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The 49ers actually played decent under Mike Singletary last year winning four of their last five games.  Shaun Hill was 5-3 as the starter after going 2-0 last year.  That’s 7-3 with the Niners.  Considering their track record in recent year, I’d say that’s pretty impressive.  Yet, Alex Smith could still challenge him for the starting position.  I think Mike’s a results guy and Hill will ultimately win the starting gig.  Frank Gore looked good at times last year though he missed a couple of games.  Backup DeShaun Foster is a Free Agent.  He may be brought back, but they’d be better off getting some young legs in the draft to be the #2. Isaac Bruce was solid last year, but Father Time can catch up with him at any moment.  Bryant Johnson is an Unrestricted Free Agent.  He didn’t prove much last year and could not be brought back.  Josh Morgan showed some signs last year and will likely land a starting WR spot.  Jason Hill will also be counted on.  Arnaz Battle could get cut.  Vernon Davis may finally have the breakout season if he can stay healthy and motivated.  Mike Martz’s departure should also help.  Delanie Walker is another solid young TE.

On Defense they are led by Patrick Willis (141 tackles).  I don’t do Man Crushes, but Fitz on Offense and Willis on Defense are the closest.  Willis has 315 tackles in two seasons.  Fellow LB Takeo Spikes is an Unrestricted Free Agent.  Having a LB as a Head Coach helps his cause.  I think he’ll return.  The Defense will probably be the main focus this Offseason as Singletary tries to put together a physical team. 

KFFL Free Agent Tracker:

The 49ers are and interesting team.  It’s a shame they were saddled with the Alex Smith contract.  He’s case and point why the rookie pay scale needs to be adjusted.  He didn’t pick up Mike Martz’s Offense and was replaced by J.T. O’Sullivan as the starter.  I’m sorry but you cant’ feel too confident in J.T. as your Week 1 starting QB.  Frank Gore should bounce back from a somewhat disappointing season.  He had 1500 total yards, but he only scored 6 TDs.  If those are down numbers, that’s the kind of guy I want on my team.  Of course if Martz ignores him, like he’s been known to do in the past, Gore’s production could suffer.  The Niners brought in DeShaun Foster to spell Gore and provide a speedy change-of-pace.  Foster is great in a limited role and should be a nice addition.  The Niners also added two new starting WRs in Isaac Bruce and Bryant Johnson.  They should be an upgrade over Darrell Jackson and Ashley Lelie.  Arnaz Battle was their leading receiver last year, and should be heavily involved as well.  At Tight End Vernon Davis is a monster that could finally have his breakout year.  He, perhaps more than anybody, has the ability to change the complexion of this Offense.

Defensively I have just two words.  Patrick Willis.  He is SO GOOD.  He had 174 Tackles and 4 Sacks last year.  Talk about a one-man wrecking crew.  Takeo Spikes came aboard to help out.  Nate Clements signed to a big free agent contract before last season and he held up his side of the bargain with 92 Tackles and 4 INTs.  Fellow CB Walt Harris picked off four passes as well.  Strong Safety Michael Lewis came over from Philly and recorded 104 Tackles.  Justin Smith came over from Cincy to provide pressure on the QB.

The 49ers could win the NFC West or finish in last.  That’s how wide open the Division is.  If their Offense clicks and everyone stays healthy they could be the surprise team they were supposed to be last year.  That said, I’m predicting 7 Wins from them.  I just can’t be inspired by their QBs.

Fantasy-wise Frank Gore is a top end RB.  He may not score a ton of TDs, but he piles up the yardage.  Both Isaac Bruce and Bryant Johnson are worthy of being on your fantasy team bench at wideout.  Vernon Davis is worth a shot as a starter.  If you are in a league with IDPs, Patrick Willis is a must.