NFL News, Rumors, Scores, Predictions, and Stats

The San Francisco 49ers have been a long way away from greatness over most of the last decade, with the performance of the team dying off hard after 2003. Many may point the finger in various places, lack of continuity of team, coaching, level of talent recruited, free agent market performance, etc. I think one of the biggest of these is our performance in the draft from 2000-2009.

When I say draft performance, I would guess that the first name through your head is Alex Smith. While his performance has fell short of what you would expect from a first overall pick, his selection is not part of the core of my reasoning.

It is understood that teams will have some misses, some players will fool all of the scouts, some players will draw excessive hype and then never live up to it, and some players take time to develop. However, each team employs people to sort through all of this and weed out their best bets.

What degree fortification should a team receive from 10 years worth of first round picks? Here are some examples:

While the amount of first round busts we’ve had is absurd, I wish I could tell you it stopped there. The 49ers have had equally as many players in the second and third rounds combined in this time frame who just didn’t hack it.

Between the departure of Terrell Owens and the arrival of Michael Crabtree, the 49ers panned for gold in the wide receiver department unsuccessfully. Five receivers drafted between 2004 and 2006 with overall pick numbers 31, 77, 84, 174, and 223 combined for less than 175 receiving yards, and 3 of them never recorded a regular season reception.

While San Francisco has also had questionable performance in the free agent market over the last decade, they left themselves too many holes to fill via this method by poor draft performance.

If you look at the Panthers first round performance, the cornerstones of their offense and defense have been first round, home grown draft picks. The same is somewhat true for the 49ers picks that did pan out, however there aren’t nearly as many.

How bad have we done? With the exception of Josh Morgan, Reggie Smith, and Eric Heitmann, the 2008, 2002, and 2003 drafts may as well not even have existed!

Bottom line, the holes left by draft misses Balmer, Woods, Harris, Rumph, Lawson, and Plummer have left us lacking home grown veterans capable of performing at a first round level, while leaving us with players against the salary cap.

Perhaps the worst of all of these picks was DE Kentwan Balmer. In spite of coming off of a 2007 season in which the 49ers were dead last in the league in both total and scoring offense, the team decided to make first round pick an attempted replacement for retiring 4 time Pro Bowl DT Bryant Young.

In retrospect, the well-known fact among 49er fans that DeSean Jackson was still on the board adds insult to injury. Balmer recently departed for Seattle in exchange for a sixth round pick after failing to post a single sack in 2 seasons.

A close second would be Rashaun Woods. After the departure of Terrell Owens, the team was looking to add some firepower to the passing game. Woods left the NFL after the 2004 season with 7 catches for 160 yards and 1 touchdown for his career.

Luckily, the 49ers seem to be on a positive trend lately in the draft. In 2009, TE Bear Pascoe was the only player not to make the roster. This year, it wouldn’t come as a surprise to me if all drafted players make the roster with the exception of 7th round selection Phillip Adams, who should be a lock for the practice squad.

The good news is we appear to be on a positive trend in the draft department starting with 2009. Hopefully we stay on track with the improvement that we have had over the last 2 years.

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Frank Gore is the player that the San Francisco 49ers offense revolves around. He is one of my personal favorites, and I hope he finishes out his career in SF.

So with Gore’s long-term durability in mind, and the desire to build a more physical football team, the 49ers have added two bulls to their running back pen.

Glen Coffee has gained 15 pounds of muscle and hasn’t slowed down at all, putting him at 6’0″ and 225 pounds. Rookie Anthony Dixon is 6’1″ and 233 pounds.

I will remind you that Frank Gore scored 10 rushing TDs last year. Gore scored from 80, 79, 64, and 14 yards, with six TD runs of six yards or less.

Let’s assume that either Coffee or Dixon emerges as a safe bet for short-yardage touchdowns behind a blocking group revamped by Mike Iupati, Anthony Davis, Nate Byham or Delanie Walker, and a healthy Joe Staley.

Does it make sense to have Gore get these tough carries? For a TD that Dixon or Coffee could get for you?

I would speculate that if the offensive line and Byham live up to expectations, we may see more big TD runs from Gore. By the same token, if pass protection is improved, it may well equate to him catching more open field passes as a check down.

On the other hand, I could also see Coffee or Dixon getting the nod if the team is ahead comfortably. Four of Gore’s short TD runs last season came with the 49ers way ahead.

While Gore’s yardage may remain high, I do expect his total TDs to drop.

By no means am I telling you to avoid Frank Gore in your fantasy draft!

He’s just as good, but I don’t know if he’s a first-round pick this year, with a better San Francisco team behind him. He might be a better second-round pick!

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There are going to be a few battles when the San Francisco 49ers open training camp this year. Iron will sharpen iron, and starters will be chiseled from stone. Some of the ore that’s left behind will be forged into backups or practice squad members. The rest will blow away with the wind and the waiver wire.

Who could say in June who the victors of these battles will be come September? But, we can name the best battles that await in camp.

The hardest combat should be seen on offense, especially on the line, where the 49ers spent two first—round picks this offseason. Defense will not be seeing any push overs in camp either.

O-Line

The left tackle spot is essentially owned by Joe Staley, and Eric Heitmann is a lock at center. The shuffles and scuffles will take place at guard and right tackle.

Right Tackle

Anthony Davis was taken in the first round of the April draft with a purpose in mind: The 49ers added size and strength to their offensive line for years. Davis may end up at left tackle eventually if something happens to Staley, but for now he’s going to compete hard for the starting right tackle position.

In his sixth year, Adam Snyder will also be fighting for the starting right tackle spot as well. The 6’6″, 325-pounder has played every position on the line and will certainly see time as a reserve player should he not land a starting role.

Similarly, Barry Simms brings 11 years of NFL experience at a variety of offensive line positions. Sims is expected to play a mentor role to the new guys, but that won’t stop him from bringing it in camp. He may be an old piece of iron for sharpening the new stuff, but he’s still a solid chunk of metal in the trenches.

Simms stepped in for an injured Staley last year and performed admirably at left tackle. If he doesn’t find a starting spot on the line in 2010, he’ll play a solid backup whereever the 49ers need him.

Alex Boone is the X—factor at right tackle this offseason. Boone went undrafted in 2009 and spent the season on the 49ers practice squad. Full of potential, the 6’7″ Frankenstein’s monster has struggled with the stigma of being immature and undisciplined. Many scouts and teams considered him incorrigible after a tumultuous off—the—field history at Ohio State.

The 49ers took a risk on him.

Boone’s weight became another issue in the NFL, and he was soon flirting with unemployment. In response, he upped his exercise program and began stricter dieting. A slimmer, quicker, more agile Boone will be coming into camp this season—voraciously hungry for a spot on the 53-man roster.

Guard

Mike Iupati was San Francisco’s second pick in the draft, and the 330-pounder was the exclamation mark on the message the 49ers sent that day: The 49ers added size and strength to their offensive—line for years!

A lot is expected of Iupati, but like Davis, he’ll need to grow into the starting role. Incumbents Chilo Rachel and David Baas aren’t the type to forfeit their starting roles without making some noise, but the word has been that the 49ers didn’t bring the two first—round offensive linemen in to sit on the bench.

David Baas, for better or worse, has been Alex Smith’s main form of interior pass protection since the 49ers took him with the 33rd pick of the 2005 Draft. A block of a man at 6’4″, 330 pounds, Baas is a guard by trade who can work on the right or left.

The line has been porous all over since Smith showed up. For this Baas has received much of the blame and very little of the credit. Nevertheless, Baas received the Bobb McKittrick Award after starting 16 games at left guard last season.

Chilo Rachel started all but one game at right guard last year. At 24 years young, time is on his side, and Chilo’s improvement has been plain to see; his advancement in knowledge of blocking techniques and schemes has soared since he began starting midway through his rookie season. Still, like everyone else, Rachel will face brutal competition for the spot in training camp.

It won’t take too long to figure out who wants to really pound the rock—once the pads come on.

Outside Linebackers

No player recorded more sacks than Manny Lawson (6.5) last year, but Ahmad Brooks came in a close second (six). Parys Haralson recorded almost as many (five), and Travis LaBoy has had a similar average (4.7) over his career when healthy.

It’s hard to say who—if anyone—will step up and lead the team this year. Lawson is heading into a career year, and LaBoy signed a one—year contract just before the draft.

Speaking of the draft, rookie linebacker Navarro Bowman should see a play or two outside of his projected special teams role. If the new kid performs well in camp and through the exhibition season, he’ll see even more action in the regular season. Bowman played outside linebacker in college and could be effective using his speed off the edge.

Expect an all—out smash—mouth clash of warriors in this competition.

Backup Running Back

There’s no secret that Frank Gore is going to be the starting running back; he continually puts the team on his shoulders and bulldozes defenses. Every year, however, Frank gets a little banged and a little busted for a game or two. As a result, the role of backup running back has become increasingly important.

The battle to be the 49ers second-string running back is a bit more clear-cut. Second-year back Glenn Coffee is taking on rookie Anthony Dixon.

Although Dixon is the larger player, he plays with more finesse—more shake-and-bake—than Coffee. In an offense where the aim is cut and get up-field ASAP, the coaches are looking for Dixon to do less flinching and dancing.

Glenn Coffee, on the other hand, is a more fundamental back. Coffee has a head start, as he already knows his blocking assignments and has come to terms with the hits he’s going to take regularly as a running back in the NFL.

Coffee is said to be coming in bigger and stronger for his sophomore season, and this could help a lot. He will need to find another dimension for his upright running style, however. A good battle is brewing between these two, and if we’re lucky, the real loser will be the opposing defenses.

Second and Third Receiver

Michael Crabtree is the man on the 49ers receiving corp. With OTAs, training camp, and a full season, he should be the team’s vocal pass catching leader who’s not named Vernon. Exactly who he runs his routes next to is still up in the air.

Josh Morgan is the favorite to accompany Crabtree. ESPN’s fantasy brains project that Morgan will grab six touchdowns in 2010. Furthering his case, Morgan just about doubled his 2008 yardage last season. The youngster also blocks on running plays—a must on the 49ers. It’s fair to say the second receiver position is his to lose.

Jason Hill has seen mild success in limited playing time. Although Hill has shown flashes of potential, he’ll need to bring it in camp to keep a spot amongst some of the new acquisitions.

Such acquisitions include former Dolphins return man Ted Ginn Jr and rookie Kyle Williams.

Ginn has impressive speed and value as a big-play special teams threat. On any given play he can take one to the house. Although he has a reputation as a stone-hands pass catcher, Ginn does provide another over-the-top threat.

Kyle Williams, on the other hand, could be a prototypical slot receiver. He’s not going to out jump to many defenders, and he’s not going to blaze down the sideline and get in back of too many defenses—but his acceleration and ability to change direction have given him a nose for the end zone.

And Williams might have some potential as a return man as well.

Who shines and who fades will determine the passing attack. These guys are going to want to be on the quarterbacks’ good sides.

Backup Quarterback

“Alex Smith is our guy.” How many times have we heard that now? A million?

Well, they said it so many times it has to be true. Alex Smith has enough NFL experience now and has finally been set up for success in the NFL.

David Carr is an older veteran in Alex Smith’s image. Nate Davis is a youngster who has busted his tail to learn an NFL offense in spite of being slowed by dyslexia. Both have tools to succeed, but do either have the tools to excel?

Carr has the experience, even if the experiences are not impressive or enjoyable. Davis has next to zero experience, which can be a blessing in disguise. The lack of knowledge he brings makes room for pure-instinct play making.

The accepted understanding is that Carr will be backup and the slow-to-learn Davis will ride the pine another year, but if Nate excels in camp, it will be an open competition. 

Nickel & Dime DBs

The 49ers secondary often played good coverage last season considering the always-a-split-second-late pass rush they had to play behind. Still, they got burned on more than one occasion. Adding speed without sacrificing physicality has been one mission this off-season, and they seem to have done a decent job of that.

Aside from finally parting ways with Dre Bly, their selection of Taylor Mays in the second round might have thus far been the biggest improvement to the 49ers’ secondary. If we’re talking talent, this guy is steak tartare or fillet mignon—raw and rare.

Mays won’t push incumbents like Micheal Lewis and Dashon Goldson immediately, and they should win the starting spots. Nothing, however, is concrete.

The 49ers also brought in situational defensive back Karl Paymah. The fifth-year player saw limited time in Denver and played last year in Minnesota. Paymah is now loving the California weather, and he’s been a little starved for playing time.

Reggie Smith, Curtis Taylor, Will James, and even rookie Phillip Adams will join the rumble in attempt to get on the field, and with so many defensive backs clawing to get in the game, the cream of the crop must, and will, rise to the top if they are to get playing time.

The last men standing here are going to be like projects from metal shop class when the dust settles.

Synopsis

The best action this preseason will be at offensive line, outside linebacker, and backup running back, but sparks are going to fly with the new crop of burning receivers pushing their ways onto the team.

The passers are going to go through their motions, but the quietest of quarterback controversies could break out in any given exhibition game—once Smith leaves for the sideline.

While the starters in the secondary seem clear, there’s going to be a number of little monsters looking to shake up the depth charts.

In these looming competitions, anything can happen—once the pads come on.

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With the preseason right around the corner, here is a breakdown of the NFC West division teams.

Offense

Quarterbacks

San Francisco pretty much wins this by default.

Alex Smith is an average QB, but he’s still superior to Leinart, Hasselbeck and Feeley. Charlie Whitehurst has proven nothing at the NFL level and I would be amazed if a spread QB like Bradford played well in his rookie year.

Smith is less than ideal for the 49ers offense because of his inability to operate from under centre (a problem identified at his drafting) but he is still preferable to Arizona’s duo of Leinart and Anderson.

It may well end up that Anderson gets the starting gig considering an apparent lack of desire (not to mention the arm strength essential to a vertical passing attack) possessed by Leinart. Leinart’s career completion percentage stands at a mere 56% with 14 TDs to 17 INTs.

The Seahawks and Rams have similar problems.

Hasselbeck is clearly washed up, and Feeley can be nothing more than a stop gap measure. Unfortunately neither Sam Bradford nor Whitehurst will likely remedy the situation until 2011 at the earliest. The Rams have a slight edge, however, because of Bradford’s upside.

1. San Francisco
2. Arizona
3. St. Louis
4. Seattle

Running backs

While the NFC West is a wasteland in terms of quality QBs, it turns into a haven for those in the backfield.

The top spot is difficult to nail down, but Frank Gore and the 49ers get the nod here. His numbers are very similar to Steven Jackson’s, but he’s had a few less injuries and fewer carries.

Let’s be honest, you can’t go wrong with either.

Both the Seahawks and the Cardinals have very promising backfield tandems, but one of my favourite potential breakout players this year is Justin Forsett.

Pairing with him is the oft-injured, although majorly talented, Leon Washington, gives Seattle one of the league’s better receiving backs to go along with the emerging youngster.

The Cardinals duo is Tim Hightower and 2009 first round pick Chris “Beanie” Wells.

Wells had an impressive rookie season, accumulating nearly 950 total scrimmage yards. But Cardinals’ fans will be concerned with his four fumbles, an unacceptable amount for his number of carries.

Tim Hightower also had a solid year, posting over 1,000 yards and eight TDs. But the question is will the lack of a true third down back hurt Arizona considering Matt Leinart’s limitations.

1. San Francisco
2. St Louis
3. Seattle
4. Arizona

Receivers (WRs and TEs)

The Cardinals have easily the best group of receivers in the division.

Larry Fitzgerald is a recognised superstar and, despite the loss of Anquan Boldin, the group will likely not miss a beat considering the impressive play of former No.3 wideout Steve Breaston, who will take the starters job (something he has done many times in the past considering Boldin’s injury history).

Cardinals fans will also hope promising youngster Early Doucet can win the slot receiver role, a position he excelled at during their playoff win over Green Bay. To make things even better, they snagged one of my favourite players in the whole draft in Citadel WR Andre Roberts.

The TE group leaves much to be desired in terms of receiving, which may prove to be more concerning that before considering the new QB.

That brings me to the 49ers.

Michael Crabtree’s impressive play in 2009 was simply remarkable.

He didn’t catch less than four balls in a single game and this was without practicing with Alex Smith during the offseason. It’s scary how good he can be.

Josh Morgan is an underwhelming number two, posting just over 500 yards in 800 snaps last year. New acquisition Ted Ginn continues to disappoint because of drops and sloppy route running.

But the explosion of TE Vernon Davis saves this group. The immensely talented Davis still can’t block to save his life, but he is a great check down option for a QB who lacks ideal zip.

If the Rams are to avoid picking in the bottom five in the 2011 draft, they will need some serious improvement from Donnie Avery.

After putting up impressive numbers in his first season, Avery seemed to regress in year two. He is joined by promising rookie Mardy Gilyard, a player that may be more suited to the slot.

Similarly Brandon Gibson, while a good player, is more suited to the fourth wideout role relegating Danny Amendola to returns. Laurent Robinson is a solid option, however, if he’s healthy.

At TE, Chris Baker was an underrated addition, especially considering his blocking is impressive. There is also the chance his receiving numbers will increase if given more of an opportunity.

The Seahawks drastically overpaid for a possession receiver in the 2009 offseason in former Bengal TJ Houshmandzadeh. But Golden Tate should be a solid playmaker for the Seahawks offense.

Other than the two previously mentioned players, though the Seahawks lack any sort of promising young players.

John Carlson had an incredibly disappointing season at TE for the Seahawks. His blocking was fairly atrocious despite the fact he was asked to do a lot of it, and he couldn’t find a way to get open in the passing game consistently. Perhaps it is an indictment of his play that new head coach Pete Carroll decided to add two TEs in the draft in Anthony McCoy (6th round) and Jameson Konz (7th).

1. Arizona
2. San Francisco
3. St Louis
4. Seattle

Offensive lines

There was a massive turnover of offensive linemen for NFC West teams this offseason, considering the new organisations have tended to focus on the run game.

The 49ers likely have the best unit. C Eric Heitmann was solid in every facet of the game as was RG Chilo Rachal. LG Davis Bass struggles in the run game which happens to be the strength of newly drafted grinder Mike Iupati.

Returning to the lineup will be LT Joe Staley, an underrated player. The other OT will hopefully be 11th overall pick Anthony Davis, who will replace the only real weakness in the line in Adam Snyder, who conceded 10 sacks, 8 hits, and 30 pressures in 2009.

The Rams’ offensive line is one of the most underrated units in the league.

The awful Alex Barron is gone, to be replaced by Jason Smith, who will shift to the left side with the addition of Rodger Saffold in the 2nd round. Smith was barely average at RT in 2009, allowing 2 sacks, 3 hits, and 8 pressures in just 339 snaps, but he should improve in year 2.

Saffold was a guy I was surprised fell to round two, and he should contribute immediately if he can recover from some nagging offseason injuries. C Jason Brown and LG Jacob Bell will man two of the other spots, and both are both solid players. John Greco and Adam Goldberg will likely be in the mix at RG.

The Seahawks have some solid players on the O-line. Max Unger is a valuable, versatile linemen who excels against the pass. He is joined by the Ray Willis at RT.

Perhaps the most bemusing move of the offseason was the trade of the Hawk’s best linemen, Rob Sims, whose replacement, Ben Hamilton (formerly of Denver), isn’t even in the same league. The re-signed Chris Spencer will likely be the fill in at either C or LG depending on where Unger ends up.

The most important player for the Hawks in 2010 will likely be sixth overall pick Russell Okung. If he struggles, the Seahawk offense has no chance but if he proves he was as NFL ready as many scouts indicated then production will improve no end.

The Cardinals line is essentially a mess. Saved from embarrassment only by Kurt Warner’s quick release, whoever ends up at QB for Arizona will be seeing a lot of linemen in their face all season.

Jeremy Bridges and Levi Brown are simply not up to NFL standards, while Reggie Wells and Deuce Lutui are simply an abomination on the inside.

The addition of OG Alan Faneca was smart considering the situation, but he is certainly on the downside of his career and struggles in pass protection. C Lyle Sendlein gets the best Cardinal linemen award by default; he’s average at best and horribly inconsistent.

1. San Francisco
2. St Louis
3. Seattle
4. Arizona

Defense

Defensive line

The 49ers have the edge over the Cardinals on the back of the best five technique in the league in DE Justin Smith.

Despite playing on the interior, he accumulated six sacks, 16 QB hits and 44 pressures in 580 rushes. To put that into context, Darnell Dockett accumulated eight sacks, 10 hits and 28 pressures in 600.

Joining Smith on the interior is NT Aubrayo Franklin, who got a thoroughly deserved contract extension. A true space eater, his pass rushing limitations are of minor concern. The other DE position, however, remains a slight concern because of the poor play by Isaac Sopoaga and Ray McDonald.

The Cardinals have a dominant pass rushing duo in DEs Calais Cambell and Dockett.

The former registered an impressive nine sacks, eight hits and 31 pressures in a mere 529 rushes (as well as five batted passes). Neither is especially good against the run, and Dockett was dominated at times in 2009.

That means there’ll be a lot of pressure on first round NT Dan Williams to produce straight away, as he will at worst be rotating with Bryan Robinson and Gabe Watson.

The Seahawks have a solid duo of DTs, but they are going to struggle mightily without an established DE.

Brandon Mebane and Colin Cole are both very solid run defenders but they rarely collapse the pocket. Patrick Kerney retired and Darryl Tapp was traded, leaving very little depth or proven production.

Chris Clemons is a tweener, as is Nick Reed. Lawrence Jackson failed to produce in 2009 and no addition was made until the 127th pick in the draft in EJ Wilson.

The Rams have a lot of potential on their defensive line in 2010.

Chris Long seems to be turning a corner and James Hall played well at right end. Clifton Ryan did a nice job at DT, which is good considering Chris Hovan seems to be done.

Leonard Little is a valuable pass rusher and St Louis has a couple of solid rotational players in DTs Dorell Scott and Leger Douzable.

Linebackers

Patrick Willis is the best LB in the game and Takeo Spikes continues to play at a high level despite the beating his aging body must have taken.

He may be even better in 2010 if 3rd round pick Navarro Bowman can contribute right away, if he does indeed end up at ILB. Manny Lawson also finally came on and though he is not spectacular, he seems to have no weaknesses in his game.

The only guy holding this unit back is Parys Haralson, but his struggles rushing the passer are well disguised through his replacement by Ahmad Brooks on passing downs.

The NFC West is really stacked with great LBs, and the Seahawks are no different.

Despite an injury to veteran MLB Lofa Tatupu, David Hawthorne stepped fluidly into the MIKE LB spot and became a dominant force against the run, as shown by his 92 tackles (49 of which were blocked). He will want to maintain concentration, however, as he also missed 10 on the season.

Partnering him for much of the season was the incredibly disappointing Aaron Curry. Touted as the most NFL ready player in the 2009 draft, he really struggled in coverage only showing improvement when he had his role limited. Rounding out the group are the solid Leroy Hill and Will Herring.

Another reason for hope in St Louis is the LB corps.

James Laurinaitis proved his draft fall was unfounded, putting forth a very solid first season in registering 100 solo tackles, of which 48 were plays in which he was blocked.

Paris Lenon also defied his age, registering an especially good season against the run. But he’s now in Arizona having not been resigned. He’ll likely be replaced by former Panther Nai’ll Diggs, although he’s more suited to the strongside. The biggest surprise, however, was SLB David Vobora, who crushed people against the run and did a solid job in coverage.

Depth is the only concern.

With aging OLBs, the Cards decided to aggressively target former Dolphin Joey Porter. Unfortunately he had a poor season in terms of total pressure, registering just nine sacks, five hits and 11 pressures in 354 rushes, as well as being shaky against the run.

Clark Haggans remains a solid player on the other side, but he’s certainly not upgradeable. Karlos Dansby chased the money to Miami, leaving a massive void next to the already underwhelming Gerald Hayes.

The decision to go with the athletic ILB Daryl Washington was therefore a smart one, and I would be surprised if he didn’t have a good rookie year. It remains to be seen whether Paris Lenon can continue to defy his age and how he’ll transition to the new system.

1. San Francisco
2. Seattle
3. St Louis
4. Arizona

Secondary

The Cardinals are set at three of the four secondary positions.

SS Adrian Wilson improved in coverage in 2009 despite being inconsistent, and the addition of potential All-Pro (if motivated) Kerry Rhodes from the Jets was another shrewd move, and almost certainly an improvement over the departed Antrel Rolle.

Going into his third year, CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie has a shot to elevate himself into the top echelon of CBs with another good season. His 16 pass deflections were second only to Darelle Revis and his reception percentage allowed of 51 was in the top 10 with CBs targeted over 30 times.

With Bryant McFadden shipped back to Pittsburgh after an awful season, a lot of hopes rest on Greg Toler who was impressive in limited action. Arizona should be on the lookout for a slot CB.

San Francisco has at least one good CB in Shawntae Spencer. The other CB position remains a concern, however, although Nate Clements flashed some of the ability that got him such a huge contract. Dre Bly and Tarell Brown are also in the mix.

At safety, Dashon Goldson and Michael Lewis are both strong against the run but struggle in coverage, which makes it odd that Singletary decided to add Taylor Mays in the draft. He is a player renowned for needing work in that very same department.

Seattle will have been pleasantly surprised with the solid play of CB Josh Wilson, but the Seahawks will be equally as dismayed with the production of Marcus Trufant. Apart from Trufant’s generally poor play, he also conceded nine penalties.

Both Deon Grant and Jonathan Babineaux struggled in coverage, so it is likely 14th overall pick Earl Thomas will start at safety if he shows any ability. Despite immense talent, Thomas may struggle if Seattle’s CBs continue to do so.

The situation remains bleak for the Rams secondary. Ron Bartell struggled desperately at LCB, as did Justin King in the slot. The other CB position remains a mystery, but the Rams could really do with third round pick Jerome Murphy panning out to fill the void.

At safety the situation is hardly better, though getting O.J. Otogwe re-signed will surely help.

Conclusion

The NFC West is generally weak because its best players are at positions of lower importance, specifically RBs and LBs.

The 49ers should be good enough to win this division, especially considering they are the team with the best QB and generate the most pass rush.

The Cardinals will obviously regress due to the loss of Warner, but the situation is only exaggerated considering how weak the offensive line remains. The Rams have a lot of potential but the defense, especially the secondary, remains a work in progress.

The team that might struggle the most is Seattle.

An aging or unproven QB, declining offensive weapons and no pass rush don’t add up to a good mix. To win in the NFL you need a QB, LT and DE in that order. The Hawks have none of the above. T

he same argument could be made for the Rams, but Jason Smith will be entering his second year while Okung will be a rookie and one less highly touted at that.

Here are my final predictions.

1. San Francisco 49ers: 8-10 Ws
2. Arizona Cardinals: 6-8 Ws
3. St Louis Rams 3-5 Ws
4. Seattle Seahawks: 1-4 Ws

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The 49ers’ head coach, Mike Singletary, has a plan.

Inheriting a team with some talent but no direction, Singletary has re-established pride in the organization. He has provided vision and preached toughness.

Singletary is a “meat-and-potatoes” man when it comes to football. He’s seen it work when he played for the Chicago Bears.

If the Bears at that time had a better offensive line, he probably would have more than one Super Bowl ring as a player.

Lesson learned. Starting his second full season on the job, he has added players through the draft and from the free market pool that show a solid plan.

TEAM OVERVIEW

OFFENSE

Offensive Line

OT Anthony Davis and OG/OT Mike Iupati upgrade an offensive line in dire need. With some coaching, Davis could be a star protecting the QB blind-side for years to come, and Iupati is good enough to shift over to end if need be.

Lining up alongside Joe Staley, these additions give the line flexibility and an upgrade in talent that will help both QB Alex Smith and RB Frank Gore tremendously.

QB :

Alex Smith, David Carr, Nate Davis, Jarrett Brown*

Contrary to many skeptics, I believe in the efficacy of Alex Smith being the starter for the 49ers. Healthy, having survived the multiplicity of pressures inherent in the position, and finally having a cohesive offensive plan and coaching staff, Smith should rise to the occasion.

Nate Davis looked great in the pre-season last year, exhibiting leadership qualities under pressure, and running the limited offense effectively.

Though not having the prototype of height for a full-time signal caller, Drew Brees and Steve Young are proof that if you have the talent, height is not so much an issue.

Of all the off-season moves, the only one that I scratched my head over was the acquisition of David Carr. He’s not a bad quarterback, I just don’t believe that he’s better than who they have.

If Alex Smith were to go down to injury, developing the youngsters on the staff would be a better option, especially with the offensive line upgraded and a solid running game.

The best post-draft move the team made was to sign the un-drafted Jarrett Brown. A smart player with an incredible skill set, it is a wonder why he wasn’t drafted.

Jarrett has a cannon of an arm, one of the strongest in the last few drafts, with great spin and touch.

Locked behind Pat White on the depth chart, he only had one year as a starter, and that was affected by an injury that marred an incredible start.

Often compared to Minnesota’s Tarvaris Jackson and Jacksonville’s David Garrard, he is potentially better than either. He has a stronger arm, is faster and more mobile in the pocket, and possesses more accuracy.

A better comparison is a young Donovan McNabb, or dare I say with solid coaching and a few years, another version of Steve Young?

Mike Singletary has a plan…

Running Backs

Frank Gore, Glenn Coffee, Anthony Dixon, Michael Robinson

After a number of seasons with spotty offensive-line play, Frank Gore finally is running behind a line. Add the emergence of wide receiver Michael Crabtree, and improved play from Alex Smith to the mix, and Gore should have a bevy of opportunities to shine this year.

That said, teams will continue to key their defenses on stopping the running game until Alex Smith makes them pay for it.

Glenn Coffee has been a good secondary back, and the drafting of Anthony Dixon should keep Gore healthy throughout the season. Dixon is a straight forward, run-over-the-defender running back. Think Christian Okoye.

The Niners don’t have a run-by-committee approach, but interspersing Coffee and Dixon throughout the game will make Gore better, and the overall running game a serious threat for opposing defenses.

Wide Receivers/Tight End

Michael Crabtree, Josh Morgan, Ted Ginn Jr., Bakari Grant, Jason Hill, Brandon Jones, Scott Long, Jared Perry, Kyle Williams, Dominique Zeigler; (TE) Vernon Davis, Nate Byham, Joe Jon Finley, Tony Curtis

Coming off an injury and a protracted contract dispute, Michael Crabtree played beyond what the 49ers could hope for. The talented receiver runs routes well, displays speed and the ability to create separation from his defender, and has hands covered in super glue.

He established himself as a premier threat last season, and is poised to do great things in his second year.

Josh Morgan has the talent of a No. 1 receiver, but has shown the mentality of a No. 2. So be it.

With Crabtree taking the honors, Morgan should have a solid season and will break a number of long touchdown receptions, keeping teams honest on the line.

Responding to the challenge issued to him by Singletary, Vernon Davis is playing up to the expectations with which he entered the league.

With speed, agility, and hands like a wide receiver, his ability to separate and find open space makes him a escape option for the quarterback, but also frees up underneath routes as Davis can stretch the defense himself.

With San Francisco owning some one of the worst punt and kick return numbers in the league, the addition of Ted Ginn Jr. will pay immediate dividends.

A disappointment in Miami, Ted should do well in the lineup as a receiver also. With the attention Crabtree, Morgan, and Davis attract, Ginn could be an effective weapon in the slot.

If Alex Smith can play anywhere near his first round billing so many drafts back, he has the weapons on offense to thrive.

DEFENSE

3-4

Defensive Line

Justin Smith, Isaac Sopoaga, Aubrayo Franklin

Smith, Sopoaga, and Franklin all had decent years in 2009. With nine sacks between them, they held to the point and occupied space allowing the linebacker corps to attack the offense.

Justin Smith’s game improved spending the season on the right end. Expect the line to be even better in 2010.

Linebackers

Patrick Willis, Takeo Spikes, Manny Lawson, Parys Haralson, Navorro Bowman (R)

In the 3-4, athletic linebackers are in high demand. Next to Baltimore Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis, no one is better than Patrick Willis .

Blessed to be coached and mentored by Hall of Fame MLB Mike Singletary, his game has exploded. His leadership and energy fuels the defense, and as long as he is healthy, he will change games by himself.

Manny Lawson has come into his own with 6.5 sacks and a recovered fumble, and playing alongside veteran Takeo Spikes, they form a great left side combination.

The 49ers signed two undrafted linebackers this year also, Mike Balogun and Keaton Kristick. An obvious help to special teams, one may find there way into the defensive lineup eventually.

Defensive Backs

Nate Clements, Taylor Mays, Phillip Adams, Tramaine Brock, Tarell Brown, William James, Chris Maragos, Reggie Smith, Keith Smith, Shawntae Spencer, LeRoy Van

Nate Clements is the teams No. 1 corner. If he returns healthy this year, it will help the defense.

Taylor Mays is the hitter the Niners haven’t had Ronnie Lott. A terror over the middle, the team got tougher with just one pick. Mays isn’t the greatest cover corner, but his aggressive attitude is just what Singletary wants on his team.

OVERALL

In a relatively weak division, the 49ers will make some noise. Good enough to make it to the playoffs, their defense still has some holes to fill before they go further.

That said, they are another draft away from winning consistently, and if the quarterback play becomes solid, they could be a dynasty in the making.

49er fans have much to look forward to.

Predictions

Alex Smith will do well over the next two years and have a long career in the NFL, but will be supplanted Jarrett Brown as the 49er quarterback by 2013.

Patrick Willis will be the most dominant linebacker in the league this season.

The 49er offense will be impressive this season, averaging over 24 points a game.

In the 2011 draft, the 49ers will select either a linebacker or corner with their first pick, or will acquire a shutdown corner or linebacker via trade or free agency.

The 49ers will win a Super Bowl within the next three seasons.

The team believes in the new Dynasty enough to push for a new stadium. The investment in the community will be reflected in the investment in the team. The mandate to win is now.

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