ESPN's NFC West Blog

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

The Seahawks are scheduled to visit with former Raiders fullback Justin Griffith as they consider potential replacements for free agent Leonard Weaver.

Griffith played under new Seahawks offensive coordinator Greg Knapp in Oakland and Atlanta. Weaver remains an unrestricted free agent and it's unclear if the Seahawks will re-sign him.

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

Dan Brown of the San Jose Mercury News provides a full transcript of KNBR's interview with 49ers general manager Scot McCloughan regarding Kurt Warner, Jay Cutler, Damon Huard, Matthew Stafford and Terrell Owens. McCloughan defends the team's pursuit of Kurt Warner as a win-win.

Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee says the 49ers are taking a look at Cardinals free-agent cornerback Eric Green. Barrows: "If the 49ers somehow landed Green, they would have one of the deepest cornerback corps of any team in the league. Nate Clements and Walt Harris are the starters."

Revenge of the Birds' Hawkwind links to KTAR's interview with Cardinals general manager Rod Graves regarding Warner, Bryant McFadden, Drew Rosenhaus, Anquan Boldin, Edgerrin James and the draft. Graves on what helped the Warner deal get done following the quarterback's visit with the 49ers: "After the trip, we both recognized that we needed to get something done and that is when the negotiations really started." Next up for the Cardinals, according to Graves: Trying to sign Karlos Dansby to a long-term deal and opening talks with Adrian Wilson.

Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic says Warner's finger is not broken, although the quarterback is wearing a wrap on it.

Danny O'Neil of the Seattle Times summarizes KJR's interview with Seahawks linebacker Leroy Hill, who apologizes for his offseason arrest on a marijuana charge.

Also from KJR: An interview with Seahawks receiver Nate Burleson regarding T.J. Houshmandzadeh's recent signing. Burleson: "I would love to see him flourish in this offense. I would love to see him catch 60, 70, 80 balls because I know if he is out there attracting that much attention, other guys on the field are not going to be looked at as threats and we'll be able to do damage. I really don't care for numbers too much. I'm not a guy that wants to go out and say, 'Throw me 120 balls so I can be at the top of the league in catches.' I just want to go out there and make plays with the ball in my hands. You can give me 35 catches and I guarantee I'm going to go out and try to find the end zone at least 10 times."

D.Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution says free-agent Rams center Brett Romberg is visiting the Falcons. Romberg's future in St. Louis took a hit when the Rams signed free-agent center Jason Brown to a long-term agreement. Right guard Richie Incognito could serve as the backup to Brown if necessary. Romberg and fellow 2008 Rams center Nick Leckey are unrestricted free agents.

Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch says the Rams will show no interest in Terrell Owens.

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

I know, I know. Seahawks fans are wondering what's up with free-agent safety Jermaine Phillips. NFC South blogger Pat Yasinskas reports Phillips has re-signed with Tampa Bay.

We also have some news on the Seattle front.

The team has signed blocking tight end John Owens, an unrestricted free agent from the Lions. I was tempted to make the headline read, "Seahawks strike deal with Owens," but that would have been a shameless attempt at attracting traffic for fans wondering where that other Owens might land. "Seahawks sign J.O." might have worked as well.

In any event, here's the scouting report on John Owens. His addition could affect Will Heller's status with the Seahawks. Heller, an unrestricted free agent, has served as the second tight end for the Seahawks in recent seasons.

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando Roster Category
ARI SF STL SEA Active Players
55 57 50 60 Franchise Players
1 0 1 1 RFA 2 0 2 0 UFA Offense
4 5 10 9 UFA Defense
5 2 6 3 UFA Specialists
0 0 0 1 UFA Re-signed
3 2 1 0 UFA Added
0 3 1 2 UFA Lost 2 3 0 2 Net Gain/Loss
+1
+2 +2 0

The Rams continue to lead the league in the most unrestricted free agents without contracts for 2009.

This is what happens when a struggling team hires new leadership while numerous contracts expire. The Rams have dropped from the third-oldest team to the 14th-oldest team.

The 49ers, meanwhile, now have the fourth-oldest roster in the league (make that the third-oldest after adding Damon Huard). This includes the 10th-oldest players on offense and the fourth-oldest on defense.

On a side note: I had mentioned in the chat that Jason Brown's contract with the Rams would be counting more than $9 million against the cap in 2009. The figure is just more than $6 million. The broader point I was making -- that the Rams have probably done most of their big spending in free agency -- stands.

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando Roster Category
ARI SF STL SEA Active Players
55 57 50 60 Franchise Players
1 0 1 1 RFA 2 0 2 0 UFA Offense
4 5 10 9 UFA Defense
5 2 6 3 UFA Specialists
0 0 0 1 UFA Re-signed
3 2 1 0 UFA Added
0 3 1 2 UFA Lost 2 3 0 2 Net Gain/Loss
+1
+2 +2 0

The Rams continue to lead the league in the most unrestricted free agents without contracts for 2009.

This is what happens when a struggling team hires new leadership while numerous contracts expire. The Rams have dropped from the third-oldest team to the 14th-oldest team.

The 49ers, meanwhile, now have the fourth-oldest roster in the league. This includes the 10th-oldest players on offense and the fourth-oldest on defense. 

On a side note: I had mentioned in the chat that Jason Brown's contract with the Rams would be counting more than $9 million against the cap in 2009. The figure is just more than $6 million. The broader point I was making -- that the Rams have probably done most of their big spending in free agency -- stands.

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

Thanks to those who helped keep the NFC West chat moving earlier Thursday. Full transcript here. Selected highlights below.

Bryan Chicago IL [via mobile]: After reading Jerry Angelo's comments about receivers and over paying housh at his age how can he say that when he just gave urlacher more money and his production is down at his age and why not pursue pace and holt to fill two major holes?

Mike Sando: Those comments did seem a little odd if for no other reason than GMs generally do not publicly judge other GMs' moves. In this case, Angelo and Seahawks GM Tim Ruskell are old pals from their days together in Tampa Bay. Angelo might have a point, but you have to pay to play in free agency and I think Angelo was right in saying the Seahawks' WR woes last season played into their thinking.

chris, sanfrancisco, C.A. [via mobile]: Let's face it, the 49ers need to sign a big time QB and a big time WR. Why don't they go after holt? He can team up with bruce. Any chance they will get VICK? I mean there's no real quality QB left out there.If the niners want to win the division they need to start by signing quality players. Huard? That's a joke!

Mike Sando: Isaac Bruce and Torry Holt would be stopgap-type players at this point. The 49ers need to build with younger guys, in my view. As for Vick, no.

Greg (Arizona): Any idea if Matt Leinart might be asking for a trade?

Mike Sando: I do not think he has asked for one at this point, but he has to see the writing on the wall. He knows his situation in Arizona has worsened in the last few days. The money Arizona committed to St. Pierre says the Cardinals are covering their bases.

Will J (Portland, OR): I'll rephrase my question, in your opinion which has been the best acquisition in the NFC West so far? Most surprising one?

Mike Sando: The Rams' signing of Jason Brown might be the best addition. The Seahawks' signing of T.J. Houshmandzadeh is up there as well. I just think the Rams' situation at center was so infirm that Brown should make a big difference. The Seahawks' acquisition of Colin Cole was probably the most surprising move. No one asked me about him before free agency and I never considered him.

Thanks again for your contributions. These are fun and the hour moves quickly.

On a side note: I had mentioned in the chat that Jason Brown's contract with the Rams would be counting more than $9 million against the cap in 2009. The figure is just more than $6 million. The broader point I was making -- that the Rams have probably done most of their big spending in free agency -- stands.

2009 Draft Round Rams Overall Hawks Overall 49ers Overall Cards Overall First
2 4 10 31 Second
35 37 43 63 Third
66 68 74 95 Fourth
TBD TBD TBD TBD Fifth
TBD TBD TBD TBD Sixth
TBD TBD TBD TBD Seventh
TBD TBD TBD TBD Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

NFC West teams enter the 2009 draft with every one of their original selections except the fifth-round choice Seattle sent to Denver for Keary Colbert.

No teams in the division are holding choices from another team.

The draft order for the first three rounds is set. The order for the fourth through seventh rounds will change once the NFL awards compensatory choices during its annual spring meetings, which begin the week of March 22.

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

Clare Farnsworth of the Seattle Post-Intelligencer says Seahawks free-agent tackle Ray Willis has visited the Redskins and Raiders.

Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic provides updates on Cardinals free-agent guard Elton Brown and former Cardinals center Al Johnson. He also suggests coaches had problems with Nathan Hodel's snapping accuracy and coverage ability. What I know: Hodel failed a physical before his termination. He has had some knee issues.

Darren Urban of azcardinals.com says Cardinals general manager Rod Graves hopes to meet with Drew Rosenhaus to discuss free-agent cornerback Bryant McFadden. Rosenhaus might have other business following Terrell Owens' release.

Jim Wyatt of the Tennessean says Cardinals free-agent cornerback Eric Green plans to visit the Titans. Green is no longer in the Cardinals' plans.

Matt Maiocco of the Santa Rosa Press-Democrat says the 49ers aren't interested in Jeff Garcia as a free agent because coach Mike Singletary isn't convinced Garcia would provide a definite upgrade over Shaun Hill.

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

Add Bryan Pittman's name to the list of veteran long snappers headed to Seattle for a free-agent visit with the Seahawks.

Pittman spent the last six seasons snapping for the Texans before becoming an unrestricted free agent. He never missed a game until the NFL suspended Pittman, Deuce McAllister, Will Smith, Kevin Williams, Pat Williams and Charles Grant in a hotly disputed case involving diuretics. All six insisted they had done nothing wrong.

Pittman is making the trip to Seattle with his wife for a visit scheduled to take place Friday, agent Kevin Gold confirmed. Pittman attended Thomas Jefferson High School in Auburn, Wash., and the University of Washington. He joins former Broncos snapper Mike Leach among known candidates for the snapping job in Seattle. Leach is also visiting the Cardinals.

The Seahawks list two snappers on their roster: Ryan Senser and Tyler Schmitt. Jeff Robinson, an unrestricted free agent, handled snapping duties last season. A back injury prevented Schmitt from playing last season while raising questions about his future.

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

Ben from Chicago writes: Great piece on the Cards. I'm just as frustrated that besides Warner, they've made NO other moves in FA so far (besides to re-sign some minor players like their punter). What about Bryant McFadden? Did they offer him a contract? This complacency is so frustrating!

Mike Sando: Inactivity can also be good policy. Look at the "active" teams last offseason. Some of them fired coaches. The Browns were aggressive in adding Shaun Rogers and acting as though they were one or two players away from contending. Doesn't work that way.

The Jets were aggressive. Look where it got them. The Dolphins signed lots of players in unrestricted free agency, but most of them weren't the reason why Miami bounced back. The Raiders were over-the-top aggressive. No payoff.

The Steelers have won two of the last four Super Bowls without being aggressive in free agency. Lots of bad money gets spent this time of year. Something to keep in mind.

As for McFadden, I would expect something to get done with him sooner rather than later. The cornerback market has already moved, for the most part.

Paco from Hermosillo, Mexico writes: Hello Sando, thanks for all your hard work these days, really appreciate, I don't like fans going into panic mood about this whole thing. You mention some issues that have happened, but get real, most of it was expected. The only unexpected thing was the Kurt Warner situation and it was resolved.

But, for instance, they knew that Haley was going to the Chiefs during Super Bowl week. Clancy was getting fired at the end of the season if the Cardinals didn't win the Super Bowl. His defense had to be improved. As for Rutledge, he was getting fired regardless of the outcome of the Super Bowl.

The Boldin saga was expected to happen, and we don't know it's final, but trust me, it wasn't a surprise to anybody in the organization. Same with Edgerrin James. As for Karlos Dansby, he is getting his long term deal. They just prevented him from testing the free agent market, but his salary as a franshise player is too high, so they will sign him long term.

As for Antonio Smith, the Texans overpaid for this guy. We have his replacement ready in Calais Campbell. I would rather let other teams overpay for players and take a Steelers-like approach in free agency. About the assistant coaches, that has already been answered by the team, so it's not a big deal.

Bottom line, this is no time to panic. Whisenhunt, Graves and Michael Bidwill, are building something for the long run. Let's have some faith on them. After what they have done in their first two years together, they deserve that.

Mike Sando: Yes, the Cardinals could have expected to have issues with Haley, Pendergast, Smith, Boldin and James. It has been the manner in which those issues have unfolded that has deviated from how the Cardinals would have drawn it up. As I wrote in a previous mailbag, "I do think Ken Whisenhunt is the right coach. It's not time to panic by any means. But, like I said, the offseason has not gone to script for Arizona to this point."

Joshua from Fontana, Calif., writes: Wouldn't taking the best athletes in Aaron Curry or Michael Crabtree (Curry if lions pass) be better for the Rams? How could they pass on that talent? These guys will be stars.

Mike Sando: I agree with your thinking, but I also understand the Rams' needs on the offensive line. They've invested so much in Marc Bulger and Steven Jackson. Rebuilding the offensive line has to be a top priority and probably the top priority. Adding Jason Brown was a start. The situation at tackle puts pressure on the Rams to find a surefire starter at the position in this draft.

Doug from Yelm, Wash., writes: Will the Seahawks still run the West Coast Offense since Hasselbeck knows the system and Knapp is SF grown? What type of defense will the Seahawks run? All three starting linebackers are secure for next season, but with the bigger tackles is there a chance we'll see the 3-4?

Mike Sando: Greg Knapp does have a West Coast background. He will incorporate West Coast concepts without running a pure West Coast offense in the Mike Holmgren mold. Knapp is working extensively with Matt Hasselbeck to adapt terminology in ways that reduce confusion and speed the transition.

The Seahawks do not have the size at linebacker or defensive end to run a straight 3-4 system, in my view.

Jim from Dana Point writes: Enjoy your blog and info on NFC West and the Seahawks. With the addition of Colin Cole and T.J. Houshmandzadeh, what are the chances the Seahawks trade down and add picks since the only real top 10 talent in this draft are Aaron Curry and Michael Crabtree? Maybe trade down and get an OLl or DT and another wideout?

Mike Sando: The hard part can be finding someone willing to trade up.

Steve from Palisades Park, N.J., writes: Great blog, look forward to it. What I want to know is why were the 49ers trying to go after Warner who doesn't even want to play here, probably, when I'm sure Jeff Garcia would love to finish his career here while molding a young quarterback in Mark Sanchez or even Pat White?

Mike Sando: I'm with you. I'm not sure what Garcia wants at this stage of his career, but he would have provided an upgrade at quarterback for the 49ers. The team does want a veteran to help mentor younger quarterbacks. I don't know how Garcia projects that way, but Damon Huard should be strong in that area.

Rich from Bozeman, Mont., writes: hey mike! Since seattle signed housh and cole do you see seattle really even looking at a WR or DT in the draft? And how about a 2nd rd for shaun rogers in cleveland that wants out. that would be an amazing push in the middle to free up the ends and LBs to do what they needed to do? thanks

Mike Sando: I could see the Seahawks still taking a receiver early. I would be a little surprised if they took a defensive tackle in that fourth overall spot. If they did, though, they would have a promising group on the interior given Brandon Mebane's obvious abilities.

Shaun Rogers has asked out of his last two NFL cities. I'd be skeptical before I parted with a high draft choice and the cash Rogers might command. As a Seahawks fan, though, you surely remember Rogers at his best in that 2006 season opener.

Wilson from New York writes: If the Cards end up giving Warner more money because of his visit to the Niners, couldn't that be seen as somewhat of a positive?

The way I see it is that the Cards would have a lot of money invested in Warner to disallow them to make another big free agent splash. This would also take away from the space that could be used to keep Boldin happy.

And remember, Bert Berry is still a free agent, I believe. I understand 2010 is an uncapped year but have the Cards been known for throwing money around?

Mike Sando: The Cardinals reportedly still have more than $20 million in salary-cap space after signing Warner to a deal that counts more than $11 million against the cap in 2009 (I would think the number would be smaller, but I don't have that confirmed at present). As for making a splash in free agency, the Cardinals weren't going to do that anyway, and they certainly aren't going to do it now that the top players are signed. The list of available free agents simply doesn't feature many splash-worthy candidates.

Bertrand Berry played for $1 million last season. Signing him to a similar deal wouldn't be a problem under the cap.

Ryan from Vancouver, B.C., writes: Hey mike, love the blog keep up the awesome work. Now that the Seahawks have filled the needs at WR and DT with their 2 signings over the weekend, what do you see the team doing with the number 4 pick? I could foresee the team addressing there future needs at LT and QB, because i think if Mark Sanchez gets down to the number 4 he is an option or either Eugene Monroe or Jason Smith.

Also could you use the hawks getting a running back in the Second round because i can also see them picking up Chris Wells if he drops to them in the second round and from chats i have had on blog there are still fans wondering about that position at RB.

Mike Sando: I've been a little skeptical about Seattle drafting an offensive tackle with the fourth overall pick given how much the team has invested in Sean Locklear and Walter Jones. However, the signing of T.J. Houshmandzadeh might make it easier for the Seahawks to take a longer-range view in terms of how quickly the fourth overall choice would realistically affect the team.

I still think they would be best off targeting a 2009 starter with that pick. Would an offensive tackle help the Seahawks for the long term? Yes. Would he help in 2009? Harder to say. The financial investment for a high draft choice is such that it's tough to sacrifice one year of the player's contract life while he sits on the bench.

Pat from San Francisco writes: Why were the 49ers so infatuated with Kurt Warner? He seems to be more of a system quarterback that would not fit in the new 49er scheme? Wouldn't Jay Cutler make more sense? Why do you think they have not made a public push for the disgruntled QB? I would be willing to trade draft choices for the pro bowler, especially because he has played in a run-oriented Denver system his entire career. What are your thoughts?

Mike Sando: The 49ers had to know signing Warner would be unlikely. By making a push for him, I guess they could appear to be "aggressive" and doing everything possible to upgrade their team. It just seemed unrealistic to think Warner would sign with San Francisco.

I've received numerous mailbag items from 49ers fans wanting their team to make a push for Jay Cutler. Arlan in Santa Clara, Jay from Gainesville and Graylin in San Diego made their cases, while Ernest from Dallas wanted Garcia. John from Tucson had an even more ambitious suggestion. He wanted the Cardinals to let Warner sign with San Francisco so they could make their own push for Cutler.

Cutler was probably less in play than he appeared to be after the initial reports of the Broncos' conversations with the Chiefs and Bucs. I do think adding Cutler would have made more sense than adding Warner. In the end, both were not going to happen, most likely.

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

You're invited to participate in our next NFC West chat. Follow this link and I'll see you there beginning at noon ET.

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch says receiver Torry Holt has asked the Rams for his release. Thomas: "Holt, 32, is due a roster bonus of $1.25 million March 17, so it's highly unlikely he will be a Ram beyond then. But the Rams could still try to trade him until then, meaning any potential trade partner wouldn't have to compete for his services, as would be the case if he were released."

Bob Young of the Arizona Republic counts three ways Kurt Warner's re-signing helps the Cardinals. He also offers advice on Edgerrin James, Karlos Dansby and Anquan Boldin.

Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic says Warner knew early in his trip to San Francisco that Arizona was the best place for him. Somers: "Warner planned to spend a few weeks after the season considering retirement. But two days after the Pro Bowl, he was thinking of football again." Warner: "I told my wife, 'Sorry, honey, it's not time.' I think two years is good. I think I can play at a high level, I think I can help this team continue to build, take the next step over the next couple years, leave them in a good position after that." 

Also from Somers: The Cardinals have about $22 million in salary-cap space remaining after re-signing Warner. They can gain another $5 million by releasing James.

More from Somers: Patriots free-agent nose tackle Mike Wright visited the Cardinals.

Darren Urban of azcardinals.com says Warner's pledge to set aside money to re-sign Boldin never materialized. No surprise there.

Scott Bordow of the East Valley Tribune finds no fault in the Cardinals or Warner for their prolonged negotiations. Meanwhile, Warner's family remains focused on convincing the quarterback to let them have a puppy.

Clare Farnsworth of the Seattle Post-Intelligencer says it's surprising more teams haven't pushed for visits with free-agent fullback Leonard Weaver.

Vaughn McClure of the Chicago Tribune quotes Bears general manager Jerry Angelo as suggesting the Seahawks overpaid for T.J. Houshmandzadeh. Something for Houshmandzadeh to keep in mind when the Bears visit Qwest Field in 2009.

John Morgan of Field Gulls expresses doubts about new Seahawks defensive tackle Colin Cole after continuing to watch him with Green Bay last season. Morgan: "Cole wasn't signed to dance with single blockers. He was signed to stand up to the double team and keep blockers out of the second level. I see no evidence that he will."

Also from Morgan: He likes what Jermaine Phillips would offer the Seattle defense.

Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee says Terrell Owens would be a horrible fit for the 49ers at this point. Agreed. Barrows: "Yes, they need a No. 1 receiver and yes, Mike Singletary certainly has the guts and the gravitas to stand up to a prima donna. But that's far outweighed by the 49ers relatively youthful locker room, its inexperience at quarterback and its new devotion to the running game. Owens complained mightily that he didn't get the ball enough in the Cowboys' wide-open offense. How would he react in a run-first offense?"

Matt Maiocco of the Santa Rosa Press-Democrat confirms a Sporting News report that the 49ers have given safety Mark Roman permission to seek a trade. As expected, the 49ers have penciled in Dashon Goldson as the starter for 2009.

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

Damon Huard is no Kurt Warner, but he might be a better fit for the 49ers' offense. If the 49ers sign him, as Matt Maiocco expects them to do, Huard gives the 49ers a quarterback with enough starting experience to provide insurance at the position.

    Paul Spinelli/Getty Images   Adding a veteran quarterback such as Damon Huard would allow the 49ers more options at the position.

The 49ers appear in position to bring along a drafted quarterback slowly if they decide to select one with the 10th overall choice or elsewhere in the early rounds.

Former 49ers starter J.T. O'Sullivan likely will not return. He visited the Bengals this week. Alex Smith could factor into the race for the starting job if the team can sign him to a more workable contract. With Huard on board, the 49ers become less dependent on Smith as they consider their options for 2009.

Shaun Hill showed enough last season to stick around as a backup and possibly a starter, but the 49ers' refusal to name him the starter tells us where he stands in the team's long-term plans. Health and age permitting -- Huard turns 36 in July -- there's a good chance Huard will be the best quarterback on the 49ers' roster in the short term.

Here was the Scouts Inc. breakdown heading into the 2008 season:

Huard is an 11-year veteran who has good size and arm strength. He is a limited athlete and operates best from the pocket. He has been a backup most of his career, but was given the chance to lead the Chiefs in 2007 before sustaining an injury. He has had some durability problems in the past and his lack of elusiveness in the pocket only adds to his health concerns. He can fit the ball into short and intermediate areas effectively when he can use his weight transfer in a clean pocket. He can be a streaky passer with good accuracy. Huard is a smart player who can read coverages well, but has limited throwing capacity. He can't create effectively when the play breaks down and certainly doesn't have the tools to carry a club. Huard is best as a mentor to a young signal-caller and as backup who can finish a game.

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

Terrell Owens' release from the Cowboys makes available one of the greatest receivers in NFL history, by some accounts. A quick look at how he might fit -- or not fit -- in the NFC West:

Arizona: The Cardinals have a great thing going with Larry Fitzgerald. They still have Anquan Boldin, they have developed Steve Breaston and they now have more than $21 million in 2009 salary-cap space allotted for Kurt Warner and Fitzgerald. Adding Owens would upset the current balance and threaten overall chemistry.

San Francisco: The 49ers need receivers, no question, but their quarterbacks and offensive system likely wouldn't satisfy Owens' appetite for the football. Coach Mike Singletary has enough work keeping the volatile Vernon Davis in line. Owens might push him over the edge.

St. Louis: The Rams could badly use what Owens would offer them on the field, but a first-time head coach backed by first-time coordinators might have a hard time handling Owens while trying to establish their own program. Marc Bulger' stat line would certainly benefit, however, and Steven Jackson would find more favorable matchups in the running game.

Seattle: The Seahawks already signed T.J. Houshmandzadeh. They have millions more tied up with Deion Branch and Nate Burleson. I can't see general manager Tim Ruskell adding such a volatile and potentially divisive personality to the locker room, particularly after investing so much in Houshmandzadeh. Branch and Burleson impressed head coach Jim Mora when they embraced Houshmandzadeh's signing. Owens wouldn't be so selfless.

49ers DL
Pos. Age
Status Demetric Evans DE 29
Agreed
Justin Smith
DE 29 Signed Aubrayo Franklin NT 28
Signed Isaac Sopoaga
DE 27
Signed Ray McDonald
DE 24
Signed Kentwan Balmer
DE 22
Signed

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

The 49ers became one of four teams to add at least three unrestricted free agents from other teams when they reached agreement with defensive lineman Demetric Evans.

Evans comes to the 49ers from the Redskins. He projects as a backup defensive end. He is listed at 6-foot-4 and 287 pounds.

Aubrayo Franklin is the only true nose tackle on the team. Sopoaga played the position two years ago.

Evans becomes the third UFA to sign with the 49ers from another team. Fullback Moran Norris and receiver Brandon Jones were the others.

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

Karlos Dansby became a wealthier man Wednesday when he signed the one-year franchise offer from the Cardinals for $9.678 million.

Signing the offer guarantees the salary. Dansby remains the Cardinals' franchise player, but he can no longer solicit offers from other teams.

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

One thing about Kurt Warner: You rarely have to ask him to elaborate. He answers questions fully and completely.

In light of questions raised here earlier, I wanted to pass along a partial transcript from Warner's news conference following his re-signing with the Cardinals. Thanks to the Cardinals' public-relations staff for passing it along:

On if he went to San Francisco to come back and tell the Cardinals, 'This is what is out there':

My agent might have, but that had nothing to do with why I went out there. That is not how it worked. That is the reason why, from the get go, I made it clear that I want to be here and so it wasn't about what's the market value. When I made that trip I had to open myself up to the idea that I am going to go in with an open mind and figure out what's the best place for me.

So I don't even know if Mark [Bartelstein] came back and even told them what the offer was. As I was flying back, I called Mark and said, 'This is what I want to do. This is where I stand. This is where I want to be.' All the rest of the stuff is immaterial. That didn't matter. That was never my intention to take that trip and I don't think that really even played into it because it was more about finding the right place for me and then once I made sure that it was here, then let's get this thing done, let's do what we have to do.

On the reasons that made him decide that Arizona was where he wanted to be:

What we started here and I think the goal of most players is to go to an organization and play their whole career there. Obviously, I played for three, but I think I have to take New York out of there, I guess, knowing what New York was. But when I was with St. Louis, the idea was to start and finish my career there. When I came back here, my goal was to finish my career here.

With what we started and what we've built and the great job coach [Ken Whisenhunt] has done and the Bidwill family has done at building this thing, it made sense to stay here and want to be here and build and finish my career here. That was the mindset, that was the goal, that was the reason.

I think going into this thing I didn't even want to open my mind up to anything else because we felt so strongly about this and then obviously there was a lot of external reasons too, besides just football, where it made sense and what we felt was best for our family. That was obviously the mindset going in and some things may have shifted a little bit during the process, but I don't think it ever got out of our minds that we didn't feel this was the best place for us.

On Anquan Boldin and his impact on this deal and the future:

There is no question that I want Anquan here and I think he makes us better as a football team and I appreciate what he has done and the way he plays this game. But ultimately I knew I had to make the decision that was best for me and there was no contingency plan on any of those other factors. I have talked to 'Q' throughout this process and I've let him know how important he has been to our success and how much I want him around here and I have made that clear to him during this whole process.

Those aren't my decisions to make, but I do hope that we can work something out that works for everybody because I think he has been a huge piece to this puzzle and hopefully he will be moving forward and help us take that next step as well.

On adjusting to the new offensive coaching setup and the loss of coordinator Todd Haley:

Obviously there is a dynamic there that we've got to get comfortable with and figure out. I think one of the things I feel most comfortable about is coach [Whisenhunt] getting back into the mix from that standpoint and calling plays and having been there before and our relationship and the way we are going work together. Obviously knowing Mike [Miller, passing game coordinator], I think Mike is going to do a tremendous job.

But I think that whole dynamic is going to work itself out. Coach [Whisenhunt] and I talked through the process and about what I thought we needed and what he thought we needed. So I have a lot of confidence that the pieces that he put in place are going to benefit us. I am excited knowing the ability in coach to be able to call the plays and to work closely with him and his feel for what we do and what I do. Although we are going to miss Todd, and we are excited about his future I think we are in great hands and I am looking forward to that.

On if he remembers what he was doing in San Francisco when he knew he was meant to be in Arizona:

I do remember. Actually, coach [Mike] Singletary was breaking down his philosophy and his vision for the organization out there. I couldn't help but think everything he is saying is exactly how I feel in regards to the places I have been and how I have tried to impact the organizations I have been at.

But it was at that moment where, however way you put it, I felt God say to me, 'Coach is doing what he needs to do here.' [It was] God basically telling me that is exactly what I want you to do in Arizona. Try to continue to impact that organization the same way that coach Singletary was talking about impacting the 49ers. That is what I want to do is help impact this organization way beyond the football field. I am excited to have two more years to try and do that.

Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner discusses his new deal with Arizona on SportsCenter.

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

Jeff from Simi Valley writes: So how long do you think it takes until Matt Leinart requests a trade?

Mike Sando: I do think we'll be revisiting his situation regularly after reading Brian St. Pierre's comments about Ken Whisenhunt promising to let him compete for the No. 2 job. Going with Warner for another season relegates Leinart to the bench, again, unless Warner gets hurt.

Warner's contract carries guarantees that make him the likely starter in 2010 as well. And that will make Leinart more expendable than he's ever been. Stay tuned on this one.

Jim from Tucson writes: Mike, Bill Williamson is reporting that Denver is shopping Tony Scheffler. Should the Cardinals take a look? We've talked about how deadly a solid tight end could be on Arizona's roster. Depending on what kind of trade Denver is looking for, I think it could be a great match.

Mike Sando: Scheffler did catch 40 passes last season. I haven't seen him enough to project how he might fit into the Cardinals' offense. Here's what Scouts Inc. wrote about him:

Scheffler is a good-sized target who has above-average downfield speed, good body control and agility for his route-running skills. He has come a long ways in his ability to set up defenders and can separate well enough to gain a step on most safeties. He has adequate run after the catch tools, but does not have the afterburners to turn many catches into long touchdowns. He reads coverages well and does a good job of settling into soft spots in zone coverage to present a good target for the quarterback. He knows how to use his size and athleticism to be an effective receiver in the red zone and can reach up to highpoint the catch with his naturally soft hands. He is a decent blocker, at best, and needs to add more bulk and strength to sustain his blocks better. He will get rag dolled by some NFL linebackers and should get better with age and added strength.

Shawn from parts unknown writes: Dude I think you have so overstated the problems of the offseason. Follow my logic. They've only lost Antonio Smith, a solid but unspectacular player. Just like Calvin Pace the yr before you can't overpay for a rotation guy. Calais Campbell did a good job last year and will fill in fine.

As for Boldin, hes been unhappy with his contract for 2 years whats changed. Whisenhunt will call plays like he did before and for the Steelers superbowl team 5 years ago. I think with Whiz they will fill in depth guys, resign Boldin and Wilson and have another great draft. They win the NFC West no problem. I think you should rethink this gloom and doom Mike. I do enjoy your blog however. Thanks, Shawn in Phoenix

Mike Sando: Fair enough. Appreciate your logic. I tried to paint a balanced picture by pointing out how the team has six months to get things settled. I also noted that re-signing Kurt Warner would alleviate quite a bit of the angst.

However, I do think there's been enough change on the coaching staff to create an adjustment period. The Edgerrin James situation will go away once he's released. Anquan Boldin's future remains an issue, and a gathering one.

I do think Ken Whisenhunt is the right coach. It's not time to panic by any means. But, like I said, the offseason has not gone to script for Arizona to this point.

Remember, I was the guy downplaying the perceived turmoil last offseason. Some of the current issues seem a little more real, particularly with the coaching staff changing over. If they hit on Campbell, they will not miss Smith as much, no question.

Kenny from Phoenix writes: $19M guaranteed!? I'm glad the deal with Warner got done but what are the cap implications of this?

Mike Sando: Not prohibitive. The Cardinals had the cap room and they could afford to carry a higher number at the quarterback position. That is normal. I have not seen the contract, but the cap implications do not appear prohibitive on the surface.

Mike from Utah writes: Any chance of the Rams acquiring Roy Williams safety if he gets cut from Cowboys? If not, what safety should Rams pursue if James Butler doesn't work out?

Mike Sando: I think it would have to be for a fairly modest deal after the team paid Ron Bartell and used the franchise tag on Oshiomogho Atogwe. It sounds like they've been fairly optimistic on Butler. He would be the best fit. Jermaine Phillips has visited San Diego and will visit Seattle. Haven't heard his name connected to the Rams.

Chuck from parts unknown writes: Hey mike now that seattle has T.J. is there any way they still take Crabtree?

Mike Sando: Yes. I think that would be an aggressive move with the potential to put the Seahawks' receiving corps over the top if Michael Crabtree met expectations. General manager Tim Ruskell's tack has been to react strongly to problems. Adding Houshmandzadeh was a strong reaction. Taking Crabtree would put down the hammer. I think it could happen.

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

Cornerback Ron Bartell's role on the Rams changes now that the team has invested millions in the ascending cornerback. The process started last season when veteran safety Corey Chavous, since released, pulled aside Bartell to share some advice.

That was one of the themes from the news conference to announce Bartell's re-signing. Here's a sample of what Bartell told reporters in St. Louis:

"I thought I started to take more of a leadership role the last couple of games last season. Me and Corey Chavous were just having a discussion about it last season at the end of the year. He had put it on me. He pretty much told me that a lot of guys have respect for what I'm doing, so it may be time for me to step up more and be more of a vocal guy.

"I'm not really big on 'rah rah' and all of that, but I try and lead by example. When they invest this kind of money in you, I think it's your duty to take a leadership role on this team. Something has to change around here, so if it takes me being more vocal, or a guy like O.J. [Atogwe] stepping up and saying some things, then you know what, we're going to have to do that if we want to change things."

If you've watched the Rams recently, you know Chavous wasn't fast enough to hold up in coverage at this stage in his career. Chavous hung around so long because he knows the game so well. He was a heady player and probably a solid role model for Bartell in terms of how to approach the game through study.

That said, the Rams will not realize their investment in Bartell unless the team improves around him. Improving the pass rush is only part of the challenge. The Rams also need their offense to score more points, which will create more favorable pass-rushing situations, which will put Bartell and the rest of the secondary in more favorable situations.