Projecting the 49ers 53-man roster #3

by Fooch on Aug 27, 2009 8:00 AM PDT in Roster Projections Comment 106 comments

It is indeed that time of the week. Eight days ago we rolled out the second 53-man roster projection and plenty has happened since then to mix things up a little bit more. The biggest news affecting our roster projection is probably the return of Ray McDonald from the PUP list. As with before, new additions are underlined. After the jump I go into some of the details of my changes.

Offense
QB (3): Shaun Hill, Alex Smith, Nate Davis
RB (4): Frank Gore, Glen Coffee, Michael Robinson, Kory Sheets
FB (1): Moran Norris
WR (6): Isaac Bruce, Brandon Jones, Josh Morgan, Jason Hill, Arnaz Battle, Dominique Zeigler
TE (3): Vernon Davis, Delanie Walker, Bear Pascoe
LT (2): Joe Staley, Barry Sims
LG (1): David Baas
C (2): Eric Heitmann, Cody Wallace
RG (2): Chilo Rachal, Tony Wragge
RT (2): Adam Snyder, Marvel Smith

Defense
DE (5): Justin Smith, Kentwan Balmer, Demetric Evans, Isaac Sopoaga, Ray McDonald
DT (1): Aubrayo Franklin
OLB (4): Manny Lawson, Parys Haralson, Ahmad Brooks, Marques Harris
ILB (4): Patrick Willis, Takeo Spikes, Jeff Ulbrich, Scott McKillop
CB (5): Nate Clements, Dre Bly, Tarell Brown, Shawntae Spencer, Marcus Hudson
FS (2): Dashon Goldson, Mark Roman
SS (2): Michael Lewis, Reggie Smith

Special Teams
K: Joe Nedney
P: Andy Lee
LS: Brian Jennings
KR/PR: Allen Rossum

Last 5 on: Ahmad Brooks, Kory Sheets, Dominique Zeigler, Barry Sims, Nate Davis

First 5 off: Jay Moore, Alex Boone, Curtis Taylor, Ricky Jean-Francois, Micheal Spurlock

Right off the bat, I'm sure the Barry Sims projection will have folks up in arms. The problem with this projection is deciding whether it's more predictions, projections as things currently stand, or a mix of both. I mention this because in his recap of yesterday afternoon's practice, Barrows mentioned that Sims was getting first team snaps over Boone. Marvel Smith only practices once a day, so in the second practice somebody else has to fill in at right tackle (since Snyder is out). I certainly reserve the right to adjust this depending on how practice and this weekend shakes out, but for now Sims seems to have an edge. I definitely would prefer to see Boone on the roster, but I'm just not seeing it right now. I'm sure there will be plenty of comments about this one.

The return of Ray McDonald does not bode well for Ricky Jean-Francois. The bump off the squad for now also bumped FB Brit Miller off the first 5 off. While he has looked solid, I think the five guys listed there are significantly closer to securing a roster spot than Miller. If the team keeps 4 running backs, I can't see more than one fullback (assuming we're not counting Michael Robinson as a fullback). Miller and Boone are two prime practice squad candidates. They're also two guys who might be tough to slip through waivers; Boone more so than Miller.

Other than that I just don't see a lot changing at this point. One guy who has gotten a decent amount of publicity is Diyral Briggs. Takeo Spikes was talking him up on the sideline last weekend during the Raiders game. He continued to impress this past weekend and has probably made a sufficient case for the practice squad. It would be tough for him to crack the 53-man at this point, although certainly not impossible. At this point he's listed behind Parys Haralson and Ahmad Brooks at the Will outside linebacker position. Personally I'd keep Brooks just because of that impressive goal line play when he made the leap and almost sacked Russell. I just don't see the team taking Briggs over Brooks at this point. Harris is backing up Lawson on the other side with Jay Moore behind them so again, I don't see him leaping them, at least for now.

At this point, as the starters are being figured out, the last few roster spots remain up for grabs. That list of first 5 off, among many others are all scratching and clawing for some ~~craps~~ scraps off the table. Most would argue Alex Boone has the best chance of making the roster. I would tend to agree, but it remains a tough road ahoe. I continue to root for Jay Moore, but Harris's experience in the Manusky defense gives him a big advantage.

At this point, who do you find yourself rooting for the most among the numerous "roster underdogs?"

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I’d like to see Spurlock return kicks if he can- Rossum fills a roster spot as a KR, special teamer only- Spurlock could be an extra WR, 4th QB, KR, punt team wideout.

by djwilliamsisu on Aug 27, 2009 9:46 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Rossum at CB

I’ve heard and seen Rossum playing a lot more CB this year, so he might not just be a KR this year. And as much as I like what i’ve seen from Spurlock, they have a 4th QB in Robinson or Battle…

by vandam on Aug 27, 2009 10:00 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

With Brandon Jones not available for several weeks the 9ers have to keep 6 receivers

Since we will have a run first offense i agree with the 4 RB and with Robinson as a RB and FB it makes 2 FBs.
Sims didn’t inpress me last year and I would also like to give Boone a chance. It really all depends on how Smith is doing. I think if Smith is ok the Boone has a better chance to make the club.
Also, Spurlock could beat out Ziggy because he also returns kicks as djwilliamsisu said above.

"Whether you think you can, or you think you can't, either way, YOU'RE RIGHT !"

by Eastbayjim on Aug 27, 2009 9:49 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Zeigler v. Spurlock

Excellent point by you guys about Spurlock. Zeigler went back for punt returns one game when Rossum was hurt and seemed to struggle at it.

by Fooch on Aug 27, 2009 10:02 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think the play of several of these guys, Sims, Boone, Spurlock, Zeiglar and others will make it or break it.

Personnally I would really like Boone to make it. I feel he is going to be a monster at RT and he and Richal make a great team for the running game.

"Whether you think you can, or you think you can't, either way, YOU'RE RIGHT !"

by Eastbayjim on Aug 27, 2009 10:08 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I still think Sims goes and Boone stays.

The argument for Sims is his experience playing LT, but both Adam Snyder and Marvel Smith have played the position for extended periods. Given Staley’s durability so far, I suspect the team will designate M. Smith as the primary backup at both OT positions. If both Staley and Smith go down with injuries, Snyder moves over to LT and Boone steps in at RT. That gives us three players who can step in at LT and three who can play at RT. And given Sims’ age, it’s very possible he could clear waivers and not be taken by any team, making him available to be called up when needed.

by MontanaPass on Aug 27, 2009 12:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Since...

… we all know Crabtree is going to sign at some point, who on the last 5 on is axed in favor of Crabtree?

by sfgfan on Aug 27, 2009 10:07 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs

No guarantees

Probably Zeigler

Chris Dominguez: Bringing dingerz back to The Bay (In a while)

by CB30 on Aug 27, 2009 11:34 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Or Jason Hill.

Just a guess, but I think Zeigler’s hands and potential outweighs Hill’s experience.

by MontanaPass on Aug 27, 2009 11:52 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hill is a burner

…. although i admit to not knowing how fast zeigler is

by Qbgetter13 on Aug 27, 2009 11:54 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Being a burner...

… means very little if you are disappear during the course of a game. Hill, from what I recall, hasn’t really made his presence known this preseason.

by sfgfan on Aug 27, 2009 12:42 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

He did have the most receptions of anyone on the team last week

IIRC.

by Brendan Scolari on Aug 27, 2009 3:27 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'd be surprised to see Ziegler on the 53 man for one reason

D-Ziggy has ‘Squad eligibility—which neither Spurlock nor Hill has. It’s in the team’s interest to have a guy like that in their back pocket.
Besides this, Hill and Spurlock both have more speed than Ziegler, and if there’s concern about things getting too bunched up in this run-heavy offense, you want to have a burner (Hill) and a ‘space’ guy (Spurlock).
As much as it bums me out, I doubt we’ll see this on game day this year:

Morgan breaks through in 2009!

by grantmp on Aug 28, 2009 8:04 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'd wager lunch...

that Hill has better hands than Zeigler.

Late in the season last year, I was really impressed at some of the awful passes that Jason Hill reeled in – clean catches with good body position and stickum-like grip – while managing to keep his balance enough to turn upfield immediately after.

My pessimism goes to the point of suspecting the sincerity of the pessimists.

by shlecko on Aug 28, 2009 1:17 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Spurlock or Hill. Whichever has the worse pre-season. If equal, I bet on Hill staying. He’s at least produced for us in game situations, especially with the other Hill at QB.

You gotta bring ass to get ass.

by SpurredOn on Aug 27, 2009 12:44 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Spurlock's not part...

… of the last 5 on.

by sfgfan on Aug 27, 2009 2:41 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

my mistake

and good catch. Then Hill maybe the odd man out for my money. I thought it would be Battle when training camp began but he’s shown himself to be valuable.

You gotta bring ass to get ass.

by SpurredOn on Aug 27, 2009 3:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm not as definite as you are...

… but I definitely think it’ll be a tossup between Zeigler (on the last 5 on) and Hill. Zeigler hasn’t really shown a whole lot this camp either, so it’s going to be an interesting two weeks for those two guys.

Of course, this is all moot if Crabtree doesn’t sign, anyway. (But I think he will)

by sfgfan on Aug 27, 2009 3:11 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree that he will sign

And I think Ziegler goes. He still has PS eligibility right?

by Brendan Scolari on Aug 27, 2009 3:28 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yes

by sfgfan on Aug 27, 2009 3:30 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Then I think that's the best move.

by Brendan Scolari on Aug 27, 2009 3:31 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Probably is. My head says Zeigler due to his unique size and great hands but my heart pulls for Hill. I really think he’s good and likely has the upper hand.

You gotta bring ass to get ass.

by SpurredOn on Aug 27, 2009 4:15 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

if nolan was here probrably the young ones (zeigler) but sadly it might be arnaz

by big beaner on Aug 27, 2009 6:41 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'd put Battle at 3rd on the depth chart at WR right now.

Obviously, that will change when Crabtree signs and Brandon Jones returns, but I have no doubt that he’s ahead of Zeigler and Hill. I don’t see any reason at all to cut him.

My pessimism goes to the point of suspecting the sincerity of the pessimists.

by shlecko on Aug 28, 2009 1:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

This

I thought at the beginning of camp that Battle, entering the last year of his current contract, was going to be an odd man out. But with the injury to Jones, the absence of Crabtree, and the “absence” of Jason Hill, Battle has made himself appear to be very relevant to the coaching staff.

He’s not going anywhere.

by sfgfan on Aug 28, 2009 1:52 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

yeah i forgot that hills not doing good, i dont really know cant we just keep them all?

by big beaner on Aug 28, 2009 10:43 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think you pretty much nailed the 53

I’d also like to see Boone on there instead of Sims but I think at this point in the season and this point in his career, Boone will be fine on the PS learning and if he improves his pass blocking enough he might bump Sims out of a job somewhere during the season. I think the only way he makes the roster now is if the Niners think he’d be plucked off of waivers (I have no idea if other teams are showing interest). I do think they’d like to keep him around so if that was the case then they’d probably elevate him over Sims, but I think Singletary wants to stick with the veteran presence for now.

Spurlock is really tough, I know the Niners like him but I know how high they are on Ziggy as well and I just don’t think Spurlock beats him out for a spot just yet.

Our 2 LSU rookies, like Boone are players I’d expect to see on the practice squad, both with decent chances for elevation at some point depending on injuries. Like Boone I get the sense that if the Niners feel RJF might be picked up by another team they may keep him over someone like Demetric Evans who is a quality backup but doesn’t represent a serious upgrade over RJF and is considerably older.

I’ve really started to like Diyral Briggs over the last week and a half or so and I’d like him to make the roster over Harris, and even Jay Moore (sorry Fooch). He’s another that should be safe on the PS.

I like Brit Miller as much or more than the next guy but he’s not ready for serious game action yet and I think there’s next to no way he makes the 53. After last week I said he was a near-lock for the PS but now I get the sense that the other new FB (I can’t spell his name) might be edging him out do to more experience at the position. He had one really sweet pancake block that I saw against the Raiders (though, then again, everyone was blocking well against the Raiders). Watching the battle between the two of them might be my favorite totally-random-and-pointless position battle remaining in the preseason.

by foosball4949 on Aug 27, 2009 10:13 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs

One other thing Fooch

Nolan usually only kept 52 players on the initial roster leaving one spot open to scour waivers and pick up a player (a la Ahmad Brooks).

I don’t have a sense for whether Singletary would do the same thing, but he does seem to admire Nolan (I think I just heard every Niners fan shudder) and so he might.

Just something to take into account, there might only be 52 initial Niners making the cut

by foosball4949 on Aug 27, 2009 10:18 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Eh.

If you find a waiver player, you can always waive one of your own players, too. I don’t think it costs the team any different to waive a player before or after the final cut deadline.

by sfgfan on Aug 27, 2009 10:48 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree

but that’s what Nolan did

by foosball4949 on Aug 27, 2009 11:36 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

One difference is that Nolan didn't have the players that are on the team this year.

"Whether you think you can, or you think you can't, either way, YOU'RE RIGHT !"

by Eastbayjim on Aug 27, 2009 12:04 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

true

by foosball4949 on Aug 27, 2009 1:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I dont think Nolan did that...

didnt they have 53 players and waive Donatarious Thomas when they claimed Brroks?

by 49er4life on Aug 27, 2009 2:05 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think so

I can’t think of any benefit to only having 52 players…

by Brendan Scolari on Aug 27, 2009 3:32 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

maybe I'm mis-remembeing the timing, maybe it was just that one of the 53 was waived pretty quickly after th ecut down date to make room for a waiver pick-up

by foosball4949 on Aug 27, 2009 9:19 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

One thing these exercises do is make me feel a lot better about the overall talent on this team compared to a few years ago. Maybe it’s preseason optimism, but I look at the guys we’re cutting and feel like I’d like to keep them on the roster. That was totally not true 3 years ago.

Waiting for Giants and Niners to contend once more.

by dcp on Aug 27, 2009 11:15 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs

That was totally not true 3 years ago.

It’s definitely refreshing to feel that way now. It’s also a sign the Singletary was correct in saying that if he succeeds, it’ll be greatly because Nolan laid the groundwork down for him.

by sfgfan on Aug 27, 2009 11:38 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wow isnt that the truth !

In years past, we cut players no one would have. Hell, we KEPT players no one would have. Things are looking up for our roster and the talent level.

Another year, another chance to hope for the team !!

by FaStRmAn on Aug 27, 2009 11:23 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Even our castoffs are doing well elsewhere.

FS Keith Lewis is playing for the Cards and TE Billy Bajema and LB Larry Grant are doing well with the Rams. But my guess is that A. Boone would get picked off the PS immediately because lots of teams need OTs. And I suspect Diyral Briggs and Jay Moore would get picked up pretty quickly, too.

by MontanaPass on Aug 27, 2009 11:50 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

QB sitiation

it looks like we’re keeping Nate Davis as a future project (pending his performence at the Dallas game, I guess).
now, we all agree, that as much as we (I) like Shaun Hill as our QB1, he is not the frenchise, hall of famer high profile QB we all would lijke to see behind the helm for years to come.
and with Alex Smith not living up to his potential or ever going to, the question is:
Is davis going to be our future? does he have the finess and profile to be the face of the frenchise (apart from Gore and Willis) for years to come?
are we building on that guy for the next decade or is the san francisco 49ers organization saves itself for the 2010 draft in hope on snaring one of the 3-4 top prospects (McCoy, Bradford, Sneed or Tebow)?
What do you think?

by lambdeus on Aug 27, 2009 11:38 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs

If the 49ers...

… continue with the Singletary/Raye mentality even after Singletary or Raye depart, I don’t think Davis has to be the face of the franchise. That privilege will be in the hands of the defense and the running back(s).

by sfgfan on Aug 27, 2009 11:39 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

face of the frenchise

I agree that Sing is aiming for putting the running game (Gore) and the D (Willis) as the main aspects of the niners game. but traditionaly, QBs are the faces of their organization. especially with a team like SF with it’s rich history of HOF QBs.
I guess i"m wondering if we’ll have a chance of seeing one of those exciting prospects playing for the red and gold.

by lambdeus on Aug 27, 2009 11:47 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think that even with two 1st round picks in 2010 the 49ers won't pick one of the top QBs

There are too many other positions that can still be upgraded with those picks like CB, SS/FS or OLB. WIth those two picks they can help solidify the positions even more with top talent.
But if a Bradford, McCoy or Sneed fell to them they may do what they did with Crabtree this year and grab him.

"Whether you think you can, or you think you can't, either way, YOU'RE RIGHT !"

by Eastbayjim on Aug 27, 2009 12:10 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Lets not forget OT

Snyder has upgraded himself to adequate based on preseason but if the 49ers plan is to play the power run game they would be best served finding another monster at OT to stack next to Chilo. Maybe that is Boone with more experience.

The team could be a top 5 defense if they had 2 gap NT.

by bignerd on Aug 27, 2009 12:30 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree. Hopefully Snyder has found a home at RT and also Boone as the heir apparent

I think the 49ers will know on those two by the end of this season.
For NT, I like Cody but there are a couple in next year’s draft that were pretty high and maybe even higher than Cody. I think with Franklin possilby going after this year that NT would be a priority.

"Whether you think you can, or you think you can't, either way, YOU'RE RIGHT !"

by Eastbayjim on Aug 27, 2009 3:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Franklin

I think that if Balmer continues to stay quiet and McDonald doesn’t come back strong from injury, Franklin may actually be retained. I’ve always thought that Franklin is better of at 3-4 DE, so they could retain him for those purposes (assuming no other team has interests in him as a FA).

by sfgfan on Aug 27, 2009 3:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think it's more pass defense

That is the problem rather than a big NT. Not that a guy like that wouldn’t be a big help, but the pass defense (secondary and pass rush) needs to improve first before we even think about a top 5 D.

by Brendan Scolari on Aug 27, 2009 3:34 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Trickling outward.

I think by having a guy inside that can actually two-gap effectively allows for the DE’s have a little more freedom, which in turn could also free up the OLBs a little more. Basically, right now the 49ers DE’s have to attack the tackles and the NT is attacking the center, allowing the two guards to double up the DEs or even taking on a DE allowing the tackles to get after the rush OLB. A two-gapping NT will at least help occupy one of those guards, ideally on the side with the rush OLB.

by sfgfan on Aug 27, 2009 3:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Perhaps

If Manny steps up this year obviously the pass rush won’t be a much of a priority, and maybe a good NT would help too.

by Brendan Scolari on Aug 27, 2009 5:29 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'd be more interested in drafting a guard in rounds 2-4 than a tackle in the 1st.

David Baas will likey be gone after this season, and even if he stays, I don’t think he’s really all that good. Our first rounders should be used on the best of S/CB/DT or a pass rushing specialist, imo.

My pessimism goes to the point of suspecting the sincerity of the pessimists.

by shlecko on Aug 28, 2009 1:25 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

This.

I think in rounds 2 through 4, the 49ers can find their RT of the future as well as a LG.

by sfgfan on Aug 28, 2009 1:53 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

In the 2009 draft

when our number was called with pick #10. Craptree was the last name on my mind. true, he was the best player on the board and was too good to pass down, but I felt that the niners will do themseleves a hugh favor by helping the pass rush situation. even then that ws obviously the most urgent problem.
I was rooting for Orakpo and all my friends had to convince me once Craptree was selected that we made the best choice that we could have done with the situation.
now, 5 month later. I guess I was right back then. oh well, hopefully #15 will sign soon and make us all forget how we hated his guts with his stupid greediness.
so believe me, i"m all for taking the player we need amd not the best player on the board, approach. but for someone like McCoy or Bradford, I will make an exception and frankly, until proven otherwise, a good QB to utulize the deep recievers core, is a pressing need, despite Sing’s claims that he needs just a game manager and not a superstar at the position.

by lambdeus on Aug 28, 2009 12:04 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

…despite Sing’s claims that he needs just a game manager and not a superstar at the position.

The only reason Sing says that this is all he needs from the QB position is because that’s all he has at the QB position. Throw a better name in there, and the expectations will rise.

My pessimism goes to the point of suspecting the sincerity of the pessimists.

by shlecko on Aug 28, 2009 1:27 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

This.

It’s faulty to believe that Jimmy Raye and Singletary wouldn’t love to have a true signal caller back there. If they had Tom Brady (or even Eli Manning), you better believe that they’d gameplan to his strengths.

by sfgfan on Aug 28, 2009 1:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Absolutely.

by Brendan Scolari on Aug 28, 2009 10:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

It's a low-risk bet - if he fails, just draft another.

That’s the advantage of drafting high bust potential players in the later rounds. If Nate Davis works out well, great, but if not(we’ll know in a couple of years), we draft another one in two years. Or maybe just draft a new QB every year and keep the best one after training camp.

by MontanaPass on Aug 27, 2009 11:43 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I dont know....

… I really like this QB class coming out. I like Snead the most but i drink Tebow Kool aid like crazy. I know a lot of people are hung up with him not playing QB in the NFL and i think those people are crazy. I dont think he gets a fair shake because of the offense he plays in and that is Meyer’s fault but that offense works at the college level. They are installing some plays under center for him this year. I just feel like no one can outwork this guy and he would give you everything he had and that includes in the film room. I dont think you could have a better face for your program. I want him personally. People are going to hate Tim Tebow because they are haters. People hate on people that are the best. I think he would be sititng there with our later first round pick. Take Terrence cody with our first and Tebow with our second and norwood or ricky sapp with our third.

by Qbgetter13 on Aug 27, 2009 11:47 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Cody would be a nice pickup but not sold on Tebow yet. We have a year left to evaluate those QBs

"Whether you think you can, or you think you can't, either way, YOU'RE RIGHT !"

by Eastbayjim on Aug 27, 2009 12:15 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yep.

by Brendan Scolari on Aug 27, 2009 3:35 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

(please, for the love…don’t even write the name of that QB from Florida; any hope of remaining on topic goes when that QB’s name gets written)

Morgan breaks through in 2009!

by grantmp on Aug 28, 2009 8:09 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Spend 5 minutes with him

Your life will be better off for it. ;-)

by Brendan Scolari on Aug 28, 2009 10:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I dont think he gets a fair shake because of the offense he plays in and that is Meyer’s fault

You’re “blaming” Urban Meyer for putting Tebow in a system that makes him perform way better than he ever would if he were playing in a traditional pro-style offense?

Hmm.

My pessimism goes to the point of suspecting the sincerity of the pessimists.

by shlecko on Aug 28, 2009 1:30 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I like.....

Spurlock. I know Zeigler has great hands but i feel like spurlock can return kicks and be that slot guy with a very quick first step and good in the open field. So personally i want spurlock to make it.

Boone obvioulsy because of his age and size. Sims isnt going to get any better. He is as good as he’ll ever be and with a backup like Smith i feel we should go with youth because i am worried that boone wont clear waivers.

I dont know that Sheets will make the roster. There were early concerns about him picking up the playbook. I know he has looked good in pre season and i personally like him as a change of pace guy but he could be one of the first to go to the PS since Robinson is so Versatile.

I think Harris makes it easily over jay moore.

by Qbgetter13 on Aug 27, 2009 11:41 AM PDT reply actions 1 recs

Seems these last few exhibition games will mean something to a few guys. I too think (and want) Boone over Sims; cheaper and more upside. I still think that Zeigler makes it over Spurlock/Hill if Crabtree signs. His height and hands give him unique receving skills. Spurlock is a quicker Battle but they both return punts and were college QBs.

The last few games are critical in the Harris/Moore/Briggs battle. Harris is a vet who knows the system. Moore has potential but can’t stay healthy. Briggs is PS elligble but everyone seems to be high on him. If one of these guys gets a sack or two then he makes the team.

You gotta bring ass to get ass.

by SpurredOn on Aug 27, 2009 12:42 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Eric Green

Do you think that Marcus Hudson is going to beat out Eric Green or did you just forget about him when filling out the roster?

by BSU_Alum07 on Aug 27, 2009 1:26 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

i was thinking the same thing originally

although as a 5th corner Hudson’s knowledge of our defense and his role and ability on special teams gives him the leg up. If the two of them were fighting for the dime spot it might be different. I’d think Green would have a better chance of making it over Spencer than Hudson.

by 49er4life on Aug 27, 2009 2:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think Spencer is safe. Knows the system and is a big corner. Straight up I take him over Green. One could ask why Arizona let him leave? Their defense is far from being dominant.

You gotta bring ass to get ass.

by SpurredOn on Aug 27, 2009 2:31 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I totally agree

I wasn’t saying that I thought Green would/should make it over Spencer. I just meant that I thought he was brought in more to compete with Spencer for the dime spot than Hudson who serves a different role as a solid contributer on specials teams as the “gunner” I believe. So basically if Green cant unseat Spencer(which I dont think he will) he’ll get cut. Although Spencer is making quite a bit of money this year as a dime corner which could play a factor.

by 49er4life on Aug 27, 2009 3:52 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

You are correct about Hudson. His special teams ability and quasi-corner/safety in the dime pacakge makes him unique over Green. If Green had signed her first he may have compteted for that role but I don’t see him as having enoguh time to unseat Hudson or even Spencer. It is good to have him just in case we suffer another injury over the next two weeks plus he ups the competition in the secondary.

You gotta bring ass to get ass.

by SpurredOn on Aug 27, 2009 4:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Green

I was thinking of including him on first 5 off. At this point I think Hudson has the edge being in camp and being a veteran with the team. Saturday will definitely have a big impact on that.

by Fooch on Aug 27, 2009 2:31 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

+1

by Brendan Scolari on Aug 27, 2009 3:36 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

You want to take

This man off the roster?!?!?

I agree actually, this is just a really cool video. :-)

by Brendan Scolari on Aug 27, 2009 3:20 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

It interesting to me...

…That he seems to be double-teamed a lot. Even here in the pros. I noticed at Denver he was getting double-teamed yet he was still pushing forward, getting pressure. He could be really great. What we need is someone to occupy the O-line while our OLBs slip around the edge for the sack. It seems like RJF can do just that.

by Riding The F Train on Aug 27, 2009 9:03 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

That list of first 5 off, among many others are all scratching and clawing for some craps off the table

You might want to fix that Fooch. ;-)

by Brendan Scolari on Aug 27, 2009 3:25 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

corrected

It took me a few minutes to figure out what the problem was.

by Fooch on Aug 27, 2009 3:29 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

This one is pretty funny

I would tend to agree, but it remains a tough road ahoe.

But maybe this one too. Sorry to be the grammar police, we all make our share of spelling errors.

by Brendan Scolari on Aug 27, 2009 3:30 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

correction?

How would you spell that? I know that is an actual phrase, but is it just aho or something else?

by Fooch on Aug 27, 2009 3:47 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

That would be

A tough road “to hoe.”

by Cruithear on Aug 27, 2009 3:50 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

That's what I thought

Or just “ahead”, but maybe I’m wrong.

by Brendan Scolari on Aug 27, 2009 3:53 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well

The saying PROPERLY is “A tough row to hoe,” because, as you might know, farmers hoe rows to seed crops. Now used as road because of the “tough road ahead” saying.

Citations:

http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20080317134730AAVdYEe

http://eggcorns.lascribe.net/english/73/road/

by Cruithear on Aug 27, 2009 4:00 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm rooting for

Nate Davis, Boone, Sheets, and Brooks to make the team.

by Brendan Scolari on Aug 27, 2009 3:37 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

As a few have already said

this year we have so much more talent on the team than since the post-Mariucci player dump.

You hate seeing some of the kids with potential get snatched up by others, but better that than seeing who you can pluck off the waiver wires.

I’m rooting for Sheets myself.

by Bob On The Coast on Aug 27, 2009 4:12 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

NIce Breakdown

But i still do believe that Michael Spurlock should be taken over Dominique Zeigler. What about Spurlock returning kicks and making Allen Rossum’s roster spot vulnerable. This would enable us to keep a player like Alex Boone or Jay Moore. Also Britt Miller? Don’t we need two FB’s? Or can Michael Robinson act like a a backup FB hybrid type?

by nocal81 on Aug 27, 2009 4:50 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Why Put It Down to Ziggy vs Spurlock?

Everyone does this, but it makes no sense. Both Ziggy and Spurlock are better than J. Hill, and both have made a much larger pre-season splash.

by Riding The F Train on Aug 27, 2009 4:51 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Both of them are better?

I disagree with that. I don’t think either is good as a pure WR.

by Brendan Scolari on Aug 27, 2009 5:27 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

This

Hill is a lot closer to being a “pure WR” than the other two.

by sfgfan on Aug 27, 2009 5:30 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Why do you say that?

Everything I read says that Ziggy is a much purer WR. (I’ve even heard him compared to some elite receivers if he were only bigger).

by Riding The F Train on Aug 27, 2009 5:38 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Zeigler

Basically, Zeigler has everything against him, really. He’s not very fast. I’m not even sure if he’s very close to average speed. The guy is tall, but he has the build of a stick figure. He may be mentally tough, but pounds matter as the league’s DBs continue to get bigger. He has great hands, but there’s still questions about whether or not he executes and finishes routes properly. He’s great in practice, but who knows if he’ll appear in games. I’m not sure how many opportunities he’s gotten this preseason, but I don’t recall him being mentioned a whole lot.

Hill’s got good size. He is a willing blocker (whether or not he’s good at it is a different issue). He has good speed (he may be the second fastest WR on the roster by the time the final cuts are through). He’s been working with his route running with Sullivan for two years, and Sullivan apparently likes him (as he got on the field as a rookie). His primary knock is that he seems to always be injured and it’s really cramping his consistency.

by sfgfan on Aug 28, 2009 9:27 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

+1

by Brendan Scolari on Aug 28, 2009 10:14 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ziggy is unproven and Spurlock

is good, but neither is the receiver that Jason HIll can be. The guy made some great catches in crucial situations last season and will shine. Keep watching.

Kezarvet

by kezarvet on Aug 27, 2009 7:41 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

What The Heck!?!?!?

Why even mention Hill as a reciever? He is most definitely expendable at this point. All he does is play WR, and not even much of that. Spurlock is most definitely every bit as good as him, if not better. Spurlock’s versatility is also an asset the Niners seem to like. He is backup for the Taser, returns punts and kick-offs, plays WR, what doesn’t he do? I think at this point we keep Isaac Bruce, Brandon Jones, Josh Morgan, Arnaz Battle, Dominique Ziegler, and Michael Spurlock.

by Riding The F Train on Aug 27, 2009 4:50 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

We could also get a mid to late round draft pick for Jason Hill.

by nocal81 on Aug 27, 2009 4:51 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Good Point!

by Riding The F Train on Aug 27, 2009 4:51 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Not really.

The guy hasn’t shown anything this training camp. If he’s on the verge of getting cut, what team in their right mind would give up a draft pick to acquire him? I’m sure it’s just as easy to find a Jason Hill type player sitting around on the FA market.

by sfgfan on Aug 27, 2009 4:53 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

If we play our cards right other teams may think we have every intention keeping him thus making him have some value. Your talking about training camp but Hill does produce when he got a chance to play last season.

by nocal81 on Aug 27, 2009 4:55 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

30 receptions and two TDs with an injury prone set of legs isn’t something most teams jump for joy at acquiring, especially considering the player still hasn’t proven he can be consistent.

There is no way to play th cards right. The media is reporting that Hill has been MIA in the first few weeks of training camp. Last week’s three receptions doesn’t really change that. The team can’t magically continue to say “we’re going to keep Hill” and it naturally becomes true. Even if it is, like I said, it’s probably not that difficult to find a Jason Hill type player in FA that won’t cost you a draft pick.

by sfgfan on Aug 27, 2009 5:00 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Forgot to mention i also want Jay Moore to make the roster over Ahmed Brooks or Marques Harris. And why is Kentwan Balmer starting over Ray Mcdonald and Sope? What is that all about?

by nocal81 on Aug 27, 2009 4:53 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs