-=The Official 49ers Offseason Thread=-
- Thread starter Chree
- Start date
Nolan does right thing in not staying the course
The more I think about it, the more I really like the 49ers' dramatic move of hiring Mike Martz as offensive coordinator.
Sure, this could blow up in their faces. But even the worst-case scenario could not possibly be much worse than the 49ers' current situation.
The 49ers needed to do something bold. They needed to do something that nobody - including, apparently, new GM Scot McCloughan - thought they'd do in a million years. The 49ers needed to hire a man who would make a noticeable and immediate impact.
In other words, the last thing they needed to do was "stay the course."
Sure, Cam Cameron would been a great hire - probably, the better, safer hire - but he does not even compare to Martz in a very important area. Martz brings energy and excitement to an offense that has been as uninteresting as it has been bad for most of the past three seasons. (And, boy, has it been bad.)
It is a good thing coach Mike Nolan has decided to jettison his conservative mindset and roll the dice. There are certain to be times during the 2008 season when veins might be popping out of Nolan's head after some of Martz's decisions, but this hiring could end up paying huge dividends for him and the organization.
When you look at the risk-reward factor, the bigger risk was keeping things status quo. The 49ers' organization is sick. They needed to find a trouble-shooter. It just so happens they're turning to a mad scientist with unconventional methods.
Yes, it's a bold move, but I love it.
* * *
Martz was adored by most of his offensive players in St. Louis and Detroit. I'm told Marshall Faulk is among those who never says anything but kind things about Martz. There is the perception Faulk was under-utilized with Martz calling the shots. However, Faulk blossomed into a star under Martz. He won the 2000 AP NFL's Most Valuable Player award.
The 49ers need offensive linemen who can pass block, so it's doubtful Larry Allen will be back. Free-agent guard Justin Smiley could be back in play.
Vernon Davis will not be kept in to block. Even though Martz really hasn't had a tight end like Davis, I suspect he'll find new and inventive ways to get the ball in his hands without four defenders ready to tackle him the split-second the ball arrives.
Frank Gore, who has led the 49ers in receptions each of the past two seasons, will have the chance to run out of the spread formation. Defenses will not be able to stack eight men in the box as much as we've seen in the past.
Sure, the 49ers' quarterbacks will take some hits. It's questionable whether the 49ers will have the same QB start all 16 games, but I also doubt we'll be talking about consecutive games with fewer than 200 yards net passing again.
* * *
Congrats to Duane Carlisle, who takes over as the 49ers' head strength and conditioning coach. He replaces retired Johnny Parker.
The more I think about it, the more I really like the 49ers' dramatic move of hiring Mike Martz as offensive coordinator.
Sure, this could blow up in their faces. But even the worst-case scenario could not possibly be much worse than the 49ers' current situation.
The 49ers needed to do something bold. They needed to do something that nobody - including, apparently, new GM Scot McCloughan - thought they'd do in a million years. The 49ers needed to hire a man who would make a noticeable and immediate impact.
In other words, the last thing they needed to do was "stay the course."
Sure, Cam Cameron would been a great hire - probably, the better, safer hire - but he does not even compare to Martz in a very important area. Martz brings energy and excitement to an offense that has been as uninteresting as it has been bad for most of the past three seasons. (And, boy, has it been bad.)
It is a good thing coach Mike Nolan has decided to jettison his conservative mindset and roll the dice. There are certain to be times during the 2008 season when veins might be popping out of Nolan's head after some of Martz's decisions, but this hiring could end up paying huge dividends for him and the organization.
When you look at the risk-reward factor, the bigger risk was keeping things status quo. The 49ers' organization is sick. They needed to find a trouble-shooter. It just so happens they're turning to a mad scientist with unconventional methods.
Yes, it's a bold move, but I love it.
* * *
Martz was adored by most of his offensive players in St. Louis and Detroit. I'm told Marshall Faulk is among those who never says anything but kind things about Martz. There is the perception Faulk was under-utilized with Martz calling the shots. However, Faulk blossomed into a star under Martz. He won the 2000 AP NFL's Most Valuable Player award.
The 49ers need offensive linemen who can pass block, so it's doubtful Larry Allen will be back. Free-agent guard Justin Smiley could be back in play.
Vernon Davis will not be kept in to block. Even though Martz really hasn't had a tight end like Davis, I suspect he'll find new and inventive ways to get the ball in his hands without four defenders ready to tackle him the split-second the ball arrives.
Frank Gore, who has led the 49ers in receptions each of the past two seasons, will have the chance to run out of the spread formation. Defenses will not be able to stack eight men in the box as much as we've seen in the past.
Sure, the 49ers' quarterbacks will take some hits. It's questionable whether the 49ers will have the same QB start all 16 games, but I also doubt we'll be talking about consecutive games with fewer than 200 yards net passing again.
* * *
Congrats to Duane Carlisle, who takes over as the 49ers' head strength and conditioning coach. He replaces retired Johnny Parker.
Faulk says Martz's offense will 'blow your mind'
The phone rang today and I didn't recognize the number on caller ID. Sometimes, it's best to just let the phone continue to ring and go into voicemail. In my business, that can be a horrible strategy.
After all, I placed a call to Marshall Faulk yesterday to speak about what the 49ers - and their fans - can expect from the new offensive coordinator. I had almost forgotten I called Faulk, so I wasn't exactly expecting the call when the phone rang.
We spoke for about 15 minutes about Mike Martz, whom Mike Nolan hired yesterday to run bring some pizzazz to a moribund offense.
Few people know more about Martz's way of doing things than Faulk, who was in St. Louis for Martz's entire seven-year run with the Rams.
Faulk was a three-time Pro Bowl running back with the Indianapolis Colts. He developed into a potential Hall of Famer while with the Rams.
In 1999, Martz's first year with the Rams, Faulk joined the exclusive 1,000-1,000 club. He rushed for 1,381 yards and added 1,048 yards receiving. The 49ers' Roger Craig is the only other person in NFL history to accomplish that feat.
Faulk had a number of interesting things to say. He guaranteed the 49ers will get much better quarterback play; he said Frank Gore is a unique back in the Martz system because of his prowess as an inside runner; and he said this will not be a 9-to-5 job for the 49ers' offensive players.
I'm writing an article for tomorrow's Press Democrat, based on my Q&A with Faulk. But, first, here is the transcript of our conversation:
Question: There has always been the talk that Mike Martz de-emphasizes the run game. Is that a fair knock on him?
Faulk: I don't know. You can look up my first three years with him before we lost a couple offensive linemen and our defense became a liability. I touched the ball a lot. What you have to look at is, what do you do to win ballgames? People feel you have to run the football to win ballgames. Until a team comes out and does what we did or what you see the Patriots doing, you realize that's not always the case. It's about winning ballgames. I think he's going to do whatever he feels needs to be done to win ballgames. If it's running 40, 50 times, he'll do it. If it's throwing 40, 50 times, he'll do that. He gets a bad rap for not running the ball. You look at it the situation. Sometimes it doesn't dictate running the ball a lot.
Question: Martz said Frank Gore will be the centerpiece, much the same way you were the centerpiece . . .
Faulk: What he loves to do and what he really enjoys doing is getting the running back involved because it's a tough position to cover a guy. When a receiver is a guy, they can take him out of the game. But a running back . . . especially if you have the capabilities of catching the ball out of the backfield, that means you play all three downs. You become a much more viable weapon within the scheme of things. I'm sure Frank will like the challenge, as far as what Mike is going to bring to the table and what they're going to ask of him. He's going to be asked to do a lot. I'm not just saying catching and running the ball, but also pass blocking and helping guys out. The running back position is the centerpiece of the offense.
Question: From what you've seen of Frank, how nice of a fit is he for Mike Martz's offense?
Faulk: I think for the both of them. This will be the first time Mike's had a back like Frank who is capable of running the ball inside as well as Frank does. So it's going to be a learning curve for him. Frank's probably never had an offensive coordinator who has asked him to know so many plays and know so much about the game in order for the team to be successful. There's going to be some pressure on Frank's shoulders to handle a lot of things and wear a couple of different hats for the team to have success. I believe, in knowing both of them, they're going to welcome each other. I think they'll probably have a great relationship. I'd be surprised if they don't.
Question: What kind of looks can Frank expect from defenses?
Faulk: Teams won't come into games playing eight and nine men in the box against Frank. You can believe that.
Question: How often did you face eight or nine in the box?
Faulk: Not often. It was very rare. Frank's going to have a lot to do with that, too. Because it's going to be his willingness to understand that some adjustments need to be made for him to have success.
Question: Did you have a great relationship with Mike?
Faulk: Yeah. We're friends now. I talk to him all the time. When I read about it yesterday, I called and congratulated him. Told him what I thought of the situation with the 49ers. I gave him my spiel on how I thought he'd help that team. He's a phenomenal offensive mind. The things they're going to do will blow your mind. It'll blow the players' minds - the things he's going to ask them to do.
Question: How would you expect Vernon Davis to be used?
Faulk: When you look at he's never had a tight end like that, but the position exists in the offense as the 'F' tight end, which is the third receiver. Vernon is going to really mature into that if - and that's if - he can pick it up and make the adjustments and do all the things that are necessary in order to allow the offense to function.
Question: How demanding is Martz as a coach? What do 49ers players have in store for them?
Faulk: There is going to be a lot of hard work, and I'm not just talking about out on the field. I'm talking about when you leave for the day, taking film home, looking at your playbook. It's demanding. If you're not astute or you don't grind at it, it's going to be a problem. It's pretty simple. It's really not hard: He doesn't cater to the guy who can't learn. Who does, anyway?
Question: Are the quarterbacks held to a higher standard as far as the preparation that must be done?
Faulk: They are. You'll see a much better quarterback with the 49ers. I can guarantee that. The other thing is, in order to make the quarterback look like the quarterback you want him to look like, you got to make the guys around him better and more in tune with what the quarterback is thinking, so everybody has to understand what's going on. It's demanding. Everybody has assignments and at any point in time, you can call a formation and you can be a different person. You can become F, you can become X, Z, all that's interchangeable. So you don't just learn your position, you learn the entire system. The offense is a system.
Question: When you say we'll see a better quarterback are you talking specifically about Alex Smith?
Faulk: I'm talking about the quarterback position. You guys will have better play at the quarterback position, period.
Question: What do you expect from the 49ers' offense next season?
Faulk: I really can't answer that because I really don't know the intellectual makeup of that team. I know they have some really good players, but it's all going to boil down to how much can they take in, how much can they retain. Can they understand going into a game with 50 plays or 80 plays or do they have to go into a game with 25 plays? That's what limits you. It all depends.
Question: Are there any limitations on what the team can do in the first year?
Faulk: I don't think so because the parts are in place. There might be a couple players that you look for, but the parts are in place when you look at it. I think defensively, if those guys can get three-and-outs and get the ball back to the offense, the offense will have more of a chance to jell and be great. It'll be all on the players. How hard do they want to work? And how much do they want it? He's going to be there and he's going to provide it for them. It's going to be up to them to get it done.
The phone rang today and I didn't recognize the number on caller ID. Sometimes, it's best to just let the phone continue to ring and go into voicemail. In my business, that can be a horrible strategy.
After all, I placed a call to Marshall Faulk yesterday to speak about what the 49ers - and their fans - can expect from the new offensive coordinator. I had almost forgotten I called Faulk, so I wasn't exactly expecting the call when the phone rang.
We spoke for about 15 minutes about Mike Martz, whom Mike Nolan hired yesterday to run bring some pizzazz to a moribund offense.
Few people know more about Martz's way of doing things than Faulk, who was in St. Louis for Martz's entire seven-year run with the Rams.
Faulk was a three-time Pro Bowl running back with the Indianapolis Colts. He developed into a potential Hall of Famer while with the Rams.
In 1999, Martz's first year with the Rams, Faulk joined the exclusive 1,000-1,000 club. He rushed for 1,381 yards and added 1,048 yards receiving. The 49ers' Roger Craig is the only other person in NFL history to accomplish that feat.
Faulk had a number of interesting things to say. He guaranteed the 49ers will get much better quarterback play; he said Frank Gore is a unique back in the Martz system because of his prowess as an inside runner; and he said this will not be a 9-to-5 job for the 49ers' offensive players.
I'm writing an article for tomorrow's Press Democrat, based on my Q&A with Faulk. But, first, here is the transcript of our conversation:
Question: There has always been the talk that Mike Martz de-emphasizes the run game. Is that a fair knock on him?
Faulk: I don't know. You can look up my first three years with him before we lost a couple offensive linemen and our defense became a liability. I touched the ball a lot. What you have to look at is, what do you do to win ballgames? People feel you have to run the football to win ballgames. Until a team comes out and does what we did or what you see the Patriots doing, you realize that's not always the case. It's about winning ballgames. I think he's going to do whatever he feels needs to be done to win ballgames. If it's running 40, 50 times, he'll do it. If it's throwing 40, 50 times, he'll do that. He gets a bad rap for not running the ball. You look at it the situation. Sometimes it doesn't dictate running the ball a lot.
Question: Martz said Frank Gore will be the centerpiece, much the same way you were the centerpiece . . .
Faulk: What he loves to do and what he really enjoys doing is getting the running back involved because it's a tough position to cover a guy. When a receiver is a guy, they can take him out of the game. But a running back . . . especially if you have the capabilities of catching the ball out of the backfield, that means you play all three downs. You become a much more viable weapon within the scheme of things. I'm sure Frank will like the challenge, as far as what Mike is going to bring to the table and what they're going to ask of him. He's going to be asked to do a lot. I'm not just saying catching and running the ball, but also pass blocking and helping guys out. The running back position is the centerpiece of the offense.
Question: From what you've seen of Frank, how nice of a fit is he for Mike Martz's offense?
Faulk: I think for the both of them. This will be the first time Mike's had a back like Frank who is capable of running the ball inside as well as Frank does. So it's going to be a learning curve for him. Frank's probably never had an offensive coordinator who has asked him to know so many plays and know so much about the game in order for the team to be successful. There's going to be some pressure on Frank's shoulders to handle a lot of things and wear a couple of different hats for the team to have success. I believe, in knowing both of them, they're going to welcome each other. I think they'll probably have a great relationship. I'd be surprised if they don't.
Question: What kind of looks can Frank expect from defenses?
Faulk: Teams won't come into games playing eight and nine men in the box against Frank. You can believe that.
Question: How often did you face eight or nine in the box?
Faulk: Not often. It was very rare. Frank's going to have a lot to do with that, too. Because it's going to be his willingness to understand that some adjustments need to be made for him to have success.
Question: Did you have a great relationship with Mike?
Faulk: Yeah. We're friends now. I talk to him all the time. When I read about it yesterday, I called and congratulated him. Told him what I thought of the situation with the 49ers. I gave him my spiel on how I thought he'd help that team. He's a phenomenal offensive mind. The things they're going to do will blow your mind. It'll blow the players' minds - the things he's going to ask them to do.
Question: How would you expect Vernon Davis to be used?
Faulk: When you look at he's never had a tight end like that, but the position exists in the offense as the 'F' tight end, which is the third receiver. Vernon is going to really mature into that if - and that's if - he can pick it up and make the adjustments and do all the things that are necessary in order to allow the offense to function.
Question: How demanding is Martz as a coach? What do 49ers players have in store for them?
Faulk: There is going to be a lot of hard work, and I'm not just talking about out on the field. I'm talking about when you leave for the day, taking film home, looking at your playbook. It's demanding. If you're not astute or you don't grind at it, it's going to be a problem. It's pretty simple. It's really not hard: He doesn't cater to the guy who can't learn. Who does, anyway?
Question: Are the quarterbacks held to a higher standard as far as the preparation that must be done?
Faulk: They are. You'll see a much better quarterback with the 49ers. I can guarantee that. The other thing is, in order to make the quarterback look like the quarterback you want him to look like, you got to make the guys around him better and more in tune with what the quarterback is thinking, so everybody has to understand what's going on. It's demanding. Everybody has assignments and at any point in time, you can call a formation and you can be a different person. You can become F, you can become X, Z, all that's interchangeable. So you don't just learn your position, you learn the entire system. The offense is a system.
Question: When you say we'll see a better quarterback are you talking specifically about Alex Smith?
Faulk: I'm talking about the quarterback position. You guys will have better play at the quarterback position, period.
Question: What do you expect from the 49ers' offense next season?
Faulk: I really can't answer that because I really don't know the intellectual makeup of that team. I know they have some really good players, but it's all going to boil down to how much can they take in, how much can they retain. Can they understand going into a game with 50 plays or 80 plays or do they have to go into a game with 25 plays? That's what limits you. It all depends.
Question: Are there any limitations on what the team can do in the first year?
Faulk: I don't think so because the parts are in place. There might be a couple players that you look for, but the parts are in place when you look at it. I think defensively, if those guys can get three-and-outs and get the ball back to the offense, the offense will have more of a chance to jell and be great. It'll be all on the players. How hard do they want to work? And how much do they want it? He's going to be there and he's going to provide it for them. It's going to be up to them to get it done.
49ers' Pro Bowl offensive lineman Allen expected to retire
Adam Schefter By Adam Schefter | NFL Network
San Francisco's offense was thrown for a loss Thursday, when a source close to 49ers guard Larry Allen said the 11-time Pro-Bowl and future Hall-of-Fame selection is expected to retire.
Jed Jacobson / Getty Images
Larry Allen used his size and strength to open holes for running backs like Frank Gore and Emmitt Smith during his 14-year career.
One of the strongest lineman to ever play the game, the 6-foot-3, 325-pound Allen no longer has the appetite to maul opponents the way he did for 14 NFL seasons.
Until now, it was uncertain whether Allen wanted to return or whether the 49ers wanted him back. Allen is making the decision before anyone can make it for him.
Allen had to be persuaded to play this season and it will be, in the opinion of those who know him, next to impossible convince to do the same next season.
Last year, 49ers coach Mike Nolan excused Allen from the team's offseason workout program. When Allen finally reported, he showed up in possibly the best shape of his career.
But with San Francisco's performance dropping off this past season to the surprise and disappointment of many, Allen is unwilling to return to a team that is not viewed as being on the verge of winning a championship. At 36, Allen is financially secure and ready to move on to life without football.
Before he retires, Allen could decide to go through a ceremonial signing with Dallas so he could retire as a Cowboy. He and Cowboys owner Jerry Jones are particularly close; Dallas was the team that drafted Allen out of Sonoma State University in the second round of the 1994 draft with the 46th overall pick.
Allen could even wind up asking Jones to be his presenter when he is inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, which could happen as early as 2013.
The Class of 2013 will be quite a potential class. It now could include Allen's former 49ers teammate, defensive linemen Bryant Young, another outstanding defensive in tackle Warren Sapp, and Allen.
For years, Allen was a lead blocker for the NFL's all-time leading rusher, Emmitt Smith. In Dallas, Allen played right guard, left guard and left tackle during his career –- and dominated for much of his 12 seasons there. Dallas released Allen in March 2006, only to see him sign with the 49ers.
Adam Schefter By Adam Schefter | NFL Network
San Francisco's offense was thrown for a loss Thursday, when a source close to 49ers guard Larry Allen said the 11-time Pro-Bowl and future Hall-of-Fame selection is expected to retire.
Jed Jacobson / Getty Images
Larry Allen used his size and strength to open holes for running backs like Frank Gore and Emmitt Smith during his 14-year career.
One of the strongest lineman to ever play the game, the 6-foot-3, 325-pound Allen no longer has the appetite to maul opponents the way he did for 14 NFL seasons.
Until now, it was uncertain whether Allen wanted to return or whether the 49ers wanted him back. Allen is making the decision before anyone can make it for him.
Allen had to be persuaded to play this season and it will be, in the opinion of those who know him, next to impossible convince to do the same next season.
Last year, 49ers coach Mike Nolan excused Allen from the team's offseason workout program. When Allen finally reported, he showed up in possibly the best shape of his career.
But with San Francisco's performance dropping off this past season to the surprise and disappointment of many, Allen is unwilling to return to a team that is not viewed as being on the verge of winning a championship. At 36, Allen is financially secure and ready to move on to life without football.
Before he retires, Allen could decide to go through a ceremonial signing with Dallas so he could retire as a Cowboy. He and Cowboys owner Jerry Jones are particularly close; Dallas was the team that drafted Allen out of Sonoma State University in the second round of the 1994 draft with the 46th overall pick.
Allen could even wind up asking Jones to be his presenter when he is inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, which could happen as early as 2013.
The Class of 2013 will be quite a potential class. It now could include Allen's former 49ers teammate, defensive linemen Bryant Young, another outstanding defensive in tackle Warren Sapp, and Allen.
For years, Allen was a lead blocker for the NFL's all-time leading rusher, Emmitt Smith. In Dallas, Allen played right guard, left guard and left tackle during his career –- and dominated for much of his 12 seasons there. Dallas released Allen in March 2006, only to see him sign with the 49ers.
Player-by-player look at 49ers' season-ending roster
Here's a rundown of every player who finished the season under contract to the 49ers, along with their contract status and what the future might hold for them:
ACTIVE ROSTER
Allen, Larry: Scheduled UFA - Pass-blocking is not his strength at this stage in his career, so the changes on offense might make his style obsolete. If he decides to retire, he'll be in the Hall of Fame in five years.
Baas, David: Signed through 2009 - Mostly sat for his first 2 1/2 seasons, but now is projected as a starter for as long as he's with the club.
Bajema, Billy: Scheduled RFA - Team will likely give this blocking specialist a low free-agent tender.
Banta-Cain, Tully: Signed through 2009 - His role probably was not what he wanted in his first season. Scheduled to earn $2.2 mil in '08, so his spot is anything but guaranteed.
Battle, Arnaz: Signed through 2009 - Versatile enough to fit into the new scheme.
Brown, Tarell: Signed through 2010 - Might avoid offseason knee surgery. If work is eventually done on his ACL, it could limit him in the coming year.
Clements, Nate: Signed through 2014 (last year voids) - He'll be around for a while.
Davis, Vernon: Signed through 2010 - Martz should have a lot of fun incorporating Davis into his offense.
Dilfer, Trent: Signed through 2008 - Scheduled to make $1.5 million, including a $500,000 roster bonus. It's looking like the end of his playing career.
Douglas, Marques: Scheduled UFA - Niners would like to re-sign him, but he might get attention around the league.
Duckett, Damane: Signed through 2008 - His transition to tackle is going well. Club sees his future at right tackle, which might mean he has a chance to compete for playing time in '08.
Ellison, Atiyyah: Signed through 2008 - Did not suit up for a game, but the 49ers kept him around in hopes he can develop into a player.
Fields, Ronald: Signed through 2008 - Because of versatility in playing 3-4 or 4-3, team could seek a contract extension.
Franklin Aubrayo: Signed through 2009 - He and Sopoaga split playing time at the nose.
Gilmore, Bryan: Scheduled UFA - It'll be difficult for him to win a roster spot, if re-signed.
Goldson, Dashon: Signed through 2010 - Special-teams contributor until he works into more significant role on defense.
Gore, Frank: Signed through 2011 - The centerpiece of Martz's offense.
Green, Roderick: Scheduled UFA - Pass-rush specialist was OK after mid-season signing.
Haralson, Parys: Signed through 2009 - Has a chance to develop into a reliable pass-rusher.
Harris, Walt: Signed through 2009 - Play slipped a little, but still is starting quality.
Harris, Kwame: Scheduled UFA - Will test the market in hopes of finding a starting role elsewhere.
Heitmann, Eric: Signed through 2008 - Started slowly in '07, but ended up playing pretty well.
Hicks, Maurice: Scheduled UFA - Can't blame him for seeking a situation with more playing time.
Hill, Shaun: Scheduled UFA - He'll return to the 49ers with a chance to compete for starting job.
Hill, Jason: Signed through 2010 - Needs to stay healthy while doing all that running in the offseason and training camp to have a chance to fit into new scheme.
Hudson, Marcus: Signed through 2009 - Showed a lot as extra corner before knee injury.
Jackson, Darrell: Signed through 2009 - Scheduled to earn $3.8 million, so he'll have to fit in quickly to show he still has it. His play was a disappointment for most of the season, but looked good in the final several games.
Jennings, Brian: Signed through 2009 - Does his job as well as anybody.
Keasey, Zak: Signed through 2008 - Played two snaps from scrimmage; his contributions come on special teams.
Lee, Andy: Signed through 2012 - Niners got a bargain when they matched Steelers' offer sheet.
Lelie, Ashley: Signed through 2008 - Scheduled to earn $1.1 million, including workout bonus. He was underutilized last season. He has to win way onto roster.
Lewis, Keith: Signed through 2009 - Special-teams ace is on the books to make $825,000, including $50,000 workout bonus.
Lewis, Michael (S): Signed through 2012 - He has guaranteed roster bonuses for the next two seasons, so he'll be around for a while. Played very well in first season with club.
Lewis, Michael (WR/RS): Scheduled UFA - Could get another shot to handle return duties.
McDonald, Ray: Signed through 2010 - Has chance to supply some pass rush from line on nickel downs.
Moore, Brandon: Signed through 2010 - One of best defenders in '06, he rarely saw the field in '07. Scheduled to earn $1 million in base salary. He should get a better chance to start alongside Patrick Willis at ILB.
Nedney, Joe: Signed through 2009 - The 49ers would like to see him kick more extra points in '08.
Norris, Moran: Signed through 2009 - His playing time diminished greatly. Scheduled to make $830,000, it's unclear whether there will be any need for a blocking fullback in new offense.
Olson, Drew: Signed through 2008 - Gets to learn offense from Day 1.
Robinson, Michael: Signed through 2009 - Smarts and versatility make him a good fit for this offense. In the meantime, he's one of the best special-teamers in the league.
Roman, Mark: Signed through 2009 - Scheduled to make $800,000, which is very reasonable for what he brings to the table.
Smith, Derek: Signed through 2008 - Scheduled to make $3.28 million, which might be too much for someone who is on the field for just first downs. Looks like team will ask him to retire.
Snyder, Adam: Signed through 2011 - Figures to be a starter, either at left guard or right tackle.
Sopoaga, Isaac: Scheduled UFA - Helped himself with a solid season. Niners should've signed him to extension a year ago. Now, he figures to get pretty nice contract.
Spencer, Shawntae: Signed through 2012 - Scheduled to receive $1.5 million roster bonus, along with $680,000 base salary. You can never have enough corners, but he needs to stay healthy.
Staley, Joe: Signed through 2011 - No second-guessing the trade that brought him to 49ers. He'll be a starter for a long time.
Strickland, Donald: Scheduled UFA - Versatile veteran probably will get a chance to return.
Ulbrich, Jeff: Signed through 2009 - Scheduled to earn $1.875 million. He found his niche in the 49ers' "Big Sub" package and on special teams.
Walker, Delanie: Signed through 2009 - Another player who has a chance to excel in Martz scheme.
Weinke, Chris: Scheduled UFA - Late-season emergency signing does not figure to return.
Willis, Patrick: Signed through 2012 (last year voids) - NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year and first-team All-Pro. Yep, he's pretty good.
Wragge, Tony: Signed through 2008 - Proven he can step into the lineup when called upon.
Young, Bryant: Schedueld UFA - Announced his retirement after 14 sensational seasons.
INJURED RESERVE
Brewer, C.J.: Signed through 2008 - Tore his right ACL in August, so he should be ready to go for camp.
Cohen, Joe: Signed through 2010 - Tore his right ACL in final exhibition game; he might have to spend a year on the practice squad to work his way back.
Jennings, Jonas: Signed through 2011 - Scheduled to earn $3.45 million. When healthy, he's pretty good. However, he's rarely healthy. There are also other issues behind the scenes, as Nolan has clearly been frustrated with him. Team could try to trade him.
Lawson, Manny: Signed through 2010 (last year is option year) - On his way to a very good season when he tore his left ACL in September. Should return and be productive.
Moore, Jay: Signed through 2010 - Went on IR after last exhibition game after sustaining severe high-ankle sprain that did not require surgery. Still was making the transition from DE to OLB.
Smiley, Justin: Scheduled UFA - His athleticism and pass-blocking will be needed. His market value will determine whether 49ers decide to bring him back. It has to be at the right price for them.
Smith, Alex: Signed through 2011 (void year 2009) - It's a make-or-break season in '08. If he learns Martz's system quickly, it could be lead to great things. If not, well . . .
Tucker, B.J.: Scheduled RFA - Uncertain whether team will tender him after season ended in the offseason with a torn pec muscle.
PHYSICALLY UNABLE TO PERFORM
Oliver, Melvin: Signed through 2009 - Sustained torn ACL in minicamp, so he's had a full year to survey the defense and figure how he fits in.
PRACTICE SQUAD
Bing, Darnell: Signed with Jets.
Clayton, Thomas: Signed with 49ers through 2009 - His chances of roster spot increase if Hicks is not re-signed and 49ers don't add anyone at this spot.
Curry, Markus: Signed with 49ers through 2009 - Niners have seen enough to believe he's worth another look.
Dildine, Steve: Unsigned, UFA - His practice squad contract expired on Monday without; no new deal has been signed.
Estrada, Sean: Unsigned, UFA - In the same boat as Dildine.
Rabb, Jerard: Signed with 49ers through 2009 - Came to practice squad late in the season and will go through a full offseason.
Washington, Tavares: Signed with Redskins.
* * *
Offseason surgeries
As previously reported, Shaun Hill underwent surgery the first week in January to repair his broken and dislocated right index finger. That should require about six weeks of recovery time. Here is a list of the other players who went in for so-called "minor cleanups and relatively short recovery times: David Baas (knee), safety Michael Lewis (knee and ankle), Damane Duckett (thumb), Parys Haralson (knee) and Tony Wragge (elbow).
* * *
UPDATE: Here's a list of more players who have committed to play in the Senior Bowl: WR Early Doucet (LSU), RB Jacob Hester (LSU), LB Ali Highsmith (LSU), S Craig Steltz (LSU), OL Robert Felton (Arkansas), DL Marcus Harrison (Arkansas), RB Peyton Hillis (Arkansas), K Brandon Coutu (Georgia), TE Brad Cottam (Tennessee) and OL Chris Williams (Vanderbilt). Click here for a list of players who earlier accepted invitation.
* * *
UPDATE II: Center Eric Heitmann was announced today as the 49ers winner of the Ed Block Courage Award. The award is given to the player that exemplifies a commitment to sportsmanship and courage.
Here's a rundown of every player who finished the season under contract to the 49ers, along with their contract status and what the future might hold for them:
ACTIVE ROSTER
Allen, Larry: Scheduled UFA - Pass-blocking is not his strength at this stage in his career, so the changes on offense might make his style obsolete. If he decides to retire, he'll be in the Hall of Fame in five years.
Baas, David: Signed through 2009 - Mostly sat for his first 2 1/2 seasons, but now is projected as a starter for as long as he's with the club.
Bajema, Billy: Scheduled RFA - Team will likely give this blocking specialist a low free-agent tender.
Banta-Cain, Tully: Signed through 2009 - His role probably was not what he wanted in his first season. Scheduled to earn $2.2 mil in '08, so his spot is anything but guaranteed.
Battle, Arnaz: Signed through 2009 - Versatile enough to fit into the new scheme.
Brown, Tarell: Signed through 2010 - Might avoid offseason knee surgery. If work is eventually done on his ACL, it could limit him in the coming year.
Clements, Nate: Signed through 2014 (last year voids) - He'll be around for a while.
Davis, Vernon: Signed through 2010 - Martz should have a lot of fun incorporating Davis into his offense.
Dilfer, Trent: Signed through 2008 - Scheduled to make $1.5 million, including a $500,000 roster bonus. It's looking like the end of his playing career.
Douglas, Marques: Scheduled UFA - Niners would like to re-sign him, but he might get attention around the league.
Duckett, Damane: Signed through 2008 - His transition to tackle is going well. Club sees his future at right tackle, which might mean he has a chance to compete for playing time in '08.
Ellison, Atiyyah: Signed through 2008 - Did not suit up for a game, but the 49ers kept him around in hopes he can develop into a player.
Fields, Ronald: Signed through 2008 - Because of versatility in playing 3-4 or 4-3, team could seek a contract extension.
Franklin Aubrayo: Signed through 2009 - He and Sopoaga split playing time at the nose.
Gilmore, Bryan: Scheduled UFA - It'll be difficult for him to win a roster spot, if re-signed.
Goldson, Dashon: Signed through 2010 - Special-teams contributor until he works into more significant role on defense.
Gore, Frank: Signed through 2011 - The centerpiece of Martz's offense.
Green, Roderick: Scheduled UFA - Pass-rush specialist was OK after mid-season signing.
Haralson, Parys: Signed through 2009 - Has a chance to develop into a reliable pass-rusher.
Harris, Walt: Signed through 2009 - Play slipped a little, but still is starting quality.
Harris, Kwame: Scheduled UFA - Will test the market in hopes of finding a starting role elsewhere.
Heitmann, Eric: Signed through 2008 - Started slowly in '07, but ended up playing pretty well.
Hicks, Maurice: Scheduled UFA - Can't blame him for seeking a situation with more playing time.
Hill, Shaun: Scheduled UFA - He'll return to the 49ers with a chance to compete for starting job.
Hill, Jason: Signed through 2010 - Needs to stay healthy while doing all that running in the offseason and training camp to have a chance to fit into new scheme.
Hudson, Marcus: Signed through 2009 - Showed a lot as extra corner before knee injury.
Jackson, Darrell: Signed through 2009 - Scheduled to earn $3.8 million, so he'll have to fit in quickly to show he still has it. His play was a disappointment for most of the season, but looked good in the final several games.
Jennings, Brian: Signed through 2009 - Does his job as well as anybody.
Keasey, Zak: Signed through 2008 - Played two snaps from scrimmage; his contributions come on special teams.
Lee, Andy: Signed through 2012 - Niners got a bargain when they matched Steelers' offer sheet.
Lelie, Ashley: Signed through 2008 - Scheduled to earn $1.1 million, including workout bonus. He was underutilized last season. He has to win way onto roster.
Lewis, Keith: Signed through 2009 - Special-teams ace is on the books to make $825,000, including $50,000 workout bonus.
Lewis, Michael (S): Signed through 2012 - He has guaranteed roster bonuses for the next two seasons, so he'll be around for a while. Played very well in first season with club.
Lewis, Michael (WR/RS): Scheduled UFA - Could get another shot to handle return duties.
McDonald, Ray: Signed through 2010 - Has chance to supply some pass rush from line on nickel downs.
Moore, Brandon: Signed through 2010 - One of best defenders in '06, he rarely saw the field in '07. Scheduled to earn $1 million in base salary. He should get a better chance to start alongside Patrick Willis at ILB.
Nedney, Joe: Signed through 2009 - The 49ers would like to see him kick more extra points in '08.
Norris, Moran: Signed through 2009 - His playing time diminished greatly. Scheduled to make $830,000, it's unclear whether there will be any need for a blocking fullback in new offense.
Olson, Drew: Signed through 2008 - Gets to learn offense from Day 1.
Robinson, Michael: Signed through 2009 - Smarts and versatility make him a good fit for this offense. In the meantime, he's one of the best special-teamers in the league.
Roman, Mark: Signed through 2009 - Scheduled to make $800,000, which is very reasonable for what he brings to the table.
Smith, Derek: Signed through 2008 - Scheduled to make $3.28 million, which might be too much for someone who is on the field for just first downs. Looks like team will ask him to retire.
Snyder, Adam: Signed through 2011 - Figures to be a starter, either at left guard or right tackle.
Sopoaga, Isaac: Scheduled UFA - Helped himself with a solid season. Niners should've signed him to extension a year ago. Now, he figures to get pretty nice contract.
Spencer, Shawntae: Signed through 2012 - Scheduled to receive $1.5 million roster bonus, along with $680,000 base salary. You can never have enough corners, but he needs to stay healthy.
Staley, Joe: Signed through 2011 - No second-guessing the trade that brought him to 49ers. He'll be a starter for a long time.
Strickland, Donald: Scheduled UFA - Versatile veteran probably will get a chance to return.
Ulbrich, Jeff: Signed through 2009 - Scheduled to earn $1.875 million. He found his niche in the 49ers' "Big Sub" package and on special teams.
Walker, Delanie: Signed through 2009 - Another player who has a chance to excel in Martz scheme.
Weinke, Chris: Scheduled UFA - Late-season emergency signing does not figure to return.
Willis, Patrick: Signed through 2012 (last year voids) - NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year and first-team All-Pro. Yep, he's pretty good.
Wragge, Tony: Signed through 2008 - Proven he can step into the lineup when called upon.
Young, Bryant: Schedueld UFA - Announced his retirement after 14 sensational seasons.
INJURED RESERVE
Brewer, C.J.: Signed through 2008 - Tore his right ACL in August, so he should be ready to go for camp.
Cohen, Joe: Signed through 2010 - Tore his right ACL in final exhibition game; he might have to spend a year on the practice squad to work his way back.
Jennings, Jonas: Signed through 2011 - Scheduled to earn $3.45 million. When healthy, he's pretty good. However, he's rarely healthy. There are also other issues behind the scenes, as Nolan has clearly been frustrated with him. Team could try to trade him.
Lawson, Manny: Signed through 2010 (last year is option year) - On his way to a very good season when he tore his left ACL in September. Should return and be productive.
Moore, Jay: Signed through 2010 - Went on IR after last exhibition game after sustaining severe high-ankle sprain that did not require surgery. Still was making the transition from DE to OLB.
Smiley, Justin: Scheduled UFA - His athleticism and pass-blocking will be needed. His market value will determine whether 49ers decide to bring him back. It has to be at the right price for them.
Smith, Alex: Signed through 2011 (void year 2009) - It's a make-or-break season in '08. If he learns Martz's system quickly, it could be lead to great things. If not, well . . .
Tucker, B.J.: Scheduled RFA - Uncertain whether team will tender him after season ended in the offseason with a torn pec muscle.
PHYSICALLY UNABLE TO PERFORM
Oliver, Melvin: Signed through 2009 - Sustained torn ACL in minicamp, so he's had a full year to survey the defense and figure how he fits in.
PRACTICE SQUAD
Bing, Darnell: Signed with Jets.
Clayton, Thomas: Signed with 49ers through 2009 - His chances of roster spot increase if Hicks is not re-signed and 49ers don't add anyone at this spot.
Curry, Markus: Signed with 49ers through 2009 - Niners have seen enough to believe he's worth another look.
Dildine, Steve: Unsigned, UFA - His practice squad contract expired on Monday without; no new deal has been signed.
Estrada, Sean: Unsigned, UFA - In the same boat as Dildine.
Rabb, Jerard: Signed with 49ers through 2009 - Came to practice squad late in the season and will go through a full offseason.
Washington, Tavares: Signed with Redskins.
* * *
Offseason surgeries
As previously reported, Shaun Hill underwent surgery the first week in January to repair his broken and dislocated right index finger. That should require about six weeks of recovery time. Here is a list of the other players who went in for so-called "minor cleanups and relatively short recovery times: David Baas (knee), safety Michael Lewis (knee and ankle), Damane Duckett (thumb), Parys Haralson (knee) and Tony Wragge (elbow).
* * *
UPDATE: Here's a list of more players who have committed to play in the Senior Bowl: WR Early Doucet (LSU), RB Jacob Hester (LSU), LB Ali Highsmith (LSU), S Craig Steltz (LSU), OL Robert Felton (Arkansas), DL Marcus Harrison (Arkansas), RB Peyton Hillis (Arkansas), K Brandon Coutu (Georgia), TE Brad Cottam (Tennessee) and OL Chris Williams (Vanderbilt). Click here for a list of players who earlier accepted invitation.
* * *
UPDATE II: Center Eric Heitmann was announced today as the 49ers winner of the Ed Block Courage Award. The award is given to the player that exemplifies a commitment to sportsmanship and courage.
Yeah Faneca will want a boad load of money and he deserves it.
Addressing the Oline in the draft is fine, but he'll have to be a quick learner if he is even going to start. The offensive line and QB positions are the most complexed positions in the league. Linemens need to know where and how to block the opposing player. Sounds easier than it is.