@NBCSports What the fuck is it with NBC and the fucking Kentucky Derby? I’m waiting on the Celtics’ GAME 7 and these assholes are still talking about a stupid fucking horse race … WTF?🤬
"I spoke to an offensive coach who's been in this league for 35 years who likes [De'Zhaun] Stribling more than Makai Lemon." 👀
- @gregcosell "really, really likes" the 49ers' newest WR (via @WillardAndDibs).
@WIPMorningShow I don't like witch hunts but Vrabel positions himself as a leader for the team and community. His character is in question and this does impact the trust that players and the team have for him.
Pay the man. It’s really that simple.
Trent Williams isn’t just another lineman with a big cap number he’s the cornerstone of the entire offense. You don’t accidentally become a five-time All-Pro at left tackle. He’s been the blindside protector, the tone-setter in the run game, and one of the biggest reasons the offense functions at an elite level year after year.
Yes, $39M is a massive cap hit. But elite left tackles are premium assets. You don’t “replace” someone like that especially not when you’re trying to compete for a Super Bowl right now. If this drags out and he actually hits free agency, he instantly becomes the most impactful veteran available, and there will be a line around the block.
From the team’s perspective, I get wanting flexibility. From his perspective, he’s earned security and respect. The solution shouldn’t be letting your franchise left tackle walk over structure disputes. Restructure it, extend it, get creative but don’t weaken your championship window over cap gymnastics.
If the San Francisco 49ers are serious about winning now, this shouldn’t even be a question.
With five-time All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams scheduled to carry a $39 million cap number this season, he and the 49ers currently are struggling to find a contractual solution, per league sources. If the two sides can’t bridge their differences in their standoff, Williams would be expected to join this year’s free-agent class, making him one of the premier players available.
I asked 49ers GM John Lynch if he thinks the substation theory will impact the Niners ability to attract free agents. He said personally, the proud, legendary history of the 49ers is what he would think about.
@grantcohn asked a good follow up about players voicing concerns about the issue and Lynch said they’re continuing to look into it and they take players concerns seriously.
#49ers
In two years, the 49ers:
-Traded away Jordan Mason (5.1 career YPC) to move up and draft Marques Sigle.
-TRADED UP 40+ spots to draft Isaac Guerendo
-Traded Deebo Samuel for the draft pick used on Jordan James.
James and Guerendo combined for zero carries last season. 🤷♂️
@Tonysmarkettips Shanahan and Lynch are not good at recognizing talent. Bypassing Patrick Mahomes in the 2017 draft is inexcusable especially when they needed a QB. Lynch visited Mahomes and told KS, 'You better have a look at this kid-'. So it probably was KS who decided to not pick him.
@Tonysmarkettips Some good research here Tony. Jordan Mason should never had been traded. Shanahan explained that he didn't want to spend $5mil to keep him. The Guerendo pick doesn't look good at all. And the 1st round pick for Pearsall was weak when players like Cooper DeJean were available.
49ers GM John Lynch is Shockingly Bad at Drafting in the Top 3 Rounds si.com/nfl/49ers/onsi… And we haven't even discussed Lynch's poor handling of contracts. Hiring a de facto GM to oversee Shanahan is the right call.
@grantcohn Keeping Mac is a no-brainer. But KS and Lynch are poor with trades and contracts. Remember them trading Jordan Mason for a 6 rounder? Giving Purdy $53 mil when they just signed Mac Jones 2 months earlier? There's not much intelligence here. I'm hoping Jed York cans the two.