SB Nation - Eric Green

The Steve Keim Scorecard

John Morgan — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 00:50:25 -0000

More photos » by John Froschauer - AP

Seattle Seahawks fans are unused to repeat failure. Perhaps a Cardinals suit can make them more familiar with the feeling.

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Adam Schefter reports that Steve Keim is among Seattle's ten general manager candidates. This is a quick and dirty attempt to review his performance in Arizona.

Organization: Arizona Cardinals

Position(s): Player Personnel Director (May 2008), College Scouting Director (June 2006), Regional Scout (1999)

Curious that perhaps the most defamed team in the NFC, bad from when the Lions and Rams were good, is now auditioning personnel for promotion to other teams. Thus is the fickle world of the NFL. I don't like it, and I don't like Keim's boss Rod Graves. Graves has served with Arizona since 1997, and few franchises in any sport can claim a longer period of losing, instability and apathy from their fans. But, by all means, let's break off a piece of that talent factory.

Keim scouted the east for Arizona, and, undoubtedly, the southeast specifically. Let us first look at the players we can be most confident Keim had a hand in scouting. I singled out picks made from Keim's particular scouting area, and listed the round, overall pick, name and college.

2000

1) 7 Thomas Jones RB Virginia

2) 41 Raynoch Thompson OLB Tennessee

3) 71 Darwin Walker DT Tennessee

Jones is still around but was a huge bust for Arizona. He split time with Michael Pittman, never averaged more than 3.7 yards per carry and was traded before the end of his rookie contract.

Raynoch Thompson sort of speaks for himself: Who is Raynoch Thompson? He was an undersized Vol linebacker that was out of the league by 2004. He is still only 32, meaning he was cut in his prime.

Darwin Walker played for that same undefeated Tennessee team as Thompson. He didn't play for the Cardinals, who cut him before a single start and after only one regular season game. Walker was claimed by the Eagles off waivers and became a productive five-year starter for some stout Eagles defenses.

2001

2) 54 Michael Stone DB Memphis

3) 64 Adrian Wilson DB North Carolina State

4) 98 Bill Gramatica K South Florida

4) 123 Marcus Bell DT Memphis

Stone never broke through with the Cardinals and is now out of the league.

Adrian Wilson is an unconditional success. Wilson and Keim share an alma mater. He is now considered among the best safeties in the NFL. This is exploiting a hometown connection to pick an absolute steal in the third. Too bad, I guess, that NC State is hardly a talent factory.

Kicker in the fourth. Kicker in the fourth. Kicker in the fourth.

Marcus Bell is out of the league after three seasons with Arizona and three seasons with Detroit.

2002

2) 49 Levar Fisher LB North Carolina State

Fisher is the only member of the 2002 class we can be pretty sure Keim had a significant say in drafting. Fisher was a standout at NC State, but lost his career to knee injuries. Fisher has knee problems in college, so this failure falls on Keim.

2003

1) 17 Bryant Johnson WR Penn State

1) 18 Calvin Pace DE Wake Forest

2) 54 Anquan Boldin WR Florida State

Johnson has been a disappointment since entering the league. He was surpassed by Boldin in their respective rookie seasons and is now a minor player for the Detroit Lions.

Arizona selected Pace with its next pick and he was a bust before Ken Whisenhunt switched him to outside linebacker in 2007. No credit is given Keim.

Boldin was a win for all involved, if, perhaps, a crapshoot win. Boldin was a quarterback and wide receiver at Florida State that suffered serious knee injuries in college and then ran a 4.71 forty. I respect Keim for seeing the potential in Boldin, but I do not think anyone expected Boldin to be so good. His health has never improved and he still regularly misses time because of injury.

2004

2) 33 Karlos Dansby OLB Auburn

3) 64 Darnell Dockett DT Florida State

Maybe this is Keim picking up speed and proving his potential. Dansby has been solid since being signed and still starts for Arizona. Of course, that's to be expected from a linebacker selected with the first pick of the second round.

Dockett has been a starter since his rookie season and a lynchpin on the Cardinals ever-in-flux defensive line. Over the past three seasons, he's been one of the best defensive linemen in football. He was considered a first-round talent, but also an underachiever and a major risk because of his battles with coaches, troubles with the law, and, specifically, his conviction for misdemeanor theft.

2005

1) 8 Antrel Rolle DB Miami (Florida)

3) 75 Eric Green DB Virginia Tech

3) 95 Darryl Blackstock LB Virginia

4) 111 Elton Brown G Virginia

Rolle is a corner bust since shifted to safety. He has played decent at safety, but credit for that goes to the person who made the move: Whisenhunt.

Green was an intermittent starter, mostly between injuries, that is now out of the league.

Blackstock is now out of the league. He played sparingly for Arizona before being signed by the Bengals -- another well run organization.

Brown was a seldom starter for the often very bad Cardinals offensive line that is now playing in the USFL.

2006

3) 72 Leonard Pope TE Georgia

6) 177 Jonathan Lewis DT Virginia Tech

Pope is a situational tight end and among the worst players at his position in the NFL.

Lewis participated in four games in 2006 and never again played in the NFL.

At this point, Keim was promoted to Director of College Scouting and can be debited or credited for the Cardinals entire draft class.

2007

1 5 Levi Brown OT Penn State

2 33 Alan Branch DT Michigan

3 69 Buster Davis LB Florida State

5 142 Steve Breaston WR Michigan

7 215 Ben Patrick TE Delaware

Brown is a middling power right tackle that isn't significantly better than Ray Willis. Bust.

Branch is a pretty typical Keim pick: Highly touted prospect, thought of as a top ten pick before a nasty run of belligerence and bad effort knocked him off most draft boards. Branch is three years into his professional career, still every bit the monster he was in college, and still a rotational player buried on the Cardinals depth chart.

Buster Davis was a terrible pick when made. Davis was an undersized, see: 5'9", linebacker completely unfit for Whisenhunt's preferred 3-4 alignment. He was cut before his rookie season, has since bounced around and is now out of the league.

Breaston was a return monster at Michigan State that has developed into a very good slot receiver. Keim must be credited for, first, securing a good returner in the sixth, and moreover, seeing that Breaston was turning the corner as a receiver. A big win for Keim, on a pick I was very skeptical about.

Patrick is the Cardinals starting tight end, but largely an afterthought in the team's offense. Patrick was a toolsy sleeper that's produced some, but is mostly a starter by default, and still more H-back than tight end.

2008

1) 16 Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie CB Tennessee State

2) 50 Calais Campbell DE Miami (Fla.)

3) 81 Early Doucet WR Louisiana State

4) 116 Kenny Iwebema DE Iowa

5) 149 Tim Hightower RB Richmond

6) 185 Chris Harrington LB Texas A&M

7) 225 Brandon Keith T Northern Iowa

This is the draft that made Keim a general manager candidate and his fingerprints are all over it. DRC was a tools messiah that shot up boards during the pre-draft process. He never faced top competition in college, and many, including myself, questioned his ability to cover NFL talent. Well, that question is yet unanswered. Cromartie certainly looks amazing-sometimes, but he is also regularly criticized for being out of position, burned and, well, not being able to cover NFL talent. The Cardinals, noteworthy in this case, are the second worst team in the NFL at defending #1 receivers and were 27^th in 2008. DRC is the unchallenged #1 corner in Arizona. He is only 23, and cover skills are slow to grow. Best to give this pick an "Incomplete". It's possible DRC puts it together and taps into his tremendous talent, and it's possible his flashy play hides a bad player.

Campbell was a slamdunk and is proving so in his second season. He is toolsy, growing into those tools, scheme correct and straight beastly.

I liked the Doucet pick at the time and still think he has a bright future. It's tough to measure his performance because he is buried on the Cardinals depth chart. Doucet suffered a lot of injuries in college and that might have sapped his speed.

Iwebama has proven to be a solid member of a good defensive line rotation. He was, and this will shock everyone that's read this far, a toolsy player that was knocked down boards because injury and off-field problems. His performance declined his senior season, something that hurt Campbell and Doucet's stock, too.

Hightower has proven himself a valuable receiver, but, then, who defends Tim Hightower when Larry Fitzgerald, Anquan Boldin and Steve Breaston are on the field. He has since been de-emphasized in favor of Chris Wells. Hightower is a modest success.

Harrington is now a Jaguar.

Keith is still on Arizona's roster and has played in one game this season.

It's a little too early to make much of the 2009 draft, but it further supports the basic Keim profile. In brief: His preferred scouting area is the American South East. He likes toolsy players and does not bat a lash at character concerns. Keim swings for the fences and has a high whiff rate. The 2008 draft has produced solid players, but let's be clear: The Cardinals are finishing their third decade of terrible football. They made the Super Bowl last season, but were only 9-7 in the regular season. The team changed when it signed Ken Whisenhunt, and its recent success has been built off smart leadership, a weak division, years and years of early round picks, and Kurt Warner. Warner has recovered from a mid-career funk to make a case for the Hall of Fame. That's mighty lucky. Warner joined the Cardinals in 2005 and I do not see how Keim could be credited with his signing.

Maybe he interviews well. Maybe his most recent drafts, his most successful drafts, speak more clearly of his own abilities and potential, but I don't like his method, I am not impressed with his results and I don't want to sign a person that's been an integral part of one of the worst run franchises in sports history. For every one diamond in the rough, there's acres and acres more rough. And, right or wrong, executives must be judged both by the decisions they make and the company they keep.

Cardinals CB Rodgers-Cromartie Proving His Worth

Andrew602 — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 18:40:14 -0000

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When the Cardinals essentially gambled in the 1st round of 2008's draft, they were selecting a 22 year old cornerback out of a small school(Tennessee State). It was said that Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie had a "high learning curve", and that it would likely take time for him to develop into a quality starting defensive back. Midway through last year, he replaced Eric Green on the depth chart and that learning curve was put to the test. He had 4 interceptions through the final seven games of the season, and added 2 more in the playoffs.

This year, Rodgers-Cromartie has learned just how quickly things can change in one season, as he's been one of the highest targeted cornerbacks in the league. The 2nd year defensive back has adjusted however, and boasts a NFC-leading 23 passes defensed. He's also done a tremendous job limiting the big play that daunted him most of last season.

On Sunday, DRC recorded 2 interceptions, putting his season total at 5. That puts his career total at 9 in just 21 starts, giving him a 42% interception rate. Against the Lions, both of his interceptions would eventually prove to be pivotal as the Cardinals only won by a score. Already having a good game, DRC also did an exceptional job blanketing Lions star receiver Calvin Johnson, holding him to 3 catches for 35 yards

On another note, Rodgers-Cromartie was noticeably stiff returning both interceptions, running out of bounds each times. It seems he's been suffering from turf-toe, which is even more impressive given the position he plays.

"No, no, no," he said. "I got a bad toe; I got to get out of bounds. I couldn't run like I wanted to."

ROTB War Room: Revisiting The Past

Andrew602 — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 17:00:20 -0000

In our last two war rooms, we've evaluated key positions or groups on the opposing team. This week, we'll look at the past. We'll look over the Cardinals/Giants game that took place last year. Props to Drullin'OverDaCards for his post Tuesday, providing the information that the Cardinals haven't won on the road against the Giants since 1999. We won't go that far, only looking at the success the Giants had against us when they traveled to University of Phoenix Stadium last season. The date was November 23rd, 2008. The Giants were 9-1 heading into the game, while the Cardinals had won 7 straight at home. The first quarter featured five lead changes, and the Cardinals remained calm, despite missing an extra point and trailing at halftime. In the second half, the Cardinals weren't able to keep up with the Giants, as they were out-scored 20-17. They had a chance to tie the game, but an onside kick bounced through the hands of cornerback Ralph Brown, who later said he took his eye of the ball for a second. The Cardinals inability to stop Eli Manning from shredding their defense is what hurt their chances at winning. The Cardinals also allowed two big kick returns by Domenik Hixon, that would later lead to scores. Kurt Warner fumbled the ball twice, losing one, and threw an interception as well. Both turnovers set up touchdowns by the Giants. Next we'll take a look at what both teams were able to do successfully.

What worked for the Giants?

Despite being without injured running back Brandon Jacobs, and losing wide receiver Plaxico Burress early in the game, the Giants were able to move the ball efficiently. They amassed over 300 yards of total offense, and were 7-15 on 3rd downs.
The defense held the Cardinals to 29 rushing yards for the entire game. Because of that, the Giants got pressure on Kurt Warner much of the time, forcing two turnovers out of him that resulted in scores.
The Giants first scoring drive worked for two reasons - they were disciplined and balanced. The first scoring drive was an 11 play, 62 yard-er, that took 6:08 minutes. Their offensive balance was key on the drive, with 6 passes and 5 runs. Of the 62 yards, only 15 came from the run, but the their willingness to run the ball kept the Cardinals on their heals. Even more important was a 4th and 1 that the Giants went for and converted late in the 1st quarter. Eli Manning was perfect on the drive, but it should be noted that Eric Green and Aaron Francisco were playing on defense, and both amounted for 5 tackles on the drive. It's clear they were targets, widely due to their poor coverage skills. The main point is the Giants took bits and pieces off the clock and the field, moving efficiently much like the Cardinals did on their opening drive last week.

What worked for the Cardinals?

The Cardinals were 8-14 converting 3rd downs, something they've struggled with so far this season. They face a pass defense that was torched by the New Orleans Saints last week, and the Cardinals may use the same gameplan the Saints used. Kurt Warner also threw for 351 yards, completing 61% of his passes.
Surprisingly, the Cardinals also played smart football against a tough Giants team. They only had 3 penalties for 29 yards, and allowed only one sack all day.
Derrick Ward started at running back, gaining only 69 yards on the ground for 3.5 yards per carry. Brandon Jacobs didn't play, so Ahmad Bradshaw was the secondary back. He only saw 4 carries for 9 yards, struggling to run against the Cardinals defense. They will likely see more carries from Bradshaw this Sunday.

Side Notes

The Giants may take the same approach as last year, attempting to pressure Kurt Warner and force the Cardinals either to turn the ball over, or resort to running more... Although Steve Smith and Mario Manningham should start, the Cardinals also want to focus much of their attention on Domenik Hixon. He had a big game last week, gaining over 300 total yards, and he hurt the Cardinals last year. He's a big threat to return a kick off or punt to the house, so it would be wise for the Cardinals to have an extra pair of eyes on him on special teams... Since Derrick Ward has left, Ahmad Bradshaw has taken advantage of the extra carries. He can run blazing fast, and is also a threat receiving out of the backfield. Bradshaw has 423 yards on the year with a 6.2 ypc average. Putting a quick defender on Bradshaw would be important for the Cardinals. However, he blew an important block for Manning last week, so the Cardinals may also want to bring some different looks when Bradshaw stays back to block.

Can the Cardinals overcome the Giants well-balanced offense? What should the Cardinals do differently then what they did last year?

Obvious Answers: English, Merriman and Adding to the Roster

John (obviousman) — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 11:59:19 -0000

More photos » by Lenny Ignelzi - AP

4 months ago: San Diego Chargers first round draft choice Larry English, left, maneuvers to cover tight end Brandon Manumaleuna during practice at NFL football training camp Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2009, in San Diego. (AP Photo/Lenny Ignelzi)

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Hey john, hows this arrest gonna play out for mondays game. I dont think anything but godell could come down hard, any thoughts....and, on that note, do you think that seals his fate as a charger for next year? - Jim D.

Luckily, this whole situation has been resolved before Monday's game. However, since it's a Monday night game that doesn't mean Chargers fans won't have to sit through an entire re-telling of the story for the national audience. I'm with Acee on Merriman staying or going. As much as I found Shawne to be a very nice guy and don't think he's caused any major issues up to this point, I can certainly see how he doesn't fit the mold of player that A.J. Smith likes. When you're trying to get signed to a big-money, long-term contract those things become very important. I believe the best case scenario for Chargers fans is Shawne leaves after 2010 (either due to be a RFA or being franchised) instead of after 2009.

Two part question, I've been looking through all the cut down releases to find someone who could challenge for the backup tackle, nickel/dime corner spot. For tackles I see Tony Pashos and Dameion Mcintosh. For corners there's Eric Green, and Corey Ivy. Are any of these guys worth picking up? And the second part is if the chargers pick up someone to shore up their OL or secondary who do you think the first player to get dropped is? - catch22b

Considering the Chargers cut L.J. Shelton, a legitimate veteran backup Tackle, I think they're happy with their offensive line right now. If an injury happens, I think Corey Clark gets brought up from the practice squad before the team goes searching through the scrap heap. However, bringing back Shelton (who has yet to be signed) wouldn't be out of the question either.

Green and Ivy are both decent players, but there's a reason they were cut. They're more expensive than rookies and offer little advantage over the young guys. If the Chargers think they desperately need a 4th CB, Simeon Castille will be the first one that gets the call (since they're already paying him). If one of our top 3 corners gets injured, then the team will start looking at free agent corners and see which one is the most ready to get significant time on the field. Right now, don't concern yourself with it.

Since C.J. Spillman has already said that the team initially cut him, only to bring him back on the 53-man roster, he has to be considered the team's first option to get cut until he proves himself on the field.

What kind of an impact do you expect from Larry English early in the season? Can we expect the pass rush packages with Phillips, Merriman, and English we heard about in training camp, or do you think English has more work to do to get on the field? - Hoot1969

Minimal in terms of numbers, but I expect a huge impact from Larry in the way of keeping Shaun and Shawne healthy and fresh. For the season, I could see 10+ sacks from him, but I also see him gaining steam as the season goes along.

According to everything I've heard, the team hasn't even had time to try their "three-headed monster" package with English, Merriman and Phillips on the field at the same time because they've been trying to get English well-versed in the regular defensive schemes. If I had to guess I'd say look for that three-headed monster package to show up in Pittsburgh a handful of times, and then for 4-8 plays each game afterward if it provides good results. However, the better Kevin Burnett plays the harder it is to take him off the field for one of these pass-rushers.

Arizona Cardinals vs San Francisco 49ers: Key Match Ups

Andrew602 — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 16:34:11 -0000

by Paul Connors - AP

3 months ago: FILE - In this Aug. 28, 2009 file photo, Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald (11) makes a catch against the Green Bay Packers during the second quarter of an NFL preseason football game in Glendale, Arz. The reigning NFC champs spent a lot of time after the workout deflecting concerns about the team's 0-4 preseason, pointing out that coach Ken Whisenhunt never used anything but Arizona's basic offense and defense. (AP Photo/Paul Connors)

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With our opening game being only days away, it's that time to name the key match ups between the Arizona Cardinals and the San Francisco 49ers. Almost every year, both teams bring an exciting game to the table, and that shouldn't change this year. Whether it be Eric Green failing to fall on a clear fumble in the end zone, or the Cardinals goal line stand on Monday Night Football last year. It's almost too obvious that the 49ers are our rival, so it shouldn't be too hard to find some key match ups. Here are the top match ups to look for on Sunday:

Adrian Wilson vs Vernon Davis - A few days ago I was watching the local news here in Phoenix when I saw an interview with Adrian Wilson. After several questions regarding the Cardinals defense, a reporter asked Wilson how they would cover tight end Vernon Davis, in which Wilson replied, "Who?". The reporter asked him again, only to be followed up by another, "Who?". Wilson and the reporters laughed about it, but it's clear that there's not a whole lot of respect between the two. Both play with a fiery attitude and it should be interesting when they take the field.

Karlos Dansby vs Shaun Hill - When the Niners came to Glendale last year to face the Cardinals on Monday night, they came with a new starter at quarterback. That night he wasn't perfect, throwing several interceptions, but there was a certain play in which Hill ran and converted for a first down. Dansby should have had a clear tackle, but Hill over-powered him(without a helmet), getting the first down. Dansby should already have his hands full watching for Frank Gore, but he should also be looking to stop Hill, should he decide to run the ball again.

Larry Fitzgerald vs Nate Clements - Even though Fitz got the best of Clements at times last year, both play a physical game whenever they match up on opposite sides of each other. After coming off his amazing post season run, we should see Fitzgerald come into this game ready to score. Clements remains one of the most physical press corners in the league, and can frustrate Fitzgerald at times. Let this battle begin.

Mike Gandy/Levi Brown vs Justin Smith - Justin Smith is known for playing all over the field on defense, whether it be playing with his hand on the ground or dropping in coverage. There's little doubt that his strong suit is rushing the passer. He plays with an intense motor, and the 49ers know the key to winning the game is rattling Kurt Warner. Gandy and Brown will be responsible for protecting Warner, and possibly the game.

Gerald Hayes vs Frank Gore - This may be the most important match up out of the bunch. Singletary has said the 49ers will be a run-first offense, and who better to lead them then Frank Gore. Gore's been known to run all over the Cardinals, and if they want any chance at stopping the run, they need linebacker Gerald Hayes to be on his A-game. Hayes is good a shadowing backs, and will need to plug any running holes if the defense stands to slow down Gore.

Chike Okeafor/Calais Campbell vs 49ers Offensive Line - The 49ers offensive line isn't filled with pro bowlers, but they are proficient enough to protect Shaun Hill long enough for him to get rid of the ball. One of the weak spots on the Cardinals defense last year was generating a pass rush. They need to start off the season strong and develop pressure on the opposing quarterback. Pressure leads to sacks or ill-advised throws, which then leads to turnovers.

If the Cardinals are going to come out with a win on Sunday, they'll not only need to win these key match ups, but they'll need to play mistake free. The Niners have capitalized on Cardinal mistakes in the past, so protecting Warner and holding on to the football are very important. Are there any other important match ups heading into this game? What would you consider the most important match up?

49ers At Arizona Cardinals: Know Thy Enemy Edition

Pyromnc — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 19:27:06 -0000

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4 months ago: San Francisco 49ers running back Frank Gore runs a drill during NFL football training camp in Napa, Calif., on Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2009. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

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Since the Arizona Cardinals joined the NFC West after the 2001 season, and started playing San Francisco 49ers twice a year, the match ups between these two teams have always seemed to go back and forth. In 2007 the 49ers swept the series, but in 2008 the Cardinals picked up both wins. To make matters more interesting, several of the games have had weird endings. In 2007, Eric Green wasn't able to recover a fumble in the end zone at the end of the first game, then Kurt Warner was sacked in the end zone during overtime to end the second meeting. In 2008, the Niners squandered a last second opportunity by not using Frank Gore on the last play of the game that could have won it for them. Last season, with Mike Martz as the offensive coordinator, many thought that the Niners didn't utilize Gore's skills, but that is expected to change this season.

This season Mike Singletary has come out and said they will play to their strength and that strength is running the ball. That means more Frank Gore in each and every game, which should be a scary proposition for a Cardinals defense that hasn't had much success against him in the past. In Gore's eight career games against us, he has rushed for 530 yards (66.3 ypg), on 111 carries (4.8 ypc), and 8 touchdowns. If you narrow that search to games that Gore actually started (basically throw out his rookie year when carried the ball eight times in two games), you're left with 504 yards (84 per game) on 103 carries. To make matters worse, he has also hurt us in the passing game, catching 32 passes for 317 yards, and all but three receptions for 19 yards have come in his six games as a starter. All in all, Gore has racked up 802 total yards from scrimmage and scored eight TDs in his six games as a starter against the Cardinals.

As you can tell, Gore has not been a stranger to us and has shown time and time again that he can hurt the Cardinals defense. Shutting down a back as talented as Gore is never a one man job, but Karlos Dansby will shoulder a great deal of that responsibility. Dansby enters this season on a mission to prove that he's a premier linebacker, worthy of being paid among the league's best defenders, and he'll get a significant test this week. These two will undoubtedly meet on Sunday, and it'll be up to Dansby to limit Gore's impact on the outcome of this game. How do you see this match-up playing out and what's the best way to slow down Frank Gore?

NFC West Breakdown: San Francisco 49ers

Pyromnc — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 20:00:10 -0000

More photos » by Paul Sakuma - AP

8 months ago: Michael Crabtree, right, the San Francisco 49ers NFL football first-round draft pick, holds up his new jersey with head coach Mike Singletary, left, during a news conference at 49ers headquarters in Santa Clara, Calif., Sunday, April 26, 2009. Crabtree was a wide receiver from Texas Tech. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)

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Key Additions: CB Dre Bly (Broncos), QB Damon Huard (Chiefs), WR Brandon Jones (Titans), OT Marvel Smith (Steelers), FB Moran Norris (Lions).

Key Losses: S Keith Lewis (Cardinals), CB Donald Strickland (Jets), QB J.T. O'Sullivan (Bengals), WR Bryant Johnson (Lions).

Draft: WR Michael Crabtree (1st), RB Glen Coffee (3rd), LB Scott Mckillop (5th), QB Nate Davis (5th), TE Bear Pascoe (6th), FS Curtis Taylor (7th), DT Ricky Jean-Francois (7th).

The 49ers have had a rough go of it the past several seasons failing to register a winning record since the 2002 season. Part of the problem for the team has been bad drafts after bad drafts, failing to create that homegrown talent that most teams use to be successful. By making the intense Mike Singletary the full time head coach, the 49ers' front office hopes that his mindset and pedigree can change their fortunes when it comes to getting good prospects to rebuild this team and make it the perennial winner 49ers fans had become accustomed to.

In the 2009 draft, the 49ers were able to get some players full of potential epitomized by Michael Crabtree who slid to the 10th pick yet many draft pundits projected him to be a top 3 talent before the draft. Crabtree is an immense talent coming out of college having more than 20 TDs this past season for Texas Tech. His talent and potential has been compared to Larry Fitzgerald. This would be awesome for the 49ers offense that has lacked a consistently talented receiver since Terrell Owens was traded. The problem is that Crabtree hasn't signed yet and is threatening to holdout and re-enter the draft next year. This would set them back in trying to add talent to this team as it would be another "wasted" first round pick, yet even worse than the Alex Smith or Vernon Davis picks with nothing to show but boxes of unsold #15 jerseys. Even though the team has done right by not giving into Crabtree's demands of being paid as a top three player, they need to get him in as fast as possible as every game he misses inhibits his impact as a first season player.

Another dark cloud looming over this offense is the quarterback situation. In 2005 they drafted Alex Smith with the first overall pick and so far he hasn't lived up to expectations. This season he hopes to change that and prove he can be that player the team thought they were drafting; he's shown his willingness to be a team player by reworking his rookie contract. The 49ers also have Amsterdam Admiral alum Shaun Hill who won five of his last eight games to finish last season helping the team salvage what was looking like another double digit loss season. If the wheels completely fall off the Niners', Damon Huard's veteran savvy can only help the younger players and run the offense. This team needs one of these QBs to step up and lead this team as Frank Gore cannot do it alone on offense especially with opposing defenses scheming to take him out of the game. If the passing and running game is going to improve, they will need their offensive line to stay healthy and key players to step up. Vernon Davis exploded onto the NFL scene with his impressive NFL Combine performance but has not lived up to expectations as he was supposed to completely change the tight end position in the NFL. Since Singletary has taken over, Davis has looked completely different and most Niners' fans thinks he might have a breakout year. The team also has Josh Morgan and Isaac Bruce at wide receiver to provide passing targets but the depth is full of unknowns and lofty "Fooch Potential", especially as long as Michael Crabtree isn't suiting up. If this team loses any of these mentioned players this year, especially Gore, than they are in trouble as again there isn't much experienced depth on this team.

The defense on this team has the potential to be one of the top units in the league. Not only is it influenced by one of the most physical players in his day, Mike Singletary, but they also have one of the best, if not the best, linebackers in the NFL with Patrick Willis. This guy is an anchor to this team making key plays every game. They also have a strong coverage corner in Nate Clements and a lot of potential in safety Dashon Goldson and Tarell Brown. Like the offense, the defense has its questions with certain players such as Manny Lawson who yet to meet the expectations that come with being the player they drafted in the first round two years ago. They also need to keep Takeo Spikes healthy as there isn't much depth behind him. This unit by far is looking like the better part of this team going into the 2009 season.

Since Mike Singletary has taken over this team, they have been looking better by the day but it still has its problems, the biggest being a lack of depth necessary to have a winning team. They also need to get Crabtree in camp because he is a major key to their future and they don't need any more players labeled "busts". Still, there is a lot to look forward to if you are a 49ers fan especially in the NFL West where a couple of key injuries to any given team can completely alter the playoff landscape.

Record for 2009: 7-9
Record Vs the Cardinals: 0-2 Really tough to predict this one as they have been playing close games lately but I am going to give both games to the Cards as I think the 49ers fall short in the end as they are not quite there yet in getting back to their winning ways.
Record Vs the NFC West: 3-3

Poll

Most Important Story Lines for the 2009 Season.

Getting Michael Crabtree Signed

206 votes

Vernon Davis Having a Breakout Season

159 votes

Alex Smith Winning the QB postion

37 votes

Something Else

83 votes

485 votes | Poll has closed

Eric Green is a turd

Matty I — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 22:01:28 -0000

Yes - I said it. Eric Green is definitely a turd. Why? Only a turd would make comments like this about a team that handed him roughly $3 million in guaranteed money after he stunk up the join in Arizona last year:

"Right after I signed (with the Dolphins) I had a gut feeling I made the wrong decision, but of course, I couldn't say that. I had a gut feeling I didn't need to be there and I didn't want to be there. ... When they told me (about the release) I was almost relieved. Here, they are more laid back, which is what it was like in Arizona. In Miami they almost wouldn't allow you to chew gum in meetings."

Translation? "I'd rather play for a losing team where it's not as strict because I'm a giant sissy and don't like having to follow rules. Oh - and I'm not that good, either, which is why the Dolphins didn't need me."

So I guess that explains why Green was so bad on the field. He wasn't allowed to chew gum during meetings - which resulted in Eric getting burnt time and time again on the field. Makes sense, right?

Seriously, I hope Green enjoys playing for a losing team in San Francisco. If nothing else, at least he'll get to chew gum during meetings.

Dolphins Roundup: Wednesday Practices

Matty I — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 01:02:09 -0000

The Dolphins practiced twice on Wednesday - their first time back on the field since Monday's preseason opener. But there was news off the field as well. As you know, the Dolphins cut cornerback Eric Green today. Also, it's being reported that tennis stars Venus and Serena Williams are buying a stake in the team. But I could care less about that - so let's move on to action on the field.

DONALD THOMAS BACK WITH FIRST TEAM
After splitting series with Shawn Murphy at RG on Monday night, Donald Thomas reclaimed his starting spot with the first-team offensive line at practice on Wednesday. It's not that Murphy played poorly, either. But Thomas looked very sharp in his first game action since injuring his foot in the opening game last year. And that's impressive considering Thomas has only been practicing with the team for less than two weeks in camp this year as he recovered from an offseason injury he sustained while working out. The kid is still young and very raw and he's only going to get better.

CAMARILLO WORKS WITH FIRST TEAM IN MORNING
On Monday, Greg Camarillo only got into the game for about four plays (if I counted right). That's probably because they want to take it slow as he recovers from the knee injury that ended his 2008 season early. But Camarillo worked ahead of Davone Bess for the first time in over a week, getting snaps with the first-team offense on Wednesday morning.

However, Bess was back ahead of Camarillo on Wednesday night and he was the star of the practice. The PBP reported Bess caught "several passes" during team drills on Wednesday night. But I can't help but wonder why Camarillo got to work ahead of Davone in the morning. Was it to light a fire under Davone? If so, it seemed to work. Or was it just to give Camarillo some reps after hardly playing on Monday?

Either way, I expect both to see plenty of action this season. But my question right now is - if the season started today - who is the other starter opposite of Ted Ginn?

CHAD HENNE'S PRACTICE STRUGGLES CONTINUE
In the morning session, Henne and his second-team offense struggled during redzone drills. A bobbled snap by Henne and an interception in the endzone by Will Billingsley "highlighted" the drill.

Then in the afternoon, Henne's struggles during the two-minute drill continued. Two of his first three passes were batted down and the offense was unable to get into scoring position. Now that could actually not be Henne's fault. Maybe the offensive line was giving Chad no time to throw, which resulted in passes being batted down. But it's been a recurring theme all camp long - Henne's inability to move his offense into scoring position during the two-minute drill.

Luckily, though, it's only practice. Henne didn't look bad in the preseason opener (he wasn't great, either). I'm anxious to see if he improves in Saturday's game against Carolina.

INJURY UPDATES
Matt Roth continues to sit out of practice. And this comes after agent Drew Rosenhaus said on Sunday night that he expected Roth to be back at practice at some point this week. We'll see - but the clock is ticking.

Meanwhile, left guard Justin Smiley sat out of the afternoon practice with an undisclosed injury. But it doesn't appear it's a serious concern. Smiley was dressed for the afternoon practice and participated in individual drills. But he sat out of the team drills.

Dolphins release CB Eric Green

Matty I — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 21:57:49 -0000

Many Dolphin fans, myself included, questioned the wisdom behind signing cornerback Eric Green to a two year contract earlier this offseason. He played poorly last year for the Cardinals and actually got buried on their depth chart by midseason.

Today the Dolphins showed they aren't afraid to admit their mistakes. After a poor offseason with Miami and a poor performance in Monday's preseason game, Eric Green was released today. This likely means Jason Allen's roster spot is safe...for now. He and Nathan Jones were believed to be competing for two roster spots with Green. With Green gone, both Jones - a coaching staff favorite - and Allen will likely make the 53-man squad.

This decision by the Dolphins, though, does add pressure on the two rookie corners - Vontae Davis and Sean Smith - to perform. Smith has played well and is now probably the favorite to win the starting job. Davis struggled in his preseason debut, making numerous mental mistakes. But with time and maturity, I don't expect too many of those kinds of games from Davis.

Hat tip to "VA phin Fan"