Niner News Thread
- Thread starter Chree
- Start date
they didn't bring em out, i told em we have 5 not three, The guy said sumthing but i couldn't hear em, Lmfao at Raiders Fan taking em, There was sum raiders fans walkin around wit raiders jersey on N niners stuff in there hands, i got my 49ers football sign by Vernon Davis N Chilo Rachal i was trying to get it sign by Gore N Willis but i didn't get em still had a good day i have more picz on my cam ill try to upload em later, Isaac Bruce and Manny Lawson Just pass by the fans with out signing anything or lookin at the fans they just went str8 into da locker room!
Training Camp - Day One
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/ninerinsider/detail?blogid=45&entry_id=28542
NEWS OF THE MORNING: Arnaz Battle got tangled up with two defenders on a long pass, and left the field hobbling; his body language exuded anger. We'll know more in the afternoon.
The 49ers have plenty of competition at quarterback, right guard, wide receiver, right tackle and possibly free safety between veteran Mark Roman and second-year player Dashon Goldson.
"The thing I like about (Goldson) is he has great range, he's got long arms, he has length to him," general manager Scot McCloughan said. "He will challenge because he's not afraid, he wants to compete. It will be interesting. There's competition at free safety, there's no doubt about it."
With Roman shelved during team activity practices in June because of shoulder surgery, Goldson worked with the first unit and gained valuable experience. On Friday morning, Goldson had one of two interceptions, taking a ricochet off the helmet of tight end J.J. Finley, who failed to turn around quickly enough on a hot read pass from Shaun Hill.
Linebacker Manny Lawson picked off the other pass in team drills, leaping to intercept Alex Smith's second throw of the day.
QUARTERBACK MONITOR: J.T. O'Sullivan didn't take a snap in the first practice of 49ers' training camp, here's how Smith and Hill fared, very unofficially.
Smith: 14-22 with an interception.
Hill: 19-25 with an interception.
That includes their seven-on-seven drills, when they are just throwing to backs, tight ends and receivers with no pass rush. Generally, Hill looked smoother and he frequently found rookie Josh Morgan particularly in the seven-on-seven drills. Twice, Smith had passes zing incomplete because of a miscommunication and one time he essentially had to call time-out when the formation was wrong.
Smith was much better on deep throws, although neither quarterback excelled there overall. The offense didn't do any red zone drills nor multi-receiver sets, so basically no one threw a touchdown pass. Smith came close on a long pass to Arnaz Battle made possible when cornerback Nate Clements slipped.
Overall, Hill, who came in with the second team, played better. However, he mainly functioned against the second-team defense.
Morgan was the best receiver, but he has much to learn. Coming out of Virginia Tech, the Hokies ran about three routes, so Morgan will likely have some tough practices ahead. But, there's no question, he's struck a chemistry with Hill.
The Nolan File
-Coach Mike Nolan seems unsettled on whether to play a 3-4 or 4-3, the defense will probably bounce between the two. Justin Smith played as the right outside linebacker with the starting defense, which almost exclusively played in a 3-4 in the morning session.
-Nolan reiterated that there's no set timetable on naming the starting quarterback. But I think he'd like it to be the third exhibition in Chicago, something he said during a conference call several weeks ago. A reporter asked if Smith has an advantage because he's the former top-round pick and he's the one making the huge ducats. Nolan said: "The objective is to win games. Alex might be the right guy. I'm pulling for him. I'm pulling for both of them."
-Nolan also said that whoever starts the twin practices against the Raiders a week from Monday, probably won't start the exhibition opener in Oakland that Friday.
-The 49ers won't be in pads until Monday. Nolan said he held off to let some energy out of the team before the pads go on. "Everybody is trying to tattoo somebody." The players also seem to like it. "There's no way to prepare your body for training camp," linebacker Jeff Ulbrich said. "This makes it a little easier."
-Nolan said his staff will do less teaching between drills in order to get more repetitions. He has cut down the teaching time between drills to five minutes rather ten.
INJURY FILE
Nose tackle Aubrayo Franklin (calf) tackle Joe Staley (foot) and guard David Baas (chest) all missed practice. Franklin first injured his calf last year and then re-injured it three weeks ago working out. "I hope to be in there tomorrow," Franklin said. "This is just precautionary."
Staley apparently has some sort of bug bite gone wrong on his foot and it's unknown how long he'll be out.
Notes from Camp's First Practices
http://www.49ers.com/pressbox/news_detail.php?PRKey=4347§ion=PR News
Players often talk about the importance of getting good rest during training camp, but linebacker Manny Lawson just couldn’t do it in his first night of camp. Excitement over his full recovery from his ACL injury and a return to work kept the third-year linebacker tossing and turning.
“I couldn’t sleep,” said Lawson, who struggled with the same issue two years ago before his first training camp practice ever. “I’m laying in bed and it’s twelve o’clock and I thought I had plenty of time. I wake up and it’s 2:30, I go back to sleep, wake up again and it’s 2:45. Go back to sleep, and wake up and it’s 3:45. So I was really excited. I suited up very early and spent about 20 minutes out here just walking around in the hot sun.”
Lawson’s exuberance showed up in the first team snap when tight end Delanie Walker headed the linebacker’s way on a lead block for Frank Gore.
“We are in shells, and I was really a little too excited to get out there. I had gone up against Delanie and was ready to tackle him instead of Frank,” said Lawson.
Lawson blew up Walker, quickly wrapped up Gore, and then stomped his feet, clapped his hands and shouted “Let’s GO!”
Lawson later snagged an Alex Smith pass for an interception on a play that was actually a busted assignment on his part.
“I had messed up, a little over excited and I was supposed to rush and I ended up dropping,” said Lawson. “So, I messed up, and that’s bad. So, it was like “aw,’ then got a pick, and then got a ‘that’s a boy.’”
The pick was definitely deserving of a few shout outs as Lawson leapt up, bobbled the ball, and then eventually came down with the steal of Smith’s throw on a crossing pattern.
Overall, Lawson said his legs felt a bit fatigued, but mostly just “really good to be back.”
The Daily Drill
Running backs coach Tony Nathan brought a new drill with him from Baltimore in his first year coaching the 49ers backfield. Nathan had his group getting their knees up high with his rope contraption that is about a foot high.
“Those are high and I’m not that tall, and my legs are short so it’s tough for me,” said running back Frank Gore. “I can’t play around with it. I have to really go. Some of the tall guys can go through easier but I have to really pump my legs. I think it will help me get ready for when I run through the hole to really lift my legs. When you see things on the ground, just lift your legs and go.”
A few guys got tripped up in the ropes, prompting Nathan to shout, “Who’s on my ropes? You know what that means.”
The guilty parties would then have to redo the set.
“He feels that when you are in the NFL and you’ve been running the ball all of your life, you shouldn’t be tripping up,” said Gore. “It gets you ready for football and I like it.”
Seen or Overheard
The Colored Visor
Running backs DeShaun Foster and Frank Gore sported colorful visors during the first practice, (see picture above) similar to what LaDainian Tomlinson wears in San Diego. (L.T. has a prescription to wear his visors in games.)
“We can wear them in practice only,” said Gore. “I like how they look. You can also hide your eyes and check out the defense, and they can’t see your eyes. It’s just a little flavor.”
Bryant Young Sighting
Former 49ers defensive lineman Bryant Young attended the morning practice. Young has not officially filed his retirement paperwork, nor does he have an official role with the 49ers.
“The door has been opened for me to hang out and just really talk to the guys,” said Young. “I don’t have a role really, just talking to the guys. It’s different to be watching only, but you do start to see it from a different perspective.”
Young received many warm wishes, hugs, and pats on the back from his teammates, particularly Ron Fields and Isaac Sopoaga. The pair of linemen about near tackled Young on their way into the locker room.
“You went to work with those guys, sweated with those guys, sacrificed with those guys and so it’s great to see them, but hard too because you do miss having the camaraderie every day that comes from those relationships,” said Young. “That’s what I have missed the most.”
New Jersey Numbers
A few players debuted their new jerseys. Cody Wallace sported #59 since veteran Barry Sims wanted his familiar #65 jersey. Kentwan Balmer sported #96, his now official number. Quarterback Kyle Wright has been assigned #3.
AM Highlights
Safety Dashon Goldson proved once again to be in the right place at the right time, plucking a Shaun Hill pass off the helmet of tight end J.J. Finley.
Hill responded on the next play with a deep out pass to wide receiver Arnaz Battle along the far sidelines.
Safety Keith Lewis almost had an interception on an off-target throw by quarterback Alex Smith, but the defensive back let it slip thru his fingers.
Defensive end Justin Smith looks to be a great challenger for starting left guard Adam Snyder. On their first rep against one another in o-line/d-line pass rush, Smith got in the backfield in a hurry with a slap and rip move. Snyder held his own on the next play, managing to keep his balance despite another harsh slap and rip.
Barry Sims also got some props from the offensive line on his first two sets at right tackle as he staved off the pass rush from linebacker Parys Haralson.
Rookies Chilo Rachal and Kentwan Balmer took their first reps against one another in the same drill, in a battle that is likely the first of many. Balmer got some gripes from defensive line coach Jim Tomsula for giving up too early on the rush on his first rep. Balmer heeded his coach’s advice and had a much better rush on the next rep.
PM Highlights
RB Frank Gore caught several short passes in the afternoon practice, including two that earned large cheers from the fans because of his run after the catch skills. FB Zak Keasey also snatched a well-timed Shaun Hill throw on a seam route.
Injury Updates
All players reported on Thursday, but a few players not working this morning included David Baas, Aubrayo Franklin and Joe Staley.
Baas and Franklin begin camp on the Physically Unable to Perform list (PUP). Baas is still recovering from surgery to repair his torn pectoral. Franklin is resting a sore Achilles.
Staley is on Non-Football Injury due to a foot infection that was caused by a bug bite. Staley was not present at practice as he was off receiving antibiotics.
Players can come off the PUP and Non-Football Injury lists as soon as they pass their physicals.
Damane Duckett worked in Staley’s place with the starting offensive line.
*Wide receiver Isaac Bruce is being worked sparingly during team drills. Nolan said he wants the quarterbacks to get familiar with Bruce's body language in the individual periods, but will rest him typically in team. Check out Nolan's Notebook for more on Bruce.
In addition to Baas, Franklin and Staley, and by coaching design, WR Arnaz Battle, CB Walt Harris and T Jonas Jennings sat out of the afternoon session.
Following the Quarterback Battle
Pen hit paper quickly for all media observing Friday's practice when quarterback Alex Smith took the first snap with the starting line.
Fans shouldn’t read too much into that though as head coach Mike Nolan said that Shaun Hill will take the first snaps in the afternoon practice. The two will continue an equal rotation in a quarterback battle that won’t end any time soon.
“As I’ve said all along, it will be a good competition, it will be fair, they’ll alternate in practices,” said Nolan. “They will be evaluated by not only factors, but pre-season games and anything else we can figure into that they do well.”
Despite the competition, Hill and Smith presented a united front during practice, encouraging each other on bad throws, and congratulating each other on good ones.
“The kind of relationship we have out there, when he makes a good play, I tell him: ‘Good play.’ And vice versa, when I made a good throw today, he said, ‘Good throw,’” said Hill. “That’s just the way we are. We’re rooting for this team and we’re both trying to improve for this team. And that’s just the way we’re taking it.”
Smith said the pair basically figured out how to handle the situation back in March when the team’s off-season conditioning program got underway.
“I think the great thing was that Shaun and I, when this first started, talked about it, joked about it and laughed about it,” said Smith. “From there, that kind of broke the tension. It can be awkward and difficult at times. This is something we both put a lot into. When you invest that much and you’re competing, emotions get high - guys get frustrated - guys want it. But up to this point, he and I have been great.”
Both competing quarterbacks had their highs and lows in the first practice, but the best throw of the day in this writer’s opinion came during an early on-air session with the receivers. The group started out throwing short routes, then intermediate, and finally deep routes on air, and that’s when J.T. O’Sullivan displayed his canon. His first throw sailed way beyond the back of the end zone, but his next try turned out to be the best of the bunch with a beautiful pass right on the hash. Unfortunately, rookie Josh Morgan was unable to haul in the touchdown.
Hill struggled some in the afternoon, throwing three picks in the first team session and a fourth in 7-on-7. Safety Dashon Goldson, playing soft and deep, got the first one on an overthrown pass. Rookie CB Reggie Smith pilfered another long pass and then flashed some speed and return skills on about a 20-25 yard return before Frank Gore chased him out of bounds. Another rookie notched a pick towards the end of the team period in linebacker Larry Grant. CB Shawntae Spencer broke on the ball and snagged the fourth Hill interception.
Hill's best ball of the afternoon was a deep bomb that allowed receiver Dominique Zeigler to keep his stride on the grab and take it on in for a score.
Although Smith had a few passes that got away from him for incompletes, the former first-rounder finished the afternoon without throwing a pick. He also completed a couple of crisp passes in the 7-on-7 period to WR Josh Morgan and TE Delanie Walker.
From the Bleachers
Throughout training camp, TV49 will be scouring the bleachers during the open practices for highlights and play by plays from the fans. We'll also feature a few in our practice reports in this From the Bleachers feature.
"Reggie Smith got an interception and he looked pretty fast out there," said Tony Rocho. "We needed some speed on the corners, especially in case anyone gets hurt out there during the season. It's a long season and I feel like we've got some depth."
"What I've seen out of Frank Gore today is that he's going for long passes, short passes, catching it, and busting out his abilities," said Alberto Rodriguez. "He's going hard, full-speed and he's broken through the line of scrimmage, and he always supports the fans going back to the huddle by coming along the sidelines.
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/ninerinsider/detail?blogid=45&entry_id=28542
NEWS OF THE MORNING: Arnaz Battle got tangled up with two defenders on a long pass, and left the field hobbling; his body language exuded anger. We'll know more in the afternoon.
The 49ers have plenty of competition at quarterback, right guard, wide receiver, right tackle and possibly free safety between veteran Mark Roman and second-year player Dashon Goldson.
"The thing I like about (Goldson) is he has great range, he's got long arms, he has length to him," general manager Scot McCloughan said. "He will challenge because he's not afraid, he wants to compete. It will be interesting. There's competition at free safety, there's no doubt about it."
With Roman shelved during team activity practices in June because of shoulder surgery, Goldson worked with the first unit and gained valuable experience. On Friday morning, Goldson had one of two interceptions, taking a ricochet off the helmet of tight end J.J. Finley, who failed to turn around quickly enough on a hot read pass from Shaun Hill.
Linebacker Manny Lawson picked off the other pass in team drills, leaping to intercept Alex Smith's second throw of the day.
QUARTERBACK MONITOR: J.T. O'Sullivan didn't take a snap in the first practice of 49ers' training camp, here's how Smith and Hill fared, very unofficially.
Smith: 14-22 with an interception.
Hill: 19-25 with an interception.
That includes their seven-on-seven drills, when they are just throwing to backs, tight ends and receivers with no pass rush. Generally, Hill looked smoother and he frequently found rookie Josh Morgan particularly in the seven-on-seven drills. Twice, Smith had passes zing incomplete because of a miscommunication and one time he essentially had to call time-out when the formation was wrong.
Smith was much better on deep throws, although neither quarterback excelled there overall. The offense didn't do any red zone drills nor multi-receiver sets, so basically no one threw a touchdown pass. Smith came close on a long pass to Arnaz Battle made possible when cornerback Nate Clements slipped.
Overall, Hill, who came in with the second team, played better. However, he mainly functioned against the second-team defense.
Morgan was the best receiver, but he has much to learn. Coming out of Virginia Tech, the Hokies ran about three routes, so Morgan will likely have some tough practices ahead. But, there's no question, he's struck a chemistry with Hill.
The Nolan File
-Coach Mike Nolan seems unsettled on whether to play a 3-4 or 4-3, the defense will probably bounce between the two. Justin Smith played as the right outside linebacker with the starting defense, which almost exclusively played in a 3-4 in the morning session.
-Nolan reiterated that there's no set timetable on naming the starting quarterback. But I think he'd like it to be the third exhibition in Chicago, something he said during a conference call several weeks ago. A reporter asked if Smith has an advantage because he's the former top-round pick and he's the one making the huge ducats. Nolan said: "The objective is to win games. Alex might be the right guy. I'm pulling for him. I'm pulling for both of them."
-Nolan also said that whoever starts the twin practices against the Raiders a week from Monday, probably won't start the exhibition opener in Oakland that Friday.
-The 49ers won't be in pads until Monday. Nolan said he held off to let some energy out of the team before the pads go on. "Everybody is trying to tattoo somebody." The players also seem to like it. "There's no way to prepare your body for training camp," linebacker Jeff Ulbrich said. "This makes it a little easier."
-Nolan said his staff will do less teaching between drills in order to get more repetitions. He has cut down the teaching time between drills to five minutes rather ten.
INJURY FILE
Nose tackle Aubrayo Franklin (calf) tackle Joe Staley (foot) and guard David Baas (chest) all missed practice. Franklin first injured his calf last year and then re-injured it three weeks ago working out. "I hope to be in there tomorrow," Franklin said. "This is just precautionary."
Staley apparently has some sort of bug bite gone wrong on his foot and it's unknown how long he'll be out.
Notes from Camp's First Practices
http://www.49ers.com/pressbox/news_detail.php?PRKey=4347§ion=PR News
Players often talk about the importance of getting good rest during training camp, but linebacker Manny Lawson just couldn’t do it in his first night of camp. Excitement over his full recovery from his ACL injury and a return to work kept the third-year linebacker tossing and turning.
“I couldn’t sleep,” said Lawson, who struggled with the same issue two years ago before his first training camp practice ever. “I’m laying in bed and it’s twelve o’clock and I thought I had plenty of time. I wake up and it’s 2:30, I go back to sleep, wake up again and it’s 2:45. Go back to sleep, and wake up and it’s 3:45. So I was really excited. I suited up very early and spent about 20 minutes out here just walking around in the hot sun.”
Lawson’s exuberance showed up in the first team snap when tight end Delanie Walker headed the linebacker’s way on a lead block for Frank Gore.
“We are in shells, and I was really a little too excited to get out there. I had gone up against Delanie and was ready to tackle him instead of Frank,” said Lawson.
Lawson blew up Walker, quickly wrapped up Gore, and then stomped his feet, clapped his hands and shouted “Let’s GO!”
Lawson later snagged an Alex Smith pass for an interception on a play that was actually a busted assignment on his part.
“I had messed up, a little over excited and I was supposed to rush and I ended up dropping,” said Lawson. “So, I messed up, and that’s bad. So, it was like “aw,’ then got a pick, and then got a ‘that’s a boy.’”
The pick was definitely deserving of a few shout outs as Lawson leapt up, bobbled the ball, and then eventually came down with the steal of Smith’s throw on a crossing pattern.
Overall, Lawson said his legs felt a bit fatigued, but mostly just “really good to be back.”
The Daily Drill
Running backs coach Tony Nathan brought a new drill with him from Baltimore in his first year coaching the 49ers backfield. Nathan had his group getting their knees up high with his rope contraption that is about a foot high.
“Those are high and I’m not that tall, and my legs are short so it’s tough for me,” said running back Frank Gore. “I can’t play around with it. I have to really go. Some of the tall guys can go through easier but I have to really pump my legs. I think it will help me get ready for when I run through the hole to really lift my legs. When you see things on the ground, just lift your legs and go.”
A few guys got tripped up in the ropes, prompting Nathan to shout, “Who’s on my ropes? You know what that means.”
The guilty parties would then have to redo the set.
“He feels that when you are in the NFL and you’ve been running the ball all of your life, you shouldn’t be tripping up,” said Gore. “It gets you ready for football and I like it.”
Seen or Overheard
The Colored Visor
Running backs DeShaun Foster and Frank Gore sported colorful visors during the first practice, (see picture above) similar to what LaDainian Tomlinson wears in San Diego. (L.T. has a prescription to wear his visors in games.)
“We can wear them in practice only,” said Gore. “I like how they look. You can also hide your eyes and check out the defense, and they can’t see your eyes. It’s just a little flavor.”
Bryant Young Sighting
Former 49ers defensive lineman Bryant Young attended the morning practice. Young has not officially filed his retirement paperwork, nor does he have an official role with the 49ers.
“The door has been opened for me to hang out and just really talk to the guys,” said Young. “I don’t have a role really, just talking to the guys. It’s different to be watching only, but you do start to see it from a different perspective.”
Young received many warm wishes, hugs, and pats on the back from his teammates, particularly Ron Fields and Isaac Sopoaga. The pair of linemen about near tackled Young on their way into the locker room.
“You went to work with those guys, sweated with those guys, sacrificed with those guys and so it’s great to see them, but hard too because you do miss having the camaraderie every day that comes from those relationships,” said Young. “That’s what I have missed the most.”
New Jersey Numbers
A few players debuted their new jerseys. Cody Wallace sported #59 since veteran Barry Sims wanted his familiar #65 jersey. Kentwan Balmer sported #96, his now official number. Quarterback Kyle Wright has been assigned #3.
AM Highlights
Safety Dashon Goldson proved once again to be in the right place at the right time, plucking a Shaun Hill pass off the helmet of tight end J.J. Finley.
Hill responded on the next play with a deep out pass to wide receiver Arnaz Battle along the far sidelines.
Safety Keith Lewis almost had an interception on an off-target throw by quarterback Alex Smith, but the defensive back let it slip thru his fingers.
Defensive end Justin Smith looks to be a great challenger for starting left guard Adam Snyder. On their first rep against one another in o-line/d-line pass rush, Smith got in the backfield in a hurry with a slap and rip move. Snyder held his own on the next play, managing to keep his balance despite another harsh slap and rip.
Barry Sims also got some props from the offensive line on his first two sets at right tackle as he staved off the pass rush from linebacker Parys Haralson.
Rookies Chilo Rachal and Kentwan Balmer took their first reps against one another in the same drill, in a battle that is likely the first of many. Balmer got some gripes from defensive line coach Jim Tomsula for giving up too early on the rush on his first rep. Balmer heeded his coach’s advice and had a much better rush on the next rep.
PM Highlights
RB Frank Gore caught several short passes in the afternoon practice, including two that earned large cheers from the fans because of his run after the catch skills. FB Zak Keasey also snatched a well-timed Shaun Hill throw on a seam route.
Injury Updates
All players reported on Thursday, but a few players not working this morning included David Baas, Aubrayo Franklin and Joe Staley.
Baas and Franklin begin camp on the Physically Unable to Perform list (PUP). Baas is still recovering from surgery to repair his torn pectoral. Franklin is resting a sore Achilles.
Staley is on Non-Football Injury due to a foot infection that was caused by a bug bite. Staley was not present at practice as he was off receiving antibiotics.
Players can come off the PUP and Non-Football Injury lists as soon as they pass their physicals.
Damane Duckett worked in Staley’s place with the starting offensive line.
*Wide receiver Isaac Bruce is being worked sparingly during team drills. Nolan said he wants the quarterbacks to get familiar with Bruce's body language in the individual periods, but will rest him typically in team. Check out Nolan's Notebook for more on Bruce.
In addition to Baas, Franklin and Staley, and by coaching design, WR Arnaz Battle, CB Walt Harris and T Jonas Jennings sat out of the afternoon session.
Following the Quarterback Battle
Pen hit paper quickly for all media observing Friday's practice when quarterback Alex Smith took the first snap with the starting line.
Fans shouldn’t read too much into that though as head coach Mike Nolan said that Shaun Hill will take the first snaps in the afternoon practice. The two will continue an equal rotation in a quarterback battle that won’t end any time soon.
“As I’ve said all along, it will be a good competition, it will be fair, they’ll alternate in practices,” said Nolan. “They will be evaluated by not only factors, but pre-season games and anything else we can figure into that they do well.”
Despite the competition, Hill and Smith presented a united front during practice, encouraging each other on bad throws, and congratulating each other on good ones.
“The kind of relationship we have out there, when he makes a good play, I tell him: ‘Good play.’ And vice versa, when I made a good throw today, he said, ‘Good throw,’” said Hill. “That’s just the way we are. We’re rooting for this team and we’re both trying to improve for this team. And that’s just the way we’re taking it.”
Smith said the pair basically figured out how to handle the situation back in March when the team’s off-season conditioning program got underway.
“I think the great thing was that Shaun and I, when this first started, talked about it, joked about it and laughed about it,” said Smith. “From there, that kind of broke the tension. It can be awkward and difficult at times. This is something we both put a lot into. When you invest that much and you’re competing, emotions get high - guys get frustrated - guys want it. But up to this point, he and I have been great.”
Both competing quarterbacks had their highs and lows in the first practice, but the best throw of the day in this writer’s opinion came during an early on-air session with the receivers. The group started out throwing short routes, then intermediate, and finally deep routes on air, and that’s when J.T. O’Sullivan displayed his canon. His first throw sailed way beyond the back of the end zone, but his next try turned out to be the best of the bunch with a beautiful pass right on the hash. Unfortunately, rookie Josh Morgan was unable to haul in the touchdown.
Hill struggled some in the afternoon, throwing three picks in the first team session and a fourth in 7-on-7. Safety Dashon Goldson, playing soft and deep, got the first one on an overthrown pass. Rookie CB Reggie Smith pilfered another long pass and then flashed some speed and return skills on about a 20-25 yard return before Frank Gore chased him out of bounds. Another rookie notched a pick towards the end of the team period in linebacker Larry Grant. CB Shawntae Spencer broke on the ball and snagged the fourth Hill interception.
Hill's best ball of the afternoon was a deep bomb that allowed receiver Dominique Zeigler to keep his stride on the grab and take it on in for a score.
Although Smith had a few passes that got away from him for incompletes, the former first-rounder finished the afternoon without throwing a pick. He also completed a couple of crisp passes in the 7-on-7 period to WR Josh Morgan and TE Delanie Walker.
From the Bleachers
Throughout training camp, TV49 will be scouring the bleachers during the open practices for highlights and play by plays from the fans. We'll also feature a few in our practice reports in this From the Bleachers feature.
"Reggie Smith got an interception and he looked pretty fast out there," said Tony Rocho. "We needed some speed on the corners, especially in case anyone gets hurt out there during the season. It's a long season and I feel like we've got some depth."
"What I've seen out of Frank Gore today is that he's going for long passes, short passes, catching it, and busting out his abilities," said Alberto Rodriguez. "He's going hard, full-speed and he's broken through the line of scrimmage, and he always supports the fans going back to the huddle by coming along the sidelines.
All the news from training camp, Day 2
http://www.sacbee.com/static/weblogs/49ers/archives/014114.html
The only full practice of the day is in the books, and while there were still a number of penalties and broken plays, I thought the quarterbacks looked a lot sharper than they did yesterday. Alex Smith was the "starter" this morning, and Shaun Hill will have that honor tomorrow morning. Mike Nolan cautioned that although it may seem like Smith is getting more work now, over the next few days the load will even out. Here's how the QBs performed in 11-on-11 drills, where overall there was a lot more shifting, more three-receiver sets, and more Martz-like wrinkles than yesterday.
Alex Smith
- Completes a short pass to Bryant Johnson that is slightly behind the receiver.
- Pass to Frank Gore incomplete when Gore slips. Jeff Ulbrich has tight coverage on the play
- Great pass to Vernon Davis. The ball hits Davis in the hands just as he's coming out of his break. Davis bobbles it initially but gathers it in and heads upfield.
- A swing pass to Gore is too far in front. Judging by Smith's body language, he expected Gore to be farther upfield.
Shaun Hill
- Whips a quick pass (hot read) to Josh Morgan
- Whips another quick one to Delanie Walker. Dashon Goldson sniffs out the play, and were this a full-contact practice, probably would have blown Walker up
- Deep pass falls to the ground with nary a receiver in sight
- Dominique Zeigler makes a leaping catch over the middle
Alex Smith
- Completes a short pass to Jason Hill
- Swing pass to Frank Gore goes off his fingers (drop)
- Completes a deep crossing pattern to Arnaz Battle
- Finally completes the swing pass to Gore.
Shaun Hill
- Incomplete to Arnaz Battle
- Quick pass (hot read) to Delanie Walker
- A nice pass over the middle to Robert Jordan
- A nice sideline pattern to Jordan in front of Tarell Brown
******
Earlier in the practice, the 49ers went nine-on-nine (no CBs or WRs). These were all running plays, and the offense must have run 20 or so. I didn't see Moran Norris, last year's fullback, block for Gore on any of them. Instead, that role either fell to Zak Keasey or to one of the H-backs, Delanie Walker or Billy Bajema. Norris did get into the action, but usually was blocking for Michael Robinson or DeShaun Foster.
While Norris is a powerful lead blocker, Keasey is a better pass-catching threat out of the backfield. Another reason he is getting more playing time: He is faster than Norris and is effective in getting out in front of Gore on running plays to the outside.
*****
Isaac Bruce practiced sparingly this morning, and the team is making sure they don't wear down the 35-year-old veteran this summer. With Ashley Lelie out with a calf injury (not good news for Lelie), the top three receivers were Bryant Johnson, Arnaz Battle and Jason Hill. Battle said he is only practicing once a day to avoid the knee issues he's had in previous summers. If you'll recall, Battle has had to have his knee drained of fluid several times over his career.
*****
Damane Duckett went down with a left knee injury after locking up with Tully Banta-Cain in one-on-one blocking drills. The big tackle lay on the grass for several minutes, but eventually got to his feet. He was later seen moving around gingerly in the locker room with a bag of ice on the knee. Deshaun Foster also banged his knee on a delayed screen but it didn't appear to be a long-term injury.
*******
Joe Staley spent in the night in the hospital getting treatment (antibiotics) for his infected bite. He's out of the hospital now. What bit him? Nolan said no one is quite sure but that it wasn't a dreaded brown recluse spider.
took tabs of who won and lost the blocking drills. Here's the partial tally
Eric Heitmann vs. Ronald Fields.
I. Fields
II. Heitmann
Justin Smith vs. Adam Snyder
I. Smith throws Snyder to the ground
II. Snyder holds his own and gets a good-natured pat on the helmet from Smith for congratulations
Roderick Green vs. Duckett
I. Green beats him outside
II. Duckett holds him off but in a real game might have gotten an illegal hands to the face penalty
Vernon Davis vs. ..
I. ... Parys Harlason ... Davis wins
II. .... Louis Holmes ... Holmes goes bye, but because of a false start
III. .... TBC ... Draw
IV. ... Green ... Davis wins
Kentwan Balmer vs. Chilo Rachal
I. Rachal
II. Balmer (Rachal whiffs on his block)
Walter Curry vs. Cody Wallace
I. Curry puts Wallace on his back
II. Wallace fights him to a draw, gets nice applause from rest of o-line.
*******
The 49ers ended practice in a team-drill situation. One of the things of note was that Justin Smith continues to line up all over the field. He again played a lot of outside linebacker, but also lined up at left, not right, defensive end. In one alignment, he was the middle of a three-man line with Roderick Green on one side and Ray McDonald on the other. The bottom line is that the 49ers are experimenting with all sorts of formations this summer and that Smith is at the center of that experimentation. Said Nolan of Smith: "He's going to be attacking the line of scrimmage as much as he can."
********
The offense mostly ran the ball during the final drills. There were several penalties on both the offense and defense. When the second-team defense jumped offside two times in a row, d-line coach Jim Tomsula - a Bee-rows favorite - went apoplectic. Pointing to the first-team defenders standing behind him, Tomsula yelled, "Ge 'em out! Get 'em out!" and the first teamers relieved their second-team counterparts.
http://www.sacbee.com/static/weblogs/49ers/archives/014114.html
The only full practice of the day is in the books, and while there were still a number of penalties and broken plays, I thought the quarterbacks looked a lot sharper than they did yesterday. Alex Smith was the "starter" this morning, and Shaun Hill will have that honor tomorrow morning. Mike Nolan cautioned that although it may seem like Smith is getting more work now, over the next few days the load will even out. Here's how the QBs performed in 11-on-11 drills, where overall there was a lot more shifting, more three-receiver sets, and more Martz-like wrinkles than yesterday.
Alex Smith
- Completes a short pass to Bryant Johnson that is slightly behind the receiver.
- Pass to Frank Gore incomplete when Gore slips. Jeff Ulbrich has tight coverage on the play
- Great pass to Vernon Davis. The ball hits Davis in the hands just as he's coming out of his break. Davis bobbles it initially but gathers it in and heads upfield.
- A swing pass to Gore is too far in front. Judging by Smith's body language, he expected Gore to be farther upfield.
Shaun Hill
- Whips a quick pass (hot read) to Josh Morgan
- Whips another quick one to Delanie Walker. Dashon Goldson sniffs out the play, and were this a full-contact practice, probably would have blown Walker up
- Deep pass falls to the ground with nary a receiver in sight
- Dominique Zeigler makes a leaping catch over the middle
Alex Smith
- Completes a short pass to Jason Hill
- Swing pass to Frank Gore goes off his fingers (drop)
- Completes a deep crossing pattern to Arnaz Battle
- Finally completes the swing pass to Gore.
Shaun Hill
- Incomplete to Arnaz Battle
- Quick pass (hot read) to Delanie Walker
- A nice pass over the middle to Robert Jordan
- A nice sideline pattern to Jordan in front of Tarell Brown
******
Earlier in the practice, the 49ers went nine-on-nine (no CBs or WRs). These were all running plays, and the offense must have run 20 or so. I didn't see Moran Norris, last year's fullback, block for Gore on any of them. Instead, that role either fell to Zak Keasey or to one of the H-backs, Delanie Walker or Billy Bajema. Norris did get into the action, but usually was blocking for Michael Robinson or DeShaun Foster.
While Norris is a powerful lead blocker, Keasey is a better pass-catching threat out of the backfield. Another reason he is getting more playing time: He is faster than Norris and is effective in getting out in front of Gore on running plays to the outside.
*****
Isaac Bruce practiced sparingly this morning, and the team is making sure they don't wear down the 35-year-old veteran this summer. With Ashley Lelie out with a calf injury (not good news for Lelie), the top three receivers were Bryant Johnson, Arnaz Battle and Jason Hill. Battle said he is only practicing once a day to avoid the knee issues he's had in previous summers. If you'll recall, Battle has had to have his knee drained of fluid several times over his career.
*****
Damane Duckett went down with a left knee injury after locking up with Tully Banta-Cain in one-on-one blocking drills. The big tackle lay on the grass for several minutes, but eventually got to his feet. He was later seen moving around gingerly in the locker room with a bag of ice on the knee. Deshaun Foster also banged his knee on a delayed screen but it didn't appear to be a long-term injury.
*******
Joe Staley spent in the night in the hospital getting treatment (antibiotics) for his infected bite. He's out of the hospital now. What bit him? Nolan said no one is quite sure but that it wasn't a dreaded brown recluse spider.
took tabs of who won and lost the blocking drills. Here's the partial tally
Eric Heitmann vs. Ronald Fields.
I. Fields
II. Heitmann
Justin Smith vs. Adam Snyder
I. Smith throws Snyder to the ground
II. Snyder holds his own and gets a good-natured pat on the helmet from Smith for congratulations
Roderick Green vs. Duckett
I. Green beats him outside
II. Duckett holds him off but in a real game might have gotten an illegal hands to the face penalty
Vernon Davis vs. ..
I. ... Parys Harlason ... Davis wins
II. .... Louis Holmes ... Holmes goes bye, but because of a false start
III. .... TBC ... Draw
IV. ... Green ... Davis wins
Kentwan Balmer vs. Chilo Rachal
I. Rachal
II. Balmer (Rachal whiffs on his block)
Walter Curry vs. Cody Wallace
I. Curry puts Wallace on his back
II. Wallace fights him to a draw, gets nice applause from rest of o-line.
*******
The 49ers ended practice in a team-drill situation. One of the things of note was that Justin Smith continues to line up all over the field. He again played a lot of outside linebacker, but also lined up at left, not right, defensive end. In one alignment, he was the middle of a three-man line with Roderick Green on one side and Ray McDonald on the other. The bottom line is that the 49ers are experimenting with all sorts of formations this summer and that Smith is at the center of that experimentation. Said Nolan of Smith: "He's going to be attacking the line of scrimmage as much as he can."
********
The offense mostly ran the ball during the final drills. There were several penalties on both the offense and defense. When the second-team defense jumped offside two times in a row, d-line coach Jim Tomsula - a Bee-rows favorite - went apoplectic. Pointing to the first-team defenders standing behind him, Tomsula yelled, "Ge 'em out! Get 'em out!" and the first teamers relieved their second-team counterparts.
Morning practice: Vernon has Delanie's back
http://49ers.pressdemocrat.com/default.asp?item=2241732
This morning's practice was open to the public -- well, kind of.
The 49ers rotate practice fields to keep them both in good shape. However, the 49ers practiced on the field far away from the bleachers that were set up to accomodate the fans on the south side of the team's facility.
Coach Mike Nolan said he felt bad that the fans were so far away from the action. But he said when he noticed which field the team was set to have its 11-on-11, it was too late to change. All the film equipment was set up on the north field.
This afternoon is also an open session. It is scheduled to be held on the field closest to the stands.
* * *
There was an interesting scuffle during teamwork session, as tight end Vernon Davis came to Delanie Walker's defense. Davis stood up as a team leader in going after Justin Smith.
Walker caught a tight end screen and turned up the field. Smith was in pursuit on the play and he gave Walker a shove in the back. Walker was sent tumbling to the ground.
Davis ran over, yelling at Smith. "What's up with you!?" Davis said. He told Smith that's not what you do to a teammate. "Don't push him down like that," Davis yelled. He went after Smith and had to be separated.
Quite a scene. And Davis is to be applauded for doing it.
Walker certainly appreciated Davis' gesture, but he also has no ill will toward Smith.
"I felt it a little," Walker said of the push in the back. "Justin was just trying to make a play. He pushed me, then I tripped over Shawntae (Spencer) and that made it look worse that it was."
Walker said of Davis, "It shows that he's got my back, the same way I've got his back."
Afterward, Smith apologized to Walker, saying he didn't mean to push him that hard.
"He just saw a screen and his responsibility was that side, so he was trying to make a play," Walker said.
* * *
Just a couple plays later, running back Michael Robinson went down with a right knee injury when he got tangled as he ran into the line. It looked as if he ran up the back of one of his offensive linemen while Dontarrious Thomas hit the lineman and moved him back. Robinson's knee twisted awkwardly and he went to the turf.
He remained down for a couple minutes before getting up and walking off under his own power. The injury is not expected to be serious, and Robinson was relieved after admitting to be quite scared when the play occurred.
* * *
Bryant Young and Trent Dilfer were in the locker room today. Dilfer, ESPN's newest analyst, was watching practice. Young said he is interested in becoming a coach. He ruled out a return.
"No Brett Favre," he said.
Young said he passed a major hurdle in his retirement on Friday when he watched training camp practice from the sideline and didn't feel an overwhelming desire to suit up and play.
He said it was nice to go on vacation recently and not worry about what he could eat or how he'd find a gym the next day for a workout. Young said he's considering coaching. He realizes that would have to be a family decision because of the long hours involved. However, Young said anybody who wants to be good at anything is going to have to devote a lot of hours to anything.
* * *
CB Walt Harris was held out of practice to give the veteran some rest. WR Arnaz Battle is nursing a hamstring strain, so he'll take off practice from time to time. (Battle practiced this morning.)
* * *
The QB competition continues. Hill throws higher percentage passes than Smith, who seems more apt to try to get the ball down field. Regardless, it was a good day for Hill. He completed his last eight passing attempts in 11-on-11 work.
For the morning session, Hill completed 11 of 14 passes, while Smith completed 8 of 14. There were no interceptions during team work.
However, Smith threw one pick to Keith Lewis in 7-on-7. The best play of 7-on-7 was a 50-yard pass from Hill (showing some arm) to rookie Josh Morgan against the defense of Spencer and Michael Lewis.
* * *
In one-on-one pass blocking drills, Eric Heitmann (vs. Ronald Fields) and Jonas Jennings (vs. Isaac Sopoaga, and later against Brandon Moore and Parys Haralson) looked very good. Kentwan Balmer ripped past Jeb Terry.
* * *
There is competition at the wideout spots. The competition right now is for spots on the team. As Mike Nolan said, the question is who are the five receivers? And, then, do they have a sixth who should make the squad.
My opinion: Josh Morgan makes the team. But Ashley Lelie better get back in a hurry or he's going to have a difficult time making the final roster.
Morgan continues to shine. When asked what kind of impression he's making, Morgan answered, "I'm not sure -- hopefully a good one."
He's getting a lot of reps and -- to the untrained eye -- does not appear to be doing much wrong. Seems like he has a decent grasp of the offense and he's catching most everything in sight.
As for the starting two receivers . . . well, it might be the starting THREE receivers (Isaac Bruce, Bryant Johnson and Arnaz Battle). Or the starting TWO tight ends (Davis and Walker).
Don't expect the 49ers to use a fullback much as they try to get their best 11 players on the field. Delanie Walker is looking very good. He considers himself an H-back, which entails being a tight end, slot receiver and fullback.
* * *
OK, that's it for now.
49ers cancel afternoon practice
http://www.sacbee.com/static/weblogs/49ers/archives/014123.html
If you have tickets to the 49ers' afternoon practice today ... well, you're not going to like this: Mike Nolan has decided to cancel the afternoon session. Here's his quote:
"We decided that we would not go through practice this afternoon. We have had great tempo in the first five shell practices. Our players are practicing in a padded tempo mode. We will be in pads tomorrow. Training camp has a lot of objectives to accomplish. Taking care of our players is one of them."
Players will sign autographs for the 3,000 or so fans expected to be on hand later today. They also will hold their regular meeting schedule this evening.
The fans waiting in line in front of the team facility were disappointed that the session was cancelled but seemed to take the news in stride. "I wanted him to watch the big boys," said Michelle Flores of San Jose, pointing to seven-year-old son, Joseph. "He wants to be a pro."
Eight practices this summer are open to the public. Fans have had to obtain the tickets on-line, but they are free. A team spokesman said fans who had tickets for today's afternoon session could use those tickets to attend another open practice.
Nolan obviously is concerned with keeping his players fresh. And although the team has avoided serious injuries in the first three days, there have been a couple of close calls involving tackle Damane Duckett (knee) and running back Michael Robinson (knee). Perhaps Nolan doesn't want to push his luck. Robinson had an MRI on his knee, but the results won't be in until tomorrow.
****update*****
In lieu of a practice, the team has set up autograph tables for every player. Judging from the lines in front of the tables, it's safe to say that the two most popular 49ers are Patrick Willis and Vernon Davis. (Or maybe they were lining up for David Baas, who was sharing Davis' table). As for the quarterback battle, the fans seem to be slightly fonder of Alex Smith. His table went about 25 autograph seekers deep. Hill's had one.
http://49ers.pressdemocrat.com/default.asp?item=2241732
This morning's practice was open to the public -- well, kind of.
The 49ers rotate practice fields to keep them both in good shape. However, the 49ers practiced on the field far away from the bleachers that were set up to accomodate the fans on the south side of the team's facility.
Coach Mike Nolan said he felt bad that the fans were so far away from the action. But he said when he noticed which field the team was set to have its 11-on-11, it was too late to change. All the film equipment was set up on the north field.
This afternoon is also an open session. It is scheduled to be held on the field closest to the stands.
* * *
There was an interesting scuffle during teamwork session, as tight end Vernon Davis came to Delanie Walker's defense. Davis stood up as a team leader in going after Justin Smith.
Walker caught a tight end screen and turned up the field. Smith was in pursuit on the play and he gave Walker a shove in the back. Walker was sent tumbling to the ground.
Davis ran over, yelling at Smith. "What's up with you!?" Davis said. He told Smith that's not what you do to a teammate. "Don't push him down like that," Davis yelled. He went after Smith and had to be separated.
Quite a scene. And Davis is to be applauded for doing it.
Walker certainly appreciated Davis' gesture, but he also has no ill will toward Smith.
"I felt it a little," Walker said of the push in the back. "Justin was just trying to make a play. He pushed me, then I tripped over Shawntae (Spencer) and that made it look worse that it was."
Walker said of Davis, "It shows that he's got my back, the same way I've got his back."
Afterward, Smith apologized to Walker, saying he didn't mean to push him that hard.
"He just saw a screen and his responsibility was that side, so he was trying to make a play," Walker said.
* * *
Just a couple plays later, running back Michael Robinson went down with a right knee injury when he got tangled as he ran into the line. It looked as if he ran up the back of one of his offensive linemen while Dontarrious Thomas hit the lineman and moved him back. Robinson's knee twisted awkwardly and he went to the turf.
He remained down for a couple minutes before getting up and walking off under his own power. The injury is not expected to be serious, and Robinson was relieved after admitting to be quite scared when the play occurred.
* * *
Bryant Young and Trent Dilfer were in the locker room today. Dilfer, ESPN's newest analyst, was watching practice. Young said he is interested in becoming a coach. He ruled out a return.
"No Brett Favre," he said.
Young said he passed a major hurdle in his retirement on Friday when he watched training camp practice from the sideline and didn't feel an overwhelming desire to suit up and play.
He said it was nice to go on vacation recently and not worry about what he could eat or how he'd find a gym the next day for a workout. Young said he's considering coaching. He realizes that would have to be a family decision because of the long hours involved. However, Young said anybody who wants to be good at anything is going to have to devote a lot of hours to anything.
* * *
CB Walt Harris was held out of practice to give the veteran some rest. WR Arnaz Battle is nursing a hamstring strain, so he'll take off practice from time to time. (Battle practiced this morning.)
* * *
The QB competition continues. Hill throws higher percentage passes than Smith, who seems more apt to try to get the ball down field. Regardless, it was a good day for Hill. He completed his last eight passing attempts in 11-on-11 work.
For the morning session, Hill completed 11 of 14 passes, while Smith completed 8 of 14. There were no interceptions during team work.
However, Smith threw one pick to Keith Lewis in 7-on-7. The best play of 7-on-7 was a 50-yard pass from Hill (showing some arm) to rookie Josh Morgan against the defense of Spencer and Michael Lewis.
* * *
In one-on-one pass blocking drills, Eric Heitmann (vs. Ronald Fields) and Jonas Jennings (vs. Isaac Sopoaga, and later against Brandon Moore and Parys Haralson) looked very good. Kentwan Balmer ripped past Jeb Terry.
* * *
There is competition at the wideout spots. The competition right now is for spots on the team. As Mike Nolan said, the question is who are the five receivers? And, then, do they have a sixth who should make the squad.
My opinion: Josh Morgan makes the team. But Ashley Lelie better get back in a hurry or he's going to have a difficult time making the final roster.
Morgan continues to shine. When asked what kind of impression he's making, Morgan answered, "I'm not sure -- hopefully a good one."
He's getting a lot of reps and -- to the untrained eye -- does not appear to be doing much wrong. Seems like he has a decent grasp of the offense and he's catching most everything in sight.
As for the starting two receivers . . . well, it might be the starting THREE receivers (Isaac Bruce, Bryant Johnson and Arnaz Battle). Or the starting TWO tight ends (Davis and Walker).
Don't expect the 49ers to use a fullback much as they try to get their best 11 players on the field. Delanie Walker is looking very good. He considers himself an H-back, which entails being a tight end, slot receiver and fullback.
* * *
OK, that's it for now.
49ers cancel afternoon practice
http://www.sacbee.com/static/weblogs/49ers/archives/014123.html
If you have tickets to the 49ers' afternoon practice today ... well, you're not going to like this: Mike Nolan has decided to cancel the afternoon session. Here's his quote:
"We decided that we would not go through practice this afternoon. We have had great tempo in the first five shell practices. Our players are practicing in a padded tempo mode. We will be in pads tomorrow. Training camp has a lot of objectives to accomplish. Taking care of our players is one of them."
Players will sign autographs for the 3,000 or so fans expected to be on hand later today. They also will hold their regular meeting schedule this evening.
The fans waiting in line in front of the team facility were disappointed that the session was cancelled but seemed to take the news in stride. "I wanted him to watch the big boys," said Michelle Flores of San Jose, pointing to seven-year-old son, Joseph. "He wants to be a pro."
Eight practices this summer are open to the public. Fans have had to obtain the tickets on-line, but they are free. A team spokesman said fans who had tickets for today's afternoon session could use those tickets to attend another open practice.
Nolan obviously is concerned with keeping his players fresh. And although the team has avoided serious injuries in the first three days, there have been a couple of close calls involving tackle Damane Duckett (knee) and running back Michael Robinson (knee). Perhaps Nolan doesn't want to push his luck. Robinson had an MRI on his knee, but the results won't be in until tomorrow.
****update*****
In lieu of a practice, the team has set up autograph tables for every player. Judging from the lines in front of the tables, it's safe to say that the two most popular 49ers are Patrick Willis and Vernon Davis. (Or maybe they were lining up for David Baas, who was sharing Davis' table). As for the quarterback battle, the fans seem to be slightly fonder of Alex Smith. His table went about 25 autograph seekers deep. Hill's had one.
Day 4: Biggest day in the history of the franchise?
http://49ers.pressdemocrat.com/default.asp?item=2241994
Today is the day the 49ers will practice with pads. After canceling yesterday's non-padded afternoon practice, this could be the most important day of two-a-days in 49ers club history. More on that later . . .
* * *
But, first, the 49ers are awaiting the results of running back Michael Robinson's MRI (see update below). He is out at practice this morning standing around, without the use of crutches. That's always a good sign.
Tackle Joe Staley is here and he's scheduled to do some conditioning on the field for the first time. He is expected back at practice later in the week.
Receiver Ashley Lelie is not expected back at practice with his calf strain. The 49ers really want to get him back. Although his spot on the team is anything but guaranteed, the team believes he does offer something that nobody else has - the ability to be a vertical threat. Of course, they never really used him in that capacity last season.
* * *
Note to self: Next time I go over the top with a word such as "shocker," go all the freakin' way to leave no doubt. "Outrage at 49ers camp!" "Grown men cry!" "The apocalypse nears as 49ers cancel practice!"
That's why today's practice might rival each of the 49ers' five Super Bowls as important dates in club history.
Whew.
I'll be checking back after the morning workout after I take my medicine.
* * *
UPDATE (11:19 a.m.): Coach Mike Nolan said after practice than Michael Robinson is getting an MRI and he might have his right knee scoped today. He left the practice field early this morning to head to the hospital. There will be more information later, but generally arthroscopic knee surgery does not hint of any long-term absence.
Monday morning: Martz's tips pay off for Smith
http://49ers.pressdemocrat.com/default.asp?item=2242043
When the 11-on-11 period of practice began this morning, 49ers quarterback Alex Smith got off to a rough start.
He overshot Frank Gore down the field, he gave Delanie Walker a difficult pass to handle (Walker caught it), then he overthrew Walker, resulting in a Patrick Willis interception. His fourth pass was low to Zak Keasey. Incomplete.
That's when offensive coordinator Mike Martz reminded Smith to bend his knees. Smith, frustrated with his subpar series, grabbed a ball and threw a few passes to rookie quarterback Kyle Wright while Shaun Hill was working with the No. 2 offense.
When Smith returned to the field with the offensive starters, he looked like a completely different quarterback.
Smith completed his final 10 passes of practice, including two beautiful throws to split end Bryant Johnson. One was a deep out in which he squeezed the ball into Johnson at the sideline despite good coverage from Nate Clements. Another notable pass was a 24-yard TD strike to Johnson against the coverage of Shawntae Spencer and Mark Roman.
"He (Martz) sees so much stuff," Smith said. "He sees the body and the feet. Today, he mentioned that about my knee bend. You never want to stand straight up, but as a quarterback you're not always thinking about your knee bend. When he mentioned that, I just wanted to get back there and play catch."
Martz often preaches to his quarterbacks about good weight distribution, keeping their shoulders level and bending their knees. Smith said he's received some coaching on technique in the past with the 49ers, but nothing compared to what he's getting from Martz this year.
Like Smith has said, Martz leaves nothing to chance. In learning the offense, one thing that struck Smith is that there is little gray area in the playbook. As Smith said, Martz supplies all the answers in his offensive scheme.
The same can be said for a quarterback's mechanics. His reminders to Smith this morning proved immediate dividends.
* * *
During the 11-on-11 sessions, Smith completed 11 of 14 passes with one TD and one interception. Hill completed 9 of 14 with one TD. His scoring pass came on the final play of practice, a 3-yard scoring pass to Arnaz Battle in the right front corner of the end zone.
* * *
The first-team defense has remained virtually unchanged. This morning, Shawntae Spencer lined up at cornerback in place of Walt Harris, who was given the morning off. Justin Smith continues to see a lot of time at outside linebacker with Ray McDonald playing right defensive end. Jeff Ulbrich is starting at the "ted," but Brandon Moore rotates in and gets a lot of action. If the 49ers' season began today, Ulbrich would start, Nolan said. When asked what's the different with Ulbrich at "ted" instead of last year's starter Derek Smith, Nolan quipped, "About $2 million on the cap."
The No. 2 base defense was as follows: LE Kentwan Balmer, NG Joe Cohen, RE Walter Curry, SOLB Jay Moore, SILB Larry Grant, WILB Dontarrious Thomas, WOLB Tully Banta-Cain, CB Reggie Smith, CB Donald Strickland, FS Dashon Goldson, SS Keith Lewis.
* * *
Brandon Moore makes a lot of plays in the backfield, but there were at least two plays in which defensive coordinator Greg Manusky got onto him about assignment errors.
* * *
The two most impressive offensive linemen during the one-on-one pass rush drills continue to be Jonas Jennings and Eric Heitmann.
* * *
It was a good practice for rookie cornerback Reggie Smith, who had good coverage on a couple incomplete Shaun Hill passes intended for Josh Morgan
* * *
Jason Hill ran a wrong route, and Martz pointed out the mistake, "Jason, you have the 9 route." The 9 route is a go or fade.
But there was no such problem for Arnaz Battle, who caught a pass underneath from Hill. "Great route," WRs coach Jerry Sullivan told him.
* * *
Johnson and Vernon Davis caught three passes apiece during teamwork. Others with two catches today were Frank Gore, Jason Hill and Battle.
* * *
Zak Keasey is seeing most of the action with the first-team offense (when they use a fullback). Nolan says the competition is close between Keasey and Moran Norris.
Day 5: One Robert replaces another at WR
http://49ers.pressdemocrat.com/default.asp?item=2244585
Unfortunately, receiver Robert Jordan of Cal was released today so he could deal with a death in his family, 49ers coach Mike Nolan said.
Nolan said he would like to bring back the undrafted rookie at some point. It was Jordan's decision to leave the team, Nolan said. He might be a candidate for the practice squad when the regular season begins.
Taking his place on the 81-man roster is Robert Ortiz (San Diego State).
Ortiz (6-1, 188) was originally signed as a rookie free agent by the Chargers in 2006. He caught 27 passes for 255 yards and two TDs for the Frankfurt Galaxy of NFL Europa in 2007. He signed with the Seahawks last summer, but was waived in training camp. He signed with the Patriots in May and was waived last week.
--Former White House press secretary Ari Fleischer is first up as a speaker to the team. He will address the club tonight. When Nolan was told by a media member that none of his players are likely to recognize Fleischer, he mentioned Eric Heitmann as someone who should know something about Fleischer.
--Safety Mark Roman sat out injury with a hamstring pull. He is day-to-day. Dashon Goldson took the first-team snaps in place of Roman, while D.J. Parker was elevated to the second team.
--Rookie defensive lineman Kentwan Balmer sustained a right ankle sprain that knocked him out of practice early. He was limping around under his own power. Nolan said the injury will require further evaluation, but it does not appear to be a serious condition.
--There was a Cam Colvin sighting. He caught a nice ball from Kyle Wright against Markus Curry during one-one-one period.
--Marcus Hudson re-routed Ortiz at the line of scrimmage, throwing off the timing on a pass from Wright.
--Jason Hill went up and wrestled a pass away from cornerback Nate Clements.
--Nice one-on-one battle between Bryant Johnson and rookie Reggie Smith, as Johnson used his size to help him fend off Smith to catch a pass from J.T. O'Sullivan.
--Defensive coordinator Greg Manusky was again seen getting frustrated with Brandon Moore being in the wrong spot -- or carrying out an incorrect assignment -- during a 9-on-7 run drill.
--During the 11-on-11 session, Alex Smith's second pass was intercepted by linebacker Patrick Willis. Smith tried to squeeze in a quick pass to Frank Gore. After this play, Mike Martz asked that the team line up again. Clearly, Smith made a wrong read on the play, so Martz wanted Smith to see that defense again. When they walked threw it a second time, the ball went to Isaac Bruce.
--Bruce went through his most extensive practice time of camp. He took part in the 11-on-11 session, catching two passes and taking a handoff on a reverse.
(Quick story on Bruce: A couple days ago, I was heading to my car on the street when I noticed someone backing up to get the spot in front of mine. When I got to my car, Bruce was in front of me, getting out of his car. He stood up, looked at me and asked, "Did I leave you enough room to get out?" He had. I thought, "Well, now that's a very courteous gentleman." Today, he spoke to quite a few reporters at his locker while looking straight ahead into his locker and giving one-sentence answers. It was quite painful, so I pulled the rip cord after just a couple questions and non-answers.)
--After Bruce's first catch, Manny Lawson gave him a nice little shove in the back.
--Shawntae Spencer and Nate Clements broke up passes on back-to-back plays on Smith passes intended for Bruce and Jason Hill.
--During a special-teams portion, Andy Lee was booming the ball. Allen Rossum, Ortiz, Bruce and Clements were back there. Rossum had one ball bounce off his helmet. Ortiz dropped a punt that Brandon Moore recovered way down the field.
--During one-on-one pass rush, Roderick Green got past Jonas Jennings once. But Jennings regrouped and got the better of Green on the next snap. Jennings later did a number on Parys Haralson.
--Rookie center Cody Wallace had a nice showing against Joe Cohen; Justin Smith got the better of Adam Snyder; DE Walter Curry beat Brian de la Puente in a battle of training camp players who both were No. 60; Green ducked inside OL Joe Toledo.
--One thing to note, I haven't seen Manny Lawson particpate in the one-on-one pass drills. The other OLBs will do some pass rush, then they'll go back to the other side of the field for the 7-on-7 pass drills. Lawson appears to be much more valuable to the 49ers in pass coverage, rather as a pass-rusher.
--Over on the 7-on-7 side of the field, rookie Larry Grant picked off a Smith pass.
--Back to 11-on-11, Jason Hill was advised of a bad route after a pass from Shaun Hill was nowhere near the intended receiver.
--When the second defense was on the field, Atiyyah Ellison took the snaps at LE in place of Balmer (ankle). The corners were Tarell Brown and Marcus Hudson. Brown had good coverage on Jerard Rabb on a deep pass from Hill.
--The 49ers finished with 10 minutes of review, in which the players went at quarter-speed without helmets. That was the first time Nolan has implemented that element into practice.
http://49ers.pressdemocrat.com/default.asp?item=2241994
Today is the day the 49ers will practice with pads. After canceling yesterday's non-padded afternoon practice, this could be the most important day of two-a-days in 49ers club history. More on that later . . .
* * *
But, first, the 49ers are awaiting the results of running back Michael Robinson's MRI (see update below). He is out at practice this morning standing around, without the use of crutches. That's always a good sign.
Tackle Joe Staley is here and he's scheduled to do some conditioning on the field for the first time. He is expected back at practice later in the week.
Receiver Ashley Lelie is not expected back at practice with his calf strain. The 49ers really want to get him back. Although his spot on the team is anything but guaranteed, the team believes he does offer something that nobody else has - the ability to be a vertical threat. Of course, they never really used him in that capacity last season.
* * *
Note to self: Next time I go over the top with a word such as "shocker," go all the freakin' way to leave no doubt. "Outrage at 49ers camp!" "Grown men cry!" "The apocalypse nears as 49ers cancel practice!"
That's why today's practice might rival each of the 49ers' five Super Bowls as important dates in club history.
Whew.
I'll be checking back after the morning workout after I take my medicine.
* * *
UPDATE (11:19 a.m.): Coach Mike Nolan said after practice than Michael Robinson is getting an MRI and he might have his right knee scoped today. He left the practice field early this morning to head to the hospital. There will be more information later, but generally arthroscopic knee surgery does not hint of any long-term absence.
Monday morning: Martz's tips pay off for Smith
http://49ers.pressdemocrat.com/default.asp?item=2242043
When the 11-on-11 period of practice began this morning, 49ers quarterback Alex Smith got off to a rough start.
He overshot Frank Gore down the field, he gave Delanie Walker a difficult pass to handle (Walker caught it), then he overthrew Walker, resulting in a Patrick Willis interception. His fourth pass was low to Zak Keasey. Incomplete.
That's when offensive coordinator Mike Martz reminded Smith to bend his knees. Smith, frustrated with his subpar series, grabbed a ball and threw a few passes to rookie quarterback Kyle Wright while Shaun Hill was working with the No. 2 offense.
When Smith returned to the field with the offensive starters, he looked like a completely different quarterback.
Smith completed his final 10 passes of practice, including two beautiful throws to split end Bryant Johnson. One was a deep out in which he squeezed the ball into Johnson at the sideline despite good coverage from Nate Clements. Another notable pass was a 24-yard TD strike to Johnson against the coverage of Shawntae Spencer and Mark Roman.
"He (Martz) sees so much stuff," Smith said. "He sees the body and the feet. Today, he mentioned that about my knee bend. You never want to stand straight up, but as a quarterback you're not always thinking about your knee bend. When he mentioned that, I just wanted to get back there and play catch."
Martz often preaches to his quarterbacks about good weight distribution, keeping their shoulders level and bending their knees. Smith said he's received some coaching on technique in the past with the 49ers, but nothing compared to what he's getting from Martz this year.
Like Smith has said, Martz leaves nothing to chance. In learning the offense, one thing that struck Smith is that there is little gray area in the playbook. As Smith said, Martz supplies all the answers in his offensive scheme.
The same can be said for a quarterback's mechanics. His reminders to Smith this morning proved immediate dividends.
* * *
During the 11-on-11 sessions, Smith completed 11 of 14 passes with one TD and one interception. Hill completed 9 of 14 with one TD. His scoring pass came on the final play of practice, a 3-yard scoring pass to Arnaz Battle in the right front corner of the end zone.
* * *
The first-team defense has remained virtually unchanged. This morning, Shawntae Spencer lined up at cornerback in place of Walt Harris, who was given the morning off. Justin Smith continues to see a lot of time at outside linebacker with Ray McDonald playing right defensive end. Jeff Ulbrich is starting at the "ted," but Brandon Moore rotates in and gets a lot of action. If the 49ers' season began today, Ulbrich would start, Nolan said. When asked what's the different with Ulbrich at "ted" instead of last year's starter Derek Smith, Nolan quipped, "About $2 million on the cap."
The No. 2 base defense was as follows: LE Kentwan Balmer, NG Joe Cohen, RE Walter Curry, SOLB Jay Moore, SILB Larry Grant, WILB Dontarrious Thomas, WOLB Tully Banta-Cain, CB Reggie Smith, CB Donald Strickland, FS Dashon Goldson, SS Keith Lewis.
* * *
Brandon Moore makes a lot of plays in the backfield, but there were at least two plays in which defensive coordinator Greg Manusky got onto him about assignment errors.
* * *
The two most impressive offensive linemen during the one-on-one pass rush drills continue to be Jonas Jennings and Eric Heitmann.
* * *
It was a good practice for rookie cornerback Reggie Smith, who had good coverage on a couple incomplete Shaun Hill passes intended for Josh Morgan
* * *
Jason Hill ran a wrong route, and Martz pointed out the mistake, "Jason, you have the 9 route." The 9 route is a go or fade.
But there was no such problem for Arnaz Battle, who caught a pass underneath from Hill. "Great route," WRs coach Jerry Sullivan told him.
* * *
Johnson and Vernon Davis caught three passes apiece during teamwork. Others with two catches today were Frank Gore, Jason Hill and Battle.
* * *
Zak Keasey is seeing most of the action with the first-team offense (when they use a fullback). Nolan says the competition is close between Keasey and Moran Norris.
Day 5: One Robert replaces another at WR
http://49ers.pressdemocrat.com/default.asp?item=2244585
Unfortunately, receiver Robert Jordan of Cal was released today so he could deal with a death in his family, 49ers coach Mike Nolan said.
Nolan said he would like to bring back the undrafted rookie at some point. It was Jordan's decision to leave the team, Nolan said. He might be a candidate for the practice squad when the regular season begins.
Taking his place on the 81-man roster is Robert Ortiz (San Diego State).
Ortiz (6-1, 188) was originally signed as a rookie free agent by the Chargers in 2006. He caught 27 passes for 255 yards and two TDs for the Frankfurt Galaxy of NFL Europa in 2007. He signed with the Seahawks last summer, but was waived in training camp. He signed with the Patriots in May and was waived last week.
--Former White House press secretary Ari Fleischer is first up as a speaker to the team. He will address the club tonight. When Nolan was told by a media member that none of his players are likely to recognize Fleischer, he mentioned Eric Heitmann as someone who should know something about Fleischer.
--Safety Mark Roman sat out injury with a hamstring pull. He is day-to-day. Dashon Goldson took the first-team snaps in place of Roman, while D.J. Parker was elevated to the second team.
--Rookie defensive lineman Kentwan Balmer sustained a right ankle sprain that knocked him out of practice early. He was limping around under his own power. Nolan said the injury will require further evaluation, but it does not appear to be a serious condition.
--There was a Cam Colvin sighting. He caught a nice ball from Kyle Wright against Markus Curry during one-one-one period.
--Marcus Hudson re-routed Ortiz at the line of scrimmage, throwing off the timing on a pass from Wright.
--Jason Hill went up and wrestled a pass away from cornerback Nate Clements.
--Nice one-on-one battle between Bryant Johnson and rookie Reggie Smith, as Johnson used his size to help him fend off Smith to catch a pass from J.T. O'Sullivan.
--Defensive coordinator Greg Manusky was again seen getting frustrated with Brandon Moore being in the wrong spot -- or carrying out an incorrect assignment -- during a 9-on-7 run drill.
--During the 11-on-11 session, Alex Smith's second pass was intercepted by linebacker Patrick Willis. Smith tried to squeeze in a quick pass to Frank Gore. After this play, Mike Martz asked that the team line up again. Clearly, Smith made a wrong read on the play, so Martz wanted Smith to see that defense again. When they walked threw it a second time, the ball went to Isaac Bruce.
--Bruce went through his most extensive practice time of camp. He took part in the 11-on-11 session, catching two passes and taking a handoff on a reverse.
(Quick story on Bruce: A couple days ago, I was heading to my car on the street when I noticed someone backing up to get the spot in front of mine. When I got to my car, Bruce was in front of me, getting out of his car. He stood up, looked at me and asked, "Did I leave you enough room to get out?" He had. I thought, "Well, now that's a very courteous gentleman." Today, he spoke to quite a few reporters at his locker while looking straight ahead into his locker and giving one-sentence answers. It was quite painful, so I pulled the rip cord after just a couple questions and non-answers.)
--After Bruce's first catch, Manny Lawson gave him a nice little shove in the back.
--Shawntae Spencer and Nate Clements broke up passes on back-to-back plays on Smith passes intended for Bruce and Jason Hill.
--During a special-teams portion, Andy Lee was booming the ball. Allen Rossum, Ortiz, Bruce and Clements were back there. Rossum had one ball bounce off his helmet. Ortiz dropped a punt that Brandon Moore recovered way down the field.
--During one-on-one pass rush, Roderick Green got past Jonas Jennings once. But Jennings regrouped and got the better of Green on the next snap. Jennings later did a number on Parys Haralson.
--Rookie center Cody Wallace had a nice showing against Joe Cohen; Justin Smith got the better of Adam Snyder; DE Walter Curry beat Brian de la Puente in a battle of training camp players who both were No. 60; Green ducked inside OL Joe Toledo.
--One thing to note, I haven't seen Manny Lawson particpate in the one-on-one pass drills. The other OLBs will do some pass rush, then they'll go back to the other side of the field for the 7-on-7 pass drills. Lawson appears to be much more valuable to the 49ers in pass coverage, rather as a pass-rusher.
--Over on the 7-on-7 side of the field, rookie Larry Grant picked off a Smith pass.
--Back to 11-on-11, Jason Hill was advised of a bad route after a pass from Shaun Hill was nowhere near the intended receiver.
--When the second defense was on the field, Atiyyah Ellison took the snaps at LE in place of Balmer (ankle). The corners were Tarell Brown and Marcus Hudson. Brown had good coverage on Jerard Rabb on a deep pass from Hill.
--The 49ers finished with 10 minutes of review, in which the players went at quarter-speed without helmets. That was the first time Nolan has implemented that element into practice.