49ers coverage and the NFL http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers selected USC guard Chilo Rachal in round two. Guard became more of a need after Baas torn his pec last week, but he can play right tackle too. They usually shy away from juniors as well. He should have stayed in school but he needed to come out for financial reason for his family http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers selected DT Kentwan Balmer with the #29 pick in round one. They wanted to improve the offensive line. He will play end in their 3-4 defense. That means Isaac Sopoaga will likely move to the nose tackle spot. Not a great pick but solid. They need to rush the passer and that comes from the linebackers in a 3-4, that may be next as they are up early in round two http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net Ok here is our final 2008 NFL Mock Draft. Glad we got the first pick right and guaranteed not to get all 32 thanks to the Patriots, but never came close anyway http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers have lost starting right guard David Baas until the regular season with a torn pec muscle. The team says he will miss part of camp but be ready for the season. Maybe but with no play in the preseason likely they now more than before need to get a pair of good young lineman early this weekend http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The Bengals may be nuts, is this news? According to ESPN the Bengals have turned down an offer from the Washington Redskins for WR Chad Johnson... a first round pick this year, #21 overall, and a conditional third round pick next year that could escalate to a first rounder! Also they have told the Eagles and Cowboys they are not interested in trading the malcontent childish receiver. Hey were all for demanding players knock off the cry baby crap, threatening to hold out for the year etc. It's not like Johnson is not being paid well, he is. He can rot while others play the game for all we care, same should have been done with T.O. when he was whining to get out of the deal that had him go to the Ravens to end up in Philly, how well did that work out? Johnson is making enemies and we like the Bengals stand but it must hurt to pass up an offer like that http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net So it's time to release our first 2008 NFL Mock Draft - another will come Friday before the draft. There is lots of intrigue and different scenarios and some trades will factor in of course, but we'll take a look where things are at now. See our 2008 NFL Mock Draft http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The NFL draft is a crapshoot and the 2008 version appears to be a little more than usual. No true #1 pick, some safer picks, some with more upside.... then there is the one constant, the danger of drafting a wide receiver in round one. Rookie receivers usually do not make a big impact, junior wide receivers may be flashy choices but are even more dangerous. This year the name moving up the charts is Devin Thomas... who? He is from Michigan State and a one year wonder. Let's see a junior with only one year of production, runs fast and has good size.. shoot him up the board.... danger! What about a couple receivers who were consider near the top - Mario Manningham and Malcolm Kelly - both juniors and both falling down the boards. Neither ran a quality 40 time, but they have excuses. Those are part of the problem. Manningham lied about failing drug tests in college, then admitted to it and then sounded like an idiot on a national radio show. He clearly doesn't get it, but it appears NFL GM's do and there is little chance he goes in round one now. Kelly didn't run well and blamed his school for changing the surface he was to run on.... you see he had special shoes and everything. Ok this shoe thing is true of everyone now a days (ugh) but to come out and bash the school was an immature and dumb move on his part. Why do people get so caught up on a 40 time of someone on a track with special shoes when they have been preparing to run this drill for months. Are they ever asked to run the 40 without pads and in tracks shoes during a game? Jerry Rice ran a 4.55 40 coming out of college but didn't look that slow when the speedy Redskins corner Darrell Green was chasing him... who really cares. I understand it has some value but it is far too overrated. How many times do receivers run in the 4.3s and then you hear people say that team needs receivers you can stretch the field and their current group isn't getting it done. The 40 speed doesn't make them a deep threat. Even better there have been top track guys playing receiver in the NFL and referred to as more of a possession guy... not saying the assessment was wrong but pointing out they were track stars just a couple years ago... NFL speed is different than track speed. Being fast at one doesn't make you fast at the other, get it? There are plenty of teams needing a receiver and some will reach for one, more will regret than will rejoice and fans will be excited in April and forget their names in October... such is life in the NFL in April http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The Broncos are making some moves ahead of the draft to shore up a need after Brandon Marshall's injury. They have signed former Chiefs WR Samie Parker and former Seahawk and 49ers WR Darrell Jackson to a one year deals and released WR Derrick Hamilton and tight end Chad Upshaw. They also sign a camp leg in punter Danny Baugher. Jackson's addition could be big if he can regain old form. He spent a miserable year in San Francisco last year where he just didn't seem to fit, get open, or care that much. His production did go up at the end of the year as the team played more of a West Coast type of offense so there is hope he will come back to life in Denver http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net So the Dolphins need a QB, Matt Ryan will be selected first in the draft. Wait Chris Long is just Parcell's type of guy... Chris Long will be selected first... now word the Dolphins are negotiating with Michigan tackle Jake Long, who now clearly appears to be the front runner. Long is a very good looking tackle, probably a step below Joe Thomas who went third last year. The draft this year is similar to 2005 where there was no clear #1 choice, no QB worth all the money (is anyone) and no other player who deserved to knock Alex Smith out. The Dolphins are without a doubt looking for someone to sign for less than the usually raise over last year's #1. Quarterbacks have owned the top spot and are usually paid a premium, the Dolphins are looking to remove that premium and may open negotiations with others and see if anyone is willing to sign their name before the draft for a lesser price. We agree with Bill Polian who said things have gotten out of hand with the top picks contracts. The top 5 or 10 immediately become among the highest paid at their position and history shows many will never make it. The agents won't let them sign for less because it makes them look bad, or so they think. The Dolphins will need to find someone and a price they can live with before the draft to avoid a long holdout. Hey Jake you ready to sign http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers got more than a slap on the wrist for the tampering charge put forth by the Bears over Lance Briggs. Supposedly the 49ers were interested in trading for Briggs last year and contacted his agent to discuss a contract extension. However the Bears didn't give them permission to do that and filed charges against the 49ers. This off season when he became a free agent the 49ers showed no interest and neither did anyone else before he resigned with the Bears for $6 million per. The punishment handed down cost the 49ers a 5th round pick and the Bears and 49ers swap spots in the 3rd round (7th and 12th picks). The Bears were not harmed in anyway and got their man back which they didn't think they would, yet they "get" something out of this... not sure we understand that. Granted it's 5 spots in the third round but still and interesting part of the punishment http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers have resigned corner Donald Strickland to a one year deal for $800,000 http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers fans knew this would be an important off season and head coach Mike Nolan's job was not guaranteed to him after the season... Scot McCloughan was promoted to GM and Nolan was stripped of his authority but kept the head coaching job. The news conference announcing it was odd as it seemed to be a major event to which Nolan said he didn't think anything would change... hmnn. At about that time the offensive coordinator job was open and McCloughan said Mike Martz was not a serious candidate, but guess what he got the job. Now in fairness Nolan still had authority to select his own staff, so that one can somewhat pass. However last week McCloughan said he saw newly acquired WR Isaac Bruce and Darrell Jackson as the team's starters at this point... now a week later the 49ers have released Jackson and the statement from the team only has Nolan's voice praising Jackson. To be clear Jackson was a huge disappointment last year and his making the team was far from sure, it leads to an interesting question about who is pulling the strings. Yes the team surprisingly added Bryant Johnson so someone was likely to go and Jackson may have been the right choice considering he is best as a West Coast offense receiver, but the words of last week make it a bit interesting. What else will be interesting to watch is the style Martz uses this year. He has said he will feature Frank Gore, but it has been a while since he has focused on the run. Also he has never had a great tight end, not that Vernon Davis deserves to be called great yet, but he is talented if not a great natural football receiver. The receivers are also the bigger type Nolan would prefer and McCloughan has even said Martz didn't want a certain type it is interesting that none on the roster fit the small quick type most associate with Martz. Of course in looking across the Bay the 49ers appear a perfect organization, but comparing anyone to the Raiders is hardly fair treatment http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers dipped back into free agency to sign former divisional opponent, Cardinals WR Bryant Johnson to a one year deal according to ESPN. Johnson has made some trips around the league but didn't generate the amount of interest most thought he would and he was unable to get the money he wanted. It appears he looked for the best opportunity for playing time and took a one year deal to re-enter free agency next year hoping for a better outcome. In San Francisco he finds his position coach from his rookie year in Jerry Sullivan, who Anquan Boldin credits for his huge rookie year. Add to that Mike Martz is running (throwing) the offense and you know there will be opportunities for the receivers. Johnson becomes another one of the receivers who look like #3 options on most team that will compete for one of the two starting jobs in San Francisco. The 49ers other receivers are Isaac Bruce, Darrell Jackson, Arnaz Battle, Jason Hill and Ashley Lelie. This should take receiver off the top of their list in the draft though a shifty slot receiver in the 3rd or 4th rounds is still a possibility http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers released veteran QB Trent Dilfer. They had hoped he would retire, but he decided against it for the time being so they released him ahead of a $500,000 roster bonus he was due. Dilfer was brought in to help Alex Smith and head coach Mike Nolan thought he could do well if called on to play. Last season that became painfully obvious that he couldn't, his time had passed. Dilfer will likely move into one of the network jobs possibly the NFL Network http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The Bucs keep at free agency adding former 49ers DE Marques Douglas to a 4 year deal. Douglas can play the power end spot in a 4-3 and slide inside to DT especially on passing down. He is 31 years old but coming off a very productive season and gets good penetration to make plays on the other side of the line but is not a big sacks guy http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers are bringing in former Eagles LB Takeo Spikes for a visit Thursday according to the NFL Network. On the surface it doesn't seem like a great fit. Spikes is 31 and has had some injury issues in the last few years, but he is a tough inside linebacker who could fill the ted role next to Patrick Willis. The have already signed Dontarrious Thomas to compete for the spot but it wasn't a big money deal and he could be a valuable backup at all 4 spots as well. Despite the injuries Spikes has still played well when on the field and could be a good veteran addition to a defense in need of it after losing Bryant Young and most likely Marques Douglas as well http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The Bucs have brought a popular player, RB Warrick Dunn has signed a 2 year $6 million deal to return to his first team. Dunn is near the end of a great career but could be energized in Jon Gruden's offense and be a solid role player. The Bucs also signed former 49ers WR Antonio Bryamt to a one year deal for the league minimum. He will get one more chance to prove himself. He has the talent and even more issues to go with it http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The Bears are still looking to improve their situation at wide receiver after the loss of Bernard Berrian to the Vikings. First they signed Marty Booker who is hoping a return to Chicago will help return him to past success. Now they have signed former Redskins and 49ers receiver Brandon Lloyd to a one year deal for the veteran's minimum. The 49ers snookered a couple of draft picks out of the Redskins for Lloyd, but the Redskins compounded the error by giving him a big new contract... after that blew up in their face they released him this year. Lloyd has always been a little too infatuated with himself is hoping a return to Illinois (he went to the University of Illinois when current Bears coordinator Ron Turner was the head coach there) will help him do the same. Don't hold your breath on him making the roster though. While he can make a spectacular catch now and again and get up and let you know about it, the rest of the time he does little as the Redskins so painfully found out http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The Vikings have signed former 49ers RB and kick returner Maurice Hicks to a 3 year deal. Hicks was hoping to find more playing time but will be stuck as the #3 back behind Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net Former 49ers tackle Kwame Harris has agreed to a 3 year $14 million deal that could be worth more than $16 million. Harris is a former first round pick that barely played from scrimmage last year after losing his starting job at right tackle and still comes away with $5 million per in free agency... http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers got their main target in free agency, former Bengals DE Justin Smith. He was scheduled to fly to Minnesota Saturday but the 49ers didn't let him get away, agreeing on a 6 year $45 million deal with $20 million guaranteed http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers have signed former Rams WR Isaac Bruce to a 2 year $6 million deal. The move reunites Bruce with Mike Martz who is the 49ers offensive coordinator now. Bruce had his best years under Martz in St. Louis, and even in his later years (35 years old) he should step in and start for the 49ers (what competition does he really have?). Knowing Martz offense is a big step up and he will be good for the younger receivers as well... not to mention get to see the Rams twice a year. One minor detail to work out, Bruce has worn #80 with the Rams, rumor has that number isn't available in San Francisco http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The Raiders are looking across the Bay at former 49ers tackle Kwame Harris. Like Langston Walker last year who got big bucks, this year the Raiders are on the other end. Harris barely played last year after losing his starting job and now stands to cash in anyways. Harris went to Stanford and would like to stay in the area, the Raiders would be a good fit... he must love the contract they gave Tommy Kelly, as long as they have some left for him http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net With the flurry of activity today, one name not making much noise is Bears LB Lance Briggs. So much for the 49ers having a deal worked out... didn't make sense anyway. Lots of other teams were mentioned but nothing happening yet today http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net ESPN is reporting Bengals DE Justin Smith will first visit the 49ers and then Minnesota... don't count on him leaving San Francisco though. He is clearly the 49ers top target and it's very unlikely they will not get him. The Vikings are looking to make a big splash and have others targeted for their cash as well http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The Bucs are keeping busy trying to set up more visits... Cowboys CB Jacques Reeves, Vikings RB Mewelde Moore, 49ers DT Marques Douglas, and linebackers Demorrio Williams and Niko Koutouvides http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The Vikings are not stopping with Justin Smith, they are also bringing in former Bears receiver Bernard Berrian today. Early guess is they land Berrian quickly and loose Justin Smith to the 49ers http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The Bengals hoped to keep DE Justin Smith, well maybe wished was more like it... the Vikings and 49ers are both after him and which ever team he visits first will make a big push, but odds are he is signed by mid afternoon http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers are off to the free agent races again signing three players in the opening hours of free agency, although this year for much less money. Former Panthers RB DeShaun Foster was a done deal a couple of days ago get a 2 year deal to back up Frank Gore. Quick negotiating also landed them QB J.T. O'Sullivan who is familiar with Mike Martz offense and Vikings linebacker Dontarrious Thomas, a quick and agile player to pair with Patrick WIllis inside in their 3-4 http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net It didn't take long for the Dolphins to make the first move of free agency as about an hour into Friday they agreed with former 49ers guard Justin Smiley on a 5 year $25 million deal with $9 million guaranteed. Smiley is an athletic guard who will step in and improve the Dolphins line. He was coming off a down year that ended on the IR with a torn labrum, but he should be ready for camp http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers are keeping busy with their own players, today extending the contract of RB Michael Robinson for three years keeping him with the team through 2012. They also exercised a buyback clause in QB Alex Smith's contract that keeps him with the team through 2010. Robinson is a versatile back and a good team player. The former Penn State QB, RB and WR is just a running back now but also a special teams standout http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The Rams made the tough decision today to part ways with veteran WR Isaac Bruce, one of the most prolific receiver in NFL history. Bruce was owed a $2 million dollar roster bonus and the teams couldn't agree on new terms. If you want to place a bet on where he will land... take the 49ers and very quickly at that. New coordinator Mike Martz would certainly love to bring him aboard and you'd have to think Bruce would like that and the opportunity to play the Rams twice a year. The Rams also released QB Gus Frerotte http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The Bears last offer to about to be free agent WR Bernard Berrian was 5 years and $25 million with $8 guaranteed according to the Sun Times. Could have told them that won't get it done. He won't sign for under $6 million per year (pushing $7) and over $10 million guaranteed. Deion Branch got 6 years and $39 million with $23 million in the first three years last year... there is the target http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net ESPN is reporting Isaac Sopoaga's deal as $20 million over 5 years. That is the market price and a fair number for an emerging player. The 49ers did good to get him signed http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers have re-signed their top free agent, Isaac Sopoaga who can play end or nose tackle in their 34 front. The deal is for 5 years according to reports out of the Bay area. Sopoaga finally started to bloom last year and agile 325+ lbs lineman don't grow on trees. The deal will be more than he deserves but welcome to free agency http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net Can you hear the chuckle coming from San Francisco? The Redskins today released WR Brandon Lloyd who caught 25 balls in 2 years with the team. The 49ers suckered them for a 4th pick for Lloyd who made some acrobatic catches in San Francisco but was trouble just waiting to happen. The Redskins not only gave up the draft pick but gave him a huge new contract with $10 million guaranteed. Think they will do better this year? Last year they dumped Adam Archuleta off after giving him a ridiculous contract http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The Titans should be rather active in free agency, first trying to keep their defenders and adding play makers on offense. Donte' Stallworth and Michael Turner were discussed last year and could be targeted. Two lesser names to watch though are Cardinals WR Bryant Johnson and 49ers RB Maurice Hicks http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers resigned one dimensional pass rusher Roderick Green today. He is the definition of the sad state of their pass rush. The team cut him in the preseason and was forced to bring him back. He is no star and with the premium every single team places on edge rushers, no one bothered to call him after he was cut and the 49ers brought him back in November... now excitement he is re-signed.. any fan better hope he doesn't make the roster (for the reason they got better at the position). Not that there are great options, a rookie wouldn't make a big impact and Calvin Pace and Roosevelt Colvin who is being released by the Patriots would be the best 3-4 edge rushers available. Pace will get big money he may not deserve... that's the problem chasing a huge need in a small pool of candidates http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net Free agency is almost here... will the 49ers go crazy again? Rumors have them after Lance Briggs, Justin Smith, DeShaun Foster and Bernard Berrian which if any are true. The Briggs rumors is interesting as it appears they looked into him last year in a trade just as the year before with Nate Clements but yet it makes no sense. He would play inside in their 3-4 and would be too expensive for the spot, have to wait an see. Smith is another odd fit, a 4-3 end his whole career, he is small to play end in a 3-4 and has never stood up as a linebacker and do you want to pay someone $8 million a year to do something they never did before? Also he was third on the team in tackles but had just 2 measly little sacks! Berrian would be a good fit, but he is certainly going to be overpaid. The problem for the 49ers may just be there are no great options for them in free agency. They will likely lose Isaac Sopoaga and need to focus on the d'line and a pass rusher along with a receiver http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The San Diego Chargers have signed former 49ers LB Derek Smith to a 2 year contract http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net Wide receiver Shaun McDonald may follow Mike Martz from Detroit to San Francisco. According to the Chicago Tribune, the Lions are looking to trade him. Therefore the obvious connection to the 49ers who need receivers and ones who fit Martz's offense http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The San Francisco 49ers have released LB Derek Smith. He used to be the leading tackler each year but age and injuries have caught up to him. After an eye injury in 2006 he was healthy last year but was really just a first down player now and even then his play had slipped http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers have a difficult decision facing them with Isaac Sopoaga who will be a free agent in a couple of weeks. He could be the best available defensive tackle when free agency starts. The Titans will franchise Albert Haynesworth and the Packers may do the same with Corey WIlliams if they don't work out a deal soon. That would leave Sopoaga near the top of the list. BUT he wasn't even a starter last year or any year. He is an immense talent and started to show what he could do last year, but that doesn't really show on the stat sheet. Still it wouldn't surprise us to see him get $5+ million from another team. He is valuable to the 49ers as he can play end or nose in their 3-4, but do they want to put that much money into him. They won't find any other free agents much cheaper and with Bryant Young retiring and their other starting end a free agent as well, how much youth do they want? Would a 5 year $23 million deal get it done? Would the 49ers pay that? Can they afford not to? Oh how they wish they had the foresight last summer to lock him up for maybe $2.5 million per, then again he hadn't shown he was worth even that then http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net Ah yes tax time is near and the pain of seeing how much money we fork over to cause deep pain in our stomachs. Then of course there is all the good that comes from it, such as members of congress spending the day listening to the he said she said of Roger Clemens and Brian McNamee (don't forget Andy Pettitte too) and now a new wonderful word "Nannygate", ugh what has this world come to? Add to that Arlen Specter grilling NFL commissioner Roger Goodell over the spygate issue, threatening congressional hearings and the league's antitrust exemption. Do these blowhard's not have anything better to do with their days??? Do we not have any serious issues to be tackled in this great country that we have time to bicker and seek headlines with this crap? Hey guys call me when you fix the economy, health care, homelessness in this rich country and a list longer than.... then we can get around to which retired baseball players did what. Other than Barry Bonds the rest of this is ridiculous and makes me not want to pay attention to the sports we all love so much. This country has become addicted to soap opera's and reality crap where everyone wants their 15 minutes. It's not like this is all brand new, the Steelers of the 70s admittedly used steroids and they certainly were not alone but no one is calling to take back their Super Bowl wins. Lester Hayes is probably my favorite corner of all time, but he reported used something to help him get a better grip. Can we all just move on and focus on trying to fix things rather than going over the top about the past. Either way Roger was dominant, the Patriots were superior and as much as it pains us Bonds was a Hall of Famer before they all crossed the line http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers have resigned QB Shaun Hill to a 3 year $6 million deal which will allow him to compete with former #1 pick Alex Smith for the starting job in Mike Martz's new offense. Hill came from nowhere last year and was very impressive down the stretch. That isn't enough to erase 6 years as a #3 QB but it will get him a shot and he reminds some of Marc Bulger http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers have signed QB Shaun Hill to a 3 year contract extension according to Matt Maiocco of the Press Democrat. The deal is worth about $2 million per year and more if Hill unseats Alex Smith as the starter. Hill finished the year strong and is similar to Marc Bulger who new coordinator Mike Martz took off the scrap heap and turned into a star http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net According to the Cincinnati Enquirer the Bengals will not be trading Ocho Cinco, otherwise known as Chad Johnson this off season. Many rumors have flown and Johnson has helped them along, but according to the head coach he is staying put. That doesn't guarantee it, so wait and see http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net Colts assistant head coach and QB coach Jim Caldwell is a popular man right now. He has been a target of all the head coach openings with the exception of Miami. However his most likely chance at a head coaching gig is in Indy. Either after this year or next Tony Dungy is likely to retire and Cadwell would be the most likely replacement. The Rooney rule requires teams to interview at least one minority coach before hiring, has done a lot of good to be sure. It is certainly getting Caldwell's name out there, but it won't likely land him a job. Last year 49ers assistant head coach Mike Singletary was a hot candidate and was at that time said to be very impressive, but he hasn't gotten so much as a nibble this year. Continuing the interesting way "hot" candidates come and go look at Jim Schwartz, who nearly landed the job with the 49ers that went to Mike Nolan and then was untouched for two years and now is hot again. The same thing happened to current Packers head man Mike McCarrthy, who while the Saints offensive coordinator was a hot name only to disappear for a few years and then surprisingly landed the Packers job and look what he has done there. It is interesting how this all works, not necessarily smart but interesting http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net WOW now here is a shocker, the 49ers have hired Mike Martz as their new offensive coordinator! Mike Nolan must have gone mad, or be desperate to energize his offense. Martz is a great offensive mind, but he hardly meshes with Mike Nolan's conservative grind it out approach. The team also does not have the type of players to really make his system work. It is one of the more surprising moves in a while, maybe since Rod Marinelli hired him 2 years ago. Marinelli was much the same but needed a strong offensive coach, that didn't work too well in Detroit. Well one thing for sure the 49ers offense won't be boring next year. Martz will get to go against his former team the Rams twice a year as well which should make those games interesting http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net In what has to be a courtesy or cover all your bases move 49ers coach Mike Nolan today will interview former Lions offensive coordinator and Rams head coach Mike Martz for the open offensive coordinator spot. Martz seems so wrong for the job it leads many to wonder about the interview. SOme speculate that Nolan who shares the same agent is doing it as a favor to Martz who doesn't seem to be in demand right now. Martz doesn't fit Nolan's style or the team's personnel and is more than a long shot for the job http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers will interview former Georgia Tech head coach Chan Gailey who was fired after this past season for the offensive coordinator job according to Matt Maiocco. Gailey has the reputation of a good offensive mind but not always the results to back it up. Brian Billick may take a year off and Mike Martz isn't a possibility despite Nolan throwing his name out there. This leaves Gailey and Cam Cameron as the obvious choices, but Cameron may take his time in deciding where to go next. Bengals QB coach Ken Zampese was Nolan's choice last year after Norv Turner left, but the Bengals wouldn't allow him to interview for the spot at that time http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net 49ers LB Patrick Willis has been named the defensive rookie of the year with 48 of the possible 50 votes. Panthers LB Jon Beason got the other 2 votes. Willis led the league in tackles with 174 and was a bright spot in an otherwise dismal year for the 49ers http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The ax has fallen again in Miami, head coach Cam Cameron and nearly his whole staff have been fired. The only ones kept are assistant special teams coach Steve Hoffman and linebackers coach George Edwards. Cameron was a hot candidate last year after being the offensive coordinator in San Diego, but didn't find success with the Dolphins who flirted with another kind of record while the Patriots were going after the perfect season, the Dolphins near to the exact opposite. Something had to give and that means Cameron is gone after just one year. He will be a sought after coordinator very quickly, teams like the Chiefs and 49ers may have already called. For the Dolphins this allows Bill Parcells, er Jeff Ireland to select a coach they feel can lead them back and there is a long list of coaches that have worked with Bill that will get attention http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net It was a bad report in the first place but it made the rounds, now CBS Sportsline is reporting that Martz has said he 99% sure it isn't going to happen as his agent (who is also Mike Nolan's agent) told him they are no longer interested. Sometimes there is too much reaching for an idea and it spreads like a wildfire without enough people thinking it through. It would have been a horrible decision for the 49ers who need to get it right. The hardest part for the 49ers is getting someone who won't be a head coach again in a year. Most everyone thought Norv Turner wasn't going to get another shot, especially that fast. One year later there was not only one but two teams after him. Dolphins head coach Cam Cameron would be a good choice if he is fired, but a good year and he may get a shot again, we would doubt it but... Martz is heading home now and isn't sure where he'll wind up. His style makes it hard to find a good place. Not that he'd fit with the head coach, but the Chiefs are looking for a new coordinator. Former coordinator Al Saunders ran a similar offense before he left. Wow would that be hard to see, he and Herm Edwards http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net It is finally official Mike Nolan will be back as the head coach of the 49ers. Scot McCloughan has been promoted to be the GM taking over final say from Mike Nolan. It's hard to say if this is good or bad but after looking at it for a bit we'll go with it as a positive. It's hard to start over with a new coach. Nolan can be a good coach but he seemed to become to hardened this year. Now if he focuses just on the coaching and knows he has a boss over him a bit maybe along with a strong and experienced offensive coordinator he can become what he looked like after year two http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net A huge shocker in the offensive rookie of the year voting... Vikings RB Adrian Peterson won! Oh wait we kind of knew that midseason. The next big shock comes when the 49ers LB Patrick Willis wins the defensive rookie of the year. The Lions Calvin Johnson was widely assumed to have won the award on draft day, but never count out the running backs who touch the ball more. Peterson was explosive and has the Vikings excited about the future. Now if they can just find a QB to go with him. Browns left tackle Joe Thomas received 3.5 votes of the 50 with the rest going to Peterson http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net Yahoo Sports reported it first and now seems everyone is agreeing that Mike Nolan will stay on as the head coach of the 49ers but will lose his final authority over the team. Will have to see how he handles as the report mentions the way he reminded everyone he was in control. Maybe this will be a good thing for him. He needs to work on his coaching abilities and quit enforcing his way... and learn how to handle 4th downs. Now if Mike Martz would be hired it would really show he had been put in his place and was willing to do anything to stay on http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The rumors continue about Mike Martz to San Francisco as the offensive coordinator... can't imagine this happening. The 49ers need an established coordinator but he should be a last choice. Mike Nolan may come or go, if he stays it would not be a good situation with both he and Martz together. Also do they want a coordinator like him who may well jump to a head coach opening after a year and then would force them to have 5 coordinators in 5 years. They need experience but also someone to stay a few years http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net I guess people are better than we thought. Fans talking on more than a few sites are excited at the possibility of Brian Billick coming and in and fixing their woeful offenses... based on what his work in Minnesota 10 years ago. For 9 years he served over a bad offense and survived only by the defense. Not sure where he lands or what title, but I'd be nervous as a fan of that team http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net It doesn't look good for Mike Nolan, the 49ers head coach for the moment. His end of year press conference for today was cancelled and he his meeting with John and Jed York. That doesn't bode well for him http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net There is a tight feel in 49er land. Reports are going both ways about head coach Mike Nolan. He has not produced on the field, has a huge rift with the "franchise" quarterback that seems mostly of his doing. Nolan is a guy you want to pull for, but he is overly stubborn and seems to have become too much of a dictatorial type coach. He certainly will lose his GM powers, rightfully so and personnel man Scot McCloughan is expected to land that position. So will he stay or will he go... but we believe he has backed himself into a corner and caused his own demise. He certainly hasn't had an easy tenure. How does a team with a 16-32 record over three years each of the first two years see their offensive coordinator get a head coaching job. This year Mike Singletary seems destine for a head gig as well. Throw the death of Thomas Herrion in the locker room during the preseason of his first year and the death of his father this year. Still he hasn't handled the situations well, and doesn't seem to grasp game management either. Better luck next time http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The Atlanta Falcons have named secondary coach Emmitt Thomas as the interim head coach. Thomas has gotten some attention in the past as a head coach candidate and maybe this will help bolster his future. A good selection though not the expected one. Arthur Blank needs to hire the right person this time. Bill Cowher will certainly get a call as will Mike Singletary who was close last year. Whoever he selects better come with NFL experience and the ability to command respect. Singletary is getting a lot of talk early, but with a huge rebuilding project it may be a difficult task for him and we may wish better for such a classy guy. Cowher would get to stay somewhat close to home and Blank can certainly afford him, that might create the easy call http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net Seems things just keep getting worse in San Francisco, now the feud between QB Alex Smith and head coach Mike Nolan has grown to a much uglier level and many are wondering which one or if either will be back next year. They both will be! Nolan has not handled the year right in many ways, but Smith didn't help matters either. It has been a rough year and certainly some heads will roll in the off season, but these two won't be a part of it. The York family will bring Nolan back, possibly with a new G.M. clipping his wings, not sure about that idea as it usually leads to the coach leaving soon after. There have been some personnel misses for sure but the bigger question is what happened to the good players from last year. The bad penalties also need to be corrected. The offensive coaching staff will see some turnover and Nolan needs to get those selections right. Next year the expectations will be down and they will have to exceed 2006 and make the playoffs and not have any more of the embarrassing non-competitive games http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The NFL suffered a tragedy with the loss of Redskins safety Sean Taylor who was shot in his home during a suspected buglary, he was 24 years old. We extend our sympathy to Sean's family, friends and teammates http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net I swear watching the Patriots these days is like watching some kid playing Madden 08. To say that they are playing on another level than every other team is an understatement. Oh and good thing the NFL moved this game to NBC in prime time as it was much more competitive than the Seahawks 30-23 win over the Bears. And to think they lost their own first round pick next year but as a compensation they get the 49ers pick, which is most likely going to be a top five pick. Without the Dolphins futility it could even be #1, wow that's good because they certainly need the help, ugh for everyone else http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net It just keeps getting worse in San Francisco, so many empty seats is embarrassing! Can you blame them though. Trent Dilfer actually played alright though and they could have won the game in the end... against the lowly Rams that is but they didn't http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net It has gotten messy in San Francisco, QB Alex Smith and head coach Mike Nolan are not communicating that well and there are questions floating around if either of them is pat of the future. Everyone is quick to label someone a bust. I don't think Smith qualifies yet. Not many quarterbacks would flourish with three different coordinators in three years and the lack of talent he has had over that time. The worst part is he will likely have his 4th new coordinator this year and as bad as Jim Hostler has been you could make an argument for him to stay just for the stability, but don't count on it. Bringing Darrell Jackson over from Seattle brought the Seahawks curse of dropping balls. The 49ers lead the league in drops so you can't place it all on Smith who is still sore from the pounding he absorbed earlier in the year when the line was faltering. The coaches seem to listen to the fans who called them conservative earlier in the year and now don't simply pound Frank Gore like they did last year for fear of being conservative... just messy http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers wanted to focus on TE Vernon Davis in the passing game, but after a sprained knee Sunday he will likely miss 2 games and then return after the 49ers bye week. It will be a tough loss as Davis provide a big mismatch in the passing game and is a solid blocker, which will certainly affect the two tight end sets and not make it any easier for Frank Gore to get started running the ball this year http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net Seahawks RB Shaun Alexander has a small crack of a bone in his wrist but will make the start this Sunday against the 49ers. He will have a protective cast on the hand and hope it heels just as quickly http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net There is a lot of concern from the 49ers in regards to TE Vernon Davis' knee injury. He took a hard shot in the 4th quarter Sunday and left the game. The 49ers lost Manny Lawson to an ACL tear last week in practice, any lengthy loss of Davis would seriously hurt an offense that hasn't been spectacular with him. Davis will have an MRI tomorrow http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net Hannibal Navies was the primary replacement for Mann Lawson and played solidly, getting a sack, forced fumble and recovered it, while being solid in coverage http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The Steelers have kept new head coach perfect on the year with a 37-16 win over the 49ers. It was a close game until the end, 17-9 after 3 quarters before they ran away in the 4th, the Steelers very ver solid and look to be in the upper class of the AFC for sure. The 49ers let it get out of hand in the hand but played well threw 3 and showed they are not as conservative as many were saying. They will compete in the NFC West but need to get Frank Gore going. He just 39 yards on the ground while Fast Willie Parker got 133. The Steelers got a big boost from kick returner Allen Rossum who returned their first kick 98 yards for a TD which was the difference early. The 49ers were able to move down the field but the Steelers defense held them to three field goals through the third quarter. The 49ers are hoping the knee injury to TE Vernon Davis isn't serious, he went out late after taking a hard shot after what should have been a first goal for the 49ers but a strange reversal after review called the pass incomplete, looked for sure like he made the catch and was down. The 49ers ended the drive with a field goal. A loss of Davis would be a serious blow to the offense that finally showed some life http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers took a major hit today when they learning OLB Manny Lawson tore his ACL yesterday in practice. Lawson was making excellent strides in his 2nd year. He has excellent speed and while the 49ers starting unit looks good, they are not loaded with great depth yet. Parys Haralson and Hannibal Navies are the other two outside backers on the roster, but it wouldn't be a surprise to see Brandon Moore at least get some work in practice. The 49ers tried outside last year but decided he was better suited inside and he ended up being the weak side linebacker in their 4-3 midway through the season. He brought a toughness to the defense and he and Keith Lewis were a big spark down the stretch. He is a good pass rusher and should get some more work than the 3rd down rush end he has been the past 2 games http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net 49ers offensive coordinator Jim Hostler and head coach Mike Nolan are taking plenty of heat from the fans over the conservative approach on offense. Nolan has pointed out they have taken chance that haven't worked out. Two key ones fans should take note of, both by WR Darrell Jackson. He was known in Seattle as being part of a group of receivers who dropped more passes than anyone else. The 49ers knew this but traded for the only legitimate #1 receiver available. He is a good receiver but will drop more passes than most, and they have hurt the 49ers in the first two weeks. Add to that an offensive line that hasn't been nearly as good as last season. The 49ers are looking to give David Baas a chance. Most thought it would be in replacing right guard Justin Smiley but it might be for center Eric Heitmann who has had two rough games to start the year http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers sit atop the NFC West, and got their sending the Rams to 0-2 and the bottom of the division. It was another incredibly ugly win, but to Mike Nolan a win is a win. Good point, but you won't keep winning that ugly, guaranteed. The Rams out-gained them 392 to 186 yards. Yes that's right for the second straight week the 49ers won while gaining less than 200 yards. Frank Gore was well contained minus a 43 yard TD run on 4th and 1. The Rams couldn't get Stephan Jackson going again as he finished with just 60 yards on 21 attempts, but Marc Bulger threw for 368 yards but was beaten up throughout the day. He was sacked 6 times and hit numerous others. Still the 49ers defense clamped down when they needed and got two key turnovers, one from Tory Holt as the ball was punched out of his grasp and went through the end zone for a touchback and then the killer a Dante Hall muffed punt late in the game. The 49ers made no effort to get a first down, just ran three times and took the field goal and the defense held on for the win http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers won and should be happy about it. They should be thrilled they kept their focus and won it in the end. BUT they need to be concerned about the offense. The line was suppose to be a strength, but the constant pressure on Alex Smith and lack of running lanes would say otherwise. The Cardinals have had the 49ers and Frank Gore's number, but they need to improve before next Sunday. Oh and while Darrell Jackson is a solid receiver, he was also constantly dogged in Seattle for dropping balls http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net Two up and coming teams met to close out week one and lucky for NFL fans on the East Coast it was such a late start, the game was a sleeper too. Ok you have to give both defenses credit for great play but the offenses were just horrible. Cardinals LB Karlos Dansby and 49ers LB Patrick Willis each had 11 tackles and were everywhere. Neither QB could move the ball and was usually under solid pressure. The 49ers penalties, even questionable ones helped the Cardinals have a chance, but Alex Smith finally showed up with 3 minutes to go and led a long drive for the win http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The Redskins won on a late field goal but may be without starting right tackle Jon Jansen for the rest of the year after he suffered a serious ankle injury and get this was replaced by a rookie free agent. Think the Skins are searching for a replacement. With the Redskins trade history it doesn't take long to find a suitable team, the 49ers have former starter Kwame Harris on the bench and he may not even dress for tonight's game. The Redskins and 49ers have made 3 trades in the past couple of years and the 49ers will be happy if they come calling again willing to overpay with draft picks http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers now have both their first round picks in the starting lineup as right tackle Joe Staley has won the spot over Kwame Harris. Their other first round pick ILB Patrick Willis got the starting nod last week http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net Oh the comedy that surrounds the Michael Vick drama. Today he said he needs to grow up (not that we believe him but...) maybe others should take his advice. Look we have said it before there is plenty of unfortunate racial issues that still exist today, however the Michael Vick case isn't one of them. Some fool on ESPN today said the media focuses on black crime and over covers the black athletes when they do something wrong. When asked to compare it to a white athlete that didn't get hammered he pick former 49ers QB Joe Montana and said when he refused to attend the Super Bowl halftime show because he wanted more money, the press let him get away with it in a manner of speaking, but with black athletes and Michael Vick they don't. Excuse me how stupid is he? The Super Bowl halftime and Michal Vick, which one is a news story? Wow and even worse ESPN selected him to be on the air, next time pick the fools a bit better maybe. As for the crap about should he return to the NFL... he is going to jail. Can't we wait until he gets out and it actually matters? The judge controls his fate, maybe 1 year maybe more. Until then and he is released it doesn't matter so let it go and enjoy this year please http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net RB Kevan Barlow may be on borrowed time. He was released by his hometown team, the Steelers, as they made their cuts down to 75 man limit. Barlow was a third round pick of the 49ers in 2003 and in his third year rushed for over 1,000 in part time duty and looked to be the successor to Garrison Hearst. However Barlow despite being a big back was a soft runner who rarely broke the first tackler and danced too much behind the line. The 49ers suckered a 4th round pick from the Jets last year for him and he was cut after the first year there. Strangely the Steelers signed him hoping he could be their powerful compliment to Willie Parker, what were they thinking. They cut their losses early http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers looked down right miserable against the NFC Champs sowing they still have a long ways to go. There were some small positives for the team, but not many and plenty of glaring problems. Tackling is still a surprising issue as is the utter lack of pass rush. Backup NT Isaac Sopoaga was very impressive though http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The Bears continued there impressive win streak against the 49ers, not in length but impressive fashion. The Bears dominated what ended up as a close score at the end. The 49ers first unit was incompetent in the first half and the defense wasn't much better. So the Bears by comparison looked very good though Rex Grossamn fumbled another snap and threw an interception that was returned for a touchdown http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net Here is a great article by Fox Sports' John Czarnecki about how the NFL rookie are being paid way too much. "It doesn't make sense that LaRon Landry is the highest paid safety in the game," Cowboys executive Stephen Jones told me. "And that Joe Thomas (Cleveland's top pick) has a better deal than Tom Brady. For example, Chiefs running back Larry Johnson signed yesterday for less guaranteed money than what Johnson and Thomas collected, and only a moron would say those rookies deserve more than one of the NFL's best running backs... we're right there with you John, good work http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The San Francisco 49ers have announced that first round pick LB Patrick Willis will move into the starting line, and is expected to spend the next 10+ years in that role. Willis moves into Derek Smith's spot, but Smith isn't going to the bench. Rather he just slides over one spot and last year's top tackler Brandon Moore will head to the bench. Moore was the spark plug for the defense last year but hasn't been at top form this year in camp. Moore is still one of the rush ends in nickel situations and will have an impact http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net Last year the Packers signed former Seahawks safety Marquand Manuel to replace Mark Roman who was released during camp. Now the team has accepted their mistake as Atari Bigby has taken over his place in the starting lineup. Manuel was a disappointment from the start. Roman quickly got a starting job with the 49ers and since has signed a contract extension to stay there http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net So the Chiefs get their top pick signed and then lose their top free agent addition... OLT Damion McIntosh went down with a sprained knee Tuesday and the team fears he tore his ACL which would end his season. The Chiefs line was a concern before and now they may need to look to trade for some help. Will Svitek replaced him on Tuesday and Kyle Turley could be an option but he couldn't cut it last year. He isn't the player he was before with the Rams and is more a right tackle anyway. A left tackle will be very hard to find, one name to watch is Kwame Harris of the 49ers. He is their starting right tackle but has played on the left side before. A strong run blocker, but a liability in pass protection, the 49ers would be open to a trade after taking Joe Staley in the first round of the draft http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The San Francisco 49ers suffered a huge loss Monday morning... by huge we mean 340 lbs worth. Nose tackle Aubrayo Franklin, a key free agent pickup suffered a sprained knee and will miss the entire pre-season but is expected to be ready to start the season. Isaac Sopoaga will step in to replace him for the time being. Sopoaga is incredibly strong but not a natural football player and a definite drop off from Franklin. Defensive end Ron Fields and rookie Joe Cohen will compete at the spot as well http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net In their first padded practice the 49ers lost RB Frank Gore to a broken hand. He will miss a week of practice and possibly all the pre-season games but will be ready to start the season. It won't help the team find a rhythm in the pre-season but will save some wear and tear on his body. With Gore the bigger injury concern was his knees which both suffered torn ACL's in college. Michael Robinson will now get a chance to show if he is ready to be a primary backup. Maurice Hicks and rookie Thomas Clayton will see more time as well http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The NFL and the 49ers lost a legend today with the passing of former coach Bill Walsh. He died after long battle with leukemia, he was 75 years old. Walsh won three Super Bowl's with the 49ers and invented the "West Coast offense" has that has become a staple of the NFL. Our condolences to his friends and family http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers have signed their final draft pick #11 overall, LB Patrick Willis to a 5 year deal that maxes out at $16.7 million and gas $12 million guaranteed according to ESPN. Willis was the first of two first round selections and will compete with Derek Smith for a starting spot in the 49ers 3-4 defense. Head coach Mike Nolan has said he will "start" in their nickel defense... hmnn didn't know that was a starting job but nice for the rookie. Then again in the NFL West the nickel package may start most of those games. Willis will be on the field quite a bit either way and along with last year's first round linebacker Manny Lawson the 49ers are looking to build the foundation of their defense for years to come http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The San Francisco 49ers have signed 3rd round pick Jason Hill to a 4 year deal according to the San Jose Mercury News. Hill has great speed and will push for playing time, but that is expected to to be minimal this year as he picks up the NFL game http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers have claimed safety Darnell Bing off waivers from the Raiders. Bing was their 4th round pick last year and spent the season on IR before being cut on the eve of camp this year. Bing is a big aggressive safety, something the 49ers covet and have some depth at already. Mike Nolan is always looking for competition and Bing should bring some to camp http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers have signed 6th round pick Thomas Clayton, who will compete for the number 3 spot at running back for the team. Michael Robinson is expected to be the primary backup and Maurice Hicks is after his spot and hopefully to maintain the third spot otherwise http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net According to Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee 49ers guard and future Hall of Famer Larry Allen may be considering retirement. Allen has not taken part in any off season workouts. He has played 14 years and is assured of a first ballot trip to Canton. In his absence Adam Snyder has been getting a lot of work this spring and would likely take over http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net A day after the 49ers added depth to their defensive line signing Sam Rayburn to a one year deal they lost second year DE Melvin Oliver to a torn ACL. The injury occurred yesterday but wasn't thought to be serious. The 49ers still have adequate depth for their 3-4 defense with Rayburn stepping right in for Oliver, who was a sixth round pick last year and starter 14 games playing solid against the run http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The Chiefs have signed former 49ers safety Chad Williams to a two year contract. Williams is a solid in the box reserve safety who has a good feel for blitzing but will never challenge for a starting role http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers added more depth to their defensive line signing former Eagle DT Sam Rayburn to a one year deal according to the Santa Rosa Press Democrat. The deal is for the veteran's minimum and in their 3-4 he will backup at both end and possibly nose tackle. The 49ers tried to get Rayburn years ago when they traded Terrell Owens to the Eagles. It was thought then he would be a good fit in the 3-4 defense that then head coach Dennis Erickson wanted to run http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers had a glaring weeakness at receiver last year and despite addressing it in the off season the reports from the OTA's show Arnaz Battle and Bryan Gilmore lining up as the starters with Darrell Jackson and Ashley Lelie both sidelined with injuries. Jackson will certainly have one starting job, but rookie Jason Hill is impressing so far. That said a third round pick starting at receiver isn't likely to happen. Then again neither is Ashley Lelie being a starter... where did they get that idea? There is a better shot he doesn't make the team than he is the opening day starter. Look for Battle to be there with Jackson to start the season. Hill will be involved but rookie receivers rarely make a major impact right away http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The 49ers added depth to a number of positions on day two of the draft. Nebraska DE Jay Moore will be moved to linebacker, Florida DT Joe Cohen will compete to backup at nose tackle and could also play end but may be a bit of a project. Their last two picks were surprising in that they were character risks and Mike Nolan is a big character guy. However both players dropped quite far based on their talent and if they straighten out will be great picks. If not they will be cut quickly http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net The San Francisco 49ers now have a #1 receiver in former Seahawk Darrell Jackson. The 49ers sent a 4th rounder, #124 overall for him. This is a great move for the 49ers who were desperate for a top receiver and got a rare in division trade to get one http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2 PFInsider.net Still a 50-50 chance of Seahawks WR Darrell Jackson going to San Francisco for a 4th round pick. He passed his physical but the Seahawks haven~t agreed to the trade yet http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=2