past 11 seasons (2010 to 2020) are New England, Green Bay, Pittsburgh, New Orleans and Seattle.

      Of course, it’s not a coincidence that Tom Brady, Rodgers, Ben Roethlisberger, Drew Brees and Wilson were the leaders of those teams.”

      and:

      “Still, there is no way to get around the observation that the best teams also have the better quarterbacks. And the longer those quarterbacks are with an organization, the more those teams pile up victories.

      So, yes, as painful as the answer might be, it is also quite simple.

      Is there any player off-limits if the 49ers have an opportunity to acquire a young, franchise quarterback?

      No.”

      1. Yep. Maiocco is spot on. I can’t think of a team in recent history that has consistently been good over a long stretch of time without a really good QB. Teams may be able to put 3-4 good years together, but eventually the talent erodes and isn’t able to be replaced. No single other position on the roster has as much of an impact on a team’s ability to win games as the QB. And as such, no elite player at any other position should be off limits when it comes to acquiring a franchise QB.

        The only thing you need to work out is what is the level of compensation that is too much, the level of compensation that means you won’t be able to put the roster around the franchise QB to consistently win games? That’s a very tricky question to answer.

        1. Teams may be able to put 3-4 good years together, but eventually the talent erodes and isn’t able to be replaced.

          So you are saying the talent that formed the mainstay of the success of the Harbaugh years (about 3-4 good years) wasn’t replaced with the talent that went to the Super Bowl last year?

          Come on Scooter, you are better than spouting these innocuous platitudes.

          1. How did you enjoy 2014 to 2018? Real contenders those years. They really managed to replace that talent that left to maintain success, didn’t they?

            Good grief. How does one take what I said as meaning the team would never build up talent again? You’re trying so hard to pick a fight with me and I really don’t understand why. But I guess its cool having a little doggy follow me around everywhere…

            1. How did you enjoy 2014 to 2018?

              The Tomsula-Kelly era? Yeah, that was a laugh riot alright. Though within two years of hiring competent coaching and FO, we were right back in the swing of things. So your position is that it’s a team failure if they are not competitive every single year, year in and year out? That’s a pretty damn high bar for about 99% of the league – teams not blessed with Tom Brady.

              Scooter, I’m on you because I care ?. Consider me a sports “whataboutist” when presented with pablum truths that are easily refuted by historical events and teams that zig when everyone says they must zag. Also, I don’t follow stripe ball so I enjoy yours and others debates on the relative strengths of players the team’s not going to draft anyway. ? ?

              1. “when presented with pablum truths that are easily refuted by historical events.”

                But you aren’t refuting what I say. You keep arguing against things I don’t say by misrepresenting what I say. Previously it was saying that history shows that elite QBs don’t always deliver winning seasons, and don’t always win heaps of SBs. Great, I never said they did. I merely pointed out (using historical events) that maintaining long periods of success is much more difficult without one (to the point I can’t think of team that has achieved it) and winning SBs is very hard without one (as history shows).

                You also argued that first round QBs don’t always work out, in fact many don’t. Great, again, I never said anything to suggest this wasn’t the case. But what I did show is that if you don’t have a great QB, the next most successful strategy for winning a SB (based on historical events) is to have a first round QB on his rookie deal.

                You also argued that because Brady and Wilson weren’t first round QBs it shows that you don’t need to take one round 1. Again, I acknowledged you CAN find one after the 1st, but recent history shows that there are very few QBs taken after round 1 that develop into starting calibre QBs let alone great QBs. History shows the success rate for 1st round QBs is significantly higher. And as per my previous comment, more likely to deliver a SB on their rookie deal even if they aren’t great.

                Now you are arguing that my “position is that it’s a team failure if they are not competitive every single year, year in and year out”. WTF?! NO! I am arguing that it is very hard to do so without a true franchise calibre QB, and as per my previous paragraphs/ comments, it is thereby also much harder to win the SB, and if you don’t have one the most likely path to either finding one or winning a SB without one is to take one in the first round. ALL BASED ON HISTORICAL EVENTS, which apparently you are using to great effect to refute my comments.

                And the real kicker is, despite continually either just missing the point of what I am saying, intentionally using straw man arguments, or genuinely thinking what you are posting in some way refutes my points (honestly not sure where you sit in this spectrum), you continually do so in a condescending manner.

        2. Cubus / Scooter
          * Cubus: “The top-five winning teams over the past 11 seasons (2010 to 2020) are New England, Green Bay, Pittsburgh, New Orleans and Seattle.”
          * Scooter: “Yep. Maiocco is spot on. I can’t think of a team in recent history that has consistently been good over a long stretch of time without a really good QB.”

          You’re both right. BUT, you both missed my point that….Other than Breeze, those SB winning teams drafted their QB’s…They did NOT trade for them.
          “IF” the 9ers trade for another QB, they will not be able to trade JG, or for very little. The 9er / JG legacy will be SF broke him, then kicked him to the curb. A great recruiting tool for another QB to come play for for KS and the 9ers! They won’t put a descent O-Line on the field, to protect you and if you get injured, they’ll get rid of you….. Now WHY would that cause problems in the locker room?

          1. GEEP, who was the last true franchise calibre QB that became available in their prime? I can’t think of any – teams don’t let them go. So yeah, you aren’t going to see any examples of teams trading for one to use as a test case. We are covering unbroken ground.

            1. Scooter: “GEEP, who was the last true franchise calibre QB that became available in their prime?”

              * We could argue about the definition of “in their prime.” If you define it as physically, then I’d go with Steve Young. If you define it as mentally, then no. He played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers prior to his NFL career and was a member of the Los Angeles Express in the United States Football League (USFL) for two seasons. After being acquired by the 9ers, he sat and learned behind Montana and then won a SB.
              Jim Plunkett was another QB that won two SB’s after being traded to the Raiders. However, I obviously would not say he was in his prime physically.

              1. I think it was pretty clear I meant guys that are proven franchise calibre QBs that are young and expected to have many years of top level play still ahead of them.

              2. Geep, sometimes it’s the team that makes the QB a franchise. Young was definitely in that case IMO. Brees maybe also?

      2. Of course, it’s not a coincidence that Tom Brady, Rodgers, Ben Roethlisberger, Drew Brees and Wilson were the leaders of those teams.”

        Nope and it’s also no coincidence that the only one of them to get to and win a SB in that time period was Brady and Rodgers if you want to count the first season of this tabulation. Rodgers is one of the best QB’s of all time and just played his first home NFCCG a few weeks ago. Drew Brees had 3 straight losing seasons in this time period. Seattle hasn’t been to a SB since the Legion of Boom disbanded. QB’s are extremely important but the overall team quality is the difference in getting to and winning a SB most of the time.

        One last tidbit: The 49ers have been to 2 SB’s in this time period with two QB’s their fans couldn’t/can’t wait to dump. There is no one way to win in this league and we see it every year.

        1. Wilson has also won one in that time period, as did Manning who would also qualify as that type of QB. 7 of 11 past SBs won by a QB that would qualify as great. 9 of the past 13. 13 of the past 18. And Mahomes is looking like he will fall in that category as well, so 10 of the past 13/ 14 of the past 18.

          The other 4 winners in the past 18 years? Led by Eli (2×), Flacco and Wentz/ Foles. 1st round picks bar Foles, who was the backup.

          Eli is an interesting example as he won 2 of the past 18 but was more good than great. And the 2nd time was on his 2nd contract. It can be done, but boy, its rare.

          1. Seattle and Denver won the SB with defense in those seasons. The only one that consistently moved the needle to a SB during the time period mentioned is Brady.

            1. Sure, but it isn’t like those teams were the only ones to ever have good defenses. Lots of SB winning teams have good defenses. Brady has had a lot of good defenses supporting him. This isn’t a new or surprising thing – the QB can’t win it on his own. They also often play against teams with good defenses on their way to winning the SB.

              Yet for the most part the SBs have been shared between a select handful of QBs that happen to also be QBs that consistently lead their team to good records. It isn’t a coincidence. It is very hard to win a SB without a great QB, and the teams that have managed it over the past two decades have usually done so because they had a talented QB on a cheap rookie contract that allowed them to be surrounded by a very talented roster.

              1. Right the QB can’t win it on his own which is why trade suggestions including corner stone players and multiple draft picks for a QB don’t make a lot of sense. Watson proved he can’t win it on his own so why would any team gut their team and mortgage their future to bring him in?

                Yet for the most part the SBs have been shared between a select handful of QBs that happen to also be QBs that consistently lead their team to good records. It isn’t a coincidence. It is very hard to win a SB without a great QB, and the teams that have managed it over the past two decades have usually done so because they had a talented QB on a cheap rookie contract that allowed them to be surrounded by a very talented roster.

                In the last ten SB’s here are the QB’s who have played in the game:

                Brady 6 times
                Peyton Manning 2
                Russell Wilson 2
                Pat Mahomes 2
                Colin Kaepernick 1
                Cam Newton 1
                Matt Ryan 1
                Joe Flacco 1
                Eli Manning 1
                Jared Goff 1
                Jimmy Garoppolo 1
                Nick Foles 1

                Brady was part of a dynasty in NE. Mahomes is part of a burgeoning one in KC possibly. The others who would be considered elite got there twice two of them because of their defenses more than their play. The majority are just good QB’s or guys who played on good teams. 4 made it on rookie contracts. Summary: there is no trend here other than you’d better have a good overall team or you don’t make it to the SB.

                Jared Goff was second in wins to Tom Brady over the past 4 years and according to Razoreater he’s a bust. At best he’s a middle of the pack QB who has led a team that has made the playoffs 3 out of the past 4 years, went to a SB and had nine wins the year they didn’t go to the playoffs. We can find trends and stats that support anything we want but the obvious truth here is there is more than one way to have consistent success in the NFL and having a franchise QB doesn’t guarantee you anything. In fact the way QB salaries are rising it’s getting to the point where having a Franchise QB at a high number could be more of detriment than a positive.

              2. Goff wilts under pressure just like he did at Cal. He’s a bust for where he was picked, and so is Thomas. If you’re not, Rocket then you’re definitely Goff’s 4th cousin through your mom’s side….

              3. Read it again dude it’s not a support piece for Goff. I said he is at best a middle of the pack QB. The point was the Rams won a lot of games with him despite his limitations. I do disagree with your claim of him being a bust though. A bust doesn’t have that kind of run no matter how limited he is.

              4. Right, so you can get to the SB without a great QB, but very hard to win it. And the teams that have, have usually done it with 1st round guys on their rookie deals leading the team most of the year.

                Sadly the best chance the 49ers had was probably 2012 season against Flacco. But they f’ed that up.

                So why gut your team for Watson? Well, first off, you don’t. But you do accept that trading one elite guy at another position for an elite QB is worth doing, and that giving up 1st round picks doesn’t mean you can’t build a good team around Watson. It does make it harder, but not at all impossible.

                Then it comes down to figuring out what point is too much – what point makes the chances of fielding a good team more remote with Watson than without him? We can debate that til the cows come home, but to me two 1sts and Warner is very acceptable, but if you then need to add say another 1st and/or a bunch of day 2 picks and another good player I’m out.

                Goff is a great example of how a decent QB on a cheap contract can allow you to build a strong and competitive team. But once on his 2nd contract… they’ve been finding it harder to be consistently good the past two seasons and McVay’s decision to get rid of him just shows he is of a similar mind to what I have been saying. Chiefs the same.

              5. I said it before the draft. Goff is a second round talent that got drafted #1 for a king’s ransom. He is a very expensive bust for where he was drafted and what it cost the Rams. They then compounded their mistake by doubling down on him. They were very fortunate the Lions have no pride….

    2. Maiocco seems to have added the analyst title to his job description of being just a beat reporter. It helps generate content in this slow season I suppose. Pointless article. Is it news that QB is the most important position (well, maybe to Mike Singletary)? Should anyone give a rat’s rear whether Maiocco or any other fan or analyst prescribe what Niners FO should do? Personally, I’d care if these folks can accurately predict what Shanalynch will actually do.

        1. The draft this year will be unusually dependent on how FA shakes out. IMO, the biggest uncertainty is whether Niners can get Ford off the injured list in order to release him. Significant potential roster movements depends on whether that happens or not.

          1. Yea, that’s a big one. Biggest misconception on here though is that the “restructure” was the culprit but it was the partial 2021 injury guarantee and the 4/1 trigger for $11 million this season that’s really responsible for being the thorn in their salary cap side.

            No matter the machinations, the Highway through the 49ers salary cap Hell leads to the draft. If they do not win this draft, they will wreck their 2021 season….

            1. It isn’t exactly a misconception. If they hadn’t restructured his deal the cost for releasing him would be $4.8M in accelerated bonus + whatever part of his salary was guaranteed for injury. Now it costs $14.4M in accelerated bonus + whatever part of his salary was guaranteed for injury. $9.6M difference. That’s significant.

              1. The way I understand it is Ford’s 2020 salary was already fully guaranteed before the restructure so there was no stopping the cap hit. All’s it did was convert 75% of it to bonus so it would hit at a later year, right?

              2. I think that is correct. So yeah, they would have been paying for it against the cap anyway at some point. Good point, razor.

        2. Razor
          To be accurate, or at least honest, I doubt the FO has a “PLAN” yet. A “GOAL” yes, but not a plan!
          More like they’re still trying to figure it out.
          * What’s the 2021 Salary cap going to be? Which 9er FA’s do we re-sign? FA from other teams we sign?
          Who do we draft?

      1. Personally, I’d care if these folks can accurately predict what Shanalynch will actually do.

        Social media says you don’t need to have anything other than an opinion. The days of actually having proof and info are long gone. Now it’s good enough to go public with the flimsiest of rumors and watch them run wild. Grant Cohn’s whole schtick is obnoxious sarcasm mixed with condescending comments directed at players/Coaches/other writers to get like minded people to click on articles or follow on Twitter. Getting something right is far down the list of importance.

  335. I saw an interesting tidbit from an interview with Juice recently – while we may argue whether he should have been signed for the salary he received by the 49ers, it turns out other teams were willing to pay that amount. Apparently the Bills actually had the highest offer and he was set to accept it but his girlfriend didn’t want to live in Buffalo. So he had his agent ask the 49ers if they could match the Bills offer, which they did.

    I had previously seen some speculate the 49ers were basically bidding against themselves and paid well over the odds for him. Turns out that wasn’t the case – at least not relative to what the market was willing to pay him.

    1. Found it interesting he thinks Aiyuk would benefit from a mentor type wr in the room the way Samuel did with Sanders.

      Found it disturbing he’s playing the Seahawks against us. I’d hate to see him part of their new dedication to the ground game.

      1. I completely agree with him re Aiyuk. But I doubt they will stump up much $$ to bring in a top end vet – they have two WRs in Aiyuk and Samuel that they want to be their starters. Maybe a vet slot WR would be the way to go. Haven’t looked at who is available though.

        Re the Seahawks, that was more a case of the interviewer forcing the topic there. Juice was diplomatic about it – not suggesting he wants to go there, but he’s a smart guy and he’s not going to rule a team out or say a bad thing about a potential future employer.

    2. I had previously seen some speculate the 49ers were basically bidding against themselves and paid well over the odds for him.

      Interesting — I had never heard that. I recall reading/hearing that Niners had to outbid the Jets over Juice.

      Regarding the recent Stafford rumors, my final take from piecing Schefter, Breer, Maiocco and other reports is that the Niners inquired about the trade cost to the Lions officials at the Senior Bowl after hearing about Stafford’s availability. Lions got back to them the following week with the initial cost (significantly below what Rams paid). Niners did not follow up. Seems to have proceeded in accordance with Niners’ standard MO — they want to be in every relevant trade talk hoping to catch an unexpected break.

  336. In the outside chance that the Niners happened to drat Cornell Powell, the draft storyline could be somewhat like Dwight Clark…

  337. AS THE NFL WORM TURNS:
    * Wilson to the Raiders? Watson to the Jets? NFL quarterback trade possibilities.
    * Houston Texans releasing star defensive lineman J.J. Watt.
    * Cowboys News: Prescott’s price, Wilson trade whispers, Cousins’s advice.
    * “All things fluid” with Russell Wilson situation.

    * With Bosa likely not fully recovered from surgery before mid season, or later and Ford likely cut, signing JJ Watt to a 2-3 year deal might makes sense for the 9ers. The only question is, if the Salary cap is $175 Mil., can they afford his $16 Mil. P/Y salary?

    1. GEEP,
      Many here have made a case that Garoppolo is no longer viable (not only because of his contract) but, because he has missed too much time due to injuries.
      Wouldn’t signing JJ Watt put us in the same situation given his injury history?

      I certainly hope that the 49ers FO has learned a hard lesson with the signing of players like Dee Ford, K’uan Alexander and other less notable players that have had previous injuries before coming to the 49ers.

      1. AES
        OPERATIVE WORDS: “If the 9ers can afford his $16 Mil. salary. No, they can not, not with a $175 Mil. cap!
        JJ is no longer in his prime, (too many injuries), or worth $16 Mil. per year. If he were willing to get paid what he’s worth, as a 3rd down specialist, it would lengthen his career and justify a lower salary. Then yes, he’d be worth it.
        As for Garoppolo, I’m one of those that made a case that he’s no longer viable, because of his injuries.
        Note: that was only for the Stafford trade, not Watson! (IMO, Watson’s price is too high). As of now, I believe the 9ers will go with Garoppolo and take their QB of the future, in the draft. If the 9ers do fix the O-Line, JG is capable of competing for a playoff spot. (If he stays healthy)

  338. I finally received a reply from the Press Democrat regarding the future of the blog. They said at this time they were not going to hire a writer for this blog. They said it was a slow time of the off season and they were concentrating on covering the Covid pandemic. I asked them if there were any plans for the future. If they reply I will let the blog know……OC

    1. Tell them you have bloggers willing to take the reins for free until they get themselves sorted.

    2. OK guys, let’s get a grip on the obvious. The PD has ghosted this blog. We’re chumps if we keep clicking in.
      “The cuckholded is the last to figure it out.”
      I won’t even bother with a bi-monthly check in any more.

  339. I have a couple of old friends who were sports writers for the PD. I asked them about volunteers orinterns running the blog. They told me it would never happen it was a union situation.

    1. Thanks Coach,
      I wonder how hard it is for the PD to just refresh the blog?

      Does someone taking a few minutes to press a few buttons to start a fresh comments log violate union bylaws?
      Sheesh…

      1. Yeah, that’s the annoying part. We don’t need someone to author anything. Just provide a fresh page to comment on.

        1. Scooter.
          ?
          Between you, Razor, Old Coach, George and others, this blog would continue to operate without a glitch.
          All I ask of the PD is to please refresh the page once a week.

            1. Coach,
              I emailed them during the week and believe I had an tech issue on my end.
              I saved my email and will try again.

  340. Bosa, Aiyuk, 2021 first round pick, 2022 first round pick is what is being reported as the price tag for Watson.

    1. Raz,
      I would pull the trigger on that in a blink.
      I’d hate to lose Bosa and Aiyuk and a first in 2021- 2022, but getting Watson is well worth it, imho.

      Watson would get us 10-12 wins per year which would likely make us forget the said deal (players and 1st in 2021, 2022 pick) in a couple of seasons.
      Actually, I feel that Watson is being given to us on silver platter – the 49ers should jump on this right away.
      Btw, who is the source of this report?

      1. Grant Cohn, lmao!

        I’m thinking a trade package of 2019 first-round pick Nick Bosa, 2020 first-round pick Brandon Aiyuk, the 2021 first-rounder and the 2022 first-rounder would grab the Texans’ attention. That’s probably the best offer the 49ers can make.

        1. C’mon Raz.
          Stop providing comic book material.
          Here I was thinking that your source was someone of high repute.

  341. Interesting opinion I heard today on NFL radio. Brock Huard was at the pro day for Trevor Lawrence and the hosts asked him about the QB’s in the draft and what the Jets should do at #2. He said they should stay with Darnold because he’s a better prospect than any of the others in this year’s draft and use their picks to get him some real weapons and protection. Got me thinking more about what we actually have in this draft at the position. To me it really is one Franchise QB in Lawrence and a lot of talented guys with question marks. There really is no legit Franchise resume beyond Lawrence. almost all with the exception of Fields have one good/only year of production at the College level and Fields took a step back in his second year. Contrast that with some of the previous drafts where most of the prospects had 2+ years of high level play to analyze and this is going to be a tough one for teams to navigate through.

    1. I agree,
      you should not draft a qb in the first unless you know they are a franchise qb.

      In the last 40 years I would have only drafted John Elway, Peyton Manning, Andrew Luck or Trevor Lawrence in the first. All those others were not sure things.

      1. 100%. And I wouldn’t stop at QB. I’d rather forfeit the pick than take a player that wasn’t guaranteed to be great in the 1st. ;-)

        To be fair, I get what notanexpert is saying. There is definitely a case of some fairly limited resumes with this crop of QBs. But in terms of natural talent this class is good.

        1. Notanexpert, why not write down your pick in an envelope and put it underneath your pillow. Maybe the guarantee fairy might come by and leave you a quarter….

        2. I will also say, to Brock Huard’s point, coming out of college Darnold would stack up pretty well with these guys if in the same draft.

          But then he was the 3rd overall pick for a reason, in a year that had a lot of QBs taken early.

          1. “I would argue probably that I like Wilson better,” Cosell said. “They’re different a little bit, just because Darnold’s more of a physical specimen than Wilson. Wilson is a more consistently accurate thrower of the football. The offense in which he played at BYU had a lot of air raid principles so there was a lot of rhythmic timing feel to it, which I think he has a very good feel for within the context of his offense. Plus he does have second reaction movement ability which many would argue is more important than ever, although the greatest quarterback of all time does not have that ability and I think he did okay.

            “I would probably say that I like Wilson’s overall skill set and traits more than Darnold’s.”

        3. To be fair, I get what notanexpert is saying. There is definitely a case of some fairly limited resumes with this crop of QBs. But in terms of natural talent this class is good.

          I’m pretty sure they knew what I meant too at least I hope so because it was pretty obvious, but it’s hard to pass on a shot of sarcasm when you don’t agree with an opinion.

          This draft class is totally unknown compared to previous ones. Huard made the observation about Darnold and I agreed with it. I can’t remember a time – correct me if it isn’t true – where every QB save one who are rated as 1st round prospects had so little playing time or one season of quality performance. The history of QB’s without multiple seasons of starts at the College level isn’t good. There is talent here but there is talent every year and there has been a recent history of big time misses on QB’s with a lot more College starts and success than most of these players have had. Very dangerous draft if you are banking on taking a QB.

  342. Shoup
    Not sure KC would agree with you? Unless you’re implying KC 100% knew Patrick Mahomes (taken #10, in 2017), was a franchise QB and the 9 teams that drafted before KC didn’t? Teams like the 9ers FO that drafted Solomon Thomas #3?

  343. Reid knew who was holding them back, and with balls of steel he moved up the board for his franchise qb that would ultimately put them over the top and give him his first SB title!

    1. Razor
      “IF”, as you say, “Reid knew who was holding them back,” WHY would he need balls of steel to move up?
      Unless you know something the rest of us don’t, I’d say his intelligence, not his balls, made that decision?

    2. Ryan Pace, Bears GM, was so sure of his conviction, he traded up to get his franchise SB winner, Trubisky!

      Has Pace been convicted yet, because that was a crime.

  344. It’s one thing to be convicted. It’s quite another to act on that conviction. Reid didn’t have much to lose at that point in his career, but I like that he had the guts to throw the status quo out the window and roll the dice on a phenom that was not yet ready for the NFL….

    1. Razor
      Yea, I’ll buy that. And it turned out it saved his career and got him a SB win……Like ya said, when you’re knee deep, ya gotta roll the lucky dice.

  345. Meyer and Baalke are already exhibiting the dysfunctionality that existed when he worked with Harbaugh.

  346. Looking at the new hires by the Niners, it becomes clear why it is so difficult for an outsider to break into NFL coaching even starting from the very entry level of the quality control staff.

    I looked at the two on offense: Kubiak and Hankerson. Kubiak seems to have gotten the nod strictly because of his Dad’s connection to the Shannys. His only coaching experience is at high school football for three years. I cannot believe that there no other more qualified aspiring NFL coaches in the country who would have loved to have taken this low-paid, low-prestige position.

    I recall Hankerson from his days at The U. He was serviceable journeyman receiver in the NFL for 5 seasons and has coached at the college-level for 4 years. He was drafted by Mike Shanahan’s WFT and probably that connection got him the job.

  347. Well, this is sad…only a few comments for the 14th. People are turned away from the long scroll, to see anything new. If the blog is dying, I ‘d like to say thanks for the last ten years of fun. I loved the great 49er knowledge, from those of you who are serious researchers, and thank you the funny comments…I miss Cassie…I even enjoy the silly wars, a few people seem to habitually get into. The funniest one, was when Razor, and Prime, started cursing each other in Italian, no less.

    So farewell Niner blog. I saw my first Niner TV when I was six, in the city. My parents liked Frankie Albert. I went to Kezar in ‘57, on those free tickets that kids got from delivering the paper. I sat in the end zone and saw Title to Owens, the allyoop!

    I got season tickets in 1975, and we still have them. I guess my grandkids will be going eventually when they are old enough…,I hope the blog survives!

  348. It’s sad, the blog seems to be dying. The long scroll is too much for folks.

    If this is it, I would like to thank all of you for the last ten years of fun. I love the “good knowledge” from those of you who really research the Niners. I love the silly jokes (where’s Cassie). I even enjoyed the flame wars, between people, who don’t know each other, although, I would scroll through, when it was too much. The funniest was when Razor, and Prime, began cursing each other in Italian. My Mom’s family was Italian so I could read some of it…

    I saw the Niners on TV in 1952. My parents loved Frankie Albert. I made in to Kezar in ‘57, on those free Christopher Milk tickets. Finally joined a season ticket group, in 1975. We still have season tickets…I guess my grandkids will be the next generation to go to the games when they are old enough…I hope the blog continues…

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  350. If the amount of posts we have to scroll through is a problem lets just switch which one of CW’s posts we use. If we move to his Nov.6 post titled “The 49ers never had a chance Vs. Green Bay….” I will meet you there.

    1. Coach,
      That’s a good idea.
      But my personal opinion is that I shouldn’t have to bounce around the blog to find a prior low input comments log.

      The PD has shown absolute neglect to their Inside the 49ers Blog contributors for more than a month and have not issued an announcement as to their plans going forward.

      All I ask of the PD is to refresh the blog once a week so that the comments board does not need to surpass the 500 mark.
      But unfortunately, this is falling on deaf ears.

        1. Not sure if you are kidding or not Raz.
          If they (PD) are on strike, as a former union member I understand the situation.
          But if their newspaper and online news is functioning on a daily basis than they have been guilty of neglecting this board.

          1. I have a couple of old friends who were sports writers for the PD. I asked them about volunteers orinterns running the blog. They told me it would never happen it was a union situation.

            -OldCoach

            1. Where did Coach say that the PD was on “strike”?
              I checked their website after my last post and they are working today.

              Are there actual picket lines going on?
              Or was this tongue and cheek on your part?

  351. Just letting everyone know I have an article typed up for my blog, but I haven’t been able to post it due to extra hours of work over the weekend and now some rolling blackouts across the state of Kansas that are supposed to occur at unknown times for the rest of today, if not longer. If the Energy Emergency Alert Level 3 is over by Tuesday, I plan on posting the article then. If the alert is not over by tomorrow, then I will post it as soon as I am able to. For everyone who is dealing with a similar or worse situation due to the winter storm and frigid cold air mass, I ask you to stay safe and indoors if possible. If you do not have the means to stay at your home, please go to a warming shelter or center. Take care and GO 49ers!!!

    1. MWD, so you have a blog that’s almost ready to be launched? Or has it been launched? If so, what’s the address?

    2. Mid,
      First and foremost, please stay safe bud.
      Appreciate your diligence in trying to give us a better platform.

  352. ************************ JUST REMEMBER, YOU HEARD IT HERE FIRST: ***************************
    Mock Offseason: Before I tell you what the 49ers should do this offseason, let me tell you where I’m coming from.
    GRANT COHN
    *The way I see it, the 49ers are way over invested in their defensive line. They spend too much cap space and too many high draft picks on that position group. They should use some of those assets to improve their weakest position group — the offensive line.
    A good offensive line is much more difficult to build than a good defensive line. The 49ers have proven that. And it’s not smart to put an expensive quarterback behind a dollar-store offensive line. The 49ers have proven that, too.

    With those things in mind, here’s what they should do:
    1. The 49ers should trade Nick Bosa to the New York Jets for the No. 2 pick. Bosa is an excellent player when healthy, but he seems to miss every other season with an injury. He’s had three major surgeries since high school, including two torn ACLs. And the latest one was worse than a torn ACL, because he damaged other things in his knee, too. The 49ers should trade him before he suffers another injury, misses more time and torpedos his trade value. As of now, Jets head coach Robert Saleh just might trade the No. 2 pick for Bosa, because Saleh loves Bosa.
    2. The 49ers should trade the No. 2 pick to the Atlanta Falcons for picks 4, 35 and 68. Those are Atlanta’s first-, second- and third-round selections. They’ll trade those so they can jump ahead of the Miami Dolphins and take the quarterback of their choice.
    3. With the fourth pick, the 49ers should take Oregon left tackle Penei Sewell, the best non-quarterback in this draft. He will be an elite starter for at least 10 years.
    4. The 49ers should trade picks 12 (the 49ers’ first-rounder) and 35 (the second-rounder the 49ers acquired from the Falcons in the Bosa trade) to the Cincinnati Bengals for the fifth pick. The Bengals will trade down because they want Sewell, but the 49ers took him already with the fourth pick.
    5. With the fifth pick, the 49ers should take Alabama wide receiver DeVonta Smith, the best wide receiver prospect to enter the draft in years.
    6. The 49ers will have turned Bosa into three players — Sewell, Smith and the third-round pick, whoever that ends up being.
    7. The 49ers should re-sign Trent Williams.
    8. The 49ers should trade Jimmy Garoppolo and Mike McGlinchey to the New England Patriots.
    9. The 49ers should draft the best available quarterback in Round 2, and let him compete with Josh Rosen for the starting job. Any quarterback who’s accurate and can throw downfield should flourish alongside Sewell, Williams, Smith, George Kittle, Deebo Samuel, Brandon Aiyuk and Raheem Mostert.And Bottom line, the 49ers must invest in a strong offensive line. This plan is one way to do just that.

    And the 49ers would be a Super Bowl winner! Now, If only Grant’s brilliance could fix the PD blog!

    1. GEEP,
      Sounds like Grant has to much time on his hands.
      Does he not realize that with the number of teams he mentioned in such a deal, that it only takes one team to opt out for the whole deal to collapse?

      For me less is better because it eliminates all the variables with so many teams involved.
      I’d prefer to make a deal using Bosa and another top starter along with 3 first rd picks in consecutive years for Watson.
      And this only involves two teams – 49ers and Texans.

      We can always find an Olineman who can hold the position for 7 yrs and beyond.
      But with Watson we have a player who can give us 10 plus years of a playoff and Superbowl contending team.
      We don’t need to go through the Jets, Falcons, Miami, Cinn and the Patriots for any scenario.
      Just deal with Houston!

    2. Any quarterback who’s accurate and can throw downfield should flourish alongside….

      Ah, Grant reviving his bankrupt Mullens storyline. This broken clock is not even right twice a day.

      Will some idiot team hire Grant to handle such personnel matters and save the rest of us from having to come across such nonsense?

  353. I’m not opposed to trading Bosa at all but I think I think my direction would be different.
    If I’m going up to 2, I would take Wilson.
    If I couldn’t get a 2, then I would like to get a 1 and a 2. Using the 1’s I would trade out of the first with possible exception being to take Surtain or Fairly at 12.

    I’m out on taking an OT in the top 10.
    It’s not that I don’t value linemen, it’s that I look at the line as a unit. To that end I am big on day 2 linemen. I would prefer to have a B line unit unit across the board with no stars or liabilities.
    High first rounders (top 15) are normally reserved for players that need to be freaks or difference makers… DE’s, Pass Rushing DT’s, Qb’s and CB’s.

    1. I disagree with that take on OL. You look at the top OL in the NFL and they usually have a couple of really excellent guys. You don’t want a guy that is a big weak link, or have to mask guys that are below average, but a group of just solid guys will only give you a decent unit at best imo.

      1. Remember how, Grant and Hammer used to lament the fact the 49ers traded, Brown and how they were wrong to do so. He was on his way the the HOF according to, Grant. I think the rumor is he’s up to 400 lbs., and the Raiders may release him….

      2. I agree with Scooter McG here. We have seen how much 1 or even 2 non starting caliber offensive linemen can adversely affect the offense. Inside pass penetration, tackles behind the LOS etc. have really hurt this team at times. I would do whatever I could to fix it to the point of drafting Slater at #12 if he’s still there or at the very least taking an IOL in the second.

        1. If they don’t go QB, or don’t address LT in FA, Slater at #12 is exactly who I think they will target. Either to play LT if they don’t sign one, or to play inside. Can basically fit anywhere. And looks like a natural fit for this offense.

          I saw David Lombardi suggest the 49ers may look to sign Mack and Dalton… which actually makes a lot of sense to me. If they did that, Slater at 12 would be great. Even if they do sign a LT. Let him play RG while learning to play centre as the eventual replacement for Mack. Make that OL really strong.

          1. Yeah that fits with what I’ve read about Slater. He can play anywhere on the Line and be effective. That scenario you mentioned would go a long way to fixing the OL issues.

          2. Unlikely that ShanaLynch will take an IOL at 12 while the edge rush situation remains unsettled. Most likely scenario IMO: trade down a few spots for the DE and pick up an extra second day pick in the process, pick the center on day 2.

            Surprising how all these mock drafts from national writers utterly ignore the front office’s team-building priorities.

        2. I agree with Scooter McG here. We have seen how much 1 or even 2 non starting caliber offensive linemen can adversely affect the offense.

          I’m confused? Scooter wants an Elite Lineman, I want entire line made of quality starters… I don’t need the superstar. When you are paying for that superstar it almost guarentees you have a subpar player or 2 on that line unless he is on a rookie contract. To that end the argument makes sense.

    2. Shoup
      * IMO, trading Bosa would be a major change in ShanaLynch’s defensive philosophy and I don’t see it happening. I may be wrong, but I don’t expect to see the 9ers trading up for a QB. I think the 9ers go with JG for in 2021.
      * If the 9ers resign TW, I expect drafting another Edge rushing DE (to replace Ford). is their 2nd draft pick, after trading down for a QB and another 2nd round pick.
      * If we lose free agent TW, I would disagree with you on taking an OT in the top 10. I believe you have indicated you like Myers, from Ohio St. I like Christian Darrisaw, Virginia Tech. Without a top left OT, JG would spend another
      year on IR, the 9ers would endure yet another losing season and the 9ers would could still be looking for their QB of the future.

    1. George
      Not offering TW more than $16 Mil. would likely guarantee the 9ers lose him to free agency, JG ends up on IR and another 9er losing season! If Cap Savings is the objective, why not trade (or cut), JG and use the cap savings to sign the 9er FA’s they need to keep. Then use draft pick #12 to draft a QB, or trade down for Mac Jones, plus another Rd. 2 Pick? That would eliminate the 9ers salary cap problem and retain the 9ers core FA’s the 9ers need to keep.
      Jack also fails to address young players like Daniel Brunskill, Justin Skule, Colton McKivitz, Hroniss Grasu and likely others that need to be given a chance to develop and contribute. Their salaries are also less than signing Veteran free agents like Villanueva and Mack!
      Last, but not least, there are several Rd #2 and Rd #3 promising O-Linemen the 9ers should draft and develop, who will be playing for many years, opposed to spending money on players who’s bodies are beat up and looking at their last rodeo.

  354. Razor: “Dee Ford does have an April 1 injury guarantee remaining.”
    Which means what? That you think Ford will use it and retire? If in fact he does, it will give the 9ers some 2021 salary cap help, especially if the cap is $175 Mil.
    The latest I’ve read, for the 2021 salary cap, is it will be ~$180 Mil., which should help resign TW and the 9er FA’s they need to keep?

  355. I think Ford should retire. If you remember the back surgeon first refused to perform his back surgery if he planned on continuing his football career. The problem arises if Ford cannot pass a physical.

    1. Yes, I do understand. The question is, does he? Is he willing to risk permanent injury, or take the money and
      retire? TBD!

    1. So the Niners send folks to scout the Clemson QB but take notice of a receiver instead — whom they draft in a late round? Where have I heard that before….?

      1. Mood,
        From what I read in the same article, the 49ers scout covers that region. He didn’t have to travel that far.

        1. Yes, that’s correct. I read it in Barrows’ interview with Peters.

          I was just making a passing Dwight Clark analogy….

  356. Wrt, Ford I think the better question is, why should he? He’s guaranteed that money if he can’t pass a physical by April Fools day.

    1. “If the 49ers don’t want to keep Garoppolo at the balance of his current contract, who would trade for the thing?”

      LOL, Florio must have slept through the whole Lions Rams Goff affair.

      Jeez, these guys actually get paid for this kind of effluvia?

  357. Just out of curiosity, has any of the regulars here considered starting a blog using Google’s Blogger where comments can be posted in each blog post? IIRC, Blogger allows sharing of admin and authoring privileges among multiple users so that 3-4 regulars here can share responsibilities. Such a blog would replace this blog.

    1. The odds are that we have to move elsewhere shortly. Someone at the PD could turn this off at any time and without notice. If that happened there’d be no way of organizing a re-grouping.

        1. Mood
          Good idea. I was waiting to see if MWD’s blog was available. I also see Razor’s post. that he’s also starting one.

          1. It’s available, but the state of Kansas is still under a Level 2 Energy Alert, so I have avoided using my computer this week to help conserve energy. If all goes well, I should be able to post my article on Saturday. ? That is when the Alert Level is supposed to go back down.

    1. Razor,
      This link may not be the right one. It’s inviting me to create a blog, — not to read a post in an existing blog. Please take a look whether you posted the right link.

        1. Still not working — it takes me to the “onboarding page”. The above link has the word “preview”. I think that you will have to first publish the posting before sending the link.

            1. Ok, this will work. Now the rest of the inmates have to be shepherded to the new asylum……

  358. ATTN TO EVERYONE!!

    A number of us have moved to a new blog created by Razor.

    inspired49ers.blogspot.com

    One feature of the blog: No Politics.

  359. I will attempt to post a new topic daily, and would welcome anyone else that would like to post one too. I believe 3 or 4 of us can share in the maintenance responsibilities of the blog. I would appreciate the help as well.

    inspired49ersblogspot.com

  360. I encourage everyone to check it out. The blog is free and has a very nice feel to it. Several of us are there already. This PD blog might be gone in a flash, so be smart.

    1. George,
      I agree Razor’s new blog spot is great. I highly recommend all of the regulars here try it out.

    2. How do I use my blog name when I post at inspired 49ers? I seem to only have the option of using my google email account.

  361. Ok, I’ve adjusted settings to allow anyone to post. You no longer need a google account. I will attempt to address issues as they are brought to my attention. Thank you, Ribico and Cubus.

    inspired49ersblogspot.com

    1. Raz,
      I was able to log in with my laptop, but can’t get through using my iPhone. And I use my iPhone about 90% of the time.
      I keep getting an unknown match message.

        1. I tried both addresses. With the use of one dot and two dots. Received same kick-back message on both.
          I’ll try again.

  362. Feel a little nostalgic leaving this blog — have been posting here’s since Maiocco’s days of 2007 or thereabouts.
    Oh well…. Eventually the blog dies or the ones who keep it alive pass on.

      1. Supposedly gravatar avatars are compatible with the google blogger platform. But it beats me on how to sign in to Razor’s blogger site with the email associated with your gravatar account (the same email you’d enter on this site)

  363. ATTN TO EVERYONE!!

    A number of us have moved to a new blog created by Razor.

    inspired49ers.blogspot.com

  364. I won’t be seeing you on the new blog. I am working from home from a school district computer and it is blocking me from going on the new site. After I get vaccinated I will buy my own computer and will try logging on…..OC

    1. Hi OC. If you’re in the Bay Area (Peninsula or South Bay) I can give you a Dell laptop I’m going to recycle. Works fine. Please let me know.

  365. Cmon Nick Caserio call the 49ers and get your boy JimmyG – and give us Watson ….JUST DO IT

  366. ATTN TO EVERYONE!!

    Several of us have moved to a new blog created by Razor.

    inspired49ers.blogspot.com

    Encourage you to check it out.

  367. ATTN!!

    Several of us have moved to a new blog created by Razor.

    The format is quite good. Encourage you to check it out.

    inspired49ers.blogspot.com

    1. George
      How do you join the blog? I have tried numerous times and tried to contact Razor but it keeps asking me to create a blog?

          1. HAHAHA,
            Now that is a revealing email address!
            seb will love this one!
            Where is seb???

  368. There is an unrestricted free agent out there who the Niners should take a look at. Name–CJ Bethard.
    From ESPN stats:
    Attempts–Mullens 326, Garoppolo 140, Bethard 104; TDs– Mullens 12, Garoppolo 7, Bethard 6 Interceptions–Mullens 12, Garoppolo 5, Bethard 0 Quarterback Rating Mullens 84.1, Garoppolo 92.4, Bethard 105.7
    Bethard started two games, and cleaned up Mullens’ messes in 4 others. The Niners beat Arizona handily, and came close to beating Seattle. Both teams were in the playoff hunt. After the Arizona game, Coach Shanahan said Bethard’s play was “perfect.” Bethard has worked with the Shanahan playbook for four years, and his play at the end of the season showed it. Why look around for another quarterback? We’ve already got one. Why let him get away now that he has shown what he can do with Shanahan’s offense? He may want to go elsewhere after the way he’s been treated here, but we should at least try. (He should never have been playing behind Mullens.)

  369. ATTN TO YOU ALL!!

    Due to the PD abandoning this blog, around 10 of us have moved to a new one called “Inspired 49ers.”
    The blog features articles written by a few of the guys who used to post here. Intelligent stuff about the red and gold.
    Encourage you all to check it out. It’s free, a lot of fun, and a good learning experience.

    inspired49ers.blogspot.com

        1. George, not my account (no avatar). Thank goodness inspired49ers.blogspot.com will screen out such cretins

  370. 49ers sign CB Emmanuel Moseley to a two-year deal worth $10.1 million

    He’s starting in 2021…

    49ers re-signing fullback Kyle Juszczyk to a 5-year, $27 million deal

    Trent, Bourne and Verret next

  371. Report: 49ers sign center Alex Mack\

    49ers re-sign Trent Williams to a 6-year deal worth $138 million

  372. The San Francisco 49ers still have several unrestricted free agents that they could re-sign:

    EDGE Ezekiel Ansah
    QB C.J. Beathard
    OL Tony Bergstrom
    EDGE Ronald Blair III
    RB Tevin Coleman
    OL Tom Compton
    OL Ben Garland
    OL Hroniss Grasu
    EDGE Kerry Hyder Jr.
    RB Jerick McKinnon
    CB Dontae Johnson
    EDGE Dion Jordan
    LB Mark Nzeocha
    TE Jordan Reed
    CB Richard Sherman
    S Jaquiski Tartt
    CB Jamar Taylor
    WR Trent Taylor
    LB Joe Walker
    CB K’Waun Williams
    EDGE Jordan Willis

  373. ATTN TO THE VETERANS OF THIS BLOG AND ANYONE ELSE WHO MIGHT BE INTERESTED!!

    Due to the PD abandoning this blog, around 10 of us have moved to a new one called “Inspired 49ers.”
    The blog is free and features articles written by a few of the vets who used to post here. Intelligent stuff about the Red and Gold.
    Encourage you all to check it out.

    inspired49ers.blogspot.com

  374. 49ers re-signing safety Jaquiski Tartt to a one-year deal

    The news comes after a report that the team is signing veteran free-agent safety Tavon Wilson

  375. They have signed a lot more of their own free agents than I thought they would. Reworking contracts to gain more cap space has worked out great for the Niners. I see that Mike Silver believes that the Niners are NFC favorites this year. I can’t wait for the season to start.

  376. BREAKING NEWS – DOLPHINS TRADE #3 PICK TO 49ERS FOR #12, 3 RD PICK, AND 2022, 20231ST RD

    Justin Fields is going to be 49er

Comments are closed.