San Francisco 49ers coach Mike Singletary said last month Alex Smith would be his starting quarterback for the 2010 season.

And while the team’s stance remains unchanged, Smith is going to have to play well to keep the job.

The 49ers signed veteran free-agent David Carr to a contract very similar to the one Smith signed last season to remain with the 49ers. Smith signed a two-year, $6.5 million deal, while Carr’s contract is two years, $6.25 million.

The 49ers are not saying there will be a quarterback competition, but the club no longer has to press the issue with Smith and force him into the starting lineup.

The 49ers must put the better player on the field. And while there will be no quarterback competition, if Carr proves to the coaching staff that he is…

Warning: array_keys() [function.array-keys]: The first argument should be an array in /home/seasport/public_html/wp-content/plugins/simple-tags/inc/client.php on line 1310

Warning: shuffle() expects parameter 1 to be array, null given in /home/seasport/public_html/wp-content/plugins/simple-tags/inc/client.php on line 1311

Warning: Invalid argument supplied for foreach() in /home/seasport/public_html/wp-content/plugins/simple-tags/inc/client.php on line 1312

The first week of NFL free agency is already in the books.

Numerous teams have already made significant upgrades at positions of need.

Unfortunately, the San Francisco 49ers are not one of them.

Despite having multiple starting positions in need of an upgrade, the 49ers have made only one minor signing so far this season. By signing quarterback David Carr to backup Alex Smith, San Francisco’s lone free agent pickup thus far has come at a position that’s quite low on the needs list.

In fact, quarterback wasn’t really a need at all considering the direction the 49ers are heading in, with continuity being of the utmost importance.

Now fans and analysts may argue the order of the top four biggest needs for the 49ers, but there really is no arguing against what they are .

In any given order, the 49ers need to upgrade in the following areas:

1. Pass rush

2. Offensive line

3. Secondary

4. Return game

Granted, the 49ers have two first-round draft choices in the upcoming NFL draft, but by addressing some of their needs in free agency, the team would then be able to narrow the list of positional needs in the draft.

For example, there are various NFL “mock drafts” that have the 49ers taking two offensive lineman in the first round, as well as some that have them addressing the return game and pass rush with those picks.

With varying opinions from both fans and experts alike on how the 49ers should utilize their two first-round picks, it is clear that the 49ers need a handful of positional upgrades.

In order for the 49ers to become stronger come draft day, they should look to address some of the areas of need in free agency.

The pass rush, offensive line, and secondary should all be upgraded in one way or another through free agency.

First of all, the pass rush can be significantly upgraded on the cheap. Just recently, the incredibly flamboyant but immensely talented pass rushing outside linebacker, Joey Porter was released by the Miami Dolphins.

Soon to be 33, Porter’s age and brash style will probably prohibit the four-time Pro Bowler from getting a long-term deal.

By adding Porter to the mix, San Francisco would bolster a pass rush that has been incredibly mediocre over the last few seasons, and signing him isn’t likely to break the bank.

Upgrading the secondary can be done by going after veteran free agent safety, Darren Sharper, to fill in at free safety while then moving the up-and-coming Dashon Goldson over to strong safety.

Sharper may be turning 35 next season, but he still tied a career high with nine interceptions last year, helping the Saints to their first ever Super Bowl victory.

Clearly, a Sharper-Goldson combo would be a much better duo than a Goldson, and concussion prone, Michael Lewis tandem. Sharper would be a great veteran presence on an otherwise young 49er defense, and at his age, he won’t require a lengthy contract.

As for the offensive line, names such as Langston Walker, Levi Jones, Mike Gandy, and Damion McIntosh are all free agent tackles that could fill in the gap the 49ers currently have at right tackle.

Of course, the 49ers would need to proceed with caution before signing Jones if they also plan on signing Joey Porter at outside linebacker. These two have some severe issues with one another going back to the days when Porter played for the Steelers, and Jones was on the Bengals.

Either way, whether the 49ers want to go after Jones or another free agent tackle, there are a number of talented stop-gaps available to play opposite Joe Staley that shouldn’t require more than one-year deals.

If the 49ers were able to pickup a safety, pass rusher, and offensive tackle in free agency, that would give them much more flexibility with their first-round draft choices.

Taking Clemson running back C. J. Spiller at No. 13 overall would be a much wiser move if the 49ers were to have added an offensive tackle in free agency.

Spiller would be a great fit in the return game—an area where the 49ers desperately need to improve—and he could also suffice as an ideal change of pace back for Frank Gore.

Four picks later, the 49ers would then have the luxury of being able to go in many different directions.

Essentially, at pick No.17, the 49ers could take the best player available. They could still take the best tackle on the board to add depth to the offensive line, or they could also look to draft an offensive guard (perhaps Mike Iupati, if available). Even inside linebacker Rolando McClain (if he falls) could be an option at this point in the draft.

However, if the 49ers don’t add quality players at their positions of need via free agency, they will limit what they can do with their first-round draft choices.

San Francisco will almost assuredly have to take an offensive tackle with one of their first-round selections, and improving either the secondary or pass rush will end up being more critical than drafting a return specialist. Therefore, the 49ers would probably have to pass up on drafting the explosive C. J. Spiller.

But drafting Spiller would be a huge addition to this squad, and in order to make his selection at No. 13 an ideal move, the 49ers will need to have added some new talent through free agency.

Unfortunately, 49er management has been steadfast in not making a “splash” in free agency.

However, the good news is that with the amount of free agents available, “splashes” don’t necessarily have to be expensive long-term deals.

The 49ers can improve in free agency by signing a couple of proven veteran players to cheap, short-term deals.

If the management realizes this and picks up some of these veteran free agents, then the 49ers will be able to snatch up a play maker like Spiller come draft day.

 

This article was originally published at nfltouchdown.com and can be seen here .

Read more San Francisco 49ers news on BleacherReport.com

Warning: array_keys() [function.array-keys]: The first argument should be an array in /home/seasport/public_html/wp-content/plugins/simple-tags/inc/client.php on line 1310

Warning: shuffle() expects parameter 1 to be array, null given in /home/seasport/public_html/wp-content/plugins/simple-tags/inc/client.php on line 1311

Warning: Invalid argument supplied for foreach() in /home/seasport/public_html/wp-content/plugins/simple-tags/inc/client.php on line 1312

Can’t believe that a former No. 1 overall draft pick who starts at quarterback for an NFL might lack self-confidence?

Believe it.

San Francisco 49ers’ beat writer Matt Maiocco of the Santa Rosa Press-Democrat said on KNBR Tuesday that the signing of free agent passer David Carr could leave Smith “looking over his shoulder” at just the time he was easing into the role as the 49ers No. 1 guy.

Maiocco’s blog, should be a go-to spot for every 49ers fan:

http://blog.pressdemocrat.com/49ers/

“The 49ers don’t have to openly announce that there’ll be a quarterback competition,” Maiocco said. “But, if Alex doesn’t perform as well as they expect … the club would have to make a change.”

Even having the possibility of Carr winning job gives Smith a reason for concern. Smith and Shaun Hill are the best of friends. Hill did everything he could to ease the transition from his being the No. 1 quarterback to Smith taking back the job he won earlier in his career.

Now, not only is Carr coming in with a two-year, $6.5 million contract — Hill is on the way out.

The Chicago Tribune has reported that new Chicago Bears offensive coordinator Mike Martz is interested in the club acquiring Hill. Hill, of course, played well when Martz spent the 2008 season at the 49ers offensive coordinator.

It’s worth noting that Martz has a history of bringing in a quarterback who knows his system — and then giving that passer a chance to win a starting job. If the Bears can land Hill, who shined under Martz, highly-paid starter Jay Cutler’s many publicized shortcomings could result in the Bears turning to Hill just like the 49ers gave the starting quarterback’s job to journeyman J.T. O’Sullivan. Martz had tutored O’Sullivan while they were both with the Detroit Lions.

Carr’s two-year deal, with $4 million guaranteed, makes him the only quarterback on the 49ers roster who is signed for the 2011 season. Smith and Hill are both signed only through 2010.

“It means something that Carr is the only quarterback who will definitely be with the club in 2011,” Maiocco said in a radio interview.

Maiocco put to rest any notion that Singletary isn’t committed, for now, to Smith.

“The thing for me is I’m always going to use words like ‘probably’ and all those other things because I like competition,” Singletary said in a story on Maiocco’s blog. “I like guys knowing that they’re always going to compete. But I feel very comfortable in saying Alex Smith is our starting quarterback going forward.”

Read more San Francisco 49ers news on BleacherReport.com

Warning: array_keys() [function.array-keys]: The first argument should be an array in /home/seasport/public_html/wp-content/plugins/simple-tags/inc/client.php on line 1310

Warning: shuffle() expects parameter 1 to be array, null given in /home/seasport/public_html/wp-content/plugins/simple-tags/inc/client.php on line 1311

Warning: Invalid argument supplied for foreach() in /home/seasport/public_html/wp-content/plugins/simple-tags/inc/client.php on line 1312

At this point in the NFL season all slates are cleared and no team can be called a clear-cut division favorite. 

Five out of eight divisions were won by two games or fewer.  Among the three with greater divides, two of the second-place divisional teams still posted winning records.

Yet no division is so unclear at this point in the offseason as the NFC West.  Recent divisional stud Arizona was inconsistent even during its prime and just witnessed its Hall of Fame quarterback pick the sunset he wanted to ride into.

The past two years the Cardinals have been aided by playing in arguably the worst division in football.  The three other teams in their division have the same combined win total as Indianapolis managed on its own.

Taking away divisional games (in which an NFC West team was guaranteed a win) the division sported an unhealthy .300 record as a unit.

With mediocrity can come great parity however. 

San Francisco already won two games against the Kurt Warner-led Cardinals last season, and are a young team that might just be finding itself.  With a great running back in Frank Gore and defensive player of the year candidate in Patrick Willis, they have several pieces in place.

Seattle boasts a rejuvenated front office, helmed by new head coach Pete Carroll.  They boast two first round draft picks (both within the first half of the round) and near carte blanche approval of owner Paul Allen to do what is necessary.

St. Louis seems the least likely to make a run at the division lead.  They are coming off a 1-15 record in which the shambles of a team managed less than 11 points per game.

The Rams do appear to have a solid coach in Steve Spagnuolo and one of the league’s best all around backs in Steven Jackson.  With the first overall pick they have a great chance at landing a cornerstone player to build the team around.

What all these teams have in common should be the deciding factor in who emerges atop the NFC West—questions at quarterback.

Arizona currently has one quarterback on its roster in former 10th-overall draft pick Matt Leinart.  Leinart has looked very ordinary in his limited time as a starter, posting a career rating of 71 despite throwing to one of the league’s best receiving corps.

The Cardinals will be adding to the roster before the season begins, but how they go about that remains to be seen.  The vote of confidence in Leinart makes an impact move like trading for Donovan McNabb or drafting a quarterback in the first round unlikely.

The team will probably bring in a younger name (be it a third-fourth round draft pick or a younger veteran) under the guise of backing up Leinart, with the idea that the competition for the starting role will be more subtle.

Trying to give support to Leinart could leave the team in a lurch however if the 26-year-old signal caller disappoints. 

San Francisco would like nothing more than for that to happen.  They have issues of their own at quarterback, having spent the last two years unable to establish a true number one guy from the Alex Smith/Shaun Hill tandem.

Barring any major surprises, Smith will be the opening day starter in 2010.  With more than double the starts of Leinart he can no longer use inexperience as an excuse to his underwhelming play.

Smith was drafted first overall in 2005, and carries a career rating even lower than Leinart’s at 69.  Taking over for Hill in Week 7, Smith actually posted encouraging numbers in 2009.

He ended the year with an 81.5 quarterback rating and had his first season with a positive toudown-turnover ratio. 

Smith should also have the luxury of an established number-one receiver for the first time in his career.  Michael Crabtree had 48 receptions for 625 yards despite missing all of training camp and five games to a contract holdout.  Translated to 16 games the numbers equate to almost 70 catches for 909 yards.

Given the time to learn the team’s playbook and develop a rapport, Crabtree should flirt with 1,000 yards in his sophomore year, something that could very much help Smith to finally emerge from first-overall disappointment.

Seattle shows up as a wildcard within the division.  Head coach Pete Carroll will bring an entirely new philosophy to a team that was 5-7 before it packed it in for the final four games.

Assuming he is still the opening day starter, Matt Hasselbeck is on the downward swing of his career, but still a proven veteran with a superior resume to the rest of the division.

If he can fend off the nagging injuries that slowed him the past few years, he is only two years removed from a 3,966 yard 28 touchdown 2007 season.  He isn’t the team’s long term answer anymore, but in the short term he holds the resume to get results.

Pete Carroll is actively seeking additional help at quarterback, be it to take over the starting role or just replace departed (via trade) backup Seneca Wallace.

While coaching at USC Carroll had a great track with turning out quarterbacks.  Four former Trojans are slated to start behind center in 2010 (Carson Palmer, Matt Cassel, Matt Leinart, and Mark Sanchez) two of which saw playoff action last season.

With a pair of first round picks to bolster a squad not long removed from seeing the postseason, Carroll and the Seahawks could find themselves leapfrogging Arizona and San Francisco if they can secure steady play from the quarterback position.

The final team in the division is also the farthest from entering the mix.  The St. Louis Rams were the NFL’s worst team in 2009, with only a single win.

They have holes at virtually every position, and it is uncertain what order they will work to address them in.

Marc Bulger proved last season that he no longer has the capacity to be even a temporary answer at quarterback.  Although only 32, a host of injuries have aged him prematurely, and he cannot be counted on to either play a full season or deliver results when playing.

Given the gaping hole behind center, the logical assumption would be that St. Louis would attempt to draft its quarterback of the future with the first overall pick.

It might not be the case however, as can’t-miss defensive tackle Ndamakong Suh makes for a tantalizing prospect for former Giants defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo.

Should St. Louis elect to forego Suh, the assumption is that they will draft Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford.

With nothing else to really work with in the passing game, it would be a great surprise if in his rookie year Bradford were able to produce the kind of results necessary to flirt with .500, let alone fight for a divisional crown.

Still, with any team in the NFC West capable of major surprise or letdown in 2010, stranger things could happen.

Read more San Francisco 49ers news on BleacherReport.com

Warning: array_keys() [function.array-keys]: The first argument should be an array in /home/seasport/public_html/wp-content/plugins/simple-tags/inc/client.php on line 1310

Warning: shuffle() expects parameter 1 to be array, null given in /home/seasport/public_html/wp-content/plugins/simple-tags/inc/client.php on line 1311

Warning: Invalid argument supplied for foreach() in /home/seasport/public_html/wp-content/plugins/simple-tags/inc/client.php on line 1312

Heading into the 2010 season the 49ers, like all other teams in the NFL, have question marks at certain positions.  Last year it was the belief of many people that the 49ers should draft a right tackle and pass rusher.  The 2009 free agency period and draft came and went without the 49ers signing a right tackle or pass rusher.

 

With the emergence of Ahmad Brooks, a pass rusher has slid down the list of positions of need.  However, right tackle and the offensive line as a whole remains an area of concern.  Below is a ranking of the 49ers positions of need:

 

1.  Right Tackle

 

The 49ers didn’t re-sign Tony Pashos and haven’t picked up a tackle thus far in free agency.  Adam Snyder pictured above is a versatile player who can play tackle or guard, but has proven to be backup with versatility.  With two picks in the draft the 49ers should use one of their picks to pickup a starting right tackle. 

 

Two players that might be available at pick 13 are Trent Williams and Anthony Davis.  Trent Williams might already be gone by 13, but given Davis has recently mishandled himself at Rutgers pro day he might slip to this pick.  If Okung, Bulaga, Davis, or Williams aren’t available at this pick the 49ers should pick up at tackle at pick 17 or in the second round.  Projected Starter = ?

 

 

2.  Secondary (Covers safeties and cornerbacks)

 

This is one area of the field where the 49ers could afford to become younger and faster.  One great example of the lack of speed in the secondary was shown during the 2009 Atlanta Falcons game when the 49ers were burnt on long passing plays.  Dashon Goldson and Shawntae Spencer appear to be entrenched as starters.  Michael Lewis is coming off a year with multiple concussions, which is a concern. 

 

Nate Clements is a solid corner, but hasn’t shown the playmaking ability that the 49ers were looking for when they signed him.  Reggie Smith and Curtis Taylor are promising safeties who are developing.  Taylor Mays, Joe Haden, and Earl Thomas could be around when the 49ers pick with their first two picks.  If the 49ers signed Mays, he would eventually start at strong safety to replace Michael Lewis.  It will be interesting to see if Haden runs a faster 40 at his pro day. 

 

If not that might create some red flags and the 49ers might view him similar to Nate Clements in terms of abilities.  Earl Thomas, in my opinion, is underrated.  He showed up at the combine heavier than his playing weight but still ran a fast 40.  Thomas has excellent playmaking ability, but the only thing hurting him is his height.  If the 49ers draft him he would play free safety and push Goldson over to strong safety. 

 

This draft is deep with cornerbacks.  A few names who the 49ers should look at in the middle rounds are Donovan Warren, Myron Lewis, Chris Cook, and Walter Thurmond.  Projected Starters = CB1, Shawntae Spencer; CB2, Nate Clements or Rookie; FS, Dashon Goldson; SS, Michael Lewis or Rookie.

 

 

3.  Kick/ Punt Returner

 

This is a major area for the 49ers to address.  I would put this at Number 2, but the secondary needs to become younger and add depth.  The 49ers have not targeted anyone thus far in free agency to return kicks. 

 

It appears that they will look to the draft for a kick/punt returner.  Plus there are prospects available throughout the draft that could play corner and return kicks.  A few cornerback prospects to look at in the draft are Javier Arenas, Walter Thurmond, and Perrish Cox.  The 49ers could also add a running back or wide receiver that has return abilities. 

 

They are deeper at the wide receiver position so it wouldn’t surprise me if they picked a running back or cornerback with return abilities.  Projected Starter = ?

 

 

4.  Guards

 

This is a position where some competition would be welcomed.  David Bass started to look better toward the end of the season as did Chilo Rachal.  Bass played hurt for the first half of the season so he has an excuse for not playing up to par; however, this is an area where the 49ers should add at least a solid backup. 

 

There are a few guard and tackle prospects available in the second to fourth round that are intriguing.  Rodger Saffold is a prospect who could possibly play left tackle and may be around in the second round.  John Jerry is a guard who would be around in the third or fourth round.  Projected Starters = David Bass and Chilo Rachal.

 

 

5.  Outside (Rush) Linebackers

 

A team can never have enough pass rushers.  With Ahmad Brooks emergence at the end of last year it appears that the 49ers have at least three players who can put pressure on the quarterback.  It would be nice to see the 49ers add a player in free agency or in the draft to develop.  Projected Starters = Parys Haralson/ Manny Lawson/ Ahmad Brooks.

 

 

6.  Halfback and Fullback

 

The 49ers have three backs in Gore, Coffee, and Robinson that have similar running styles.  Moran Norris does his job at fullback.  To add more versatility to their offense the 49ers should add a change of pace back either a thumper or burner.  If they go the burner route, someone with return abilities would be key. 

 

This pick would likely be somewhere in the third to fifth rounds if the 49ers don not add someone in free agency.  Prospects that fit this type of mold are Toby Gerhart, LeGarrette Blount, and Dexter McCluster.  Projected Starters = RB, Frank Gore and FB, Moran Norris.

 

 

7.  Quarterback

 

It seems the roster is set at quarterback unless the 49ers have a high regard for one of the college quarterbacks in the draft.  Alex Smith continues to show glimpses of why he was selected No. 1 overall; however, he needs to show them on a daily basis.  Hopefully with the signing of Carr to push him and the carry over of the same offensive coordinator for the first time in his career, fans will finally see a playoff birth.  Nate Davis is a project quarterback with promise.  Projected Starter = Alex Smith.

 

 

8.   Wide Receivers

 

Morgan and Crabtree are young players who give the 49er’s receiving corp hope in the future.  Jason Hill is a capable slot receiver with speed.  Brandon Jones showed some glimpses of why he was signed during free agency last year. 

 

The 49ers might look to add either a big red zone target with blocking skills or a small slot receiver through the draft.  The slot receiver would obviously need to have excellent return skills.  A few names come to mind: Jacoby Ford, Trindon Holliday, Mardy Gilyard, Carlton Mitchell, and Demaryius Thomas.  Projected Starters = WR1, Michael Crabtree; WR2, Josh Morgan.

 

 

9.  Left Tackle

 

Joe Staley has proven to be a solid left tackle; however, their is a chance that the 49ers might be in the position to draft a player with one of their first round picks who could compete for his spot.  Projected Starter = Joe Staley.

 

 

10.  Defensive Line

 

Justin Smith is relentless.  Aubrayo Franklin had a pro bowl type year.  The 49ers could possibly add additional depth through the draft or free agency; however, they have quality depth on the defensive line.  Kentwan Balmer continues to be a project and is still rehabbing from shoulder surgery. 

 

I wouldn’t call him a bust, but he has a lot to prove by the end of this year.  A possible sleeper pick that would not be too surprising is the selection of Dan Williams in the first round to eventually replace Franklin at nose tackle.  Projected Starters = DE, Justin Smith; NT, Aubrayo Franklin; DE, Issac Sopoaga.

 

 

11.  Tight End

 

Delanie Walker and Vernon Davis are both playmakers and are almost guaranteed a spot on the roster.  The 49ers already have acquired some blocking tight ends to compete for a third roster spot.  This is a position that might see a draft pick towards the end of the draft.  Projected Starter = Vernon Davis.

 

 

12.  Inside Linebackers

 

Spikes and Willis have been an excellent combination.  The 49ers also have great depth with Scott McKillop and Matt Wilhelm.  This is a position where the 49ers should not have to worry.  McKillop appears to be in the mold of Jeff Ulbrich.  He is a solid backup who can start if required. 

 

If McClain or Brandon Spikes drop in the draft I wouldn’t be surprised if the 49ers pick up either player to place alongside Patrick Willis.  Projected Starters = Takeo Spikes and Patrick Willis.

 

 

13.  Center

 

Eric Heitmann is the starter.  This position has no controversy to it.  Projected Starter = Eric Heitmann.

 

 

14.  Kicker

 

Another position has a solid starter.  The 49ers will probably sign a camp kicker.  Projected Starter = Joe Nedney.

 

 

15.  Punter

 

A position with a Pro Bowler.  Projected Starter = Andy Lee.

 

 

16.  Long Snapper

One of the best in football.  Projected Starter = Brian Jennings.

Read more San Francisco 49ers news on BleacherReport.com

Warning: array_keys() [function.array-keys]: The first argument should be an array in /home/seasport/public_html/wp-content/plugins/simple-tags/inc/client.php on line 1310

Warning: shuffle() expects parameter 1 to be array, null given in /home/seasport/public_html/wp-content/plugins/simple-tags/inc/client.php on line 1311

Warning: Invalid argument supplied for foreach() in /home/seasport/public_html/wp-content/plugins/simple-tags/inc/client.php on line 1312

According to a dubious Internet site, "Donavon Mcnabb" is getting traded. The real Donovan McNabb is…

Warning: array_keys() [function.array-keys]: The first argument should be an array in /home/seasport/public_html/wp-content/plugins/simple-tags/inc/client.php on line 1310

Warning: shuffle() expects parameter 1 to be array, null given in /home/seasport/public_html/wp-content/plugins/simple-tags/inc/client.php on line 1311

Warning: Invalid argument supplied for foreach() in /home/seasport/public_html/wp-content/plugins/simple-tags/inc/client.php on line 1312

Despite the pleas of Chad Ochocinco, it appears that Terrell Owens is not going to be a Cincinnati Bengal. This opens the door for another team, maybe the 49ers, to sign him.

Would it be a fit?

Without looking at the history of T.O. in San Fran, you have to ask yourself if he is a fit based solely upon need. The Niners need a third wide-out who can go over the middle for balls, and No. 81 fits that need. He will also be reasonably priced and can be obtained without giving up a draft pick.

Terrell Owens just needs a home. No one expected that Buffalo wanted him last year, and it appears that the market is not that hot for him this year either, especially now that the Bengals have signed Antonio Bryant. If the Niners came calling, he would answer the phone.

Then there is the issue of the bridges that T.O. has burned in San Fran. This is not that big of a problem, because the majority of coaches and front office personnel who dealt with Owens before are gone. There may be some disgruntled fans, but as they say, winning cures all. If the Niners got off to a hot start, no one would care. 

He comes at a cheap price (he only made $6.25 million last year and would likely make less this year), and it would only be a one or two year deal. That is not bad for a guy who had over 800 yard last year, more than 300 yards than current number two wide receiver Josh Morgan. If you look at Terrell Owens’ past, he also typically behaves in his first year after signing. 

Owens only has a couple of good years left, so why not end them in San Francisco where he made a name for himself? It would be a Hollywood ending for the quintessential diva wide receiver in the NFL.

 

Read more San Francisco 49ers news on BleacherReport.com

Warning: array_keys() [function.array-keys]: The first argument should be an array in /home/seasport/public_html/wp-content/plugins/simple-tags/inc/client.php on line 1310

Warning: shuffle() expects parameter 1 to be array, null given in /home/seasport/public_html/wp-content/plugins/simple-tags/inc/client.php on line 1311

Warning: Invalid argument supplied for foreach() in /home/seasport/public_html/wp-content/plugins/simple-tags/inc/client.php on line 1312

The 49ers didn’t plan on making a big splash in free agency, and true to their word, they haven’t.

The team did make the somewhat surprising move of adding quarterback David Carr to the roster. They also made a run at blocking tight end Anthony Becht, who decided to re-sign with the Arizona Cardinals.

Other than some second tier signings, it is still doubtful that the team will go after any of the top tier free agents left. But there are still a few unresticted free agents that could make sense.

Offensive tackle is the team’s biggest need, and with Tony Pashos signing with the Cleveland Browns, the team can ill afford to lose Barry Sims.

Sims played well last year when he was asked to fill in for the injured Joe Staley. He can also play both sides of the line. The team will look to the draft for a starter, but depth is also a concern, and re-signing Sims should be a priority.

Chilo Rachal and David Baas both struggled at guard last season. The team will likely give Rachal another year to develop and prove that his 2008 season was no fluke.

With Baas’ inconsistent play and propensity towards injury, he could likely be done with the team.

There are two guys that could come in and replace Baas right away. The Cincinnati Bengals’ Bobbie Williams, and the Houston Texans’ Chester Pitts.

Williams has been a key component of the Bengals’ resurgent running game. At 33,  Williams should have few good years left in him. And at 6’4″ and 345 pounds, Williams is the kind of road grader that this team is looking for to open up its running game.

Williams is rumored to be on the brink of a deal to remain with the Bengals, but deals  sometimes fall through.

Pitts had been generating interest from around the league, most recently from the Detroit Lions.

Pitts has been a model of consistency for the Houston Texans. He started the first 114 games in team history.

He can play both guard and tackle positions with equal effectiveness. Although Pitts is coming off a knee injury that broke his games played streak, he should bounce back nicely and he would be able to instantly improve the O-line.

If Nate Clement, Walt Harris, and Dre Bly all depart, the secondary is going to be devoid of veteran leadership and in serious need of a play-maker.

Unfortunately, New England’s Leigh Bodden just re-signed with the New England Patriots. He might just have been an improvement over the over-priced and aging Clement.

So why not bring in veteran safety Darren Sharper? A rejuvenated Sharper was an instrumental component of the Super Bowl Champion New Orleans Saints’ defense last year.

Even on a one-year deal, he could provide valuable experience and mentoring to Dashon Goldson, Reggie Smith, Tarell Brown, and Shawntae Spencer.

And the man can still play.

While we are on the subject of veterans, the 49ers’ anemic pass rush could use some fire.

Call me crazy, but perhaps the presence of Joey Porter might just fire these guys up. His sack total did drop from 17.5 to 9 this last season, but that is still more than anyone on the 49ers.

Porter’s personality might keep the team from signing him, but sometimes that is just the price of admission (see Charles Haley).

Read more San Francisco 49ers news on BleacherReport.com

Warning: array_keys() [function.array-keys]: The first argument should be an array in /home/seasport/public_html/wp-content/plugins/simple-tags/inc/client.php on line 1310

Warning: shuffle() expects parameter 1 to be array, null given in /home/seasport/public_html/wp-content/plugins/simple-tags/inc/client.php on line 1311

Warning: Invalid argument supplied for foreach() in /home/seasport/public_html/wp-content/plugins/simple-tags/inc/client.php on line 1312

It’s been said that a draft can’t truly be evaluated until about two-three years after the fact. Players often take time to develop, and their potential isn’t always realized immediately. This is especially true with certain positions such as quarterbacks, wide receivers, and defensive linemen.

We are now two years removed from the 49ers 2008 draft, and as the players selected prepare to enter their third year in the league I thought that now would be a good time to grade our performance in that draft.

Quick background: The 49ers were coming off a 5-11 season and Mike Nolan’s third year as head coach. First-year OC Jim Hostler was a disaster, Alex Smith played in only seven games due to a shoulder injury, our offense finished 32nd, and our defense 25th.

Aside from Frank Gore, Nate Clements, and rookies Joe Staley and Patrick Willis, almost every position required an upgrade heading into this draft. With that in mind, let’s take a look at how we did:

Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina—First round, 29th overall

Grade: D

Balmer has had almost zero impact in his first two seasons with the team, totaling just 19 tackles with zero sacks. I’ll spare him an F as there is a remote possibility that he’ll eventually develop into a decent backup, but having spent a first-round pick on this guy he has to this point been an utter disappointment.

Chilo Rachal, G, USC—Second round, 39th overall

Grade: C

Rachal did start 15 games for us in 2009, but has been inconsistent, and has yet to prove that he is the long-term solution at RG for the Niners. The team is hoping to see a much improved Rachal in 2010, but I’ll believe it when I see it.

Side note: The Saints used the very next pick to select CB Tracy Porter (Super Bowl hero), and nine picks after that, the Eagles would snag WR DeSean Jackson.

Reggie Smith, CB, Oklahoma—Third round, 75th overall

Grade: D

Entering his third year with the team, Smith has yet to find his niche. Converted to safety in 2009, Smith played sparingly—recording just four tackles and zero interceptions. Depending on how the draft goes, Smith may find himself fighting for a roster spot in 2010.

Cody Wallace, C, Texas A&M—Fourth round, 107th overall

Grade: C

Another guy that Nolan fell in love with while coaching the Senior Bowl, he was selected to backup Eric Heitmann, and he has done just that (Heitmann has started all 32 games since). Wallace has played in just one game in two seasons, so we have yet to see what he can do.

Josh Morgan, WR, Virginia Tech—Sixth round, 174th overall

Grade: A

Morgan has developed into a solid No. 2 receiver, and is really just beginning to show his full potential. Sixth-round picks are often throwaways or long shots, so considering we were able to grab a WR of Morgan’s ability this late in the draft, I’ll give the pick an ‘A.’

Larry Grant, OLB, Ohio State – 7th round, 214th overall

Grade: F

See the above reference to throwaway/long shot. Grant was assigned to the practice squad and was eventually signed by the St. Louis Rams. He didn’t start a single game for the Rams, but in a bit of irony did record the lone sack of his career in Week Four—against the 49ers.

So there, my friends, is the 2008 draft in a nutshell. Six players, two starters, two backups, one bust, and one that never was. I understand that having only six picks we didn’t have much to work with, but it still doesn’t seem to reflect what one would consider a successful draft.

To me, this draft hinged on our first three selections, and to say the least I’m not at all impressed.

Taking into account the late round gem in Josh Morgan, and the yet to be seen potential of Cody Wallace as Heitmann’s successor, I’m left with what it is, unfortunately, a very low grade:   

2008 Draft Overall Grade: C-/D+

 

Read more San Francisco 49ers news on BleacherReport.com

Warning: array_keys() [function.array-keys]: The first argument should be an array in /home/seasport/public_html/wp-content/plugins/simple-tags/inc/client.php on line 1310

Warning: shuffle() expects parameter 1 to be array, null given in /home/seasport/public_html/wp-content/plugins/simple-tags/inc/client.php on line 1311

Warning: Invalid argument supplied for foreach() in /home/seasport/public_html/wp-content/plugins/simple-tags/inc/client.php on line 1312

The San Francisco 49ers made another wasteful signing. The signing of David Carr to a two year contract is a waste of money. The 49ers still have Shaun Hill who has a better overall winning percentage than Alex Smith, and Nate Davis can maybe be the future of this new look shotgun offense.

Now the 49ers have four quarterbacks on their roster. Which means they will have to dump one. David Carr has not proven himself capable of playing in the NFL. He is also signed for two years, which is longer than Smith and Hill’s contracts are.

The 49ers need to address the offensive line and some key defensive spots. Every year someone on the offensive line gets hurt, so they need to sign some versitle backups. They need players who can play multiple positions on the line. For example, the re-signing of Barry Sims would be a good choice because he can play most of the line. He also did a great job while Staley was hurt.

The 49ers should sign an elite pass rusher such as Joey Porter. He would be a great addition to the linebacking corps and could put some much needed pressure on the opposing quarterback. The 49ers had only 44 sacks the entire season. Or they could attempt to sign Osi Umenyiora. He would fit in well with the rotation at DE since Balmer has not lived up to expectations.

Then the last issue to address is at DB. The 49ers need to add another safety since Lewis got three concussions in one season. They need to have a second option ready just in case of any heath set backs with Lewis. Or they could move Nate Clements to the safety spot. Re-signing Dre Bly would also be smart since they are short on cornerbacks. The Niners can also turn to the draft for a player like Patrick Robinson or Chris Cook.

The 49ers need to start spending their money on players that matter and are going to help the team win.

 

 

Read more San Francisco 49ers news on BleacherReport.com