Originally posted by 49ers81:I don't really have a dog in this fight. Like many I think Mullens is probably better at running the offense than CJ and should be the number two.. It just seems as though there are certain players that get under the skin of the FO and become an itch that they must continue to scratch. They have Ward on defense and now CJ on offense. I have no doubt that CJ leading the blocking on Wilson's TD run against the Chargers went a long way to solidifying the qualities that Shanahan likes in him, his toughness and do anything for the team attitude. I imagine character counts for a lot in this locker room and so they weren't willing to cut him or settle for less than they felt he was worth to them in trade value. We'll see how it works out I guess.
There are probably still options down the road and I am not sure, looking at the cut list, that there is anyone they have really lost out on yet because of their decision to keep Beathard, or four TE's which was a bit of a head scratcher as well. Again, like many, I thought Wilson did a good enough job to warrant a place on the PS this year. He may still end up there if he isn't claimed by someone else. I was rooting for Moore because of his personal story but the guy has kicked around the league for 6 years and the team really would have needed to believe that he was markedly better than all of the guys ahead of him for him to make the cut. They have already brought Valoaga back apparently and could bring Givens back as well. The Marcell Harris cut was a bit of a surprise given Ward and Tartt's history with injuries, but it seemed like he was better in the box than in coverage so perhaps they thought Moore and Reed would be give them more flexibility.
I still think there maybe movement with the WR' as well. Clearly they kept seven because of the injuries to Taylor and Hurd, once those guys come back they may decide to cut one of the others loose. I think Bourne will probably be on the hot seat until he proves he can be a more consistent player. And of course I imagine they will be keeping an eye on any offensive lineman that hit the waiver wire which means Skule's stay on the 53 could be a short one. I thought all and all it was a pretty encouraging pre-season in many ways. As usual they just have to get all of their guys back healthy and hope that Saleh and his new assistants can get the most out of the defense. Now they have a team that is made up almost exclusively of "their guys" time for everyone to step up and show what they can do. Go Niners!
Really really nice post 81.
