2012 NFL Free Agents: The Case For Peyton Hillis To The 49ers
by James Brady on Jan 24, 2012 3:00 PM PST
in San Francisco 49ers News
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PrintThe San Francisco 49ers relied heavily on running back Frank Gore in 2011, as they have in every season since he was drafted. Many wondered if the team should trade him during the offseason, but Jim Harbaugh quickly killed that talk by bringing in a power running attack which, unlike the attacks in previous years, would be malleable and adaptable in any given situation, but with the same focal point of Gore handling the bulk of the action.
Gore played very well when healthy, aside from a couple bad games, but was certainly banged up all year. The biggest problem with the running game, to me, was that the 49ers decided to get cute with it and got in a bit over their heads, eventually trying to act unconventional and different so much that it became commonplace and predictable. Shotgun formations were no longer a point in which you could surprise a defense with a draw to Gore, because defenses were no longer surprised by it. Look no further than the NFC Championship game for proof of this.
That being said, a fuller and more innovative approach to the running game isn't the only improvement the 49ers can make to better support Alex Smith and Co. in 2012, they can also go after another player. While Kendall Hunter is promising and Gore looks like he's got another season in him, there are opportunities to improve at the position in a way that really fits this team, and after the jump I'll tell you why I'm after Peyton Hillis, pending free agent of the Cleveland Browns.
Perhaps that's not the Peyton you were expecting, but to me, he's the perfect fit. Hillis is a power running back who had a monster season in 2010, before being simultaneously struck down by the dreaded Madden Curse and the realization that he does in fact play for the Cleveland Browns. First, there were a lot of issues with his contract, and then he was "sick," which led to many question whether or not he was faking an injury.
I was covering the team for SB Nation Cleveland at this point and it's my opinion that he was legitimately sick. Eventually, the team had some sort of impromptu meeting with Hillis in which they tried to figure out what was up so they could pull together and start winning football games, but again, do remember we're talking about the Browns here. I don't see that kind of issue in the San Francisco locker room, under any circumstances. Not to insult Pat Shurmur, but that's something that Jim Harbaugh would not allow.
Anyway, Hillis did eventually suffer an injury to his hamstring, something that can happen to any player at any time. With hamstring injuries, it's important to have plenty of rest because the slightest strain can re-tweak it and further put you out if it doesn't heal 100%. So Hillis returned to practice, and just one day after doing extremely light running, the Browns set him to work on some stuff that was far too intensive for his injury. He re-tweaked it, again, something that can happen to any player in any situation when not fully healed.
In short, I don't have injury concerns for Hillis, and would expect him to be healthy once coming to San Francisco. Another reason for the decreased production for Hillis is the fact that the Browns seemed as though they were going a different direction before the season really got underway. With Colt McCoy as the starting quarterback, the team hit the ground ... throwing the football. Hillis, while 100 percent healthy, was essentially sidelined so McCoy could throw to guys like Mohamed Massaquoi and Greg Little.
Really, the thought was absurd. The offense changed after a monster season, and that was the beginning that sent it all into turmoil. To me, Hillis is a power runner that would greatly compliment Hunter and be a good fit to be the bell cow of the 49ers' offense in 2012, preferably with Gore still on the roster.
Another thing that really does swing in Hillis' favor is the thought that he might come cheap. He did have a poor season and there's no way to get around that fact. The running back market also seems a bit soft and teams could be wary of signing him for big dollars. And the best thing about that is the fact that it fits the model that the 49ers embrace in free agency perfectly. San Francisco has always signed the guy who isn't necessarily the top name, but could come at a good price. Hillis fits that bill, along with guys like Justin Smith and Carlos Rogers.
My vision is that Hillis would be the bell-cow of the offense and a legitimate threat for a defense on any given play. He's be the starter, with Gore continuing to play out his contract in San Francisco as the backup (with a healthy amount of carries) and Hunter as the change-of-pace back. It's hard to envision Hunter as the bell cow of the offense, but I daresay a backfield with Hillis and Hunter is more dynamic than a backfield with Gore and Hunter, for many reasons.
While the free agent pool won't be huge for running backs (expect Ray Rice, LeGarrett Blount and Matt Forte to get huge contracts where they are), I'm betting San Francisco could make an attractive offer to Hillis early on and acquire his services. I certainly don't see him re-signing with the Cleveland Browns and, wouldn't you know it, a team that just appeared in the NFC Championship game after a 13-3 regular season certainly could be an attractive destination for free agents. I'd also point to the 49ers' players' unwavering support for Kyle Williams as another reason a maligned player such as Hillis might find a visit to the bay attractive.
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no thanks
fumbles way too much
Rule #1) If you hate Joe Buck, watch this www.youtube.com/watch?v=fkCSZKbyL94
Rule #2) Follow rule #1
Fumbles can be fixed with good coaching.
Getting an “A” grade player at a “B” player price is a good thing if they can make this work. We have Gore and he has been awesome. Nobody is saying “Let him go” or “trade him”. But its always good to prepare for the future. Gore has clearly been great when he’s healthy but nobody can stay healthy an entire season with the hard nosed running style that he has.
Hillis? Sign the man… (at a discount).
not a bad idea...
first of all we need to try re-sign as many of our free agents as we can. this team needs to stay intact. one key free agent we definitely need to help is dwayne bowe. another playmaking receiver would add another weapon for alex. desean jackson might be too expensive. as far as the hillis idea, i like it because he can also play fullback. hes a big body that we can use to block as well. morris norris is old, bruce miller looked promising so hillis would give us a scoring and blocking weapon for our running game. if he comes cheap then why not?
Peyton Hillis?!?
No thanks, the only Peyton I would wanna see in a Niners uniform next year (if he’s healthy) is Manning. The running game is fine, Hunter is a baller, Gore has a couple of years.
by bfar21 on Jan 24, 2012 3:11 PM PST reply actions 1 recs
Gore probably has next season
He’s already starting to breakdown, and his speed is declining. Gore best years were waisted, and that sucks
"I hate it! It looks like a stickup at 7-Eleven. Five guys standing there with their hands in the air."
Norm Sloan
"We have a great bunch of outside shooters. Unfortunately, all our games are played indoors."
Weldon Drew
by EcERyda69 on Jan 24, 2012 3:16 PM PST via mobile up reply actions
+1 That does suck!
He’s been a warrior, though, and always played hard despite the team’s record. I admire the hell out of Gore. I only hope going forward that we don’t waste the amazing defense we have by failing to fix the anemic offense.
"The principle is competing against yourself. It's about self improvement, about being better than you were the day before." ~Steve Young #8
by Young_To_Rice on Jan 24, 2012 3:26 PM PST up reply actions
excellent point
Please 49ers staff get this talented offense in gear before the defense declines
by STELF BOMBZ on Jan 25, 2012 12:38 AM PST up reply actions
How in the world could Gore have a couple of years left? And Hunter has shown flashes, but nothing like a bell-cow running back.
And then God created Saturn ... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it. ... Always a ninja
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Let me rephrase...
hopefully he has two years left, either way Hillis is overrated.
I'd love to hear why you think he's overrated.
It was optimistic to think Gore had two years left two years ago.
And then God created Saturn ... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it. ... Always a ninja
SaberCats Examiner | SB Nation Bay Area | Niners Nation | Twitter
For one..
if the Browns don’t think he’s worth the trouble why would the Niners, aren’t they after character players?
Who says the Browns don't think he's worth the trouble? And what does that have to do with being overrated?
And then God created Saturn ... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it. ... Always a ninja
SaberCats Examiner | SB Nation Bay Area | Niners Nation | Twitter
It has everything to do with being overrated...
character is often more important than sheer physical ability plus the guy averaged 3.6 ypc this year good luck running him out of shotgun sets. If Hillis wasn’t white he’d be just another guy.
Totally on-board with bringing in Hillis
It’s been well-documented that anytime a RB has more than 270 touches in a season he experiences a severe drop-off in production the next…couple that with Gore already being old and full of bumps and bruises, and I don’t expect him to give us much of anything next season
"Alex Smith has fought through the chaos of SEVEN different O.C.'s...I had trouble with one" -Terry Bradshaw
...and then Singletary opened His Book and it said "thou shalt NOT pass"
by jimisoursavior on Jan 24, 2012 3:14 PM PST via mobile reply actions
I touched up on that!
And then God created Saturn ... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it. ... Always a ninja
SaberCats Examiner | SB Nation Bay Area | Niners Nation | Twitter
Yeah James made the point above
Basically, the Cleveland Browns are the worst. This is a team that put a concussed Colt McCoy back in the lineup, and a team that somehow lost the Mark Sanchez trade. They are not great at identifying, developing, or nourishing talent. The 49ers are a much better place, and hopefully Hillis would appreciate that.
First off, congrats on a great season.
Basically, the Cleveland Browns are the worst
All that winning this year must have gone to your head. Don’t forget where your team has been the past 10 years. Just saying…
I also don’t see NOT having Mark Sanchez on our team as a negative.
"A drug person can learn to cope with things like seeing their dead grandmother crawling up their leg with a knife in her teeth. But no one should be asked to handle this trip." Thompson
He was a problem in Arkansas as well
Can’t say he was a head case because the Browns didn’t have a winning culture. And if you do then you are saying you want guys that only control their humble hearts when their team is winning. Otherwise they turn into “me first” types like Terrell Owens, DeSean Jackson and other bad fits for this new Niner culture of winning with humility.
Love the idea
I was pushing this on an earlier thread as well. Right, now this is what the team lacks at the running back position:
- A short yardage back. According the Football Outsiders, the 49ers were the 4th worst team in the league on 3rd and 1, and 3rd and 2 situations. Gore was never the kind of back who can move the pile, and Anthony Dixon is too busy getting tripping over himself in the backfield. Hillis would immediately improve the 49ers short yardage and goal line running game.
- An every down back who can take over if Gore gets injured. Gore is still a great back, but he is not going to be healthy for 19 games every season. Kendal Hunter is good in spot duty, but simply does not have the size to run the ball 30 times a game. Just like how the Saints used Mark Ingram to backup Pierre Thomas, the 49ers should use Hillis to keep Gore fresh, and take over if he tweaks his ankle again.
I don’t know about replacing Gore with Hillis right away, though. Gore is still an amazing between the tackles runner, and he is a stud in pass protection. Hillis would be a good compliment to Gore for the next few years, and he could take over after that.
Gore is also...
Important to the locker room. I’d support a move for Hillis if Baalke and the coaching staff felt it could work. That would be an obscene tandem of backs (Gore/Hillis/Hunter). But there would have to be some buy-in from Gore (up to a point) and hopefully a chemistry between Gore and Hillis would emerge.
I think Hillis in this offense and behind THAT line would be obscene.
But it might be a safer bet to draft a rookie in the later round and bring in a UDFA or two to see if the Niners could get a diamond in the rough to take the load off Gore season-after-next. I don’t think Gore would take kindly to sharing that much of the spotlight. But you never know.
Definitely a tricky move. But if they pulled it off Baalke and Harbaugh would have the best tandem of backs since Hugh McElhenny, Joe Perry and John Henry Johnson.
Harbaugh can get Gore a ring. But he could make Hillis a Hall of Famer…
That's a fair point
Frank Gore would have to have some buy in to the move. That’s why I don’t think Hillis would come in as the starter — Gore would still definitely get the majority of the carries.
I agree, though, that the upside is huge. IMO, This team needs a back who can 100 or so carries from Gore every year if they want to go far in the playoffs again.
Hell no.
He was terrible this year and wasn’t even that good last year either.
"It might be time to give Alex some credit, huh?" - Harbaugh
I disagree with both statements, personally.
And then God created Saturn ... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it. ... Always a ninja
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Agreed
He broke down at the end of 2010 and then did nothing this year. Why would we go after a guy who put together a string of 8 good games in his entire career?
And of all things to upgrade, y spend money on another running back. We need a receiver first and foremost.
we need a passing game first and foremost
we have a good TE in Davis and a solid #1/#2 WR in Crabtree.
And when we win, we want to dominate. We want to take guys out. We want to hurt guys. We want to win. We just want to dominate, hit them in the mouth. - Rathman
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I think he just wanted to be paid and browns were messing with him.
"You know whats funny? I always thought uhm dogs lay eggs and I learned something new today" Peter Griffin
by HUNGRY HUNTER on Jan 25, 2012 1:14 AM PST up reply actions
I do't know....
I am a little leary of a player that essentially whines and fusses about a contract instead of helping his team win. If we do go after him I hope that they pack with incentives to get him to play without causing trouble.
Don't forget he was whining and fussing about a poor contract in CLEVELAND.
And then God created Saturn ... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it. ... Always a ninja
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Yes But....
Complaining and whining about it during the season and then playing poorly which was possibly caused by him focussing to much on the contract, is not the way a true professional handles things. I just think that we need to be careful if we think about signing him.
I don't think he played poorly given the offense and how they used him.
And then God created Saturn ... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it. ... Always a ninja
SaberCats Examiner | SB Nation Bay Area | Niners Nation | Twitter
Did Gore ever complain when the team struggled and went through all those coaches?
"The year we beat Miami in the Super Bowl, ... do you know how many defensive linemen were in our rotation? Nine, and we used them all quite a bit. We just wore the Dolphins out."
Bill Walsh quote
by Iupati_like_its_1999 on Jan 24, 2012 4:42 PM PST up reply actions
Gore..
No. He stayed and played his heart out.
Yeah...
not really into the whole whining thing…but if Harbaugh brought in Hillis I would go along with it and trust the man.
"The year we beat Miami in the Super Bowl, ... do you know how many defensive linemen were in our rotation? Nine, and we used them all quite a bit. We just wore the Dolphins out."
Bill Walsh quote
by Iupati_like_its_1999 on Jan 24, 2012 4:55 PM PST up reply actions
Would we cut Dixon?
Or keep him as a ST role player?
"The principle is competing against yourself. It's about self improvement, about being better than you were the day before." ~Steve Young #8
I doubt he would be cut. The coaching staff seems to like him and we probably wouldn't carry two fullbacks next year.
Walker and Peelle both play the FB role well (Walker especially has stepped up his blocking game this past season), and Boobie is good on special teams. It all depends on if they find someone better for that role. But no, he would definitely not be guaranteed to be cut if another RB is brought in.
And then God created Saturn ... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it. ... Always a ninja
SaberCats Examiner | SB Nation Bay Area | Niners Nation | Twitter
On that note, what happens to Peelle w/ Byham back?
Do they just compete and best man wins? Who’d you rather keep?
"The principle is competing against yourself. It's about self improvement, about being better than you were the day before." ~Steve Young #8
by Young_To_Rice on Jan 24, 2012 3:33 PM PST up reply actions
Byham seems to have more upside
[only built for cuban linx]
by Mighty Healthy on Jan 24, 2012 7:17 PM PST up reply actions
depends on roster space
He has not shown that he can succeed as a short yardage back in this league. I could see him being cut at the end of training camp if he doesn’t show improvement.
True, but I'm not sure it matters.
If we sign Hillis and have Gore and Hunter already, I doubt we would carry 4 RB’s on the roster so Dixon is either ST only or he’s cut.
"The principle is competing against yourself. It's about self improvement, about being better than you were the day before." ~Steve Young #8
by Young_To_Rice on Jan 24, 2012 3:34 PM PST up reply actions
well if you count fullbacks
the 49ers have five backs on the roster right now. They could replace Norris with Hillis, and the numbers would still work.
I get your point, though. If Dixon only sees time on special teams, and he isn’t even the 4th or 5th best special teamer, there’s no reason to keep him.
What kind of contract who be a good deal for the 49ers?
Hillis turned down the Browns offer of $13.5 million/3 years, with $3 million guaranteed. After this season, I think he would jump at the chance to take that contract again, and would possibly settle for less. I think the 49ers could definitely get him at that price.
I wonder if he would be able to pull occasional duty as a FB?
That would be nice in terms of what Harbaugh and staff could draw up.
"The principle is competing against yourself. It's about self improvement, about being better than you were the day before." ~Steve Young #8
by Young_To_Rice on Jan 24, 2012 3:30 PM PST up reply actions
for sure
He actually started his career as a FB, so he knows how to play the position. Plus, in his breakout season in 2010, he was better at pass catcher than Ray Rice, Matt Forte, and Ahmad Bradshaw. Teams would have no idea how to cover the 49ers’ 2RB, 2TE set.
We're going to probably spend high on defense to bring some of our guys back, but there's still a ridiculously small amount of money going to offense.
They can afford more than the deal you mentioned, though I agree that Hillis would take that deal somewhere else!
And then God created Saturn ... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it. ... Always a ninja
SaberCats Examiner | SB Nation Bay Area | Niners Nation | Twitter
this team has about 54 million to spend on free agents
I’m sure they can fit in Hillis somewhere. I can see him also getting a 1-year, value rebuilding year like Braylon did.
Dwayne Bowe pretty please Trent...PLEASEE
"Alex Smith has fought through the chaos of SEVEN different O.C.'s...I had trouble with one" -Terry Bradshaw
...and then Singletary opened His Book and it said "thou shalt NOT pass"
by jimisoursavior on Jan 24, 2012 3:43 PM PST via mobile up reply actions
I think he's too young for a one-year deal, I think he'll want at least three wherever he goes.
And then God created Saturn ... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it. ... Always a ninja
SaberCats Examiner | SB Nation Bay Area | Niners Nation | Twitter
Woah, Hillis is only 26?
Just looked it up. That makes a Hillis signing even better. Lock him up on the cheap for 3-4 years, and we’re getting a solid RB who won’t degrade for the length of the contract.
Again, I think that 13.5 million/3 years figure is a maximum. The 49ers could get him for even less, maybe 14 million/4 years.
I understand all the love for boobir
"Alex Smith has fought through the chaos of SEVEN different O.C.'s...I had trouble with one" -Terry Bradshaw
...and then Singletary opened His Book and it said "thou shalt NOT pass"
by jimisoursavior on Jan 24, 2012 3:30 PM PST via mobile reply actions
Hell the F no
Zero reason to waste money on this headcase. Can get a better player in round 3-5 of the draft.
In round 3-5? Where are all these mystical running backs that come in the late rounds that people are always talking about?
And then God created Saturn ... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it. ... Always a ninja
SaberCats Examiner | SB Nation Bay Area | Niners Nation | Twitter
Actually, a few
Gore, Foster, etc. were found in rounds 3 and lower.
That’s two backs, and keep in mind, we’re talking just 3-5 here, and use recent examples. It’s not so damn simple to just say “we’ll get a better one in the draft!”
And then God created Saturn ... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it. ... Always a ninja
SaberCats Examiner | SB Nation Bay Area | Niners Nation | Twitter
draft is the way to go as far as RB is concerned..no doubt.
"The year we beat Miami in the Super Bowl, ... do you know how many defensive linemen were in our rotation? Nine, and we used them all quite a bit. We just wore the Dolphins out."
Bill Walsh quote
by Iupati_like_its_1999 on Jan 24, 2012 4:56 PM PST up reply actions
There are a ton. Just wiki all the players in teh top 20 rushing in the league
The majority are rounds 2-6 or UD.
Gimme 1 round!
by ItBurnzWhenIP on Jan 25, 2012 10:54 AM PST up reply actions
adding Hilis doesn't make much sense
he would help the niners, but depending on how much he is going to get and that fact that he’ll be a part time back on a team that has 17 more pressing needs than getting a slightly overrated but good RB makes this a low priority move with little value to the team.
We're going to need a RB
Frank’s tank is empty and Hunter, although athletic, has a troubling inability to find the hole sometimes
"Alex Smith has fought through the chaos of SEVEN different O.C.'s...I had trouble with one" -Terry Bradshaw
...and then Singletary opened His Book and it said "thou shalt NOT pass"
by jimisoursavior on Jan 24, 2012 3:42 PM PST via mobile up reply actions
True...
but Hunter is young and I think will only get better with time, that being said if we go after him we need to be sure that we don’t get the same malcontent as he was in Cleveland.
I agree with James...I think his situation this past year was more a product of being in Cleveland
What drew someone as respected as Mike Holmgren to the " mistake by the lake" I’ll never know
"Alex Smith has fought through the chaos of SEVEN different O.C.'s...I had trouble with one" -Terry Bradshaw
...and then Singletary opened His Book and it said "thou shalt NOT pass"
by jimisoursavior on Jan 24, 2012 3:47 PM PST via mobile up reply actions
Agree about Hunter
Keep in mind, as w/ all the rookies, he was playing his 1st year w/ a shortened camp/indoctrination period so I’m confident he’ll make strides in the offseason. That being said, his size is an issue and he’ll need to share carries to avoid injuries.
As for Hillis, I’m sure the Niners would vet him and do their due diligence before they ever contemplated making a contract offer. It’s pretty clear that Harbaugh and Baalke want committed, “Gold Star” players so they’d make sure his mind was right prior to signing him.
"The principle is competing against yourself. It's about self improvement, about being better than you were the day before." ~Steve Young #8
by Young_To_Rice on Jan 24, 2012 3:50 PM PST up reply actions
I don't think Hillis would cut into Hunter's playing time that much
Hunter would still be the pass-catching third down back, since he’s the fastest of the three. Here’s how this season worked out in terms of carries —
Gore: 282 carries (4.3 YPC)
Hunter: 112 carries (4.2 YPC)
Dixon: 29 carries (3.0 YPC)
Total: 423 carries
And here’s how I think it would work with Hillis —
Gore: 210 carries
Hunter: 90 carries
Hillis: 100 carries
Total: 400 carries
I think we will begin to pass more with Smith getting a full offseason with Harbaugh
and I don’t think that Hillis wants to come in as a possible #3 back.
I think the Niners are content with
going with Gore and Hunter. There often aren’t any holes to run through if you watch niner games.
It will be a mistake to into next season with the current RB situation
We’ll be in serious trouble if the play of the O-line and WR’s doesn’t improve drasticly
"Alex Smith has fought through the chaos of SEVEN different O.C.'s...I had trouble with one" -Terry Bradshaw
...and then Singletary opened His Book and it said "thou shalt NOT pass"
by jimisoursavior on Jan 24, 2012 3:51 PM PST via mobile up reply actions
right
We’ll be in serious trouble if the play of the O-line and WR’s doesn’t improve drasticly
this is much more important than adding another RB IMO. mediocre RBs can do damage with big holes, but excellent backs will struggle behind a bad O Line.
Absolutely
And adding a novelty RB at that. Hunter looked really good this year, I thought, and Gore proved he’s still got a little gas in the tank. Peyton is like a bigger, slower, more fumble prone version of Frank. No thanks
signing an established
back like Hillis is only going to get done by cutting Gore. It’s not happening.
They put him in good situations, and he bust open a few long-runs that distorts his ypc
An every-down back needs to consistently get those four and five-yard runs…he got stuffed way to often
"Alex Smith has fought through the chaos of SEVEN different O.C.'s...I had trouble with one" -Terry Bradshaw
...and then Singletary opened His Book and it said "thou shalt NOT pass"
by jimisoursavior on Jan 24, 2012 7:19 PM PST up reply actions
ProFootballWeekly Nolan Nawrocki Mock Draft....
NFC West:
Rams – WR Justin Blackmon
Hawks – DE Quinton Copies
Cards – WR Kendall Wright
49ers – CB Stephon Gilmore
I hate that the Rams-Hawks- Cards draft ahead of us ! Oh well….Weez the WEST Champs.
That would really suck to see Blackmon go to the Ram's
…when we desperately need a WR
"Alex Smith has fought through the chaos of SEVEN different O.C.'s...I had trouble with one" -Terry Bradshaw
...and then Singletary opened His Book and it said "thou shalt NOT pass"
by jimisoursavior on Jan 24, 2012 3:54 PM PST via mobile up reply actions
Watch Rams trade out of the #2 draft spot and gain a boatload of draft picks...
to gain some serious ground in the NFC West.
The #2 spot is only as good as Andrew Luck.
If he’s there, it’s worth 3 first rounders and then some AND you’ll have a ton of suitors. If he’s not, you’ll have to hope someone is desperate for RG3. Otherwise, most teams will wait for RG3 to drop a bit lower than the 2nd spot.
Affectionately,
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar,
NBA’s All-Time Leading Scorer
by afrikabamboodle on Jan 24, 2012 4:36 PM PST up reply actions
Which is what I mean when I say the #2 spot isn't worth much,
no one would trade that high to not get Luck anyway.
Affectionately,
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar,
NBA’s All-Time Leading Scorer
by afrikabamboodle on Jan 24, 2012 5:55 PM PST up reply actions
He wasn't when Bill Polian was the GM
Now that the ownership has decided they don’t like the judgment of the guy that picked Payton Manning at #1 when Ryan Leaf was #2 they will take Andrew Leaf
Gimme 1 round!
by ItBurnzWhenIP on Jan 25, 2012 10:56 AM PST up reply actions
Kendall Wright with Larry Fitzgerald...
They can make KLOLb look like a good QB
"I hate it! It looks like a stickup at 7-Eleven. Five guys standing there with their hands in the air."
Norm Sloan
"We have a great bunch of outside shooters. Unfortunately, all our games are played indoors."
Weldon Drew
No one can make KLOLb look like a good QB.
When Kolb passes the ball, people don’t say “dam he put that right on Larry,”
they say “DAM! Larry caught that butt ugly duck of a pass somehow!??!”
Affectionately,
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar,
NBA’s All-Time Leading Scorer
by afrikabamboodle on Jan 24, 2012 5:01 PM PST up reply actions
if the niners sign rodgers, corner is going to be very far down the list on "need"
brown was really stepping up his game at the end of the year and culliver showed great promise. Broc has looked good and cory nelms seems to be getting good reviews by the coaches with the other rookie coming back next year from the ir.
"You know whats funny? I always thought uhm dogs lay eggs and I learned something new today" Peter Griffin
by HUNGRY HUNTER on Jan 25, 2012 1:18 AM PST up reply actions
And
During the regular season what was the main objective of opposing defenses, stop the running game…that passing attack or lack there of scared no one and Gore still went over 1200.
Again look up the trend of RB's,especially older one's, falling off a cliff after a year with 270+ touches
"Alex Smith has fought through the chaos of SEVEN different O.C.'s...I had trouble with one" -Terry Bradshaw
...and then Singletary opened His Book and it said "thou shalt NOT pass"
by jimisoursavior on Jan 24, 2012 3:55 PM PST via mobile up reply actions
It def didn't happen to MJD, Michael Turner...
or Steven Jackson, his yards per carry increased in 2011 after 324 carries and 330 in 09 and 10 respectively and Jackson has 500 more career carries then Gore.
There's anonymolies...but then you have Larry Johnson, Jamal Anderson, Eddie George, and Ricky Williams, all of whom fell off a cliff after a season with a record work-load
"Alex Smith has fought through the chaos of SEVEN different O.C.'s...I had trouble with one" -Terry Bradshaw
...and then Singletary opened His Book and it said "thou shalt NOT pass"
by jimisoursavior on Jan 24, 2012 4:54 PM PST up reply actions
First off its anomalies...
secondly I named current players that have more carries than Gore and therefore disprove your theory as it relates to Gore at this point in his career and the only current player you could come up with was Run Ricky Run…talk to me next year when Gore goes for another 1200.
How many running-backs have had 1200 yards at age 29 again?
"Alex Smith has fought through the chaos of SEVEN different O.C.'s...I had trouble with one" -Terry Bradshaw
...and then Singletary opened His Book and it said "thou shalt NOT pass"
by jimisoursavior on Jan 24, 2012 7:17 PM PST up reply actions
I think..
the anomaly is how many full-time backs make it through an entire season without missing games. Who did it this year?
MJD, Turner, Rice, Gore(but even he was injured a bit), CJohnson, Micheal Bush(took over for McFadden), Shonn Greene.
How about 2010?
Turner, SJackson, Foster, Mendenhall, Benson, CJohnson, Rice, Bradshaw, Hillis, Forte.
2009?
CJohnson, TJones, Peterson, MJD, Benson, Grant, Forte, Rice, Moreno, Mendenhall, RickyWilliams.
It is tough for ANY back to make it through a full season. But if you are a 20+ carry a game back it is truly remarkable.
I think giving Hunter more of a workload, along with giving Gore more screen passes instead of runs will prove his production doesn’t drop as much as you think.
Replace Dixon with a bigger back via later round draft pick and see how it plays out. Having Hillis around to groan about not having carries would be counterproductive, IMO.
Larry Johnson was never anything special
Ricky Williams fell off because he never cared about football. Eddie George had like 10 good seasons.
Gimme 1 round!
by ItBurnzWhenIP on Jan 25, 2012 10:58 AM PST up reply actions
BTW... My Toby Gerhart to Eddie George comparison
will be borne out in the coming years.
Gimme 1 round!
by ItBurnzWhenIP on Jan 25, 2012 11:02 AM PST up reply actions
Ricky Williams cared about football, he was more concerned with being run in the ground and crippled at 50.
Go figure…!!
"What the hell are you mixing in that look-aid"
There will be RBs available in the draft
for far less money than what Hillis will want. Give that money to Ted Ginn—lord knows we need him.
The Dude: Oh boy. How ya gonna keep 'em down on the farm once they've seen Karl Hungus.
No thank you
the Niners have far more pressing issues than adding money to an already solid RB unit.
The Dude: Oh boy. How ya gonna keep 'em down on the farm once they've seen Karl Hungus.
Hillis also fits perfectly with the 49ers current scheme
He ran behind a below average OL in 2010, and his strength is running between the tackles out of a two back set. So basically, he’s at his best when he’s playing for a team like the 2011 49ers.
He ran behind the best LT in the NFL
Gimme 1 round!
by ItBurnzWhenIP on Jan 25, 2012 11:03 AM PST up reply actions
I'm amazed by all of the people who just think things are gravy because we have Frank Gore.
Why put ourselves in the situation where we make it back to the playoffs and then don’t even have Gore to help out Alex Smith? We’re a running team.
And then God created Saturn ... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it. ... Always a ninja
SaberCats Examiner | SB Nation Bay Area | Niners Nation | Twitter
Not gravy..
Just think that we need to proceed carefully with Hillis. He maybe one of those that have a drastic turn aroud with a new envornment. I’m just not sold on him at this time.
We think things are gravy next year...
that is if we get Manning and hand Alex his walking papers
Manning...
even if he stays healthly I doubt that he will be the same Peyton as he was in the past. I think we stay with Alex get him a couple of premier WRs and see what he does.
Dude...
if he’s healthy, there is no comparison. As Steve Young put it, in college, guys were open by 3 ft in the NFL 3 inches, a QB needs to throw his receivers open. Alex doesn’t have that capability at least he’s not willing to try. Get Manning for 3 years (if healthy) its worth at least one SB and let CK develop.
Really...
Alex proved this year that he was a very capable QB, Peyton is past his prime, give Alex a couple of premier WRs and see what he can do. I don’t think signing Peyton is worth the risk.
lol
My opinion on Smith has changed very little, those 44 sacks were because he holds onto the ball too long. The Niners 3rd down conversions this year were terrible especially against good teams – directly attributable to the QB. He’s another David Garrard at best.
OK..
Keep telling yourself that, the 3rd down conversions were a result of not having that many WRs after injuries or a 3rd and short RB. Peyton is still past his prime and and maybe a back up at best.
OK
Your opinion, just like mine is that Alex with 2 premier WRs will be a much better QB.
This I agree with.
We need to get better weapons at WR for Smith. We need a number 1 WR
"The year we beat Miami in the Super Bowl, ... do you know how many defensive linemen were in our rotation? Nine, and we used them all quite a bit. We just wore the Dolphins out."
Bill Walsh quote
by Iupati_like_its_1999 on Jan 24, 2012 4:50 PM PST up reply actions
I think Peyton will be almost as good as he was before
Just from how hard he works and how motivated he will be. But I Still believe keeping Alex Smith is the best decision for this organization. I would definitely be intrigued by Peyton joining the Niners…I just dont see it happening.
"The year we beat Miami in the Super Bowl, ... do you know how many defensive linemen were in our rotation? Nine, and we used them all quite a bit. We just wore the Dolphins out."
Bill Walsh quote
by Iupati_like_its_1999 on Jan 24, 2012 4:49 PM PST up reply actions
That's ridiculous because
most of the sacks came under 2 seconds, before he even finished dropping back to pass. When he throws the ball away early, people complain that he’s too antsy and should wait for a play to develop. When he waits for the play to develop and gets sacked before he can finish dropping back, people complain that he holds the ball too long.
Affectionately,
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar,
NBA’s All-Time Leading Scorer
by afrikabamboodle on Jan 24, 2012 4:50 PM PST up reply actions
Don't really understand why people want Alex gone after this season...
He’s played his heart out…He’s improved in ONE season under this regime without any offseason coaching…what more do they want from the guy?
"The year we beat Miami in the Super Bowl, ... do you know how many defensive linemen were in our rotation? Nine, and we used them all quite a bit. We just wore the Dolphins out."
Bill Walsh quote
by Iupati_like_its_1999 on Jan 24, 2012 4:57 PM PST up reply actions
I didn't say I want him gone unless...
Manning is healthy and available.
Still on...
still going on about Manning huh? ok bring him on as a back up to Alex and to mentor CK.
I was talking to lupati...
got a little OCD do you?
Nope
You are the one with OCD for Manning.
OK
And I am a little ocd in giving Alex the weapons to really open it up and prove what he can really do.
I just have hard time believing its possible
but if that’s the direction they go and he proves me wrong so be it
Bfar
I understand where your coming from…And in the short term, I agree if Manning is healthy the niners should defnitely consider bringing him in. Unfortunately, I dont see it happening. A deal with Alex will most likely get done and Manning will be going to a team that really wants him. Not to devalue Alex though. . . but it would be difficult to not bring one of the greatest of all time in.
"The year we beat Miami in the Super Bowl, ... do you know how many defensive linemen were in our rotation? Nine, and we used them all quite a bit. We just wore the Dolphins out."
Bill Walsh quote
by Iupati_like_its_1999 on Jan 24, 2012 5:18 PM PST up reply actions
Not for me when Payton is 10 years older than Alex
Gimme 1 round!
by ItBurnzWhenIP on Jan 25, 2012 11:05 AM PST up reply actions
Making new friends on you first day I see ...!!
I'm your " Huckelberry "...it's just my game ..( .AleX ) was asked , what do you think about all the game manager talk ... AleX i guess i just managed myself a VIctory ... Extend the Man ...!!
seriously
Every other running team rolls with more than one every down RB. Houston has Tate and Foster, Denver has Moreno and Bradshaw, the Panthers have Williams and Stewart, the Raiders have Bush and McFadden. Hell, even the Saints have Thomas and Ingram. In addition to Hunter, the 49ers need two all-around backs if they want to have a healthy running back for the playoffs. Going into the season without a proven backup to gore would be suicide.
RB is not a position of immediate need,
especially through FA. Better to build through the draft
The Dude: Oh boy. How ya gonna keep 'em down on the farm once they've seen Karl Hungus.
I disagree. We're a running team. We may not have a healthy starting RB this year. Hillis is only 26.
And then God created Saturn ... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it. ... Always a ninja
SaberCats Examiner | SB Nation Bay Area | Niners Nation | Twitter
Plus...
As someone posted above…
Hillis can play fullback too.
Two birds. One stone. You get the short-yardage back you need. Who is also a threat catching the ball out of the backfield. And can spell Gore effectively.
As well as help out Bruce Miller.
And the need for a backup for Miller is erased.
Imagine the complete and utter confusion a defense would face with Gore and Hillis lined up in the backfield. Both receiving threats. Both solid runners with slightly different styles.
I, for one, think you’re on to something James. Hillis could be to this Niners squad what John Riggins was to the Redskins of the early-mid ’80s. Only Hillis would be, you know, young and able to play for 4-5 more years.
after the season he's had
Hillis isn’t going to get starter money. His value has been severely diminished by his off the field antics. If Harbaugh thinks he can straighten him out, he would be a steal.
an improved WR corps
will do far more to help the Niner run game than Hillis will. Plenty of backs available through the draft or as UDFA.
The Dude: Oh boy. How ya gonna keep 'em down on the farm once they've seen Karl Hungus.
that's definitely true
and WR should be priority number 1 this offseason. But that doesn’t mean the team shouldn’t address the RB position in free agency or in the draft.
I'm amazed by your refusal to accept just how delicious gravy really is
I think it is just a trust in Kenall Hunter taking over the #1 spot with a rested Gore ready to step in
Gore and Hunter
are a great 1-2 punch IMO.
When Hunter had at least 5 carries the Niners were 11-1(including the postseason).
His numbers during those games:
107/450 4.21y/c 2 tds….14 rec 171 yards 12.2 y/r
Which makes them 3-3 in the games he wasn’t used as much.
Seems like Hunter was productive when he got his shot, and the Niners missed him when he didn’t get his carries.
Denver Broncos to Cleveland Browns and possibly to the San Francisco 49ers.
Talk about falling forward Lane Kiffin style :P
Affectionately,
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar,
NBA’s All-Time Leading Scorer
by afrikabamboodle on Jan 24, 2012 4:21 PM PST reply actions
I've been saying it for a while.
Gore needs to cut a solid seven to ten pounds of body fat. That should be obvious. This will give him some speed back. Accordingly, Gore and Hunter MUST split the load during the regular season. Gore gets too banged up as the season goes on and Hunter will get great experience from this as he transitions into our #1 back when Gore retires or leaves. This idea of bringing in Petyon Hillis is just ridiculous. What is so wrong with Anthony Dixon? I remember a few games last season where he was given a heft load of carries and demonstrated decent speed and power. Heck there were a number of runs this year where he demonstrated those skills as well. And don’t discount Dixon just because of the few bad runs we saw this past game. Every back has bad runs.
Let's giggity giggity Go 49ers!!!
Problem with Dixon...
is he’s built like Earl Campbell but thinks he’s Barry Sanders.
If he leveled the shoulders and went forward, I think he’d be a Jerome Bettis style back. But he doesn’t. He dances around like Gale Sayers until he realizes how ridiculous that is and falls over laughing about it.
I love me some Boobie. But he’s got to step up his game. Big time. This year has got to be his year. He won’t stay on the squad past this season if he doesn’t get that figured out.
That gives a real vote of confidence to Kendall Hunter.
“Hey Kendall, we’re not only bringing in another RB to start over you, but a WHITE one at that.”
Yes I’m white.
"And thank you to God for making me an Atheist." - Ricky Gervais
by MichaelClutchtree on Jan 24, 2012 4:26 PM PST reply actions
This is Obama's america.
Running backs can be white, kickers can be black, and you can start for the Denver Broncos even if you can’t throw a spiral.
Tebow did carry Denver to the playoffs
and even had a postseason win; he might not have a pretty throwing arm, but he’s ‘capable’ of doing a few good things under center
all the respect in the world for tebow
but damn, his throwing motion is terrible.
by ninerspride on Jan 24, 2012 4:36 PM PST up reply actions 1 recs
all better
Denver’s defenseTebowdid carry Denver to the playoffs
The Dude: Oh boy. How ya gonna keep 'em down on the farm once they've seen Karl Hungus.
skip bayless would like a word with you
#hejustwins
kickerspunters can be black
you got that right
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sG4nfnBokvQ
"And thank you to God for making me an Atheist." - Ricky Gervais
by MichaelClutchtree on Jan 24, 2012 4:38 PM PST up reply actions
what does race have anything to do with this?
by David Fucillo on Jan 24, 2012 4:32 PM PST up reply actions
it was a joke about how there are no good white RBs.
"And thank you to God for making me an Atheist." - Ricky Gervais
by MichaelClutchtree on Jan 24, 2012 4:40 PM PST up reply actions
I could be wrong,
but Kendall Hunter has worked with white people before.
The Dude: Oh boy. How ya gonna keep 'em down on the farm once they've seen Karl Hungus.
Wouldn't Hillis be looking to start?
He’d be a decent fit here with Gore/Hunter, but I’d think he’d look for an opportunity where he could get a lot of carries.
Even if he would sign, I’d rather use that money elsewhere. The team has too many of it’s own guys to sign and real holes to be spending on a 2nd/3rd string RB.
His name is Ydwin, your argument is invalid.
by microwave donut on Jan 24, 2012 4:26 PM PST reply actions
This would be called a senseless signing, in my opinion. The 9ers should keep the defense together first and foremost, secondly, the rb position is the easiest position to upgrade in the draft. Mainly due to the fact, that you can have 3 rb’s and be atop the league.
"What the hell are you mixing in that look-aid"
Easiest position to upgrade in the draft? Right, so let’s just do that and cross our fingers that a power running team hits on one of its picks. And just go ahead and miss the playoffs, etc.
And then God created Saturn ... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it. ... Always a ninja
SaberCats Examiner | SB Nation Bay Area | Niners Nation | Twitter
with or without signing Hillis
This team is a playoff team.
by Ador08 on Jan 24, 2012 4:46 PM PST via mobile up reply actions
I trust this group of coaches and FO to draft a decent running back.
"The year we beat Miami in the Super Bowl, ... do you know how many defensive linemen were in our rotation? Nine, and we used them all quite a bit. We just wore the Dolphins out."
Bill Walsh quote
by Iupati_like_its_1999 on Jan 24, 2012 4:53 PM PST up reply actions
Whoa! Let's not overstate the case. Here's the issue as I see it ...
Can we DEPEND on Frank to be “the guy”, consistently, for another season? Uh, no … at least based upon his recent injury history.
Is Hunter the right guy to be “the guy”? Again, no … very, very good as a COPRB, but not built to handle the beating that a #1 RB must take.
Dixon? No chance!
OK, a RB draft choice? Once again, no, not THIS YEAR. Why? There really are only two guys that are worth a draft pick … Richardson and Polk. And they will both be gone before the end of the second round. Maybe Bernard Pierce in the third round? Considered it … but too slow. With respect to the draft … 2012 is the year of the WR, 2013 is the year of the RB! I’m all for drafting a primo RB in 2013 … there will be a number of good ones!
So, what about the 2012 season? Two choices: (1) live with Gore/Hunter/Dixon for another year; or, (2) sign a free agent to a one-year contract. Should it be Hillis? I’m not a real big fan … too much primadonna for me … and without real justification. For a short-term deal, I would prefer Marshawn Lynch or even Michael Bush.
by 49erFanSince1950 on Jan 24, 2012 6:47 PM PST up reply actions
The post is about Hillis, Im an all signs point to hell no type of guy.
"What the hell are you mixing in that look-aid"
Yep, i would say yes. Adding a rb in yhe later rounds giving us three options is better than paying for Hillis.
"What the hell are you mixing in that look-aid"
^ Agree
Maintaining the continuity of the defense (and continuing to improve and add to it) is paramount. There’s only so much money to go around and RB’s are easier to field by committee as you say.
"The principle is competing against yourself. It's about self improvement, about being better than you were the day before." ~Steve Young #8
by Young_To_Rice on Jan 24, 2012 5:51 PM PST up reply actions
The era of the "true #1 RB" is over.
They’re a dying breed. To expect a guy to handle every snap against guys like Patrick Willis and Justin Smith is asking for a guy to have a 3 year career. The only “true #1 RB” left in the league is Adrian Peterson. Nowadays with how fast and hard defenses hit, you need a committee to share the load and a rotation of Gore, Hunter and Hillis could immensely help our running game. I’d argue that RB is not the biggest need this off season, but to say it isn’t a need is just being ridiculous. Every position on this team CAN and SHOULD be upgraded if given the chance, and upgrading does not mean replacing the guy, it could also mean a step up in performance as well.
Affectionately,
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar,
NBA’s All-Time Leading Scorer
by afrikabamboodle on Jan 24, 2012 4:33 PM PST reply actions
mini-superman!
aka “mighty mouse”
Niners,Nets,Reds & USC!!!
The Most Interesting Man In The World---->Mikhail Prokhorov!!!
by Kidd2Petrovic on Jan 24, 2012 5:09 PM PST up reply actions
Someone I overlooked :P
Affectionately,
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar,
NBA’s All-Time Leading Scorer
by afrikabamboodle on Jan 24, 2012 5:30 PM PST up reply actions
If the 49ers is going to spend money on FA, please spend it on Dwayne Bowe first...
before I see names like Hillis being thrown around!!
Niners,Nets,Reds & USC!!!
The Most Interesting Man In The World---->Mikhail Prokhorov!!!
the 49ers have a lot of money to spend, more than $50 million
Granted, they have a lot of free agents to extend, but they’ll have money left over after resigning everyone. I have no doubt they can fit in Hillis.
What about
An upgrade at WR? who do we get?
They'll have room for a free agent receiver too
I personally like Bowe, But Stevie and Colston are beastly as well. This FO has a lot of cap room to play with this season.
Ok cap room aside rather have Bowie over these two wide outs...
1. Stevie can be a locker room issue & has case of “dropsies” at times
2. Colston is injury prone!!
Niners,Nets,Reds & USC!!!
The Most Interesting Man In The World---->Mikhail Prokhorov!!!
by Kidd2Petrovic on Jan 24, 2012 4:51 PM PST up reply actions
Not exactly the same
But Rogers had the “dropsies” before he joined the niners as well. I think the 49ers locker room can do wonders for a disgruntled free agent acquisition.
Plus, stevie brings some serious swag to the 49ers offense. When you’re QB and RB are Alex Smith and Frank Gore, you could always use more character in the huddle.
Plus
Stevie grew up in San Francisco… I think he would be a perfect fit for this offense.
"The year we beat Miami in the Super Bowl, ... do you know how many defensive linemen were in our rotation? Nine, and we used them all quite a bit. We just wore the Dolphins out."
Bill Walsh quote
by Iupati_like_its_1999 on Jan 24, 2012 4:59 PM PST up reply actions
Swag
is the opposite of character IMO, at least in a huddle. A headcase in a huddle is just a detriment to a team. Give me the steady Gore, over swag everytime.
good teams have both
You have Wes Welker in the huddle to keep everyone calm, and Gronk there to fire everyone up.
Why do people mention Stevie and Desean's locker room issues,
but never mention Bowes? The guy had a some cases of dropsies as well and was suspended for 4 games for drug violations. Chiefs fans also call him a “quitter” when things get tough and he isn’t getting the ball. Similar to Desean no?
Affectionately,
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar,
NBA’s All-Time Leading Scorer
by afrikabamboodle on Jan 24, 2012 4:57 PM PST up reply actions
I would rather have Stevie over Bowe any day.
"The year we beat Miami in the Super Bowl, ... do you know how many defensive linemen were in our rotation? Nine, and we used them all quite a bit. We just wore the Dolphins out."
Bill Walsh quote
by Iupati_like_its_1999 on Jan 24, 2012 4:59 PM PST up reply actions
False Dwayne is a better WR by far..
Stevie has only just came into his own last two years. And if we look at this year Stevie as cost his teams wins (ie. Jets game on the road)
Niners,Nets,Reds & USC!!!
The Most Interesting Man In The World---->Mikhail Prokhorov!!!
by Kidd2Petrovic on Jan 24, 2012 5:03 PM PST up reply actions
haha well that TD celebration was pretty funny
In all honesty I think Harbaugh will keep his ‘antics’ in check
"The year we beat Miami in the Super Bowl, ... do you know how many defensive linemen were in our rotation? Nine, and we used them all quite a bit. We just wore the Dolphins out."
Bill Walsh quote
by Iupati_like_its_1999 on Jan 24, 2012 5:05 PM PST up reply actions
maybe with Harbaugh & the antics, but Stevie had another chance at the end to
have game winning rec TD at the end & he dropped it
Niners,Nets,Reds & USC!!!
The Most Interesting Man In The World---->Mikhail Prokhorov!!!
by Kidd2Petrovic on Jan 24, 2012 5:07 PM PST up reply actions
Okay... Bowe exploded onto the scene in 2010.... two years ago.
Bowe is 27 and runs a 4.51
2010 72 catches 1162 yards 15 TDS
2011 75 catches 1066 yards 5 TDS (HUGE DROP)
Johnson is 25 and runs a 4.59
2010 82 catches 1073 yards 10 TDS
2011 76 catches 1004 yards 7 TDS (Torn groin and broken hand)
I’d take Johnson because he’s younger but I’m certain that he stays with Buffalo.
Affectionately,
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar,
NBA’s All-Time Leading Scorer
by afrikabamboodle on Jan 24, 2012 5:22 PM PST up reply actions
Lol, don't be selective to sway your arguement show ALL stats... your stats for bowie are off
Bowe (27yrs old) in the league 5 yrs….. exploded into the league in ’08 got hurt in ’09!!! 1,000 yd rec 3 out of 5 and a pretty good rookie year as well but just missed 1,000 yd mark by 5 yds.
http://espn.go.com/nfl/player/stats/_/id/10467/dwayne-bowe
Stevie(25 yrs old) in the league 4yrs….exploded into league in ’10. Was trying to find himself in the first two years!!
http://espn.go.com/nfl/player/stats/_/id/11458/steve-johnson
I’ll take the seasoned Bowe
Niners,Nets,Reds & USC!!!
The Most Interesting Man In The World---->Mikhail Prokhorov!!!
by Kidd2Petrovic on Jan 24, 2012 5:36 PM PST up reply actions
He was also suspended in 09 for a banned substance, a drug used to mask steroids use.
So he had a good rookie campaign, and didn’t follow it up until 2010 where he went to the Pro Bowl. You said Johnson wasn’t good until 2 years ago, well that’s when Bowe had his best season as well.
Affectionately,
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar,
NBA’s All-Time Leading Scorer
by afrikabamboodle on Jan 24, 2012 5:49 PM PST up reply actions
Huh?? didnt follow it up? 2007 was his rookie year
2007 70 rec 995 yds 5 TDS
2008 86 rec 1,022 yds 7 TDS
2009 hurt & banned NFL substance
If you want to compare a combined two year window of ’10 & ’11
Dwayne (after nfl suspension & injury)
153 rec 2,321yds 20 TDs
Stevie
158 rec 2,077yds 17 TDs
You can look at stats any way you want per year or history Dwayne is a better WR….
Niners,Nets,Reds & USC!!!
The Most Interesting Man In The World---->Mikhail Prokhorov!!!
by Kidd2Petrovic on Jan 24, 2012 6:00 PM PST up reply actions
My mistake I got the year he came into the league wrong.
I’m simply looking at age and upside. I think Johnson has yet to put together his best season while Bowe already did his one Pro Bowl year. Difference of opinions and expectations is all.
Affectionately,
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar,
NBA’s All-Time Leading Scorer
by afrikabamboodle on Jan 24, 2012 6:03 PM PST up reply actions
If you are looking at age; I will give you that but Dwayne is 27...
historically to WR’s do well into their mid-thirties.
Wes Welker 30
SteveSmith (car) 32
Roddy White 30
Heck, TO 37 was balling in Cincy
Niners,Nets,Reds & USC!!!
The Most Interesting Man In The World---->Mikhail Prokhorov!!!
by Kidd2Petrovic on Jan 24, 2012 6:24 PM PST up reply actions
Lmao
It’s hilarious that in this breakdown you forget to mention during Bowe’s “drop off” he had the team janitor throwing him the ball.
But that’s not important or anything. LoL
"Bears are crazy, Willie. They'll bite your head off if you're wearing steak on it."
by Blank x2 on Jan 24, 2012 10:03 PM PST via mobile up reply actions
Stevie Johnson has had a janitor throwing him the ball his first 2 years
Gimme 1 round!
by ItBurnzWhenIP on Jan 25, 2012 11:08 AM PST up reply actions
I would be happy with either guy
I like Stevie’s Bay Area roots in regards to resigning him long term. If you follow him on twitter the dude loves coming home.
Gimme 1 round!
by ItBurnzWhenIP on Jan 25, 2012 11:09 AM PST up reply actions
Dwayne is not a "quitter" had a little rift with Todd Haley....
but then came and “balled-out”. And who hasn’t had a Haley had an altercation with? Kurt Warner is looking at you….
Niners,Nets,Reds & USC!!!
The Most Interesting Man In The World---->Mikhail Prokhorov!!!
by Kidd2Petrovic on Jan 24, 2012 5:14 PM PST up reply actions
All things being equal...
If I had to choose one or the other (Hillis or Bowe), you KNOW I’m picking Dwayne Bowe every day of the week.
But…
In a world where the signings are not mutually exclusive AND where Hillis could potentially come in somewhat cheaply, yeah, I think he’d be an upgrade over Norris or Dixon. And could put another serious threat on the Niners’ offense that would help their 3rd down conversion and red zone production.
Rathman turns Hillis into Rathman ... Still love Miller though ... More is More ...!!
I'm your " Huckelberry "...it's just my game ..( .AleX ) was asked , what do you think about all the game manager talk ... AleX i guess i just managed myself a VIctory ... Extend the Man ...!!
Here's CSN complete Niner Free agency list with a snippet of comment to each ...!!
I'm your " Huckelberry "...it's just my game ..( .AleX ) was asked , what do you think about all the game manager talk ... AleX i guess i just managed myself a VIctory ... Extend the Man ...!!
Holy effing wow
Look, I love Alex Smith just as much as the next guy, but 8 to $11 million annually? Are you serious? With that kind of money he had better lead us to the NFC Championship next year.
Let's giggity giggity Go 49ers!!!
this is world where Kevin Kolb got $60 million
quarterbacks are expensive, even mediocre ones. hopefully that $8 million isn’t all guaranteed, but it would be a steal even if it was.
the $60 million Kolb got
reflects how some franchises are willing to gamble to get a potential upper-echalon QB because…well getting a franchise QB is the most important thing a franchise can accomplish. But of course, the Kolb we saw has a market rate far lower than $10 million per year. If none of that were guaranteed he’d be asked to take a pay cut or be released.
I wonder who's going to pay Matt Flynn this year.
Affectionately,
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar,
NBA’s All-Time Leading Scorer
by afrikabamboodle on Jan 24, 2012 6:15 PM PST up reply actions
Miami is the most logical destination (with Joe Philbin taking over)
…but I don’t know if they want to take a flyer on someone after searching for a franchise QB since Marino retired lol their fan-base is clamoring to trade up and draft a marquee prospect
"Alex Smith has fought through the chaos of SEVEN different O.C.'s...I had trouble with one" -Terry Bradshaw
...and then Singletary opened His Book and it said "thou shalt NOT pass"
by jimisoursavior on Jan 24, 2012 7:33 PM PST up reply actions
yeah that's a fair point
Teams are paying for potential, not on field performance per se. But after the season he’s had, Alex Smith has that going for him too.
after a season in which he didn't excel in any one category?
I highly doubt anyone values Smith more than the Niners.
incorrect
He excelled in not making bad plays. He struggled in other areas, but he excelled in that regard.
by David Fucillo on Jan 25, 2012 12:12 PM PST up reply actions
since when did "not making bad plays"
as the best aspect of your game warrant a “potential-based” contract.
I never said that...
I’m simply correcting the fact that you said he didn’t excel in any category. I happen to agree that the 49ers likely value him more than any other team.
by David Fucillo on Jan 25, 2012 1:41 PM PST up reply actions
He lead us there making 5 million this season with a 1 million bump for getting to the playoffs
"I hate it! It looks like a stickup at 7-Eleven. Five guys standing there with their hands in the air."
Norm Sloan
"We have a great bunch of outside shooters. Unfortunately, all our games are played indoors."
Weldon Drew
Yup , Sign The Man ... Seven years more and 1.1 Bazillion ...!!
I'm your " Huckelberry "...it's just my game ..( .AleX ) was asked , what do you think about all the game manager talk ... AleX i guess i just managed myself a VIctory ... Extend the Man ...!!
Other 2011 QB Salaries
Peyton-23mil
Vick-20mil
Sanchez-14.75mil
Big Ben-14.75mil
Palmer-14mil
Brady-13mil
Stafford-12mil
Ryan-11.25mil
Rivers-11.2mil
Romo-11mil
Eli-10mil
Cutler-9mil
Rodgers-8.25mil
Brees-7.3mil
Schaub-6.8mil
I think the Niners should sign Alex to a 8.26 million dollar deal, just to get him above Rodgers’ contract. I think he would take a multi year with those kinds of numbers to stay in SF with Harbaugh.
well if you want to talk potential....
"You know whats funny? I always thought uhm dogs lay eggs and I learned something new today" Peter Griffin
by HUNGRY HUNTER on Jan 25, 2012 1:22 AM PST up reply actions
replace Sopoaga with Hillis in the 49ers jumbo set
And the 49ers would have three solid passing options out of the backfield in Gore, Hillis, and Miller. Add in VD, and you could basically run a spread set with three backs on the field.
Nice ...!!
I'm your " Huckelberry "...it's just my game ..( .AleX ) was asked , what do you think about all the game manager talk ... AleX i guess i just managed myself a VIctory ... Extend the Man ...!!
Could do the double wing two Vernon & Walker ....Miller & Hillis ... Gore ..!!
…….. Vernon Staley Lupati Goodey Schnider Davis Walker ……..
….. Hillis …………………………..AleX ………………………Miler ….
………………………………………Gore ……………………………………..
I'm your " Huckelberry "...it's just my game ..( .AleX ) was asked , what do you think about all the game manager talk ... AleX i guess i just managed myself a VIctory ... Extend the Man ...!!
depth at RB? im all for it.
The only thing that worries me is they’re going to need their tocuhes, RBs need to get hit a little and see the game at full speed to get in sync with the offensive line and get the juices flowing. So does this mean we pass less or the same as this year? I would like to see the passing game develop more than what we all witnessed this past Sunday.
by Ador08 on Jan 24, 2012 4:45 PM PST via mobile reply actions
Sounds great in theory… But given all the FAs we need to try and retain, and given our obvious need for more weapons on the outside, offensively I’m just not sure it makes sense to pay two RBs starter money. Go out in the draft or FA and find a big battering ram of a runner who won’t cost quite so much, I say.
(or go the other way and draft LaMichael James, who is INSANELY undervalued right now, IMO)
Idolizing Robb Nen since 2002...
by Smoke on the Water on Jan 24, 2012 5:13 PM PST reply actions
To say it briefly
I don’t think he’ll be as cheap as you do.
Idolizing Robb Nen since 2002...
by Smoke on the Water on Jan 24, 2012 5:15 PM PST up reply actions
Just don't see it...
Repeating some of what has been said throughout the comments…
1. Quality running backs can be found in the middle rounds of the draft. Using a 2nd -4th rounder on a guy who is in the Gore mold makes more sense to me than paying for a guy who has had mixed success as a free agent.
2. Hunter should get an increased workload next season. 30 – 50 additional carries seems about right, which will naturally cut into Gore’s workload.
I agree that the 49ers need to supplement the position, especially given Gore’s workload this season, but I simply disagree on the method. Cut Norris and add a back through the draft – that’s what I would do…
"Granted, this is not a great situation, but when all you have is lemons, you add some vodka to dull the pain..."
Seems pretty random, and I would pretty shocked if this actually happened
But… I could probably get behind it. I really like Hillis. I went to the Ravens season opener last year against the browns where he had a monster game.
The salary cap in 2011 was 120.375 million,
and it looks as if the salary cap will remain the same for 2012. Our team total salary figure was about 109-110 million roughly. If the front office added 10 million in ‘Likely To Be Earned’ incentives into player contracts during the season, that weren’t ultimately earned at the end of the season (in order to take the total team salary figure to 120 million), then that 10 million would be added to the salary cap total of 2012. That would make the salary cap for our Niners at 130.375 million. Don’t know if the FO did make use of that spare 10 million in that way as to allow the spare salary cap space to be carried forward or not. That would cover Alex’s contract though, and would allow the franchise to heavily front-load the deal to help down the road. Allowing Brooks to walk would mean we could comfortably sign Alex, Dashon, Rogers, a FA RB, and a FA #1 WR if we wanted to.
Alex Smith 86%+ QB rating with 22+ TDs this season, hopefully! :)
one minor correction
The 2011 CBA changed the rules, so teams don’t have to play games with unlikely to be earned incentives. They can simply roll over their unused money to the next year — they have until March, I think, to declare doing so.
otherwise great write up
the niners seem to have more than enough room to sign everyone they want — as long as that list doesn’t include Peyton Manning or Drew Brees.
Yep exactly.
Only thing is, franchises that are on the verge of moving into new stadiums tend to not spend as much and prefer to wait until the new stadium’s built… and so our FO may not use the whole available salary cap. Hopefully, the team reaching the NFC Championship game will show that the team is close to success now.
Alex Smith 86%+ QB rating with 22+ TDs this season, hopefully! :)
Are you sure?
That would be extremely handful, we’d easily be able to retain our top talent with that extra 10 million. Teams like the Rams that heavily saturated their cap room won’t have that benefit, which is also great :).
Alex Smith 86%+ QB rating with 22+ TDs this season, hopefully! :)
I'm pretty sure
I looked it up earlier in the week. Here’s the language from the new CBA:
Carrying Over Room. A Club may "carry over" Room from one League Year to the following League Year by submitting notice in writing signed by the owner to the NFL no later than fourteen (14) days prior to the start of the next League Year indicating the maximum amount of Room that the Club wishes to carry over. The NFL shall promptly provide a copy of any such notice to the NFLPA. Article 13, Section 6(b)(v)
Man what's everybody hating on Gore for?
Dude balled out this year and was injured almost all season. I don’t know about Hillis, but we really need to utilize Kendall Hunter differently that dude has Darren Sproles / Ray Rice potential he is one of the faster backs I have seen squirting through holes recently. I like that Hillis has receiving skills. I don’t know I think Hunter has a lot more potential than what we have seen. When he gets in there consistently he plays better. I think Gore and Hunter should have been splitting more carries this year. From what I have seen Hunter would make a better receiving RB.
*See my above post*
;-)
Let's giggity giggity Go 49ers!!!
by Kittles on Jan 24, 2012 9:24 PM PST via Android app up reply actions
Agree w James Brady
Need another running back. Can you get a gem in the draft? Maybe but if we get Hillis cheap, go for it.
Doesn’t mean WR isn’t top need.
Tauren Poole
The name alone is made of awesome. If he’s still around in the 4th-5th i’d pull the trigger.
by AthleticsReign on Jan 24, 2012 10:05 PM PST reply actions
wow
"You know whats funny? I always thought uhm dogs lay eggs and I learned something new today" Peter Griffin
by HUNGRY HUNTER on Jan 25, 2012 1:21 AM PST up reply actions
Makes sense on the surface
Just don’t think it would happen, and for whatever reasons it wouldn’t, I’d trust the team. We all could of made a case for guys like Nnamdi or Joesph last season, and it worked out great when we didn’t sign either.
I think Hillis would fit the mentality of Harbaugh and the Niners.
I also think he could be had a relatively team friendly deal like 3 or 4 years about 3 something each year with maybe only year and half guaranteed! The guy runs hard and is very athletic and can catch passes.
I also think Marshawn Lynch is a possibility and he is from the bay area!
There are also a few good running backs that the niners could draft in the first or second round!
"You know whats funny? I always thought uhm dogs lay eggs and I learned something new today" Peter Griffin
No thanks on Hillis
I’m sick and tired of seeing a perfectly executed Power O or Counter break our running back into the secondary knowing that they are going to be caught from behind, and we are not going to pay him FA money to come in and be a fullback or short yardage specialist.
Every time Jamie Dukes says something enlightening and informative about football Jerry Rice and I mount up on our flying grizzly bears and claim pirate treasure from the moon. That's how often it happens.
Hillis is a solid back
There are a number of reasons to be wary of course: A) Price B) Attitude C) Injuries D) Fumbles.
He wouldn’t or shouldn’t be the bell cow back. I don’t think he’s even as talented as Hunter, let alone Gore. But as relatively cheap, proven RB depth, he’d be a great fit as a power back.
I suspect the 49ers are looking to draft Gore’s backup and Hunter’s compliment though. I am a big fan of Doug Martin from Boise State. Highly productive 220 lb back with speed.
You've got to be kidding me. NO!
After last season’s debacle, why would anyone touch Hillis!? He’s a big, selfish baby who couldn’t get it done with one of the best run blocking lines in the league, even without Alex Mack. He’s locker room poison as far as I’m concerned and I would much rather give Hunter an expanded role next season. Frankly (no pun intended), I wish they would have traded Gore instead of giving him an extension or given Hunter even more carries. Even though Gore is one of the most well-conditioned players in the league, he can run out of gas pretty quick. After his 5 straight games of 100+, he only went over 80 yards 3 times in the next 10 games (including the playoffs). The only way I would even consider Hillis is if he signed a similar contract to his rookie contract (4 years/ $1.75 million). Obviously, that won’t happen because he wants to get paid for his ONE decent season that included 5 lost fumbles.
by Liquid Pantyhose on Jan 25, 2012 10:21 AM PST reply actions
Good lord No
This is the dumbest idea you’ve ever had. This guy is an ego-maniac team killer. He managed to turn his entire team against him in like 2 months.
Gimme 1 round!
Thanks for the input.
And then God created Saturn ... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it. ... Always a ninja
SaberCats Examiner | SB Nation Bay Area | Niners Nation | Twitter
by James Brady on Jan 25, 2012 10:42 PM PST up reply actions 1 recs
Nobody likes hunter as the the starter??
Hes only a rookie and he’s finding holes better than gore and he quick as hell.
He is not finding holes better than Gore. You know the holes the blitzers creep through and Gore steps up and smashes.
Gore plays more because he is more of a COMPLETE back. Also a better runner, just not as fast as Hunter.
"What the hell are you mixing in that look-aid"
Rather have Mike Tolbert from San Diego.
by bmcrae83@yahoo.com on Jan 25, 2012 12:36 PM PST reply actions
As I said above I like Tolbert, however I would really like the Niners to get Lamar Miller RB Miami. The next Frank Gore, Also would like Chad Diehl FB from Clemson.
by bmcrae83@yahoo.com on Jan 25, 2012 12:44 PM PST reply actions
I’d ranther have a back field consisting of.
40 Chad Diehl FB Clemenson
21 Frank Gore Miami
32 Kendall Hunter Oklahoma State
20 Lamar Miller Miami
35 Mike Tolbert Coastal Carolina
Gore & Diehl as the starters. Move Bruce Miller back to the defense in place of Haralson.
by bmcrae83@yahoo.com on Jan 25, 2012 1:44 PM PST reply actions
Move Bruce miller back to defense ... after playing amazingly this past season?
And then God created Saturn ... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it. ... Always a ninja
SaberCats Examiner | SB Nation Bay Area | Niners Nation | Twitter
by James Brady on Jan 25, 2012 10:43 PM PST up reply actions
100% Right!
Couldn’t have said it better!
everyone thinks we can draft a late round runningback and have success simply because there are a bunch of examples, people forget that dozens upon dozens are drafted or picked up as free agents and never pan out. Mike Goodson, Andre Brown, Gatrell Johnson, Frank Summers, Cedric Peerman, Aaron Brown, James Davis, Javarris Williams, LaRod Stephens-Howling, the ones who have shown moderate success are Chris Ogbonnaya (not even close to the level of Hillis), Benard Scott (not that good), Javon Ringer (who didn’t exactly impress when given the opportunity). The only successful back in the 2010 draft after the 2nd round is Shonn Greene. Even the first round picks didn’t pan out like planned, Wells, Moreno, Donald Brown. One stud in LeSean McCoy.
Most of the drama about HIllis was created by the media, the same sources making a big deal out of everything, the guy couldn’t take a crap without it being analyzed. When he was healthy he did well, the run blocking in Cleveland sucks, the entire right side doesn’t belong in the NFL, Steinbach went out and that leaves 2 great lineman, they can’t make up for the other 3. 3.6 isn’t great but it isn’t bad, Benson plays in the same division (tough to run in with the Ravens and Steelers) and averaged 3.5 last season, but supposedly had a great season with over 1k. Hillis had the highest ypc in the AFC north for 2010. The only reason he had nagging injuries is because he kept coming back too soon (because he was called a primadonna) and reaggravating it, making it worse.
yeah and the guys we have now were so team oriented before Harbaugh got here, or Vernon Davis when he first got here. How long did Crabtree hold out for? because he THOUGHT he should have gone earlier? yeah is that putting the team first? but when a white guy pulls some stunt for money THEN it cant be tolerated. He was 6th in yards from scrimmage in 2010 and paid league minimum, he wants money for production just like everyone else, the new coach in Cleveland didn’t want him before they even met. Despite all of this he still led his team in rushing. When he was under Mangini he played with broken ribs to finish out the season.
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