The 49ers reportedly signed safety Madieu Williams to a contract earlier this afternoon in a sign that maybe Dashon Goldson won't be returning to San Francisco in 2011. The move does not necessarily preclude a return of The Hawk, but it certainly does not bode well for his future in San Francisco. Goldson tweeted out a response this afternoon about the signing.

This is not exactly a shocking response on twitter. He followed that up by stating he is keeping an open mind and will consider taking his talents elsewhere "where I'm wanted" whether that be "san fran, dallas or whreva."

It will be interesting to see how the 49ers handle Goldson and whether the Williams signing does in fact indicate the end of the brief Dashon Goldson era in San Francisco. I'd argue the signing of Madieu does not preclude Goldson from returning, particularly given the fact that Williams only signed a one-year deal. Bringing back Goldson in spite of the Williams deal would create some solid depth at the safety position, and much needed competition. I'm not holding my breath that Goldson will be back, but you never know how this will play out.