Did you hear? The big news out of the OTAs?
Sure, there were some lesser stories. Master motivator Mike Singletary was unable to motivate half his defense to show up. (Nate Clements went AWOL even at the cost of half a million bucks; aren't you LOVIN' the team spirit?) Alex Smith showed off his new Peyton Manning leadership skills, though the impression went a bit south when he started, you know, throwing. (But don't worry; the QB isn't the most important player, remember?) And our new fleet of punt returners were rattled by the stiff winds of, um, Santa Clara. (Is it too late to put a ROOF on that stadium?)
The BIG news, though, was something else.
After much thought, study, and analysis, Jed's come up with our new organizational structure.
Prepare to be inspired.
In March, when he announced Scot McCloughan's exit, he told us he wasn't sure what would come next. He'd let Trent Baalke run the draft, and then he'd figure out "what's the right structure."
Not exactly a vision of Singletarian clarity.
But the draft went on, and the draft went well. Baalke, the so-called "point person," proved he was compatible with Singletary; he proved it, of course, by doing exactly what Singletary wanted. But whatever. The draft went well.
That's good news, naturally. But it comes at a price.
Jed took the draft as evidence that a mushy structure works. So now he's decided to keep it. And that's a bad idea.
There isn't one right way to build a successful football organization. Typically, there's a head football executive (with any of various titles) and a head football coach. But the executive can be over the coach (think Bill Polian over Tony Dungy), the coach can be over the executive (think Bill Belichick over Scott Pioli), and the coach can even BE the executive (think Bill Walsh, but beware; thinking of him too much can cause nostalgia of a heartbreaking sort).
The organizational chart doesn't matter. What matters is the clarity of the chain of command. A successful organization involves cooperation, but ultimately it's not a democracy.
There's gotta be one boss, and everyone's gotta know who it is.
Let's take a look at Jed's new structure, and let's figure out who's the boss, shall we?
As expected, Baalke's officially the head football executive. (True, Paraag Marathe's title is "executive vice president of football (and business) operations," whereas Baalke's is merely "vice president of player personnel," but until Marathe's in charge of any football operations that don't involve the use of a slide rule, Baalke's the head football guy.) And Singletary, of course, is the head football coach.
But who's over whom? The answer is: nobody.
Try to follow this. According to Jed, Singletary "will have control of the 53-man roster," as he's had "from when he was hired." (From when he was hired, eh? That's news. And McCloughan's exit is starting to make a LOT more sense.) Baalke's "in charge of the draft" and "in charge of trades." Free agency, too? No; for reasons unknown (and likely inexplicable), Baalke can't be in charge of THAT, so he and Singletary will be "working together." Neither reports to the other, and both report to Jed. As for who's got the all-important authority to hire and fire the head coach, Jed could only offer a joke: "The head coach because he is going to keep winning."
Good one, Jed.
So, got it? Baalke can draft and trade for the players he wants, but the roster will feature only the players that SINGLETARY wants. (Put another way, Baalke can bring 'em in, but Singletary can send 'em right back out.) As for who we sign in free agency, that's more important than drafting and trading (?!), so Baalke and Singletary will make those decisions together. (If they disagree, I can only assume it'll be rock-paper-scissors, best of three.) And though I don't suppose that Singletary's REALLY in charge of whether he's fired--though I doubt I'd be surprised--I think the question's a bit too important for Jed to dodge with a bit of schtick. Is that decision up to Jed? Or is Dear Old Dad still pulling that string?
Did you figure out who's the boss? If so, you're a whole lot smarter than I.
It's easy to assume--as I'd been assuming--there IS a boss, and it's Singletary. That draft of course was clearly his, so you'd naturally think he's a Belichick, with Baalke playing the loyal Pioli. But Jed didn't say that, and despite all the flak I've given Singletary, I'd much rather have him in a Belichick role than the kind of mush that Jed's set up. At least there'd be that clear chain of command. There'd be one boss, and everyone would know who it is.
Sure, everything looks rosy now. So far, Baalke and Singletary have worked well together--to whatever extent they've actually worked together--so why rock the boat? But ANY structure holds when the weather's calm. The question is how it'll hold in a storm. And no matter how well this season goes, we're bound to hit a storm or two.
In a typical structure, when the storm hits, the boss makes the call. He listens to advice, of course, but the decision is his. Clear leadership, clear accountability. But in THIS structure, when the storm hits, everyone will sit down, join hands, sing Kumbaya, and work through it together. The leadership is muddled, with no accountability at all.
History shows which structure's more likely to lead to success. But as we know, history's never meant much to the Yorks.
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Darrell G
Wow Jeff, I guess some folks just didn't pick up on the columnist vs. reporter comparison. After seeing the 3-part interview from Maiocco, courtesy of the webzone, and reading back on a few articles I still have to disagree with you, although I understand the concern. Jed reminds me a lot of his uncle the way he is doing things, without a Carmen Policy type admittedly. I truly think he is not just trying to build the team to win, but to return it to its place amongst the elites for years to come. Where we do agree is that if he fails, there is only the guy in the mirror to blame.
Jun 9, 2010 at 7:29 AM
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Dan
Terry: Next time you see D.B. and your mouth isn't full, tell him bring it. That's actually not bad numbers for Smith's half season. A few less interceptions this year and he'll be golden. Why do I care what a Phoenix radio station says about the 49ers? If coach wants to drop his pants apparently he can do that whenever he wants. I'm just glad I wasn't there man. I'm still trying to figure out what team you're from, you listen to Cardinals radio, you want to have D.B.'s babies, I think you're a Packer fan. That would certainly explain everything. I do like Jed, if not just for the fact he pisses guys like you off.
Jun 8, 2010 at 5:33 PM
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Terry B.
Dan, you sure love telling everyone else to get off this site, don't you? Might I suggest that it's you who's on the wrong site? You would be much more comfortable at www.49ershomerzone.com. As for getting behind Singletary, I guess that would be better than getting Singletary's behind. Do you remember this? "Singletary called everyone to attention, dropped his pants and pointed to his rear end, to fully illustrate what the coach thought of his players' performance. According to a report that first aired on Phoenix-area radio XTRA-910, Singletary then berated the team for three to four minutes with his pants around his ankles." Let that sink in for a minute. We gave total control of our roster to a man who berated the team for four minutes with his pants around his ankles. (Where have you gone Bill Walsh?) And this total control was given by a kid with no qualifications or experience. So, yes, this makes me a little nervous about our future. Brees: 4388 yds, 70% comp., 34 TD, 11 int., 109.6 rating; Smith: 2350 yds, 60.5% comp., 18 TD, 12 int., 81.5 rating. And Dan wouldn't make that deal.
Jun 8, 2010 at 8:43 AM
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mister nesbit
it's too obvious you want coach Singletary to crash and burn, and it's pitiful how you're blatantly hoping for people to agree with you. hopefully you'll write something worth reading one day. so far your name near the title is intrigue repellent. don't change your name or anything. i need the fair warning.
Jun 8, 2010 at 1:57 AM
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Delusional Dan
The 49ers are favored by almost all the experts to win the NFC West for whatever it's worth. I don't listen too much to the predictors, but there's what your experts say. That's one or two playoff games removed from the championship game by my count, so how crazy am I? GO NINERS!!! -In your face-
Jun 7, 2010 at 5:43 PM
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Dan
Not replying to Terry B.: If you are behind the 49ers you ARE going to have to get behind the coach and the owners. Otherwise you are just an agitator here. I can understand concern, but I cannot excuse an outright personal vendetta which is what this section of this site seems to represent. A vendetta against the owner who seems to evoke feelings of jealousy because of his perceived undeserved position, and against the coach, which I cannot, after halfheartedly reading a few of your columns, explain. These two are the face of the team however, so you can't support the team and not support these guys. They aren't going anywhere. Now replying to Terry once again, and not happy about it: Dude get lost, I can change my mind if I want to. I don't owe you anything. You have no special knowledge of football, all you know is who won the Super Bowl. Do you know who is going to win this year? No. But you're sure as the Holy Encyclopedia of Idiotness it's not going to be the 49ers aren't you? You are not a supporter of the 49ers in any way. You are actually pissing on the best offseason we've had in years. You are now my least favorite nobody.
Jun 7, 2010 at 5:13 PM
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DaNiners
Like I said, you are a know-nothing and your responses continue to prove that point. Unfortunately, it is an accepted practice throughout most pro sports that players in contract years hold out during voluntary activities. Believe me, most of the other players do not fault them for taking care of business. Next, do you really just go by the reviews of one journalist in order to make your point? In fact, if you are going to publish your opinion, don't you think you should have some first-hand knowledge as opposed to just listening to one person...weak, weak, weak. Moreover, I read every Maiocco article on OTA's and he had several different reviews of Alex based on how he performed on a particular day. A couple great, and others not so good. It is normal during spring ball to be inconsistent and rusty, but you already knew that, right? Seriously, know something before you put pen to paper, you goof.
Jun 7, 2010 at 5:39 AM
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Terry B.
Dan, you said you wouldn't reply anymore. So now you're not a man of your word either? Dan, you will just never get it. Everyone here supports the 49ers. This has nothing to do with support. Support does not mean losing touch with reality, which I'm afraid you have. Drew Brees is better than Alex Smith; Sean Payton is better than Mike Singletary. Just the facts, folks. The problem is not your support for the 49ers, the problem is your patently ridiculous statements like "The road to the NFC championship goes through San Francisco." And, yes, Dan you did argue that Singletary would be a good columnist. In reply to my assertion that he wouldn't, you said that you would love to read a column by Singletary. Am I supposed to infer from this that you want to read him because you think he would be a BAD columnist? And arguing that Alex Smith in the right situation could be better than Brees is no less delusional than arguing that he's currently better than Brees because there is no evidence to support such a belief. As for you and Limbaugh, Limbaugh = Republicans are always right; Dan = 49ers are always right. What's the difference?
Jun 7, 2010 at 5:12 AM
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Dan
Congratulations on your brilliant tricky question (you must be proud of that kind of brain power) and your obviously expert hypothesis of my sanity based on my support of the San Francisco 49ers' coach and quarterback. I still don't know why I respond to you, but it's making me feel like I'm stooping a couple (hundred) levels.
Jun 6, 2010 at 3:16 PM
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Terry B.
Dan, interesting that you say I can't read, but you somehow couldn't figure out that Sean Payton means Sean Payton. Anyway, the question put to you was perfect because if you answered yes it would mean I'm right and if you answered no it would mean you're crazy. Thank you so much for your answer Dan. I now know everything I need to know. I just pray you never get a job in our front office.
Jun 6, 2010 at 2:07 PM
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Dan
Correction to match your stupid impossible scenario that does not interest me in the slightest and I can't believe I'm wasting my time. I see you meant Sean Payton. No, I'm not impressed with your coach, I think it's against the spirit of the NFL's protecting the quarterback from death or permanent disability to set your team against an old worn-out tired quarterback (who I respect and loathe in a way). I lost respect for all of N.O. last year. I'm tired of your responses anyway so say what you want, I won't be responding to you Terry, you don't belong here.
Jun 6, 2010 at 12:02 PM
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Dan
To answer your question, no. I would rather see this team, which I have been watching and bragging on, just go to the playoffs than have them make some Lakers-steal-Pao-Gasol-type trade for two quarterbacks when we only need one, and win the Super Bowl. Buying championships ruins the satisfaction of victory. Please stop misrepresenting me, I'm just a fan of my team on my fansite. You really should just post on your own team's site and leave this one alone.
Jun 6, 2010 at 10:38 AM
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Dan
To Terry, Words you put in my mouth I didn't say: Singletary would be a good columnist, Alex Smith is better than Drew Brees, and other teams are not improving in the offseason. You need to work on your reading skills maybe. I would like to read a column by Mike Singletary, I do think Alex Smith could be as good or better than Drew if conditions are right, and I don't think the rest of the NFL is improving as much as we are. While I acknowledge that the "experts" are plenty good analysts, they don't know everything. I don't think your 200 experts had New Orleans winning the Super Bowl, did they? There's no better victory than one that everyone said you couldn't win. Thank you for being a part of that for the 49ers. It's just too bad that you guys are allowed to post on this site. Also Rush Limbaugh is a jerk too. He twists people's words, makes assumptions, and has no moral character. I do think you're a jerk because you attacked me personally with names and questioned my mental state instead of sticking to your rightful opinion. But I'm not going to compare you to dirt like Rush Limbaugh because he's in his very own category. And why would I need Brees if I had Payton?
Jun 6, 2010 at 10:30 AM
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Terry B.
Dan, if you believe that 1) the road to the NFC championship goes through SF, 2) Mike Singletary would be a good columnist, and 3) Alex Smith is better than Drew Brees, then, yes, you are delusional. And this is not my opinion, it's indisputable fact. And if acknowledging this makes me a jerk, then I'm a jerk. But I'm also grounded in reality. Please answer this question for me; I can't wait for your answer. If you could trade Smith and Singletary straight up for Brees and Payton, would you make that deal?
Jun 6, 2010 at 8:30 AM
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Terry B.
Dan, I think your problem is that you seem to forget that the other 31 teams have players and coaches too, and that they also spent the offseason fixing weaknesses and improving their teams. Yes, Singletary has good football knowledge, but do you think Sean Payton just might, too? In order to pass the roughly half of the NFL that finished better than us, we not only have to get to where they were last year, but to get to where they are after the past offseason. Here's an experiment I would like to try. Take the 200 most knowledgeable people about the NFL and ask them, if they were starting a franchise and they could choose as a coach Sean Payton or Mike Singletary and as a QB Alex Smith or Drew Brees, who would they choose? If the results were anything less than 200 Payton/Brees combos I would be shocked. It's O.K. to root for Alex Smith but acknowledge that you'd rather have Peyton Manning. That doesn't make you less of a fan. Being a fan does not mean disassociating from reality. I once heard it argued that Rush Limbaugh has no credibility because you know what he's going to say before he says it. That's kind of like you, Dan.
Jun 6, 2010 at 5:04 AM
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Dan
Delusional? Why, because I'd rather stick with the 49ers than jump on the Drew Brees bandwagon? Maybe you think I'm delusional because I think the 49ers will match up well against the Saints at home. But don't tell me I'm delusional because I believe in my team, Jerk. And don't call me a homer either cause you don't know me and you never could, with your limited capacity. I wish the best for you and whatever team it is you support, but my 49ers are going to stomp on your team. You're delusional cause you spew this negative crap on my team's fan website.
Jun 5, 2010 at 10:19 PM
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Giant9er
I really can't believe how negative you are. Is there anything about the team you do like? How about the niners go 10-6 and host 2 playoff games? Smith goes to the pro bowl, along with VD, Crabs, Gore, Willis and half the O-line? There's just as much fact behind that as there is in this piece.
Jun 5, 2010 at 8:59 AM
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Terry B.
So now Dan is hanging out with the 49ers? Dan you're seriously becoming delusional. The word homer doesn't even begin to describe you. You're in a category all by yourself.
Jun 5, 2010 at 8:36 AM
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Dan
We'll be playing New Orleans early enough in the season, maybe you can sit by the Saints' bench and kiss up to the great Drew Brees. I'd much rather hang with the 9ers. Singletary would write better than this whiny dribble. He also has more football knowledge in his pinky than you amateurs have collectively so that alone would be worth it. I restate my last post, get off the soapbox and make room for some real football talk.
Jun 5, 2010 at 8:10 AM
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Terry B.
"The 2011 NFC championship goes through San Francisco." Well, Dan, I guess we can all stop listening to you, as all of your credibility just went out the window. I'll email Drew Brees and let him know there's a new sheriff in town. As for whether anyone on this board would be a good coach, I don't know, but I suspect that Singletary would not make a good columnist, so it's probably even.
Jun 5, 2010 at 5:35 AM
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Dan
The 49ers ARE going to tear it up this year and you guys can just continue to cry about whatever it is Singletary did to piss you guys off. You guys aren't going to get an "insider" or whatever it is you want. You're stuck with what we have. Too bad, if you don't like it. You're wasting your time, holding hands whining about the coach here. The 2011 NFC championship goes through San Francisco. If you want it, you have to go through us. You guys would make terrible coaches by the way with all your complaining. You should stop pretending you know something.
Jun 4, 2010 at 6:32 PM
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DaNiners
This is just a poorly written article with little in terms of facts to back your assertions. The Nate Clements point is beyond ridiculous and frankly shows little or no understanding of why veterans decide to show up at OTA's. Deciding not to show up for OTA's is purely related to Clements', Lawson's and Franklin's contract situations. Effectively, they are in contract years. Clements (although not actually in a contract year) will likely be cut by the Niners next year, while Lawson and Franklin are in contract years...none of them want to get hurt. This is normal for many players on many teams. They also want to make the point that they are a little pissed off. Next, Alex Smith looked very good in OTA's and is getting rave reviews for his newfound leadership skills. I mean really, the fact that your very first two points are nonsense does not help your case with regard to the rest of your article. Get it right, or stop posting.
Jun 4, 2010 at 12:41 PM
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Terry B.
The column Jeff should have written, according to a majority of posters: A lot of positive developments out of 49ers camp, folks. First, Alex Smith still looks erratic at the start of year two in the system. This is great news and shows that we can think outside the box. The whole "accurate QB" thing has been done to death. And have you heard, Singletary, whose best trait is motivational ability, can't get our players to show up at OTAs? This is great news because the players who won't be on the team in the fall will get a lot of reps. And I've heard that Singletary has not dropped his pants once during OTAs! And have you heard about our organizational structure? Again, why do what has been done to death and by so many failed clubs? Why don't we put a 28-year-old kid with no experience and no qualifications in charge and let him implement a bizarre system in which the person who has authority over the draft and trades does not have authority over free agency? What a great idea! We will win for sure with these developments! These are some of the greatest innovations since Bill Walsh invented the West Coast offense. Super Bowl!
Jun 4, 2010 at 8:17 AM
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ray deanda
Wow! Everything's wrong. Alex Smith can't throw. our punt returners can't catch. mike singletary is a control freak. let's just throw the towel in, the niners probably won't win a game. Nothing like being negative in a negative world. How about being optimistic, maybe the niners just might tear it up this year, just maybe. can you say maybe. Sure you can. I knew you could. Go niners.
Jun 3, 2010 at 3:21 PM
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Dan
49ers = NOT a weak team. YEA GO NINERS!!!!!!
Jun 3, 2010 at 10:40 AM
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louie
Izzy, before you bring up 49er history you ought to get it right. 1. Walsh had a lot of NFL and college coaching experience before he was hired by Eddie. He was considered one of the brightest minds in football. He had never been an NFL head coach, mostly because he, like most super talented/creative people, didn't like to kiss ass. Comparing his experience and proven ability to Singletary's is a joke. Bill Walsh was not a rookie. 2. Carmen Policy was not on the scene at the beginning. 3. The unsung NFL heavy in the 49er organization was John McVay, who came over after years with the Giants. He was not a financial guy like Carmen. He was a GM in the true sense of the word. He was very involved in everything. He was an NFL heavy. 4. Walsh then proceeded to hire some of the best assistant coaches that the NFL has ever seen. There is not one NFL schooled/experienced management person in their leadership group, and there never has been since Eddie and Carmen left. And since that time they have been a weak team.
Jun 2, 2010 at 8:57 PM
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Izzy
RamItOn – I am not arguing the fact that the 49ers have sucked for years but Jed's action has mimicked more of Eddie's than his dad. I have no problem throwing John York under the bus, he brought in Erickson / Donahue then followed it with Nolan / McCloughan. In the two years that Jed is in charge, he has removed the decisionmaker that his dad had brought in. Jed cannot just rip the entire organization apart like Eddie did in 1979, that will be openly admitting that his dad dropped the ball. The way Jed is handling the organization should be segregated from the John York days and Jed's action should be judged on its own without a preceded notion that he will be like his dad.
Jun 2, 2010 at 6:20 PM
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Dan
You guys are pretty much assuming they can't get it done; you're giving up. Even in our worst years we have not given up so shame on you all who would count the 49ers out because you don't like the owner. Even Nolan never gave up. Raider fans don't even do this crap. 49er fans don't give up on their team and they don't talk trash about their coaches.
Jun 2, 2010 at 5:38 PM
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IWantWinners
Winnie? So are we doing the name-calling thing now? Here's the thing, Jeffey Poo, there's a time to bitch and moan and a time to have a bit of optimism, sit back and see how it plays out. Everytime I read one of your write-ups it's like watching Blow with Johnny Depp all over again...It's depressing. Here's the truth about the complaints you have made...Coach Sing has improved the Niners product on the field the year and a 1/2 since he took over, Baalke, Sing & the gang drafted EXACTLY as they should have...Alex Smith showed marked improvement last year and all observations say he not only looks more in control but he is zipping passes all over the field. As for Jed, he's shown more DeBartolo than York since he took over and that is a GREAT thing. The problem I have with your writings is that you say things for shock value with no real backup to your points. There is really no depth to what you are saying in my opinion. I guess that's what opinion columns are for...Opinions...Well thought out or not...Keep writing and I'll keep slamming!! Sincerely, Winnie
Jun 2, 2010 at 5:06 PM
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Izzy
Louie – It is obvious from your comment that "executives running the company are NOT inexperienced rookies" that you do not understand LEAN, you are a Traditionalist. When Eddie D hired Walsh and turned over the key of the organization, Walsh at that time would be considered an "inexperienced rookie" and numerous NFL insiders questioned Eddie's decision. Walsh had overall accountability and he built the functional support to meet his needs. The only person that he did not have direct control of was Carmen Policy, Carmen controlled the purse. So if you had your way, the Walsh hiring would never have happened because you would be looking for some savvy NFL experienced insider.
Jun 2, 2010 at 4:22 PM
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IWantWinners10
Are you a Ram fan or something? Every freaking time I read one of your write-ups you are slamming the 9ers every way possible. I think you are some kind of undercover Ram fan here to crap on every facet of the 9er organization @ every opportunity! I will not buy in to your evil scheme. I will not read another one!
Jun 2, 2010 at 12:00 PM
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RamItOn
Dan: You wrote, in response to Louie, that the 49ers' front office is not occupied by inexperienced rookies, that they've been building this team "for years." Yeah, and we've sucked...for years. I don't pretend to know the intricacies of the game or the process of building a team, but I do know that any team that has suffered a drought of winning like we have (for years!) needs some sort of fundamental change, at all levels. Jeff: Keep up the good work. Always informative, always entertaining are your articles. Perhaps, though, to appease the readers who think you too negative, you could scribe a poem highlighting the positive aspects of the team. Here, let me start it: There once was a family of Yorks, who gave their boy an expensive toy. It wasn't a Ferrari or a stripper, it was a football franchise, one that couldn't, if their lives depended on it, "win one for the gipper." [Feel free to add to it.]
Jun 2, 2010 at 9:29 AM
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louie
I didn't make any assumptions, you did. Re-read your statement. The front office big four are all learning their respective jobs as we speak. That makes them rookies. There is no one in the front office that brings NFL savvy to the table, and that's the point Jeff has been trying to make, and some of us are not too blind to see and agree. My point is that it would make more sense to have some (one?) experienced, successful NFL heavies on the management team. Not just insiders who get promoted when someone else leaves. Anything is possible in sports, so maybe they'll win doing it like no other team has ever done it. Maybe. But I think it will take a lot more of Jed's lucky sperm club luck.
Jun 2, 2010 at 9:13 AM
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Dan
I have to respond to louie, hardball negotiations have not been an issue. That one area I have found the guys to excel. They handled Eugene well last year and have gotten a few free agents this year. I'm glad they didn't go after Donovan McNabb. He doesn't win the big game and his rating isn't very good. We have all the players we need. No one in the front office is an inexperienced rookie, they've been building this team for years. The question is, can they get to the next level. The answer you will get to see. Meanwhile lay off the "might not's" and assumptions. Keep to facts guys. This is going to be a good team regardless of the haters on this site. It's so sad.
Jun 1, 2010 at 10:35 PM
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louie
It's telling how many of these comments supporting the 49er "leadership" talk about corporate structure as if that's the new solution to winning in the NFL. To begin with, when corporate structure is lean, the executives that are running the company are NOT inexperienced rookies who just happen to be around to get promoted whenever someone else leaves! And usually there's a genius or two somewhere in the mix. To get back to running a sports franchise (and reality), when you add the lack of experience at all their jobs, to the lack of connections and familiarity with all their NFL competitors, it's a long-shot that this set-up will take the team back to the top (winning the NFC West is not the top). Building and running a successful sports franchise is not just what appears in the sports blogs/articles. Importantly, it includes lots of hardball negotiations and dealmaking with experienced, tough, NFL insiders from other teams. The fact that we haven't seen this 49er group make draft-day deals and free-agent signings might not be because they're cool and confident. They might not know how, amongst many other things that us fans don't pay attention to. Pray for luck.
Jun 1, 2010 at 8:20 PM
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Izzy
I like what Jed did. Jed has implemented what the corporate world considers a LEAN structure. Singletary is accountable for the end product on the field (Ws) and therefore Singletary should have input on all aspects of the organization to enable him to deliver. Marathe and Baalke are to provide the best available options without mortgaging the future, Singletary cannot bypass them. In a LEAN structure, a GM is considered a middle-man between the functional support and the product on the field. I will stop trying to explain this structure to you and suggest that you look it up for yourself. Jed might not be following NFL historical organizational structure but there are plenty of Fortune 500 companies that are using this organizational structure.
Jun 1, 2010 at 5:46 PM
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Paul
Jeff, great article, 53 comments and counting! You really hit a nerve or two. I enjoy your work, keep it up!
Jun 1, 2010 at 3:12 PM
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Dallas Niner Fan
Jeff, there's an article in the chron. by Kevin Lynch called "Experience Matters." It is in line with your thinking about how the Niners have no one with experience in the front office. I think that all your detractors should take note that you are not the only one with this kind of analysis. I tend to agree. Of course we hope we are wrong but, let's face it, you can't ignore the weaknesses under the guise of blind homerism!!! Your critics need to chill and appreciate different views.
Jun 1, 2010 at 2:02 PM
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Randy
"everything might turn out fine, and here's hoping it does." nice to hear (read) the word hope, coming out of your mouth (text). LOL... thanx for the chat!
Jun 1, 2010 at 8:35 AM
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Randy
I think everyone caught your your dig at Baalke, like he's a "yes man" for Singletary. "...he proved it, OF COURSE, by doing EXACTLY WHAT SINGLETARY WANTED." And he might be, but you can't base it off of the players that were drafted. You know what happens when you ASSUME?!!! While I'm not necessarily a York fan, I don't assume Jed's chain of command is flawed because there's no clear answer to who is in charge. Maybe Jed is the only one that knows that. And isn't winning the important thing? I know 8-8 (nothing to write home about) is the best season since the '02 season...8-8 with a team with major holes... let this season play out before you start ripping on a team that is clearly headed in the right direction (competitive with the talent to overcome bad situations). In the end you might be right, but it is just too early to ASSUME anything.
Jun 1, 2010 at 8:02 AM
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Randy
Jeff says, "Baalke, the so-called "point person," proved he was compatible with Singletary; he proved it, of course, by doing exactly what Singletary wanted. But whatever. The draft went well." How can you rip on them for fixing the most glaring holes, and then say the draft went well? Which side of the fence are you on? What would you rather them do? Draft a QB, WR, and a RB so those same glaring holes would still be there? How do you know it wasn't what Baalke wanted? Which in all reality could have been to fill some holes on the team and earn a job. Come on JEFF!!!
May 31, 2010 at 11:40 PM
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Randy
How important is QB if the o-line can't protect him anyway? How efficient is a QB without protection? Erratic throws are a part of practice...that's why they call it practice...that''s why they have OTA's and minicamps!!! And is the wind gonna blow in a stadium like it does in an open field (serious?)? KRs dropping balls is cause for concern more than any of the rest of this stuff you mention... but then again they are at practice for a reason...to PRACTICE, shake off the rust, to get back into football shape. Come on Jeff!!!
May 31, 2010 at 11:28 PM
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Randy
6 of the 8 losses last year were by 7 or less with the majority by less! Went toe-to-toe with Vikes and Colts (2 of the top teams)! The team was competitive unlike Erickson and Nolan teams! It doesn't take a homer to see the team is heading in the right direction!!! Let the structure of continuity be a realistic structure before wiping the slate clean with new owners, GM's, and coaches just to start all over again. Do you want the last 7 years to repeat itself? And while Sing may not have had HC experience he has been in some type of coaching and around football long enough to know what it takes to win. Couple that with his personality and good things can happen! Forget about the vets not showing up, let the young guys get reps so coaches can get a feel for what they can do, they can gain experience through repetition and coaching when an "L" can't be handed out, and be more comfortable when their # is called. Just because the vision is not yours (Owner or HC) doesn't mean it can't work. And just because you don't know what the owner's vision is doesn't mean it isn't just like yours.
May 31, 2010 at 11:13 PM
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Vega
The plane is gonna crash before it even gets off the ground! LMAO That's your opinion and you're entitled to it, but "what looks rosy now" can't stay rosy? As far as Clements, I'd rather the young guys get the reps for they will soon take his spot anyway. And just because Jed didn't give an answer doesn't mean he doesn't have one. As a HC, it's only fair to let him bring in the guys he wants, and the accountability will fall on his shoulders if he fails, which is yet to be determined considering the length in time he's held that position (1 offseason)! You must be one of those guys that think all Sing wants to do is run the ball? And calling for him to be fired? IMO he got the team to play above their potential when you consider the holes vs 8-8 record. While it is yet to be seen, it is very possible the o-line will play better this season which = better run game = better pass game = better on 1st down = less 3 and outs = more time of possession = better offense = better defense = better team = Jed's plan is working!!! I'm not a homer, I hate losing, but it is ok to be optimistic instead of thinking it's gonna fail because you're not used to seeing it work this way. Give it time!!!
May 31, 2010 at 10:32 PM
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Dan
For the love of football Jeff. Watch the game, describe what you see. One article blasting a coach is enough, we get it, you don't have any respect for our coach. A subtle jab or two at the owners and management is fine, though I would prefer none of the drama. Let's hear what you think about Frank, Alex (keep it objective) and Vernon. How about Nate Davis, any thoughts on his future? Just some suggestions for future articles. Another suggestion is go to the Seahawk roster and report how you think each player will match up to their 49er counterpart. That would be interesting. We are such different teams. Try to keep the coaches and GM's or whatever out of it. Your writing skills are good enough for that but you use them wrong. You come off as angry and opinionated. I really don't like your articles but I think you're intelligent enough to do better, if you choose better topics. At game time Singletary is fully accountable, more this season than ever. He has had a lot of say in players, coaches, and playbook. That pretty much makes him accountable, he's never tried to avoid responsibility for any losses. He just keeps trying to make the team better.
May 30, 2010 at 5:18 PM
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louie
Don't despair, Jeff. Reality is not much in vogue these days. However there are those of us who can see when the emperor has no clothes. As I said before, the team is being run by a bunch of amateurs, so I'm hoping for a lot more luck from the lucky sperm club.
May 30, 2010 at 4:17 PM
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ladale
Dang dude, if you have to explain yourself and give this many respones, maybe you have presented yourself as overly critical or harping on the negatives.
May 30, 2010 at 11:23 AM
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kendrick
Can we get past this type of garbage? You sound like a writer from the Sacramento Bee. Writing because it's your job and not your passion. I don't know about everyone else but I am very excited. I like the structure and I don't agree that every organization needs a boss. I think that everyone just needs to do their jobs. Once everyone is working in tune then the benefits start. The benefits of having the right players and having the right offense, defense and special teams installed to complement those players. Jed is on track. I will hate him if he lets my team leave SF but for now I am behind him. Talk about something else please.
May 29, 2010 at 10:30 PM
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GuyB
Don't give up your day job, because objectivity in journalism doesn't appear to be your strong suit.
May 28, 2010 at 8:39 AM
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Zach
An opinion is an opinion when there are no hard facts to go on. We've had this structure for just over 2 months now and we're already whining and complaining. Considering we haven't made the playoffs since '02, should we really be worrying this much about our front-office structure? Here are the only real facts, we seemingly drafted well and filled some glaring holes on our roster (despite our front-office debacle), we were 8 - 8 last year and we have a head coach that wants to run and play D. So, regardless of who's in charge, whether a team situation or not, we've positioned ourselves well. If Singletary is in charge we'll probably never draft a QB because he won one with Jim McMahon, if Baalke is in charge we might end up with players not suited for our newfound team identity. If it ain't broke, don't fix it and as far as I can tell in the last 2 months, nothing is broke yet. . .
May 27, 2010 at 5:55 PM
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John
I would agree the structure isn't crystal clear to the outside world (you, me...whoever) but I wouldn't say it's not "safe," I'm sure Jed is clear on what decisions he is in a position to make and he chose not to disclose it in an interview. Or maybe he didn't want to publicly admit that his parental units still call the "big shots."
May 27, 2010 at 10:58 AM
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Darrell G
Fair enough Jeff, I might disagree with your conclusions, but you are at least honest about where you are coming from. Understanding the nuance and context of your position does provide different expectations. Certainly more reasonable ones.
May 26, 2010 at 6:02 PM
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Michael Taylor
Mr. Kaplan, just because you complain or criticize (continuously) has little or no correlation to your 'caring' about the 49ers. Many, many people do the journalism thing on a daily basis without any personal attachment to the teams they regularly talk about. To believe that your criticism gives you a leg up on the rest of us as to your divine love (or caring) for the 49ers is what is absurd. My point to you was to criticize with suggestive alternatives, not to criticize for criticism's sake which is your standard MO. I didn't discuss your topic because, as normal, your views have little or no merit and come across as a personal, pious, indulgent attack on the 49ers organization. Something that even your sparse supporters agree on. And I am a pretty smart guy. I do criticize the 49ers often (much less frequently now than in the past). The difference between you and I, is I will state my criticisms with "objective facts" and hope to suggest a conclusion that might have a better outcome for the team. If I cannot derive a plausible alternative, I keep my mouth shut because to do anything else simply adds to derisiveness. Army leadership 101 and it's what I teach my students.
May 26, 2010 at 10:46 AM
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Michael Taylor
Mr. Kaplan, your constant, opinionated whining sucks. Your attempt at any form of journalism reminds me of the abilities of the Terry Donahue/Dennis Erickson regime. In a single word, inept. It's funny you call out the responsibility and accountability of the 49ers when clearly you possess none of those qualities yourself. As you responded to one reader, "I'm not attempting to lay out objective facts." Your position or perspectives lack what all buffoons lack, an alternative solution. You cannot provide that alternative solution in your 'columns' because you know squat about managing organizational sports at any level (or journalism for that matter). In truth, you have no desire to suggest more positive solutions because you don't give a rat's ass about the 49ers. Your only real goal is to diminish and attack the actions of the people that run the 49ers because you have manufactured a personal disdain for the organization as a whole. Nothing the organization accomplishes would change your dogma and spite, nothing. Fortunately, the vast majority of 49er fans who suffer through your regular diatribes recognize you for what you are; a complete and utter dolt.
May 26, 2010 at 9:38 AM
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goose
"And our new fleet of punt returners were rattled by the stiff winds of, um, Santa Clara." - That statement is in your opening paragraph? Seriously? On game days will the wind only affect the 49ers team and not the visiting team? Will the wind there somehow give the 49ers a home-field disadvantage? On the contrary. Because they'll have more experience with it (playing there and practicing a Barry Bonds homer away from it), it will be more to their advantage than their disadvantage. God bless Mike Singletary and God bless America.
May 26, 2010 at 6:09 AM
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Darrell G
Good point Jeff, I wasn't trying to slam you, though I was unnecessarily harsh. I'm an unapologetic conservative, so my patience with media types is razor-thin to begin with. As I said, I don't want it sugarcoated, and I don't want homerism either. My point is that as a journalist, wouldn't it be better for you to put the facts..... the good, ok, bad and the ugly out there and let the reader decide without any tone. If it's opinion, fine, take whatever tone you see fit. If it's supposed to be journalism, then give us the skinny so that we can make an informed opinion. Maybe draw an opinion at the end. It just seems that many times your articles are dictating a conclusion before any facts are established. Call it constructive criticism. Regards from VA :)
May 25, 2010 at 8:48 PM
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Frank
You doomsdayer columnists really crack me up...you'd rather strike a negative pose than any other. Ok...once in awhile it can be interesting...maybe even stimulating. But that schtick wears thin...on me at least. Seems to me there ought to be plenty of positives to write about...at least in terms of potential. It's not that everything's rosy about our team...shoot, pick any team in the league and there are negatives you can write about. But, man, you seem to take the negativity to new limits...sorry, dude, my glass tends to be half-full...call it...a character flaw. Jed York has a lot to learn...but seems determined to give it his best shot. He regularly consults w/Uncle Eddie D...so I've got to give him props for that. I dunno...maybe you're right...when the going gets tough, the kingdom will crumble. On the other hand...maybe you're dead wrong...and when times get tough, Jed, Trent and Mike will circle the wagons and deal with it.
May 25, 2010 at 6:57 PM
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John
Obviously by his comments he has the authority. Sing wins, he stays. He can't get this team to the playoffs, he is gone. Jed made the decision to hire him as the permanent head coach and he will fire him if need be. His parents haven't been involved in much of anything from what i can tell since Jed took over. Am i wrong?
May 25, 2010 at 6:15 PM
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Dan
Not many people agree with you. That's why I like your articles, because you write any possible criticism anyone could say about the 49ers and then post it to the fans so they can rip you apart. Then you actually post their responses. In a way it's opportunistic, but in a way it's good because it gives fans a place to discredit the undeseved forty-whiner label that fans like you manage to attract. I like that you post the responses and that they overwhemingly disagree with your prejudices.
May 25, 2010 at 1:03 PM
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Mike
I just peeked in your archives, Geoff, and the last semi-positive article you have written was October 6th 2009, after we demolished the Rams, in your words, "the worst 35-0 victory in the history of the nfl." You had all but handed the Niners the division and acknowledged that Singletary had changed the culture of the team. A few weeks later "put your hand down Singletary, you're embarrassing yourself." And I'm sure you know the rest. Keep it up, maybe you can make it a full-year of Sing/Niner slamming. KBYE
May 25, 2010 at 11:34 AM
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Mike
Geoff, in response to your take on SLNinerfan... Maybe we would just like to see a positive article for a change. I don't want sugarcoating, but I'm tired of reading your filth. The only thing I agree with from what you have said is that Clements does deserve criticism... He's making a lot of money to get burnt like toast every Sunday. The Niners didn't pay him to be a run-stopping corner. He better earn his keep this year, or I will stand behind your thoughts on him not being with the team even more. The Niners play in the NFC worst, and you're still not giving them any credit, or talking about what it's going to take to win it. It's time to focus on the players, training camp, pre-season, etc... I won't be reading any more bashing until I see something positive. Because there are plenty of positives... WE are all aware of the negatives, and what has been going on with this organization. We don't need you constantly reminding us, and trying to predict that it's going to continue. You sound like a pompous dork.
May 25, 2010 at 11:26 AM
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John
This writer is a tool. Maybe Jed was trying to stay professional in the public eye during an interview. What is he supposed to say? "Well if I feel like it I could fire Mike right this minute." I think he gave a classy answer. He basically said as long as coach keeps winning he has a job. Read between the lines. Don't take everything so literally. Of course singletary could fire himself it's called resigning. And of course someone higher than singletary (whether it be jed or someone else) has the authority to fire the coach. You are a complete tool and your lack of football knowledge amazes me. Apparently just anyone can write sports articles now.
May 25, 2010 at 11:16 AM
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louie
It would be obvious to any avid football fan who cared to examine the 49ers' leadership structure, that it's not typical/usual to have a young, "rookie" owner, a young, "rookie" numbers guy, a "rookie" head of personnel (but not really the head of all personnel), and a "rookie" head coach who's never been a coordinator, running the show. A reasonable fan might wonder why there was no GM and, in fact, NO ONE with a resume that includes deep management experience and/or management success in the NFL. It might be possible for the 49ers to succeed with this set-up (let's hope so) but Jeff's position is certainly not surprising to anyone who looks at this random group of hopefuls who are running the 49ers in an objective way.
May 25, 2010 at 9:32 AM
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SonocoNinerFan
Reading this post reminds me too much of Bleacherreport.com to take it seriously.
May 25, 2010 at 7:35 AM
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Ceadderman
Dude enough with the Emo trip. Unless we win the Super Bowl you wouldn't be happy. I have my doubts even then. You'd probably scoff at Alex for winning it in whatever fashion you thought was the least productive. Please do me and everyone else a favor. If you're going to write this level of crap? Don't submit it. You let your EMOtions get the better of you and it shows.
May 25, 2010 at 4:32 AM
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Vic
This article is a joke! Since you know so much on how to run a perfect organization why don't you go work for one? I am going to love it when you stop CRYING when the 49ers RISE and dominate. You should go write a script for Days of Our Lives, you will do an awesome job Mr. Jeff. :) 49ers! WOO!
May 24, 2010 at 8:43 PM
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SLNinerFan
Jeff, your articles are a joke. Half the time I read this site I feel it's not a Niner fansite at all. The Webzone needs to find some better writers that make me excited for the year and are not dreading it like you are.
May 24, 2010 at 12:36 PM
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Roy
I'm sorry, but how often is it that the coach isn't the one in a better position to make final roster decisions? He is the one out there, every day of camp, coaching the players, watching and evaluating how well they are picking up the schemes, their positions and the intensity of the game. I really don't get how you think Baalke, watching from his office window, would be able to decide better than Singletary which players are better prepared to contribute to the team on game days based on their performance as professional players prior to the season. Maybe some high-profile GMs are able to do that, but Baalke is not one of those.
May 24, 2010 at 12:26 PM
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dan b.
Good food for thought... I see where I can make a point or two about semantics but overall I think that an organization without any real ladder of power is a bad one. That's why Hitler lost...no clear chain of command.
May 24, 2010 at 12:23 PM
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Terry B.
RichardCoto: Your definition of a fan is strange. Is a fan someone who WANTS his team to be great or someone who argues that everything his team does IS great? I would argue the former; you seem to say it's the latter. But your definition is not of a fan but of a homer. And no one is more boring to read than a homer. Isn't it obvious from reading Jeff's columns that he wants the 49ers to be great? But to expect no negativity from a team that hasn't done anything for a decade is simply ridiculous. I too want greatness, and I'm not satisfied by moving from abysmal to mediocre. If fans don't demand excellence, they get what they deserve. TDilvr: Look up Jed York's resume. To say that there are 100,000 people more qualified to run an NFL franchise would be a vast understatement. Shouldn't this make us a bit nervous, especially when the system he has set up makes no sense at all? It's amazing that Jed doesn't get the flak that Raheem Morris and Josh McDaniels do. He's several years younger, and, unlike those two, did nothing to earn his position except be born. Pointing out the glaringly obvious is not jealousy. You're entitled to your own opinion, but not your own facts.
May 24, 2010 at 11:54 AM
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Mark Steitz
Apparently, Jed is incorporating himself as the boss, he will probably be the decisionmaker when there are disagreements between Sing and Baalke. Think of Jed as the CEO with the others as his VP's in charge of their respective areas...it works in fortune 500 companies, why not an NFL club?
May 24, 2010 at 11:32 AM
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TDilvr
You're premature. So far Jed is an improvement over his parents. To sit and make jabs at a kid inheriting a playtoy is cheap. You look petty at best. Why resent someone else's good fortune? Who wouldn't want to be in his shoes. I still would like to see how Alex does in a same system for 2 years. If he sucks, flay him, run him out of town...screw him. Crap. Wasted my time reading and responding to this drivel. Stupid me.
May 24, 2010 at 11:10 AM
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Ert9er
Clements always works out on his own this time of year...FAIL. The draft did go well. Sing is the leader of the team, it's Baalke's job to find him players that fit the mold and are worthy of the pick / compensation. Sing isn't gonna pull draft day trades, evaluate talent, trade for players on other NFL rosters...but he's sure's heck going to tell Baalke what he needs...that's his job. Baalke isn't going to get players "he" wants...that would be a horrible move by any person in his shoes. He listens to the coach, the one who knows the roster and calls the plays (or has assistant coaches beneath him who do) about which players are needed and then goes and gets those type of players. The structure is fine. Are you one of those "big changes are the only way to make progress" types who wanted a new GM/regime to wipe the whole thing clean? Continuity is the key right now. This is year two with Singletary and a chance to build on last year's successes and fix the things the team fell short of. Anyone from the outside wouldn't have much to contribute at this stage in the game anyways.
May 24, 2010 at 10:52 AM
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Doug
Wow. I am glad I don't have all the negativity and anger pent up inside me that you obviously carry. While I can appreciate your displeasure for what the 9ers have done on the field over the last 10 years, this appears to be the rant of a man looking for something... anything to complain about. You're obviously a "glass completely empty broken on the floor" type of guy. I wish I hadn't read this article because it was absolutely pointless, garbage designed to fire up the loyal fans who truly care about this team. Congratulations, you got me to respond. Tragic... waste of my time. Your premise that the organization lacks structure and that "isn't safe" is simply wrong. The key to the success of ANY organization is NOT the structure, but the people that are a part of that structure. Ultimately the Yorks have the final say, this IS their team. Now with Jed running the show he obviously understands that it's not about him, or the gm, or the coach, it's about ALL the people involved. You use Belichick and Pioli as an example... really? Have you seen what they've done lately? Try taking a look at Bob Kraft, HE has the final say.
May 24, 2010 at 10:42 AM
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Richard Coto
Jeff: You must be the devil's advocate, a jaded fan, or both. I guess you're the voice for all the disgruntled fans who have lost faith and just want to complain. Like I stated in your previous letter, if you do not like the product, don't watch. Pro football is entertainment, and if you are not happy with paying for season tickets and the product is not producing, go watch something else. Real fans are always optimistic and hope for the best; you, on the other hand, have nothing but crap to write about even though the season has not begun, let alone training camp. I guess you already have figured out that we are lousy and we are going to have a bad season, huh? You have figured out that the niners are going to suck because certain players did not show up for voluntary OTA's, and that Singletary has lost it, the front office does not know what it is doing, and the niners will be 2-14 in 2010. You know what Jeff, I come to the niners webzone to get valuable information but instead I have to see a title to a severely stupid article such as this one. Why are you still writing? Become a real fan, Jeff, and throw away your tampon! If not, become a raider fan and spare us your crap!
May 24, 2010 at 9:45 AM
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NinerTico
Wow, Jeff! Way to make friends... Just as a quick rebuttal, you do know that the Vikings, Steelers and the Patriots do NOT have a GM. They seem very successful, no? I understand where you are coming from, but your position is very narrow-minded, no disrespect intended. The reason for my assertion is because you seem to focus on the negatives as some of your posters have mentioned as opposed to being a realist. I mean, Jeff, you already acknowledge that this administration has been successful with your "Sure, everything looks rosy now" comment. Yet, you follow that statement assured that this admin will fail or what you deem as a "Storm." These "storms" were already apparent this year with the McC removal. We did OK, huh, no matter how the media tried to spin this as a failure. It wasn't a failure, but a success to build a foundation on. That is where you lack the vision to see, IMHO. For whatever reason, your tone and word choice in your articles lead me to believe you expect failure even in the face of success. We can't help you with that one, Jeff. With most of our fanbase, it will take "successful" baby steps. We just made some. How about being happy for once?
May 24, 2010 at 8:55 AM
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Terry B.
Great column, Jeff. I'm amazed at the negativity this column is generating. Nothing you say is remotely controversial. What's been going on with the team? As you mention, we learned that Singletary, whose greatest asset is getting men to run through brick walls for him, can't get those same men to practice. At the beginning of year two in the Raye system, Alex Smith still looks erratic, and the 49ers have implemented, hyperbole aside, the strangest organizational structure the NFL has ever seen. And you were supposed to write a positive column about this? There's a reason you're the only webzone columnist that I read. (And, judging by a comparative look at the comments, I'm not alone in this.) You always tell it like you see it. Here's a point the negative posters need to grasp: something is not great simply because the 49ers do it. We would be laughing at the team across the bay if they set up their franchise like this. The guy in charge of the draft and trades is not in charge of free agency? You could ask 100 of the top NFL executives to chart out how an NFL front office should be structured, and not one of them would come up with this.
May 24, 2010 at 8:15 AM
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Darrell
Jeff, Every time I see a negative article it seems to have your name on it. I use the web and pipe stuff in over the net because I'm in Central VA and like to keep up with my beloved team since 1979. I don't want everything sugarcoated, but I don't want dripping sarcasm and negativity either. Seriously, why do reporters like yourself seem to think you are the authority on football when 99% of you never played the game? You remind me of my nagging ex-wife....always finding the negative in everything, rather than seeing the good that's going on. The whole time whining "are we there yet?" I understand that's what you folks in the Lame Stream Media do, and that sportswriters are worse than even Chris Matthews, but seriously.....try to put at least some semblance of objectivity in your "reporting," or call your writing what it is........pessimistic opinion. It certainly isn't journalism. Surely even you can admit that the team is headed in the right direction as compared to the train wreck it was just 3 years ago. Maybe it's not the vision YOU like (per a previous article), but at least in a positive direction. Champions aren't built overnight, except in the movies.
May 24, 2010 at 6:11 AM
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James
This is one of the sorriest articles I've ever read. Really? You're going to cite Nate Clements in the beginning? A guy who has always worked out on his own and is working out on his own even harder this year because he's always been serious about improving? A guy who has ALWAYS forfeited his workout bonus? Do you know just how many people forfeit said bonus? Even if you begin to make a point about the Yorks, you do so in the most asinine way possible. Then you go ahead and bring up the McCloughan departure like you really have some line directly to the damn team and of course YOU must know EXACTLY why it happened with your ultimate inside knowledge, right? Now tell me, Jeff: how did you get so close to York and the team enough to figure out the inner workings of Singletary's motivational speeches to his players behind closed doors, the reasons for every defensive player not being there, McCloughan's departure and other such nuggets? Get this garbage out of here and let some of the good writers here write. We did well for ourselves this offseason, and the people who contributed to that should not be lambasted until they show that they are indeed unfit.
May 24, 2010 at 12:10 AM
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ninerman4949
I hate to say it... but... great article. I do like where the organization is heading but I've wondered about the Niners' chain-of-command. Especially since the mysterious pre-draft departure of our wacky (yet somewhat draft-savvy) front office.
May 24, 2010 at 12:05 AM
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tlo
I am a loyal fan of the san francisco 49ers and I read every article I can get my hands on to get any kind of 49er news. In saying that I am excited about what my team did in the draft and the rest of the offseason. But when I have to constantly read articles that are totally negative and I mean nothing positive at all. I have looked at every article Jeff has written and every one has been negative. I am a realist, I know the yorks have made horrible choices in hiring different coaches and gm's. But you need to give coach singletary a break, this man has the 49ers playing their best football in years. Our ex-gm has drafted very well and we are under the salary cap and locking up our core players. With this new structure in place you are already knocking it without seeing how it is going to work for us. U need to evaluate ur self first and see if u are still a 49er fan.
May 23, 2010 at 10:10 PM
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David Whitten
There are plenty of examples of successful organizations across the spectrum of business that have numerous voices included in the decisionmaking process. A board of directors is not necessarily a bad thing. I would hope that there can be checks and balances when it comes time to pull the trigger on personnel so that everyone is on the same page. It seems a little premature to label something one way or the other when the only evidence we have so far is a successful draft and a couple of OTA's. If anything you should be leaning towards calling the situation successful since, based on the things we can actually judge, "the draft went well" and "Baalke and Singletary have worked well together."
May 23, 2010 at 10:09 PM
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kev
The only real problems with this article: You got all this from 1 interview held by the Razor & Mr T, combined that w/ your own conjecture. You cop out in the end, no matter how well the season goes you're bound to hit a storm or two? What the heck does that mean? Your formula is crystal clear, find the fodder of the disgruntled and use it to fan the flames. The fortywhiners will call you a genius and the Faithful will respond negatively of course. Whether you actually believe all the poo you spew only you really know, but it gets replies and saves you a BLOG spot. Great formula, it works well for The Tea Party, Bill O'Reilly, Glen Beck, Nazi skin heads, Black Panther Party, ohhh I could go on and on, but good luck to you.
May 23, 2010 at 10:04 PM
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louie
If the NFL consisted of 32 stocks (instead of teams) a prudent, experienced investor would look at the management and track history of each company, invest accordingly and usually do OK. An emotional investor who picks with his heart instead of his head would almost always end up losing. But in sports only season-ticket holders have a lot to lose, so many fans continue to support weak "stocks." We're all hooked on the Niners and want them to win, but that doesn't mean we have to ignore what many of us see as shortcomings in their leadership. That's what Raider fans do. And the fans of other perennial losers (how long did it take Detroit to figure out Matt Millen, a good guy, didn't know what he was doing?). If the fans stop supporting the follies of weak owners and their management, things can change. It looks like it will be a long time before things change in Ninerland. I'm hoping Jed and Mike get even luckier than they already are.
May 23, 2010 at 9:25 PM
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zacksf
Hey, jeff. You think too much. It's all good. 10-6.
May 23, 2010 at 6:14 PM
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Dan
Hmm, you seem to disagree with the organizational structure the 49ers are using. There are organizational structures to choose from and you seem to prefer some sort of centralized style where one person makes all the decisions and is accountable for the results. You are wrong if you think that is the only functional type of organization. The matrix structure you accuse the 49ers of using actually allows for more flexibility, cooperation and creativity, while increasing accountability by extending it to all team members. When I say team I mean owners, managers and coaches as well as supporting staff. For an organization built around an actual sports team it makes perfect sense and I actually think this structure is superior in most other cases. I really regret reading your articles lately as they are extremely opinionated and not well supported with actual verifiable and estimatable facts. You pretty much just chant Singletary sucks while presuming he has a new role in the team you feel he doesn't deserve for whatever reason. You will tell us our team is falling apart before they even put on pads? You don't belong here, you really should write for some rival team like maybe the Giants.
May 23, 2010 at 2:52 PM
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ShaneO
Hey Jeff, i have been a fan of your writing for, idk, over a year now. I always enjoyed it cuz it matches my personality as I've nvr been good at sugarcoating. I also like to know the inside info from an objective fan that tells it like it is. I'll admit u can be tough on the team but hey it's been a tough decade! i'm confident & look forward to the day that we have something to be positive about! when that time comes I'll look forward to reading about it. also i don't mean having our first "non-losing season" in what 7 years in a year we were supposed to make the playoffs. i don't see that as success. as far as the current topic, i feel I'm really not bothered much by the "lack of structure" only cuz i think it's all talk & BS. My fear is that there is one man in charge and that man is Sing. Baalke may run the draft (kind of) but it seems 2 me Sing gets the final say. This bothers me cuz i just watched Mike Nolan take my beloved 49ers and make them a laughingstock. he was a guy who had zero head-coaching experience & we gave him the keys to the kingdom. Now Sing (a friend of Nolan) is getting the same reins, w. no experience. will history repeat itself again or will this work!?
May 23, 2010 at 2:14 PM
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louie
Excellent commentary. Importantly, it's reality-based, unlike the opinions of those who see a successful future for this randomly assembled, learn-on-the-job front office. Singletary has managed to win over Jed to the extent that he'll never bring in top-level experienced football people who'll challenge all the fun they're having. From the moment the Yorks took over and fired Mariucci without a replacement, the handwriting was on the wall. The McCloughan episode was another beaut! I can't wait for the truth to come out about that one. When Manusky decides to move on (no doubt he'll get some big offers soon) they'll probably promote Singletary's nephew to DC (or hire the DC version of Jimmy Raye). As a long-time 49er fan I can't help but pull for them to win, however if they pull it off with the kind of "organization" we are witnessing, it will be sheer luck.
May 23, 2010 at 1:27 PM
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Big M
God forbid the player-personnel man acquire players that fit the head coach's philosophy! Real journalism seeks to remain objective. If I wanted to read sport conspiracy theories, I'd rather hear it from Kawakami or Cohn.
May 23, 2010 at 11:38 AM
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Mike
Geoff, Geoff, Geoff........ Well, I definitely won't be listening to your 2-minute drill. Not even sure why I clicked on this article... It doesn't matter what the Niners do at this point, because you will still find some turds to kick over it... If you know so much about NFL leadership, and front-office success, maybe the Niners should hire you? Who says it's muddled? You? T O O L
May 23, 2010 at 10:21 AM
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The Baron
Excellent thought-process Jeff. The organizational structure of the 49ers is the thinnest in the NFL. Adding to that, is the fact that at the top of that organizational structure is a 28-year-old lucky sperm who was given a toy to play with by daddy. As you state, everything looks rosy in OTAs, but does anyone think that Singletary and Raye, with Smith at QB, can outcoach the top half of the teams in the NFL? Let's get serious! Singletary is a sound-bite machine, Raye would not have been hired as an OC by ANY other team, and the Yorks' stewardship of our beloved 49ers will continue along the path of the previous 10 years.
May 23, 2010 at 8:59 AM
The San Francisco 49ers are struggling to reach the same intensity on the field as they displayed last season. Few expected the team to lose three of their first five games, especially given their recent dominance over division opponents. Having dropped both NFC West matchups...
