Tagged: 49ers
NFL (49ers) Off-Season : Chris Borland Retirement/Quitting
Oh, I know the PR move would be to “clarify” what he meant, but I think “quit” is a sufficient description for what Borland did. I don’t think that he meant it as a criticism of Borland’s decision to do what, he believes, is in his best interests. The fact of the matter is that, for the fraction of his life that he would be a member of the San Francisco 49ers, we — as a fan base — would support and adore him (so long as he was playing well, haha). But, typically, once a player retires or moves to another team, we have very little interest in these guys. That’s just the way that it goes: you are a hero to us, until we have no purpose for you anymore (unless you become a legendary player a la Rice, Montana, and so forth). There will always be an up-and-coming guy to switch our focus to – so I don’t get hurt or offended when guys decide to retire/leave the game when they feel that it’s in their best interests, because they are the ONLY ones who are looking out for their best interests in this business, haha.
That said, what does bother me is that 1) for a guy who – I believe – has only received 3 concussions in his entire life — two he referenced from high school, and one he believed came from a practice this summer — to cite that fear as the reason that he’s not going to play anymore is questionable, to me — furthermore, to reference and consult with players FROM A DIFFERENT ERA in the game as the examples of what he didn’t want to end up like (later in life), is just absurd – to me. The equipment has changed; the rules have changed; the way players are taught to tackle has changed, all with the emphasis of NOT sustaining head injuries. Hell, Jamal Charles got benched IN A PLAYOFF GAME because they were concerned that he suffered a concussion….which, may not have cost the Chiefs the game (since he exited very, very early in the game), but it certainly didn’t help them win it. He shouldn’t be “banging” his head into people all day, as he alluded to; so that sounds like an excuse more than an explanation.
And, 2) why bother going through the NFL Draft if you were concerned about the health implications that the profession would have on your future? Why not just play college ball, get your education provided, and then go professional in something other than sports? It’s not like the presence and implication of concussions just got revealed in January, spurring this reflection on one’s future — this has been WELL-DOCUMENTED for several years, now, at the very least. Hell, the NFL veteran lawsuit was settled last summer, before he ever played a DOWN in the NFL. So, to cite a fear of concussions as the reason for leaving the game, in my opinion, is totally bogus.
This may be just my opinion, but here is why I think that he decided to leave the game:
It was well-documented from before the Draft, up through pre-season, and all the way through the season when he finished with an incredible rookie performance: he is an under-sized LB (at 5’11” 248lbs…but may be smaller, in actuality) – which was gaining concerns for his longevity, due to his physical style, at the position from Day One. When Willis’ season (and career) came to an end, I think that he gave it 100% to fill-in, and certainly took a lot of physical punishment in the process — figuring that Willis would return next year and he’d slip into more of a support role — as Willis had stated, when he opted for season-ending surgery, that he had 5-6yrs left of great football in him. That makes sense.
However, when Willis abruptly retired, and everyone began talking about building around him, he realized that he couldn’t play LB in the NFL as a career, and so he quit. I think that he came to realize that the amount of physical strength that the position required (that he learned first-hand last season) was too much for him to handle, physically…… without getting hurt…… and so the only options he had was either: a) request or otherwise lose the starting job that he had been, essentially, promoted; b) continue to play the position and risk injury — especially, since fear of injury was already on his mind (you can’t play football while scared of injury); or c) “retire” from the game, citing the media “hot topic” of concussions in order to not get portrayed negatively. He took Option C, and I can’t blame him, too much. After all, nowadays, once you cite concussions and football, you have an advocacy group backing you, the media can re-run reports and interviews on the topic again, and the NFL isn’t going to challenge you on it….because Goodell has had a rough time with the PR-part of his job in the past year, so you’re not going to face serious criticism from anyone by citing a fear of concussions as a reason to leave the game.
That said, he did sort of screw us out of our 3rd round pick in the Draft (especially, since he said that the fear of injury had been on his mind throughout college…. that’s probably something you should have told prospective employers). And, yeah, he ends up having to give us back the prorated part of his contract, but no team is investing a 3rd round pick in a guy who is going to play for a year, so, of course, had we known that, we certainly would have drafted someone else. So, that’s a bummer.
Furthermore, I wish he would have discussed this fear and contemplation of retirement with the team during the season — rather than in March — as we could have planned better for it. At this point, though, we are bound to the Draft in order to replace this guy, now; and having options is always better. But, I get it — he didn’t know (no one did) that Willis was going to abruptly retire when his parting words in October was that he felt, physically, like he had another half-decade on the field and wanted to get his toe healthy for it. Had he mentioned it something during the season, he just puts a target on himself to get less playing time or on the list of potential cuts after the season. Because, again, you can’t play this game while you’re scared of getting hurt, especially, at the LB position.
What’s done is done. People are freaking out about our season but, again, we knew Chris Borland wasn’t going to be a career-guy (citing his smaller size and reckless physicality), but we had hoped he could be a sufficient patch (with Wilhoite) for a year or two until we figured out a long-term solution. Our season is over because we are hosting Super Bowl 50 — the Football Gods will make sure of that, and, hopefully, all of this turnover and “turmoil” is Their work. I’ll take a season of adjusting to a new system over a Bounty-Gate or Kaepernick sitting out all season for 4 neck surgeries….as they have struck in the recent past. This is the season to be a casual fan, if that’s your sort of thing. #GoNiners
NFL (49ers) Off Season : Free Agent Frenzy
Oh. Wow. Tuesday’s start to free agency was INSANE. I wanted to let the dust settle (and more breaking developments happen) before I rattled off my thoughts, and Friday night seems like a safe time to get cracking.
Frank Gore to the Colts
While initially it was being reported that Gore was going to Philly, he instead went to the Colts…and that may be the happiest that I’ve seen a fan base get over signing a 32yr old free agent RB. However, when you’ve had a running game like the Colts have had the past few years (which hasn’t been much of a running game), a productive RB – regardless of age – is probably welcomed.
I’m still kind of surprised that they signed Gore as opposed to going for a RB in the Draft; although, I suppose that they can certainly do both. While it’s a slight bummer that we weren’t able to resign Frankie, I’m not too surprised by this move. It’s the exact opposite of what happened to Lynch in Seattle: we gave our young guy (Hyde) some opportunities and he showed great potential. Once that happened (taking into account that Hunter was also returning), I think that certainly put a cap on what amount we were going to be willing to offer Frankie; whereas, in Seattle, neither of the back ups showed much promise, and so Beast Mode got his extension.
The biggest thing that we lose with Gore leaving for Indy is his pass protection. Holy wow – the guy was brilliant in pass protection. I do hope that is the primary focus of the coaching staff, Hyde, and Hunter — Frankie’s pass protection was never talked about as much as it should have been. While I do wish him well, I also would find it kind of humorous if his age suddenly caught up with him….and then seeing the fall out from Colts fans as they berate themselves for being excited about signing a 32yo running back. That would be humorous, to me.
The Expletive Rams
The Rams started collecting QBs today, trading Sam Bradford for Foles (Philly) and signing Case Keenum from Houston. The Houston one makes sense…. but I have NO IDEA why the Eagles traded for Sam Bradford. Especially, since Foles was (presumably) their QB of the Future. It further doesn’t make sense, to me, because all signs pointed to Bradford being released sooner rather than later. You probably could have traded for Bradford without giving up your starting QB.
What also made this really, really weird to me was when Chip Kelly was saying that he had been offered a first-round pick for Bradford, after trading for him. WHAT??? 1 – I don’t believe that…. at all. Simply because, if you look at the other 31 teams in the NFL, by and large the teams that have a QB vacancy (or no definite starter), are all very high in the Draft position — it’s certainly not any of the teams on the contender-side of the spectrum. Reportedly, Coach Fischer quasi-backed up Chip Kelly by saying he had received a “low first” offer prior to trading for Foles….but even that doesn’t make sense. And so, if it wasn’t a “low first” like Fischer reported, then it would have to be a “high first” pick, right? RIGHT?? So, 2 – this high Draft pick team allegedly requested to trade their first pick for Bradford……and you said “no”?!?!?!
I remember, prior to the Harbaugh era starting, when Bradford was the best QB in the NFC West, as a rookie. But that was when he played a full season. In his five seasons in the League, to this point, he has essentially missed 2 full seasons due to injury. Even when he was 100% healthy, he was a decent QB….but I wouldn’t have given up my starting QB for him. ESPECIALLY, when he has a difficult time staying healthy. Maybe the NFC East won’t be as physical to him this coming year (as the NFC West was) and he may prove to be more durable? I don’t know. But I think that this was a bad trade for Philly.
The part of this activity that worries me is that the Expletive Rams are the scariest team in the Division – some think it’s the Seahawks, but it’s not; it’s the Expletive Rams.
They have no cemented identity, which means that they are capable of anything. ANYTHING. They do trick plays, they play tough defense, and they are one of the few teams that are able to beat the best teams in the League, while also lose to the worst teams in the League. The one thing that always gave me quasi-confidence against the Expletive Rams was that Sam Bradford was either going to get hurt, or was already hurt, and so our reliable, strong defense was going to be playing an at-best 2nd string QB, maybe even some guy I’d never heard of, and that always gave us a reasonable edge; regardless of whatever crazy stuff they pulled in the game.
If Foles can stabilize the position, though, then that safety net is gone. The Expletive Rams scare me. They always have, and they continue to scare me now. Especially, today, with the signing of Nick Fairley from Detroit. The guy may be a dirty player (that’s what I’ve heard), but he’s also talented; and the Expletive Rams’ defense has been legitimate the past few years, and I think that they just got better. The NFC West is going to be a brawl once again.
Seahawks Making Moves
The Seahawks added some CBs, lost a CB & LB, but the move that was the most interesting was the trade for Jimmy Graham. This is a big spash trade that surprised me, simply because I didn’t know that Graham was on the trade block, haha. From what I recall, he just signed a big contract last year (or the year before) after a tumultuous contract negotiation, so it surprises me that they traded for him. It’s also surprising to me that the Seahawks made this trade.
For one, he’s expensive; sure, he’s a good player, but I don’t know if they really needed someone of his pay-grade, but, hey, if the Seahawks want to make big purchases, I support it. It’s especially weird, to me, that they’d sacrifice a key part of their O Line, which was a considerable area of vulnerability. Wilson has been able to avoid big hits thus far in his career, but you don’t want to take chances with your O Line if you have a finesse QB. Although, I still contend that TJ could step in for Wilson and not be that much of a drop off — so long as the officials continued to allow Offensive Holding when he starts dancing in the backfield.
The Saints raised my eye brows this week, as well. For one, trading Graham came out of nowhere. But now, trading away their other prime offensive target (Stills) and adding CJ Spiller from the Bills. It sounds like they are committing serious attention to their defense, but I don’t know what they’re going to do offensively, now. Maybe, with the signing of Spiller and getting Unger via trade with Seattle, they are trying to go run-heavy this coming year? Maybe they were thinking — the way that I was thinking — last season that Drew Brees doesn’t have “it” anymore; or that he is showing signs of being on the decline. That could make sense, I guess. Well, I’m hoping to go to New Orleans for Halloween this year – God willing, the Saints will be playing in town that weekend AND they’re commitment to defense and lack of an offense will make them not very good, thus, greater increasing the odds of getting some tickets to hang out with the Who Dat Nation. *fingers crossed*
My Beloved 49ers
Saving the most important reflection for last, of course. First and foremost, people need to relax. We are hosting the Super Bowl this year, so there is absolutely no way that we are going to be contenders this year. None. In the 49 Super Bowls that have occurred, the only thing that all of them have in common is that the host team has NEVER played in the game. EVER. Most of the time, the host team doesn’t even sniff the playoffs let alone the Super Bowl; so kudos to the Cardinals for at least making it to the playoffs. That said, we’re probably not going to make the playoffs and we’re definitely not going to the Super Bowl; let alone be able to win the Super Bowl. So, let’s keep our expectations realistic and also not freak out. A season is never won — or loss — 5 months before it starts. Calm down.
This off-season has been a mixed bag of news. First, let’s talk about the departures: Frank Gore left for Indy – which I was prepared for but still kind of a bummer; Chris Culliver left for the Redskins (to each their own, I suppose); Mike Iupati went to the Cardinals (bold move); and Dan Skuta went to Jacksonville.
Willis retired – which blind-sided everyone….but I think that we may be able to make it work; No one seems to be talking about it, but Bubba Ventrone’s retirement is surprising, too – he was a reliable special teams player for us. And maybe Justin Smith is retiring (…?) — I haven’t heard confirmation one way or the other.
Crabtree is likely gone – but I’ve made peace with this (unless he signs a very favorable contract – however, I recall how he held out for more money as a rookie, so I don’t think he’s the “favorable contract”-kind of guy); We released Stevie Johnson, which surprises me because – last I heard – both sides were open to restructuring his deal so that he’d be cheaper; and I’m pretty sure that we’re going to release Ahmad Brooks sooner than later – I think that Lynch outplayed him last season and certainly has a more favorable contract.
Lastly, while not a departure (or likely departure, I wouldn’t think) but is worth mentioning: Bruce Miller was arrested for pushing a woman and causing her to fall to the ground, and then destroying her phone….vaguely.
Side Note: I did see this article on a suggested ad through Facebook, where they referred to Miller as a “49ers STAR player” — please. I like Bruce Miller and he has played well for us, but the FB is not a “star” position for us; he is not a “star” player for us, either. Someone’s just trying to get attention to their crappy publication (or doesn’t know football). End Side Note.
This was initially brought to my attention from my Seahawk fan friends wanting to talk trash, and they made it sound like he beat up a woman — it sounds, though, that there weren’t any injuries and it that it’s more of an issue of destruction of property — citing the vaguely described “destroying her phone” part. Not sure what will come of this but it fits more appropriately in the “bad news” category.
Good news, though, Aldon Smith isn’t in trouble, AND, I’m reasonably confident that he isn’t going to be in trouble… which could be my Bold Statement of the Off Season. When reading about him restructuring his contract in order to free up more cap space for this season, I just get this feeling that he’s focused and he’s ready to play and compete — and I really, really, really like that. The man is a beast — before all of these distractions in his personal life happened, he was averaging almost 1 sack per game….. 1 SACK PER GAME…. which is ridiculous. But after the house party where he got stabbed, and then arrested for gun possession; then you had the whole DUI incident and the LAX detainment fiasco, with a stint in rehab and NFL-mandated suspension, those distractions took away from his focus. But, now, with all of that behind him, I think that we are going to get a focused and dialed-in Aldon Smith rushing off the edge.
While we certainly lost some high-caliber talent as well as both of our Field Generals (Gore & Willis), we are still a talented team. While you don’t just replace Frank Gore and Patrick Willis, I do think that the tandem of Hyde/Hunter and Borland/Wilhoite can fill in. *IF* Bowman returns this season at 100%, that certainly makes life easier on that side of the ball.
I have read ample skeptics to the signing of Torrie Smith (from Baltimore) because he has an “off year” last season, but the guy is a consistent producer, wanted to play here, and hasn’t missed a game in his NFL season. His ability to stretch the field is also something that I think will benefit our whole offense — not just the passing game, but also alleviates pressure on the running game. Our “deep threat” receivers as of late have been mostly unproven and hampered rookies. The elite secondaries in the League, rightfully so, probably weren’t respecting them too much. But Torrie Smith has a resume and so you have to respect him. If he is able to keep a Seahawk CB and Safety deep — out of respect — then that is HUGE for our underneath game. Up until now, though, most of our offense has been largely based on YAC-style receiving, and getting our guys lit up by Chancellor/Thomas crashing down from the safety-position. If Torrie Smith is able to keep at least one of those guys back, that could open up a lot of opportunities for Boldin or Davis in the intermediate range.
We also added Dockett from the Cardinals – and, even though he’s coming off an injury, he should be an adequate replacement for McDonald – who we released at the end of last season. *IF* Justin Smith retires, it will be a blow to our line BUT I don’t think it’ll be devastating. Why? Because with Tomsula ascending to the starting job, and having worked with our mystery product — Lawrence Okoye — the past two seasons, I think that Okoye sees playing time this year. I think that he’s ready. *IF* he is ready, he could be a HUGE bull-rush type lineman that could cause problems. He has great speed for his size and is a beast! If he could be taught to execute Justin Smith’s role in that cross-rush that he and Aldon Smith perfected a couple of years back, then that could be a formidable tandem, as well. I see a lot of promise there — *IF* he is progressing as I imagine/hope.
The addition of Jerome Simpson I think is more of just a leverage-signing or a competition factor — I’d be surprised if he is on the team this season. For one, he comes with a lot of baggage and not a lot of productivity to show for it; which does counter York’s oft-mockingly-reported “winning with class” statement. HOWEVER, if the plan is to try and sign Crabtree for a cheaper contract, being able to say: “Hey, we have Boldin, we have Torrie Smith, and we have Jerome Simpson, in addition to our young guys” — could put us in a favorable bargaining position (especially, if Crabtree’s open-market demand/price isn’t very high). I think that if we re-sign Crabtree or if we draft a WR in the early rounds, then we’ll let Simpson compete for a spot over the summer to raise competition from our young guys (but then release him in August). That is, unless, he just blows us all away during the off-season — and stays out of trouble. But the only time that I have ever heard his name or seen him play was that *ONE* time that he did the front-flip over the defender and stuck the landing for a TD. That’s it. And that was when he played for the Bengals a couple of years ago. So, we’ll see what happens there, but I think that this was more of a leverage-signing.
The signing of Jarryd Hayne is another one that I like. I doubt that he’s going to actually be a RB for us — simply because I doubt that he has the nuances of the position grasped to the point of being able to play the position in this League — however, I think that he can quickly translate his rugby skills into special teams play in a returner role. I’m excited to see what he can do, for sure.
Onto the Rumor Mill-
I’m pleased to have read, today, that the rumor of Percy Harvin coming to us is dead — he reportedly signed with the Bills (1yr for, I believe, $6M…. good signing, Buffalo). I can’t stand Percy Harvin — one of the most overrated players in the past decade. It really irritates me that he has a Super Bowl ring when he only played in about 2.5 games the whole season. He gets hailed as this great athlete but he’s really just a speed guy…..who has joint health issues. I am so happy that he’s not going to be a 49er. The best move that the York/Baalke union has made all off-season.
Reportedly, Reggie Bush stopped by to visit, but I’d pass on him, too. I hope that we pass on him, at least. I don’t know what price Reggie Bush is garnering these days, but I can almost guarantee that it’s more than Hyde is making — and if it comes down to it: I’m taking Hyde over Bush every….single…day. I’m taking Hunter over him, too. We probably do need a 3rd RB – especially with Hunter’s injury history – but I say let’s pick one up in the draft or wait for one that we like to get released from another team during the preseason (or an undrafted rookie).
We are also apparently meeting with Shareece Wright, formerly of the Chargers, and while I don’t know much about the guy, he’s reportedly not an impressive CB. It sounds like our interest in him is solely because he’s cheap and a veteran guy. His stats don’t seem that impressive, and, the word from the Chargers expert that they talked to in the story, the only plus about him is his size — he’s apparently not a good tackler and not good in coverage, either.
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All in all, that’s how the first week has gone, thus far. The NFC West is certainly getting strong once again, and I think that the Expletive Rams may end up being the team to beat. If they can put it together this season….watch out. That said, as we’re certainly out of contention this season — due to hosting the Super Bowl — I think that we have a lot of upside awaiting us in 2016. Hopefully, we can use this season to further develop some of our youth and strengthen the connections on the offense. We’ll have some new pieces this year, not to mention a new system, so it may be a learning curve for everyone. I’m still optimistic and faithful. #GoNiners.
NFL (49ers) Off Season : Patrick Willis Retirement??
This development has caught me by surprise and I’m a little disappointed in Patrick Willis. When he left the Rams game last October, the message he was sending was: I’ll be back after the Bye Week. Then, out of nowhere, he opted for season-ending surgery to repair the toe. Why? Because apparently it had been hurt for years and, in his own words, he had “five or six more great years” left in him, and wanted to get healthy for them. Okay, sounds good. But then the next time we hear from him it’s to announce his retirement?? How one goes from 5-6 great years to retirement is beyond me. Either he was over-optimistic in October/November, and reality just struck, or something is up — it doesn’t make any sense, to me.
Especially, with the only thing that I have seen/heard from him since this apparent story broke is him – big smile and all – on some sort of exercise machine. Which is a weird activity to be doing on the eve of your retirement announcement.
Anyway, it feels like the everyman equivalent would be going into your job, that you’ve had for many, many years, and requesting time off for surgery — okay, the boss says, and you’re out for a couple of weeks or however long it’s supposed to take. Then, out of the blue, calling in to announce that you’re not coming back. That’s where the disappointment, for me, comes into play. I like Patrick Willis and he’s been great for us, no doubt, but if this toe injury was a potential career-ending injury, then I wish he would have been more upfront about it.
I guess we will find out tomorrow if he is announcing his retirement, or if this is just something that he’s contemplating. Hopefully, he comes back because — presuming that Aldon stays out of trouble (like I think that he will) and Bowman also comes back — we would have a scary-good LB unit with him in the lineup. Patrick Willis, even at 75% health is still a lot better than most other LBs. We will know more tomorrow, I guess. #GoNiners
NFL (49ers) Off Season: Aldon Smith Restructuring His Contract
One of the positive signs from this off-season activity is Aldon’s restructuring of his contract, to help out this year with the salary cap. He didn’t really have to do this (he’s at the end of his contract, no one really that can fill in for him — unlike Willis/Bowman who we were able to cover for), he could have completely looked out for his own interests…. but he didn’t. And I like that.
I think that we have proven ourselves to be highly invested in him — we took A LOT of heat when we kept him after the DUI, the weapons charges, the whole LAX fiasco — and I’m quite pleased to see him returning the favor. It shows me that he’s serious about being a part of this team and that he’s willing to take one for the team. It’s probably something that isn’t going to be talked too much about, as we have the distrust of Baalke/York to contend with, but I like it. He’s still going to get his money (and probably a ton more when we extend him) but his willingness to restructure now to give us a little bit more room this season is a good sign. #GoNiners
NFL (49ers) Off Season : Kaepernick Trade Rumors
Absurdity. If it’s true, it is absolute absurdity. I guess, even if it’s not true, then it’s still absolute absurdity.
While my trust in Baalke/York is not as high as it once was, I can’t imagine that they’d be shopping our only QB — especially, a talented-albeit-young QB. ESPECIALLY, with this rumor that we’re interested in Brian Hoyer instead. REALLY? Brian Hoyer? No intended disrespect to him, but an older, less versatile, and less accomplished QB?? I know that there are a lot of people who are not fans of Kaepernick or who do not evaluate him appropriately, but are there any folks who think that Hoyer is a better option? Because I sure don’t.
We have* to cut Gabbert and may-or-may-not keep Johnson, however, unless Johnson is the real-life Willie Beamen – that doesn’t bode well for us.
*We have to cut Gabbert (or get his price way down) because he was making more than a back up should make. I thought that was a bad signing when it happened. Unless, it was solely to put pressure on Kaepernick’s people to keep his price low. If, that was the case, then I guess it was worth it….unless you end up trading Kaepernick a season later, that is, haha.
The only way that a Kaepernick trade makes ANY sense, is if we are blowing this up. Which would 100% contradict the message of “reloading, not rebuilding” that has been toted since Harbaugh got fired. I was reading some article that suggested the hypothetical of Dan Snyder, or someone else (but probably Dan Snyder), making another RG3-esque trade that would be tough to turn down. For example, if the plan is to blow things up, then trading Kaepernick for an ungodly amount of either 1st round picks or top-level talent, then tanking the season for a good Draft position on our own, would be the only way that the Kaepernick trade makes any sense.
However, by doing that, you further alienate a fan base that already is distrustful and upset with the Front Office. Choose your path carefully, Baalke/York. #GoNiners
NFL (49ers) Off Season: Torrey Smith Headed West??
Let’s be honest: I mostly/primarily/really only care about what we are doing this off-season, so while I may give opinions and comments on what the rest of the League is up to, my focus is on the only team (to me) that matters — my beloved San Francisco 49ers. Tuesday is going to be a wild day, I reckon. It’s a good thing that this week is Spring Break and probably pretty quiet, because I’ll be checking updates like a man with a problem.
Interesting. *IF* this pans out, I’m quite intrigued. Last year, our passing threat was really only Anquan “Grown Man” Boldin. As far as I’m concerned, Vernon quit on us — maybe he was injured (again) but he certainly wasn’t giving 100% effort when he was on the field, and he wasn’t a reliable target; Crabtree also struggled and didn’t perform as we had anticipated; McDonald/Celek/Carrier failed to shine (hence, why I think Baalke made the guarantee that Davis would be back — I reckon, had either of those guys looked like someone who could step into the starting role, that Davis would be traded by now, without question); and Stevie Johnson didn’t see as much action, as the least experienced in the system.
I know that Anquan “Grown Man” Boldin is going to do his job — I’m not worried there; the man’s a warrior — however, *if* it’s true that Vernon is a new-man and ready to play hard… AND, now, with a full year and off-season getting Stevie Johnson more in sync with Kaepernick…. AND we get Torrey Smith who can stretch the field deep??? It could be a HUGE development for us. The only potential downside (right now, that I see) is that it would further delay the development of Patton and Ellington. Having three veteran WRs at a higher pay-grade on roster, unless they get outworked this summer, they are going to get the bulk of the playing time. And, with the signing of Jarryd Hayne (for the purpose of the return game, I imagine) that makes Ellington – in particular – on the edge of redundancy.
One of the downsides of our past few seasons, offensively, is that almost EVERY play that our offense ran was, by and large, capped at 15-20yds….maybe even 10-15yds. We had solid/reliable inside receivers, but not much in the way of speed or a deep threat. However, now, if we can have the Smiths (Stevie and Torrey) on the outside — Stevie doing the mid-range/side line work; Torrey on the deep ball — with Anquan “Grown Man” Boldin and Davis attacking the middle, we accomplish a few big things:
1– Give Kaepernick more options; in addition, veteran/experienced options.
2–Expand opposing secondaries, as they no longer could just contain 1-2 receivers 10-15yds from the line of scrimmage.
3–Ease pressure on the running game — if we are able to keep the secondary back, I think that our offensive line is good enough to make lanes, and I think that Hyde/Hunter are good enough to gain yards. Neither are probably as good at finding holes as Gore, so I don’t know if they’d break off BIG gains, but as long as they’re good for a handful when we need them, that is HUGE. Losing Gore will be tough but I think it’s still a talented backfield, and, who knows?, maybe we’ll add another RB in the Draft — as insurance.
Oh, not to mention that Baalke/York had said, prior, that they’re taking Kaepernick off the leash — which is a good sign. The thing that annoyed me about last year is that there were many times where Kaepernick held off running in order to throw — which led to either a) high-risk passes, b) incompletions, or c) getting caught by defenders for either a sack or minimal gain. If they’re taking him off the leash, though, then I’m thinking that we’ll see him get out of the pocket and, if daylight is there, taking off. Seattle’s defenders had said (in that NFC Championship Game) that tackling him was deceivingly difficult. I think it would be even more difficult if, as a defender, you are have your back to him and are giving him a 20yd cushion because you have to respect Torrey Smith and the deep ball — after all, Kaepernick has the arm (and accuracy) to hit the deep ball: he just hasn’t had the talent in the WR position to make it work.
I know that I said a lot of the same things when we drafted LaMichael James a few years back (I figured we’d use him like a Darren Sproles-type, into the flat against a OLB or Safety), and that didn’t pan out…..at all…..as Roman instead tried using him between the tackles, which was just bizarre, before trying to make him a return specialist….which also didn’t work….before ultimately releasing him after he became a distraction. So, my visions haven’t always worked out — BUT I think that, if we do land Torrey Smith, there is only one reason we would be pursuing him: utilization of his speed and deep-ball abilities. Especially, since it’s unlikely we’ll have a shot at any of the premiere deep threat WRs in the Draft. #GoNiners
Welcoming Jarryd Hayne to the 49ers & NFL
An announcement popped up on my News Feed this evening stating that Jarryd Hayne — an apparent rugby superstar — had signed with us to give a shot at making a career in the NFL.
Reading the comment sections on a variety of reports of the signing, a lot of people either scoffed at the signing as a joke or were clear on the opposite side of the spectrum in their excitement. I think that this signing, right now, lands somewhere in the middle …. but closer to the optimistic side of the spectrum.
For those who were very excited about having him in the backfield and citing his YouTube highlight reel while claiming how much of a beast he is, I do like the optimism and the energy, but he’s far, far, farrrrr away from being an NFL-caliber running back. And, for those who scoffed because rugby players can’t play football (and the combative response from international folks that American football is soft), he most certainly can play football – but it depends on how we plan on utilizing him.
I believe that he has the skill set, right now, to be a productive return man. He has good size, seems durable/can take a hit, exhibits a strong stiff-arm, can break through tackles, has good speed, possess agility with good cuts and jukes, and – maybe most importantly – exhibits good vision and anticipation for evading defenses (i.e. looking for lanes, minding angles on the field, etc.). For a return man, I think that he’s almost ready to play in that capacity. Sure, there’s bound to be a learning curve when coming from what sport to another, but I think that he has the skillset already – which is a good start.
Side Note: To the uneducated viewer, rugby and football look similar….but they are not the same sport. It’s like oranges and grapefruits: to the casual glance, they look familiar, but they are notably different. Those who claim that one is better/tougher than the other are expressing their bias — they’re not comparable. End Side Note.
However, when it comes to the part that our plan is to convert him into a RB — that is most certainly a multi-year project. He had said something about Coach Tomsula teaching the game to Europeans while he was over in the NFL Europa, so maybe he has familiarity with the game, already. However, there is so much more than just the athleticism and running aspects of being an NFL-caliber RB. Being able to identify defensive formations, knowing blocking assignments, being in the right place at the right time for pass protection, etc. which are all mental aspects of the game that 1) do not exist in rugby and 2) are VITAL in NFL-caliber RBs.
I’m excited to see what he can do — as well as the development of Lawrence Okoye, another rugby/Olympic athlete attempting to make a transition to the NFL game — but, if being realistic, I can’t see him doing more than special teams/returning duties. UNLESS he already knows the RB position, I don’t think that it’s something that he’d be able to pick up quickly. Besides, we already have three solid RBs (Gore, Hyde, Hunter), so we don’t need him in that capacity. Even if we make a big mistake and don’t find a way to bring Gore back, RBs aren’t as valued in today’s game, so we can find an undrafted RB or someone who gets cut going into the season (who has been playing the position for years) to be our #3 guy. BUT, if he can translate his rugby skillset into the return game, I do think that he could be a difference-maker. #GoNiners.
NFL Week 1 Picks
Salutations Good People,
After many long months, I am back at my desk and getting ready to make my picks for the week. Last year, I had the goal of 170 wins during the season…. and I fell juuuuust short (169 wins). It really was just one bad week that I had last season that not only robbed me of my 170-win goal BUT robbed me of shattering it. That said, Week 1 is always a little dicey simply because I really only pay attention to a few teams, and so, Week 1, is my first opportunity to sit down and see what the rest of the League is offering. For those who didn’t follow my picks last year, I’m not a journalist and I am open with my biases; I’ll give my thoughts on the match-up where I feel inspired to, but, ultimately, I’m just picking who I think will win. Usually, I’m right — however, I don’t gamble so what does my accuracy really matter? It’s all for good fun.
Here are my picks for Week 1.
Week 1 Picks
Packers @ Seahawks –
We have gotten a fair dosing of the “Fail Mary” story in the past week, leading up to this game, but hopefully it is long past. This game is a tough one. “Fail Mary” aside, the Packers played well in Seattle the last time that they were up there; for it being the first game of the season, too, I reckon that everyone is healthy and ready to go (except for BJ Raji, but I hear that he may be more of a big name on the defense than a big factor… I don’t know, though; I don’t follow the Packers that closely). It’s tough to bet against Aaron Rodgers (even if up against a great pass-defense) and now that he has a reliable running game, as well, there’s nothing in me that thinks that the Packers do not have a chance at winning this game. I think that they do have a chance. That said, the NFC West has had the Packers’ number as of late, especially in exploiting the Packers’ often-porous defense — most notably with my beloved 49ers and Colin Kaepernick: the Packer Killer. While I’m not comfortable with the pick, I’m going to go with the Seahawks at home, simply because I’d rather pick them and have them lose (and take the loss in my Picks) than I would picking the Packers and having them lose AND taking the loss in my Picks — then I’ve just screwed my night. At least this way, I’ll have some silver lining at the end of the night…. but I’m not confident on this pick. Seahawks over Packers.
Saints @ Falcons –
While I think that the Falcons will bounce back this year — sure, they may not have much of a running game and their defense is suspect, but they’ll have Roddy White and Julio Jones healthy, and that has to be worth a few wins — I think that the Saints are going to win the division and also get home-field advantage throughout the playoffs, on the NFC side of the coin. With Graham happy, Brees having some weapons (and, I believe, he is recovered from his abdominal strain by now), plus they have reinforced their defense, I think that they will win this game. I’m not sold on the Falcons whereas I am sold on the Saints. Saints over Falcons.
Vikings @ Rams –
I think that the beginning of this season is going to be tough sledding for the Rams. Losing Bradford like they did, when they did, and now having to build the offense around Shaun Hill is a bit of a challenge. Sure, they have a good running game but Hill is the wild card; I don’t know what to expect from him. Meanwhile, I see a lot of promise with the Vikings — I don’t think that they’ll make the playoffs this year but I think that they could turn some heads as the season goes along. I think that, despite the tough predicament the Rams are in, I’ll go with the Rams in this game simply because their defense is one of the best; quietly one of the best. They have a great pass-rush and if the Vikings are rolling with Cassel as their guy in Week 1, I like the Rams defense against him. Rams over Vikings.
Browns @ Steelers –
I’m going Steelers. Not because I have a lot of faith in the Steelers (even though Big Ben and Tomlin are due for a good season) but simply because Cleveland appears to be a circus right now; I have no faith in them. Which is exactly how I like it. (Side Note: I put a curse on the city of Cleveland some 7yrs ago; so far, so good. End Side Note.) Steelers over Browns.
Jags @ Eagles –
From the highlights that I saw from the preseason (as well as how they performed down the stretch last year), I think that the Jags may have a chance in the AFC this year. By “have a chance” I mean that I think that they can put together a respectable season; maybe not playoff-bound but I think that they could be good enough to be a spoiler team for other teams that are on the post-season bubble. That said, I think that the Eagles will win the NFC East this year (again) and I’ll take their fast-paced offense, at home, over the Jags. Eagles over Jags.
Raiders @ Jets –
The Raiders appear to be a mess. While the Jets may not be in a much better situation, I still think that they are better than the Raiders (with Smith or Vick) and, being at home, I am going to go with the Jets in this game. Jets over Raiders.
Bengals @ Ravens –
This could be a fun game. The Bengals, I think, have more talent than the Ravens — but the Bengals also tend to not perform well when I want them to, haha. I have more questions about the Ravens, though, than I do the Bengals. And so I’m going to ride with the Bengals in this game, with their defense, and that Andy Dalton usually performs well during the regular season….. but I’m not 100% confident on this pick. Bengals over Ravens.
Bills @ Bears –
I’m going to go with the Bears in this game simply because I haven’t heard anything about the Bills’ defense. Everything seems to be focused on EJ Manuel and Sammy Watkins (who may or may not be nursing a rib injury from the preseason). Meanwhile, the Bears’ offense could be pretty explosive this season, and I think that could cause problems for the Bills. I don’t have much faith in the Bears’ defense, either, but — if looking at two teams with unimpressive defenses — I’ll take the offense that is stocked with proven veterans over the youthful offense that is banking a lot on the production from a (potentially not 100% healthy) rookie WR. Bears over Bills.
Redskins @ Texans –
The only football-related story that I have heard coming out of DC this summer is the questions surrounding if RGIII is going to be healthy to start the season. I don’t follow them closely and so I haven’t heard much — one way or the other — with any great deal of confidence. That said, being on the road and going up against a potentially great pass rush (in Watts and Clowney) does make me concerned for RGIII, especially if he does not have his mobility. Unlike other “mobile” QBs, I don’t think that RGIII can play well without mobility; I think that is a much bigger part of his game than the other “mobile” QBs. I have a lot of questions about the Texans’ offense (ex. I have no idea who their starting QB is going to be…but it doesn’t seem like they have a solid pick, either…and that’s never good)….but I’d say it’s almost on par with the amount of questions that I have on the Redskins’ defense. Ergo, I’ll take the superior defense/pass rush and the home team: Texans over Redskins.
Titans @ Chiefs –
Last season, as you may recall, I was big on the Chiefs. They had been a terrible team in the recent pass…but consistently had 8 or so Pro Bowl players on their team…..so they had talent but lacked a reliable QB and solid coaching. Then they got Reid and Alex Smith, addressing both of those areas…. and for the first half of the season they were making me look like a genius, haha. Even though they stumbled as the season progressed and, ultimately, got bit (with a vengeance) by the Injury Bug in that playoff game in Indy, I felt as though they lived up to my expectations. This year, though, I’m not sure. No one seems to be talking about them — everyone is occupied with the Broncos (obviously) and there’s a bit of buzz around the Chargers, I hear as well; but I don’t know why the Chiefs can’t be competitive. If anything, given another year with the offense, Alex Smith and the rest of those pieces should be clicking better; their defense hasn’t changed all that much from last year, either, I don’t believe. However, for as quiet as the Chiefs have been this off-season and preseason, the Titans have been quieter (in my world). Ergo, I’ll stick with the home team in this one, simply because the Titans are not on my radar as a team to look out for in the AFC this season. Chiefs over Titans.
Patriots @ Dolphins –
I don’t follow the Dolphins, really, but I know that last year they had the whole media circus revolving Incognito and Martin, and that probably did have some impact on their performance. Meanwhile, the Patriots had an incredibly mediocre roster of talent last year….and still won the division….and still made it to the AFC Championship game. I don’t know if Gronk has been cleared to play (and how many games he will play this season; injury or re-injury seems inevitable) but I imagine that it’s Week 1 and the Patriots are as healthy as they’ll be, so I imagine that they will be able to get this win on the road. Patriots over Dolphins.
Panthers @ Buccaneers –
The Panthers’ offense has me concerned. Similar to the Bills, they seem to be relying a lot on young players on offense; really, just two young players on offense. While I think that Cam Newton is better than EJ Manuel, I believe that Cam is still nursing a rib injury and his ankle may be a concern, plus is O-line is not a strength of the offense. Team that with the departure of Steve Smith and thus a rather unproven receiver corps, I don’t know what to think of their offense. I reckon that their defense will still be a great defense so they do have that going for them. Meanwhile, the Buccs have a new head coach, are removed from the QB distraction from last year, and I think could make progress this year within the division. Because I have a few questions marks surrounding the Panthers’ offense right now, I’m going to stay with the home team and pick the Buccs, and then re-evaluate my opinion of the Panthers after I see them in action. Buccs over Panthers.
49ers @ Cowboys –
For all of the talk about how my beloved 49ers are in shambles right now (and some media folks even writing them off this season), the word that I keep reading and hearing from players and coaches is that things are just fine; so I’ll trust them on that. I think that the Cowboys’ offense will be able to move the ball against us — passing defense is not our strength, especially when we’ll be without 2 of our best pass-pressure players (Aldon & Bowman), but who knows? Maybe our secondary will be better this year with the changes that we have made? Regardless, the Cowboys’ defense is supposed to be one of the worst…..ever…..and so I imagine that our offense will be able to move the ball on them, as well. In that case, I will take the more all-around-talented team and I hope to see some good performances from our younger players: namely, Carlos Hyde and LaMichael James. 49ers over Cowboys.
Colts @ Broncos –
The Colts tempt me in this game. However, seeing how they needed the Injury Bug to strike KC in that playoff game last season in order to win, coupled with the fact that the Broncos are in full-on Super-Bowl-or-Bust mode right now (with their off-season spending spree), I don’t think that the Broncos are going to come out of the gates with a loss….at home. My concerns with the Broncos’ veteran additions (and their ability to hold up for the whole season) is irrelevant in Week 1, so I’ll be taking the Broncos at home. Broncos over Colts.
Giants @ Lions –
The Lions are one of the more talented teams in the League, in my opinion, and perhaps their late-season collapses were more the result of their coaching than of the players on the field? We’ll find out this year, as Jim Caldwell is the new head coach. I wasn’t impressed with Caldwell when he was at the helm of the Colts but he took that talented team to the Super Bowl….where he was promptly out-coached and the Colts were out-played by the Saints. That said, I don’t think that the Lions are Super Bowl-bound, but I think that they’ll make the post-season, sure. Meanwhile, I don’t think that the Giants will do much this year and so I’ll stick with the more talented team, especially while at home in the season-opener. Lions over Giants.
Chargers @ Cardinals –
I don’t know if I’ve bought into the hype of the Chargers or just have too many questions to back the Cardinals in this game, but in what little action I saw from the Chargers’ starters in their preseason game against us, they seem to be in a good place right now. Rivers seems happy in the new system, he was making good decisions, high-percentage passes, and such an approach could be successful against the Cards since they lost Dockett and another defensive star on the line. Patrick Peterson, I believe, is no longer handling punt return duties and we’ll see how the Honey Badger rebounds this season. Ultimately, though, my questions with the Cards are with Carson Palmer: he hasn’t been the same since his knee got blown out in that playoff game as a Bengal and now, I believe, he is in his upper 30s and I expect his production to fall off this season — but will that drop off start to happen in Week 1? That is the question. I haven’t made many bold picks this week so I’ll roll with the Chargers in this game and see what happens. Chargers over Cardinals.
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We’ll see how Week 1 goes and I’ll recap it on Tuesday evening.
-Ryan.
My Return – Pt II – Aldon Smith & Strange NFL Justice
When I got a series of text messages yesterday at work, I knew something was going on. Then I read that it was my brother and dear Seahawk friend, Andy, breaking the news to me of Aldon Smith’s 9-game suspension. I wasn’t surprised. Why should I be?
After Josh Gordon got a full-season suspension for smoking too much weed, and then Matt Prater got a 4-game suspension for, reportedly, having some beers at home while on vacation (per his attorney) — which violated his probation stemming from a DUI three years ago — I figured that Aldon’s suspension would be AT LEAST 8 games, but maybe even a full-season, as well. After all, the man did wrap his truck around a tree…with a BAC twice the legal limit….at 7am….on a Wednesday morning…. I consider 9 games a pretty lenient ruling (unless Goodell factored in the 5-games he voluntarily missed last year — 14-games total? Yeah, I could see that). I’ll get to my thoughts in Pt III about how his absence will play a role in our 2014 campaign BUT shift my focus to the strange brand of justice that the NFL is rolling out nowadays.
Not to say that because Aldon Smith didn’t hurt anyone (including himself…miraculously) that his DUI shouldn’t be treated as less severe of an incident, but when you consider that no one got hurt in his incident; and then you consider that Josh Gordon getting high (presumably on his couch watching TV?) didn’t hurt anyone; and Prater having some beers at his home while on vacation also didn’t hurt anyone….yet Ray Rice can knock his fiancee UNCONSCIOUS in an elevator and only get a 2-game suspension…..that is strange, right? RIGHT?? Oh, furthermore, Ray Rice’s was also the only incident that was documented on camera, too. It’s not even a he-said-she-said-type of thing, either; we all saw him drag her out of the elevator, presumably unconscious — or maybe doing that sort of tantrum that kids do where they go limp and force you to drag them around. Although, the KO is probably more likely.
Sure, I read that his record will get cleared if he behaves himself for the next few years while on probation, and so you could argue that punishing him for something that may not exist on his record could get tricky, BUT these latest rash of suspensions don’t make any sense to me. Even if there is no standing rule against knocking your fiancee out cold (which kind of surprises me that there wasn’t…), couldn’t that fall under the “personal conduct” policy? I feel as though anytime that you initiate a physical altercation — with anyone — and you knock them out cold, that you probably should get suspended for at least 4 games. I mean, if the rule book says that Prater warranted a 4-game suspension (even though they were initially trying for a SEASON-LONG suspension….seriously….) for consuming alcohol at home, shouldn’t they be able to say: “Yeah, let’s have the domestic violence incident be at least 4 games, too.”
It just doesn’t make any sense to me.
I’m not a big fan of Goodell, though. I soured on the guy after I found out that he makes $20M a year. $20 MILLION A YEAR. To do what? Talk about how he’d like to see the NFL expand to Europe (where it had been tried and failed all within my lifetime)? Or (poorly) engage in cover-ups and PR mishaps? Announce the first round picks at the NFL Draft, giving bear hugs to huge guys, and posing for photos? I could totally do that job. NAY, I could totally do that job better.
I don’t get it but a lot of my life, in hindsight, is made up of moments and things that I don’t get, so I’ll focus on elements that I can control, which is a great segue to Part III and how I will be preparing for the 2014 campaign and what my thoughts are as we inch ever-so-closer to kickoff.
Update: Vernon Davis Hold Out
Reportedly, Vernon Davis doesn’t seem to optimistic or disgruntled about the whole new-deal-contract situation, according to Chris Wesseling of NFL.com, stating that he “won’t lose sleep” over it — which is good to hear. I had written my initial thoughts about his hold out a few weeks ago, and with this more recent update, I will now update my opinions based upon what I have read.
What I Think This Means for 2014 & Summer 2015:
As I had suspected (and hoped), I think that this means that Vernon will not sit out late summer activities, the pre-season, or regular season games in search of a new deal. I haven’t heard his full interview, but, from what I’m gathering, he seems to understand that he doesn’t have a lot of leverage right now and so, if it happens it will be great, but he doesn’t seem willing to hurt himself or the team in order to pout for more money. Which is good.
Again, I don’t fault him for wanting more money — it is wholly his right to ask for more money when he believes that he deserves it (which I think that he does); however, we aren’t obliged to honor the request, and I don’t think that we are going to renegotiate a new deal for him right now, because it would set an undesirable precedent in the locker room, I reckon. Furthermore, I don’t think that he’d find much support in the NFLPA ranks or amongst the general public, simply because he willfully signed a 6-year deal in his prime, so he had to have known that he was going to limit his opportunities for another big contract, of which he still has 2 yrs remaining.
Similarly, he doesn’t have the leverage that Jimmy Graham has because, while even though I don’t agree with the stats-obsessing sometimes, he doesn’t have the offensive production that Jimmy Graham, Jason Witten, or Gronkowski have to where those guys can make a case for themselves as either a) a big part of the offensive – by citing their statistics; or b) wanting to be classified as a WR instead of a TE, in order to get a higher pay scale. Vernon doesn’t have that leverage, even though he is a true TE who is GREAT in pass protection and blocking schemes, who can then also sneak out into the open and be a receiver.
HOWEVER, I think that the way that our offense is shaping up, he could be primed for a big production year that can get him more money next summer.
Now, a lot of this has to do with the health and production of our WR corps, of which I am optimistic but can’t outright say, confidently, that they will live up to their potential. Time will tell. HOWEVER, if our WR corps remain healthy and productive, this could translate into a HUGE year for Vernon Davis.
What has held Vernon back (for lack of better word) is that he has been a primary target in our passing game for the past few years, which means he has had to be covered by opposing defense’s top players. I don’t think that will be the case this year. If defensive secondaries are having to account for Anquan “Grown Man” Boldin, Michael Crabtree, Stevie Johnson, and then a speedy threat combo of Patton/Ellington, I think that our offense can, and will, spread the field and spread out the defense. That means that there could be a lot of open space for Vernon to exploit and that he no longer gets covered by a CB or Safety — he’s going to get covered by a LB….. and he can beat any and all LBs in the open field. I guarantee that.
I don’t know what will happen this coming season, but — on paper — our offense is primed for a big year. *IF* everyone can stay healthy and our offensive line maintains the same high-quality production, then we could be a very dangerous offense to go up against. We have a stable of good RBs in Gore, Hunter, Lattimore/Hyde, and maybe even James; the aforementioned WR corps; Kaepernick’s multi-threat abilities; and then Vernon Davis, too?? Even in the NFC, and specifically the West, where defenses reign supreme, that is a formidable offense to try and defend.
If our WRs can perform at the level that we expect them to, and Kaepernick continues his growth at the QB position, Vernon Davis could see a lot of passes this season, simply by virtue that secondaries have to focus on the WRs now, with Davis no longer being our automatic 1st-2nd option. He could have a big year and get some more money the way that, I believe, he really wants to get more money: through his play and not through sitting out. #GoNiners
-Ryan.
The Peanut Gallery 