There were doubts initially if Mike Singletary's intense approach would have staying power with today's NFL athletes. Judging by the improvement made by the 49ers last season, it looks as if the answer is yes. Reflecting the personality of their head coach, the 49ers are a tough-minded, no-nonsense team, with an underrated defensive line and an emerging pair of receivers in TE Vernon Davis and WR Michael Crabtree.
As long as RB Frank Gore stays healthy, the 49ers should have a productive albeit conservative offense. The offensive line is adequate at best unless first-round draft picks Anthony Davis (T) and Mike Iupati (G) have an instant impact. The secondary could be suspect, especially if corners Nate Clements or Shawntae Spencer go down with injury.
But after years of failed drafts and poor front-office decisions, the 49ers finally seem to have a clue, a game plan, and a shred of continuity. To wit, the underrated pickup of Ted Ginn Jr., a dynamic punt returner who should fix an area that has been sub par for years, and a player who brings a speed dimension as a No. 3 or No. 4 wideout.
With the Cardinals in a transition phase minus Kurt Warner and Anquan Boldin, there are lots of reasons to pick the ‘Niners to win the West. But the one area that still makes you think the 49ers are pretenders rather than contenders is quarterback where despite some improvement last season, Alex Smith has yet to show he is an above-average QB.
49ERS OFFSEASON SCORECARD
Key veterans added
WR Ted Ginn Jr., trade-Dolphins (possible No. 3/return specialist)
QB David Carr, UFA-Giants (backup)
CB Karl Paymah, UFA-Vikings (competing for backup spot)
CB Will James, UFA-released by Lions (competing for backup spot)
LB Travis LaBoy, UFA-released by Cardinals '09 (competing for backup spot)
Key losses
WR Arnaz Battle, UFA-Steelers (reserve WR/punt returner)
QB Shaun Hill, trade-Lions (backup)
RT Tony Pashos, UFA-Browns (started one game before season-ending injury)
CB Walt Harris, UFA-Ravens (former starter spent '09 on IR)
CB Dre' Bly, UFA-Lions (started final six games)
S Mark Roman, UFA-unsigned (fifth defensive back)
Impact draft picks
RT Anthony Davis, first round (expected to start)
LG Mike Iupati, first round (expected to start)
S Taylor Mays (competing for playing time)
ILB Navorro Bowman (backup/core special teamer)
WR Kyle Williams (backup slot/return specialist)
Links to how other NFC West beat writers view the 49ers:
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