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The most recent NFC West chat is heading into overtime thanks to Jeff from Seattle.

"I enjoyed it when the chat wrap used questions that weren't answered," Jeff wrote. "Any plans to bring that back to the feature?"

Sometimes there's not time, but this time, there is. It's May 24 and we -- OK, I -- recently ran a weather report, after all. The first section begins with a question about Kellen Winslow, but the answer touches on teams beyond Seattle. It also lets me break out a chart, always a plus.

Robert from Georgia asked whether Kellen Winslow's addition in Seattle will lead the Seahawks to use more personnel groupings with two tight ends.

"The way New England uses Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez is unbelievable," he wrote, "and while I am in no way trying to compare, does the addition of Winslow increase Zach Miller's production? Could Seattle have the second-best two-tight-end set in the NFL?"

That sounds optimistic. I expect the San Francisco 49ers to field the best two-tight end tandem in the division once again. Vernon Davis and Delanie Walker are very good together. Each is faster than his Seattle counterpart, although Winslow has obviously been more productive than Walker as a receiver (with quite a few more opportunities).

I've put together a chart showing how frequently NFC West teams and Winslow's former team, Tampa Bay, used two or more tight ends. John Carlson's injury suppressed the numbers for Seattle. The St. Louis Rams have a new coaching staff, so numbers from last season might not mean as much.

Seattle will use two-plus tight ends more frequently as long as Miller and Winslow are healthy. Winslow amassed 74 percent of his receiving yardage (565 of 763) as the only tight end on the field last season, according to ESPN Stats & Information. That figure mirrored the percentage of snaps when Tampa Bay used fewer than two tight ends, disregarding kneeldowns and spikes.

Miller's receiving numbers were going to climb anyway after he bottomed out at 25 receptions. Winslow has consistently been a 70-catch player. I would expect that figure to fall as he plays alongside another tight end to a degree he did not last season.

There is a chance Winslow will catch more passes than Miller.

Miller will likely be the in-line tight end, meaning he'll be more involved in run blocking. Winslow will be more of an H-back. That is consistent with assistant head coach/offensive line Tom Cable's vision for the offense.

Jacob from Missouri says it's easy to become optimistic while hearing good things from organized team activities and such.

"As a Rams fan, I could really use some optimism, but when is the best time to actually believe all the good things I'm hearing?" he writes.

Mike Sando: It's OK to believe the good things you're hearing now. Just remember to keep it all in perspective. For the Rams, pay close attention to the injury situation. This team was hit hard by injuries last season. It's important for the Rams to get through the offseason without starting to head down the path that led to the training room last season.

We should pay close attention to what the Rams are saying about Jason Smith at right tackle. We should listen for clues about Brian Quick's readiness to contribute right now, not just at some point in the distant future. We should pay attention to the source of information. When Jeff Fisher, a former defensive back, gushes over Janoris Jenkins and indicates he expects immediate contributions, that means something. I'd go ahead and buy into that a little bit.

Jeff from Fowler, Calif., asks whether NaVorro Bowman is the most logical young player to receive a contract extension from the 49ers.

Mike Sando: Yeah, I would think so. Dashon Goldson is operating on the franchise tag, so he could get a new deal as well. But he's been around a little longer. Bowman is younger and quickly became an All-Pro player. The 49ers should not feel pressure to do a deal with him right now, however. Bowman has the 2012 and 2013 seasons remaining on his contract. Waiting another year isn't disrespectful to Bowman. Why not get one more cheap season from Bowman and then reward him accordingly if Bowman backs up his strong 2011 season with another big year?

kualla83 from Phoenix asked whether the Arizona Cardinals' defense should be regarded on par with those from Seattle and San Francisco, even though those defenses were more consistent from start to finish.

"Obviously they have to prove it a little more on the field," he wrote, "but if the second half of last season is any indication of what is to come, I am really excited."

Mike Sando: First off, this question was one I answered in the chat. We had very few Cardinals questions and I answered them. FearTheTweetTweet even complained during the chat, asking whether I'd ever answer another Arizona question. I was looking for them and found only three (out of 140 questions, which was a low number for a chat anyway). So, we get a rerun of an answer.

It's fair to say the Cardinals should be optimistic based on the improvement they saw late in the season. It's fair to say the Cardinals have to prove it over the course of the season, which you indicated to be the case. The 49ers are in a different class defensively right now. Justin Smith and Patrick Willis were the two best defensive players in the division last season. The Cardinals do not have players quite on that level defensively. Now, they do have some very good players. The key variable, in my mind, is what production the team gets from its young outside linebackers. Again, there is reason for optimism there, but also much for the team to prove.

JohnnyP from St. Louis, Mo., wants to see NFC West awards patterned after the major NFL awards: MVP, offensive and defensive players of the year, top rookies, etc.

Mike Sando: We've done all-division teams since 2008 and I'll reproduce the choices here.

What we should do, I think, is make projections for the coming season.

It's a little early to have a great feel for the rookies, but I think we'll likely see one of the receivers make an impact.

Brian Quick of the St. Louis Rams is my early choice on the suspicion Sam Bradford enjoys a bounce-back season. The team doesn't necessarily have an established No. 1 option even though Danny Amendola is returning from injury. Perhaps that gives Quick an immediate opportunity. That could change as we learn more, of course.

Michael Floyd of the Arizona Cardinals is an obvious contender. How many passes will come his way given Larry Fitzgerald's presence and established third-down options elsewhere? I'm less certain where the San Francisco 49ers' A.J. Jenkins will fit into an offense with Vernon Davis, Michael Crabtree and, potentially, Randy Moss.

Defensively, Bruce Irvin will have sack opportunities for the Seattle Seahawks. Janoris Jenkins could have opportunities to pick off passes and factor in the Rams' return game. Those are two players to watch right away. The Rams' run defense figures to improve with Michael Brockers on the line, but he won't have as many chances for stats.

Let's revisit this one in a separate item.

First, I'll dust off the all-division teams since 2008, beginning with the offensive choices.


Defensive choices are next. Note that I went with four defensive ends in 2011, my attempt to include the best defensive linemen.


The specialists featured 49ers punter Andy Lee, who cashed in with a six-year contract Wednesday.

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Moving along to other subjects ...

Richard from Tucson, Ariz., thinks the NFL's push for players to wear knee and thigh pads beginning in 2013 stems in part from injuries such as the one Kevin Kolb suffered last season.

Mike Sando: The San Francisco 49ers' Ahmad Brooks did not appear to be wearing kneepads when his knee accidentally struck Kolb's helmet during a scramble for the football. I went back and watched the play a few more times to be sure. Would kneepads have spared Kolb from the concussion he suffered? That's not something anyone can determine with any certainty.

The injury San Francisco's Delanie Walker suffered at Seattle two weeks later also comes to mind. Seahawks linebacker Leroy Hill was wearing thigh pads. He did not appear to be wearing knee pads when his knee accidentally struck Walker in the side of the helmet, breaking Walker's jaw. Again, it's tough to say if padding would have made any difference for Walker.

Requiring knee and helmet pads seems like a logical move even in the absence of evidence proving additional pads would reduce concussions. The league is working with Nike to develop padding players consider more comfortable. I'd like to know whether these sleeker pads will provide as much protection for those on the receiving end of blows like the ones Kolb and Walker absorbed.

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Miles from Seattle questions asks whether the salaries for Zach Miller and Kellen Winslow would force them into competition for a single roster spot at tight end.

Mike Sando: Miller is scheduled to earn $6 million in base salary. His contract is scheduled to count $7 million against the salary cap this year. Winslow has a $3.3 million salary. His contract could count up to $4.8 million. Indeed, that's a hefty chunk of money tied up in two tight ends, but Seattle has the salary cap room to absorb the charges comfortably.

The five-year deal Miller signed before the 2011 looks more like a three-year contract for practical purposes. Miller's base salary rises to $6.8 million in 2013, with another $3 million due in a roster bonus. His cap number spikes to $11 million. Those numbers appear steep even for a top tight end.

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A.J. from Mendham, N.J., thinks the recent item criticizing Stephen Ross was overkill.

"I don't think the Dolphins were sold on Matt Flynn," he writes. "Jim Harbaugh wanted to stay in Northern California much more than he was uncomfortable with Miami's owner. Jeff Fisher would have taken the Miami job had he been granted total personnel control."

Mike Sando: That's a fair criticism. I'm finished with Ross and suspect he'll be OK, but the way he runs the franchise has benefited teams in the NFC West, in my view. Wait, I thought I was finished with Ross. OK, now I'm finished.

Greetings, and Happy Cinco de Mayo.

A look back at the most recent NFC West chat shows the concussion issue permeating what are usually football-related discussions. The issue was a significant one for the division last season as several players, notably Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kevin Kolb and St. Louis Rams tackle Jason Smith, missed extended periods after suffering head injuries.

Both men absorbed inadvertent knees to the head (as did the San Francisco 49ers' Delanie Walker, who suffered a broken jaw as a result). There was not much anyone could have done to prevent these injuries, but as ESPN's Merril Hoge said Friday, how teams and players respond can make all the difference.

NFC West teams seemed to respond appropriately in these cases. Walker said he did not suffer a concussion, only the jaw injury. Kolb and Smith missed extended periods following their concussions.

Brian from Arizona asks whether Kolb, who suffered a concussion playing for Philadelphia prior to suffering one last season, would have to consider retirement if he suffered one serious enough to sideline him for multiple games in 2012.

Mike Sando: Reasonably, yes, but we have evidence suggesting players will try to keep playing, and teams will keep giving them chances. I wonder if we're headed for a day when players must go through some sort of neurological or medical board to get a license to play in the NFL. Sort of the way boxing requires boxers to get a license. I mean, Brandon Stokley is playing in the NFL after suffering more than 10 significant concussions, by his count.

David from Maryland asks which wide receivers are most likely to stick on the Rams' initial 53-man roster.

Mike Sando: We need to know whether Steve Smith is going to be healthy. A scout for an NFL team told me he though the Rams would cut a receiver who would catch on with another team. Brian Quick makes it as a second-round choice. Danny Amendola makes it as a slot receiver. I suspect Greg Salas makes it. Chris Givens has a decent shot as a fourth-round pick. We haven't even mentioned Brandon Gibson, Austin Pettis or Danario Alexander. My feel is that injuries will make some of the decisions for the Rams. Smith and Alexander are two players to watch on that front. Can they hold up OK?

Boothe from parts unknown asks which is a more plausible hypothesis: The 49ers approached this draft with an eye on giving Alex Smith more weapons, or that they drafted these players to pair with Colin Kaepernick (in the near future) in a more dynamic, high-speed offense? "Or is neither exclusive of the other?" he asks.

Mike Sando: The 49ers were adding to their offense, period. If Alex Smith makes the most of those weapons, good for him. If not, on to the next guy. I'm sure they're thinking in the backs of their minds about a day when Colin Kaepernick, A.J. Jenkins and LaMichael James are on the field together with Vernon Davis, etc. But for now, Alex Smith gets first crack.

Bernie from Burien, Wash., asks whether the Seattle Seahawks should consider converting Mike Williams to tight end, a position where the team needs additional depth.

Mike Sando: Mike Williams wouldn't offer enough as a blocker. Plus, he is 230 pounds, too light for a tight end, and he has had trouble staying healthy. The team needs to add a real tight end. Visanthe Shiancoe is the most logical candidate by far among veteran free agents. He is 32, but he has not missed games.

Enjoy your Saturday. I'll be ducking out to watch our youngest play baseball.

The Arizona Cardinals and San Francisco 49ers used early draft choices for players they hope will make big plays on offense.

Both teams have offensive-minded head coaches.

The Seattle Seahawks and St. Louis Rams used early draft choices for players they hope will fortify their defenses.

Both teams have defensive-minded head coaches.

Coincidence? Perhaps, but whatever the reason for the differing approaches, the tack these teams took continues to generate discussion.

Steve Kelley of the Seattle Times says the Seahawks' emphasis on defense comes as teams with the best offenses win games. Kelley: "The Green Bay Packers had the worst defense in the league. They lost once. The New England Patriots were the second-worst defense. They went to the Super Bowl. With the exception of the Baltimore Ravens, who have decided they don't need wide receivers to win division titles, the teams with the most productive, most dynamic, most dizzying offenses won the most games." Noted: Seattle has made offense more of a focus in free agency. The team signed quarterback Matt Flynn from Green Bay. A year earlier, the Seahawks signed receiver Sidney Rice and tight end Zach Miller to lucrative contracts. The year before that, Seattle acquired running back Marshawn Lynch from Buffalo. Also, the Seahawks used an NFL-high 80 percent of their first-, second- and third-round draft choices for offensive players over the 2010 and 2011 drafts, the first two under coach Pete Carroll.

Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic says the Cardinals went with a wide receiver in the first round largely because they wanted more game-changing plays on offense. Somers: "The Cardinals' selections also reflected their views on how the NFL game has changed. They selected Floyd in the first round because they think he has the ability to make big plays. That's more important in today's game, coach Ken Whisenhunt said, because moving the kickoff up last year resulted in more touchbacks. Being able to quickly flip field position is important. Floyd is expected to help do that." Noted: The Cardinals, like the Seahawks, will be relying heavily on a veteran quarterback acquired from another team. Kevin Kolb showed a few signs of promise early in the season, including when he took a huge hit at Washington while delivering a deep pass to Larry Fitzgerald. As far as the draft, Arizona had used three of its previous four first-round choices for defense, selecting Patrick Peterson (2011), Dan Williams (2010) and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (2008).

Bernie Miklasz of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch took note of the trend in St. Louis, where the Rams used early picks for a defensive lineman (Michael Brockers) and a cornerback (Janoris Jenkins). Miklasz: "On the surface, [GM Les] Snead and [coach Jeff] Fisher have done little so far to secure immediate, impact help for quarterback Sam Bradford. With five of the first 65 selections overall, the Rams addressed the offense by drafting a small-college wide receiver (Brian Quick) from Appalachian State and a third-down back (Isaiah Pead) from Cincinnati. That's it. Only one probable but relatively unpolished offensive starter (Quick), and no offensive linemen to protect the quarterback. Of their five selections in the first three rounds, three were spent on defense. The Rams took a less urgent approach in attaching an IV to a sickly offense that's averaged an embarrassing 14.4 points over the past five seasons in going 15-65. Wow."

Lowell Cohn of the Santa Rosa Press-Democrat says the 49ers' decision to draft a receiver (A.J. Jenkins) and running back (LaMichael James) in the first two rounds shows the team wants to close some of the gap between its so-so offense and dominating defense. Cohn: "In free agency, the Niners got two speedy receivers to stretch the field -- Randy (Is He in the Mood to Play?) Moss and Mario Manningham. They already had two swift, strong intermediate route runners -- Vernon Davis and Delanie Walker. And they drafted two players to go underneath the coverage. They would be wideout A.J. Jenkins, a strange first-round choice until you realize the Niners brought him in to give Smith an option on third down. Jenkins loves the underneath crossing route, and he presumably can stretch the field, too. In the second round, they took fast, elusive, Oregon running back LaMichael James, who may be better at catching passes coming out of the backfield than actually running -- he’s small for the NFL. And they already have Frank Gore and they got free-agent Brandon Jacobs as a big short-yardage back. In the third round, they even took Joe Looney, a guard, to upgrade Smith’s protection."

What's going on: Our eight divisional bloggers are participating in an ongoing mock draft Monday. Each blogger can make selections or trade picks for the four teams in his division.

The latest: I selected North Alabama cornerback Janoris Jenkins for the San Francisco 49ers with the 30th overall choice.

My rationale: The 49ers have a strong head coach, a strong locker room and one of the best defenses in the NFL. Justin Smith and Patrick Willis give the 49ers impeccably strong leadership. This team appears to be in good position to take a chance on a player with clear off-field concerns, particularly if scouts are right about Jenkins' raw talent. I considered Stanford tight end Coby Fleener, but the 49ers love their current tight ends. They could easily extend Delanie Walker's contract, knowing he fits in their offense and brings great additional value on special teams. The 49ers could have taken a guard in this slot, but that's a position they should be able to fill later in the draft, or with Daniel Kilgore. Cornerback is a more valuable position. The 49ers face a long list of top quarterbacks in 2012. Jenkins gives them needed depth. Scouts say he can play man or zone well.

What's next for the NFC West: The Seattle Seahawks hold the 31st overall choice.

The NFL took a break from dominating the sports news cycle over the weekend.

The silence will not last long.

Bounty-related punishments for current and former New Orleans Saints players await. The NFL will address recent bounty-related appeals from Saints coach Sean Payton and general manager Mickey Loomis. Teams will continue filling out their rosters with second-tier free agents. The league will also release its 2012 regular-season schedule in the next week or so.

In the meantime, we take a quick look around the division on a Monday morning.

Peter Delevett of the San Jose Mercury News says San Francisco 49ers players spent part of their weekend participating in the search for missing Bay Area teenager Sierra LaMar. Delevett: "The search effort is being aided by thousands of volunteers; by the families of other Bay Area youngsters who have been kidnapped and killed, including those of Polly Klaas and Xiana Fairchild; and by San Francisco 49ers quarterback Alex Smith. On Saturday, Smith and teammates Joe Staley, Delanie Walker and Scott Tolzien were among about 500 people combing southern Santa Clara County for signs of Sierra. The NFL stars made it clear they did not welcome the media attention, but Sierra's sister, Danielle, was grateful for the celebrity support. 'When those kinds of people get involved, it gives us a whole new audience,' she said."

Steve Kelley of the Seattle Times checks in with former Seattle Seahawks players Joe Tafoya and Kerry Carter, who have joined forces with other former teammates to operate a mobile apps company. Kelley: "Two years ago, Tafoya, now 33 and a computer-science major from Arizona, bought an 11-year-old Redmond mobile apps distributor. Now he's joined forces with like-minded former Seahawks Carter, Chike Okeafor and Omare Lowe to form Jump It Media. ... They're building profile applications for athletes to help them increase their brands through online channels. Among their subjects are Chicago Bears defensive end Lance Briggs and Dallas Mavericks guard Jason Terry."

Brock Huard and Mike Salk of 710ESPN Seattle discuss whether the Seahawks would be wise to move back from the 12th overall spot in the 2012 draft.

Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic reports on the wine company Cardinals guard Daryn Colledge founded with two former teammates. The label -- "Three Fat Guys" -- reflects their good humor and significant girth as offensive linemen. Somers: "It started small in 2008 and has stayed that way. The initial objective was to produce enough wine to stock the three fat guys' homes and for them to give away as presents. Only 126 or so cases are produced each year, so it's more than a novelty but less than a full-time business. ... Their greatest fear now is not that the operation will go under, but that it will grow too fast and consume too much time. The players see the humor in that, because they weren't long out of college when the idea of becoming winemakers was hatched."

Darren Urban of azcardinals.com offers thoughts on Deuce Lutui's departure from the Cardinals to the Seahawks as an unrestricted free agent. Urban: "The door hadn’t been closed on Lutui in Arizona, but I didn’t see him starting again here. He may not in Seattle, but he reunites with his college coach, Pete Carroll, and the Cards will get a chance to see him again."

Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch says Trevor Laws, a free agent from the Philadelphia Eagles, visited the St. Louis Rams recently. Thomas: "A second-round pick out of Notre Dame in 2008, Laws has been a rotation player for the Eagles, used specifically as an interior pass rusher in the nickel package. He has started only twice in 56 regular-season games, but registered a career-high 40 tackles last season, including a sack and 16 quarterback pressures. He had four sacks in 2010. Laws, 6-1, 304, is at least the fifth free agent to visit Rams Park this week, joining quarterback Dennis Dixon (Pittsburgh), defensive end William Hayes (Tennessee), and wide receivers Jerricho Cotchery (Pittsburgh) and Jerome Simpson (Cincinnati). All told, the Rams have had nearly two dozen free agents in for visits, signing eight to contracts."

Let's just say the latest NFC West chat was the latest NFC West chat -- about 45 minutes late in starting. My apologies. I lost track of time while reading through Gregg Williams-related pieces and speaking with a range of people about the implications.

There's much to consider.

Sean Pamphilon's engrossing piece (R-rated for language) provided context for the damning video he shot revealing Williams' instructions to injure specific San Francisco 49ers players in specific vulnerable places. One of Williams' former players in New Orleans, Malcolm Jenkins, subsequently suggested Pamphilon had exploited for personal gain the access afforded him through Steve Gleason, the former Saints linebacker suffering from ALS.

Both men make understandable points. What we need, I think, is a fuller and more honest discussion of what goes on inside pro football. We need context.

Jack from Charming, Calif., asked during the chat what I took from Williams' pregame speech.

Mostly, I tried to differentiate the normal pregame stuff -- kill the other guys, knock out the QB, etc. -- from the specific instructions to target specific injuries on specific players (for cash in at least one instance). I think the extent to which Williams reveled in this stuff was largely his undoing. There's a reason players aren't excited about disclosing injuries in a lot of cases. They know opponents will target them.

That's what I said in the chat, anyway. Gaining additional context over time will lead to better informed opinions.

Full chat transcript here. Highlights below:

Yvan from Paris asks whether the St. Louis Rams' interest in wide receivers during free agency suggests they're not sold on drafting Oklahoma State's Justin Blackmon.

Mike Sando: Not necessarily. It means the Rams are weak at the position and want to protect themselves to the greatest degree possible as they head toward the draft. They do not want to be in trouble if Blackmon is not there for them at No. 6, or if there is another player they might value more. Let's say they like Blackmon and love another prospect, but they realize receiver is the bigger need. That is a realistic scenario. Diminishing the need before the draft allows the Rams greater flexibility to draft the best player regardless of position. That is what every team wants.

Tommy from Honolulu asks what I think about suggestions the Seattle Seahawks might draft safety Mark Barron in the first round, then move Kam Chancellor to linebacker.

Mike Sando: I think it sounds unlikely. Chancellor is a Pro Bowl safety. He probably has more value there than he would have at linebacker, unless the coaching staff felt strongly about developing a specific hybrid role for him. In that case, I would be intrigued, but still a little skeptical. Why mess with a good thing? I do think it's easier, in theory, to go from defensive back to linebacker than the other way around, as the Michael Boulware experiment seemed to demonstrate years ago.

The_Jagaroth from Arizona asks about mock drafts suggesting the Cardinals could trade down from the 13th overall pick, select Cordy Glenn and recoup a second-round choice along the way.

Mike Sando: That makes some sense. Teams hate going into a draft without a pick in an early round. The scenario you outlined would make sense if the Cardinals felt as though there wasn't an offensive tackle worth taking at No. 13. In that case, they could go to a Plan B. They could trade back, as you suggested, add a guard and then consider their options, possibly moving Adam Snyder to tackle. I'm skeptical of Snyder projecting at tackle for the long term, but Russ Grimm indicated it could be an option.

Ryan from Irvine, Calif., asks how drafting Stanford tight end Coby Fleener could impact the 49ers' offense.

Mike Sando: Wow, talk about formidable three-tight end personnel groupings. Sounds like overkill to me, but if anyone would embrace newfangled personnel groupings, Jim Harbaugh and Greg Roman would be the ones. Imagine Fleener, Vernon Davis and Delanie Walker on the field with Frank Gore and one wide receiver.

By the way, it looks like our Seahawks logos have been updated to reflect the recent redesign. Check it out above. Those who razzed me for having outdated logos in the seconds following the redesign did have an affect. I emailed proofs of the new logos to editors a few minutes earlier than I otherwise might have done.

The San Francisco 49ers have become the hunted in the NFC West.

Having already take aim at their 2011 turnover differential, let us consider another reason for a potential 2012 regression from 13-3.

"Repeating the 2011 relative lack of injuries on the 49ers may be as hard as replicating the turnover ratio," Michael Rally contended via Twitter.

Injuries did slow and/or sideline some of the 49ers' most important players, including running back Frank Gore and linebacker Patrick Willis. Starting receiver Josh Morgan missed most of the season. A freak jaw injury sidelined tight end Delanie Walker late in the season. A hamstring injury slowed defensive end Ray McDonald.

But in looking at injured-reserve lists, the 49ers definitely fared better than their division rivals. They finished the regular season with five players on IR. The other three NFC West teams had a combined 39.

I've broken out the IR lists by team and position, based on where teams stood after Week 17. In some cases, teams released and/or reached injury settlements with players placed on IR previously. Teams usually keep on IR the players they value the most, however. The players listed below are the most relevant ones.

St. Louis Rams (16)

Fullback: Brit Miller

Receiver: Danny Amendola, Mark Clayton, Greg Salas

Tight end: Mike Hoomanawanui

Offensive line: guard Jacob Bell, Rodger Saffold, Jason Smith

Defensive line: Jermelle Cudjo

Linebacker: Josh Hull

Cornerback: Ron Bartell, Bradley Fletcher, Al Harris, Brian Jackson, Marquis Johnson, Jerome Murphy

Comment: Quarterback Sam Bradford was injured much of the year without landing on IR. The Rams ran through several unlisted cornerbacks as well. That position was hit hard. Losing both starting offensive tackles is never good, but Smith wasn't a huge positive factor on the right side. The team was arguably better off without him in the lineup.

Seattle Seahawks (15)

Receiver: Kris Durham, Mike Williams, Sidney Rice

Tight end: John Carlson

Offensive line: John Moffitt, James Carpenter, Russell Okung

Defensive line: Jimmy Wilkerson

Linebacker: Jameson Konz, Matt McCoy, David Vobora, Dexter Davis

Cornerback: Marcus Trufant, Walter Thurmond, Ron Parker

Comment: The Seahawks remained strong against the run largely because their line was healthier this season. Losing three-fifths of the starting offensive line could not stop Marshawn Lynch from producing at a high level. Rookie Richard Sherman capitalized on injuries at cornerback. Good, young depth helped Seattle weather injuries well.

Arizona Cardinals (8)

Quarterback: Max Hall

Running back: Ryan Williams

Offensive line: Brandon Keith, Floyd Womack

Defensive line: Dan Williams

Linebacker: Joey Porter

Cornerback: Crezdon Butler, Greg Toler

Comment: Ryan Williams' knee injury affected the team significantly. The injury situation was worse overall than the list would indicate. Quarterback Kevin Kolb missed seven starts with foot and concussion problems. Running back Beanie Wells played hurt much of the year and had a hard time producing late in the season. Adrian Wilson played through a torn biceps and got better as the season progressed.

San Francisco 49ers (5)

Receiver: Dontavia Bogan, Josh Morgan

Tight end: Nate Byham

Defensive line: Will Tukuafu

Cornerback: Curtis Holcomb

Comment: Byham was a solid blocking tight end. The team missed Morgan, especially late in the year. Gore's production diminished after he suffered an apparent knee injury in Week 10. Overall, though, the 49ers were healthy. They inflicted more injuries than they suffered, knocking out several opposing runners, including Felix Jones, LeGarrette Blount, Jahvid Best, Steven Jackson and Pierre Thomas.

Thoughts on the San Francisco 49ers' 20-17 defeat to the New York Giants in the NFC Championship Game at Candlestick Park:

What it means: The 49ers missed a chance to represent the NFC in Super Bowl XLVI thanks largely to two critical miscues in the return game, both by second-year backup punt returner Kyle Williams. Their defense played heroically at times but was unable to capitalize on several opportunities to force turnovers. With the offense struggling on third down, the 49ers simply couldn't persevere. This game will haunt the 49ers for years. How many times will San Francisco get to play a 9-7 team at home for a berth in the Super Bowl?

What I liked: Vernon Davis got open early for a 73-yard touchdown reception even though the Giants knew he was the one player most likely to beat them deep. Davis came through again in the third quarter with a go-ahead 28-yard scoring reception after a slick outside-in move to find a hole in the coverage. …

Frank Gore found running room. The 49ers’ coaching staff supplemented the ground game effectively with designed runs for Alex Smith. And the misdirection run to spring Kendall Hunter for a 14-yard gain was beautifully conceived. …

San Francisco’s pass rush improved in the second half, playing a big role in the team’s ability to take the lead and hold it heading into the fourth quarter. Aldon Smith and Justin Smith started getting to Eli Manning, allowing the 49ers to stay in the game even though their offense wasn’t sustaining drives. …

Williams’ 40-yard kickoff return midway through the fourth quarter gave the 49ers good field position and gave the 49ers a needed jolt. Smith followed with a 17-yard scramble. Delanie Walker's block on Kenny Phillips to help spring Hunter to the 5-yard line was reminiscent of the block Joe Staley threw for Smith last week. ...

The 49ers' defense stepped up repeatedly late in the game, especially when Smith sacked Manning.

What I didn’t like: The 49ers were miserable on third down, asking too many favors from their defense. They did not succeed on a third-down conversion until the final play of regulation. ...

Williams’ indecision on a punt return cost the 49ers when the ball bounced off his knee with San Francisco holding a 14-10 lead and 11:06 remaining in the fourth quarter. Williams, subbing for injured veteran Ted Ginn Jr., couldn’t get out of the way after deciding at the last moment to bail on the return. The Giants took over at the San Francisco 28-yard line, then scored the go-ahead touchdown on third-and-15 from the 17. …

Then, after the 49ers' defense held in overtime, Williams fumbled during a punt return. The Giants recovered and kicked the winning 31-yard field goal.

Early in the game, the 49ers couldn’t get pressure on third down, giving Manning ample time to find open receivers and sustain drives. Manning completed eight passes for 125 yards to Victor Cruz in the first half. …

San Francisco played conservatively on offense shortly before halftime, letting the clock run down and settling for predictable runs. The Giants got the ball back and scored a field goal to take a 10-7 lead heading into halftime. …

The 49ers had no third-down conversions in the first three quarters. Their wide receivers were generally poor to invisible. …

The 49ers’ usually hard-hitting secondary struggled to get clear shots on the Giants’ receivers. That made it tougher for San Francisco to force turnovers. When the pass-rush improved in the second half, the 49ers missed an opportunity to pick off a pass when defenders collided, injuring cornerback Tarell Brown.

“X” factor a no-show: Those figuring the 49ers might need receiver Michael Crabtree to step up kept waiting and waiting, without results. Giants cornerback Corey Webster shut down Crabtree. The 49ers have been thin at wide receiver without Josh Morgan (injured reserve), Braylon Edwards (released) or Ginn (inactive due to injury). Crabtree, an occasional force for the 49ers late in the regular season, did not make an impact in the passing game.

Controversial call: Referee Ed Hochuli and crew ruled that Ahmad Bradshaw's forward progress was stopped before the 49ers forced him to fumble and recovered deep in Giants territory. That play could not be reviewed. A 49ers recovery in that situation -- tie game, a little more than two minutes remaining -- would have been huge. The head linesman threw his bean bag and made the ruling decisively. The question was whether the ruling was made hastily.

Interesting decision: The 49ers opted to punt on fourth-and-inches from the Giants’ 47-yard line while holding a 14-10 lead early in the fourth quarter. They were running the ball well, but their defense was also gaining the upper hand at that point in the game. Punting and playing for field position showed the 49ers thought their punting and defense could hold. The decision paid off for the 49ers when Aldon Smith’s sack helped limit the Giants to a three-and-out. But the defensive stop also precipitated Williams’ muffed punt.

Injuries of note: The 49ers lost left guard Mike Iupati to an ankle injury early in the game. Iupati returned, but was limping around at times. A knee injury kept Ginn from playing. Brown was down on the field for an extended period after colliding with safety Dashon Goldson. Medical personnel brought out a stretcher board, but Brown walked off slowly, with assistance. Brown suffered thigh and head injuries, according to the 49ers. Walker played for the first time since suffering a broken jaw at Seattle in Week 16.

What’s next: The 49ers head toward the draft needing help at wide receiver in particular.

SAN FRANCISCO -- The San Francisco 49ers' injury situation featured trade-offs Sunday.

Receiver Ted Ginn Jr., a dynamic threat in the return game when healthy, will miss the NFC Championship Game with a knee injury. The injury limited him last week.

Tight end Delanie Walker is back, however, and he'll play for the first time since breaking his jaw during a freak collision with Leroy Hill's knee at the Seattle Seahawks in Week 16. Walker led the 49ers with six receptions for 69 yards when the 49ers defeated the New York Giants in Week 10. His presence should help San Francisco in the rematch.

Michael Crabtree, Kyle Williams, Joe Hastings and Brett Swain are the receivers active for San Francisco.

Veteran fullback Moran Norris is inactive, leaving Bruce Miller as the only fullback, with Walker and fellow tight ends Vernon Davis and Justin Peelle giving the 49ers options when they go to heavier personnel groupings. Tackle Alex Boone and nose tackle Isaac Sopoaga also help out as blockers at times. Defensive end Justin Smith recently came onto the field as a blocker, as well.

I suspect we're going to see quite a bit of Frank Gore and fellow running back Kendall Hunter in this game. We'll see greater versatility within the two-tight end packages now that the speedy, athletic Walker is available. Walker also helps on special teams.

But with Ginn out, the 49ers will be trusting the much less experienced Williams and Hunter in the return game amid wet, potentially windy conditions.

The leaping grab Hakeem Nicks made in the end zone for the New York Giants stood as a pivotal moment in their postseason victory over the 15-1 Green Bay Packers last week.

Vernon Davis was the one making impressive catches for the San Francisco 49ers during their playoff victory over the 14-3 New Orleans Saints.

Rain could make holding onto the football tougher for both teams in the NFC Championship Game at Candlestick Park on Sunday.

With that in mind, I've put together a chart showing regular-season catch-to-drop ratios for 49ers and Giants players with at least 10 receptions. The numbers come courtesy of ESPN Stats & Information, which defines drops as "incomplete passes where the offending player should have caught the pass with ordinary effort, and only when the receiver is 100 percent at fault."

According to this standard, "Passes thrown just outside the receiver's reach or those falling incomplete when pass interference should have been called do not meet the standard."

These are blatant drops, in other words.

Wide receiver is one position where the Giants have an obvious talent advantage over the 49ers. San Francisco needs improved play from Michael Crabtree in particular. He failed to catch contested balls against New Orleans. Kyle Williams is another 49ers receiver to watch.

49ers running back Frank Gore tops the list of Giants and 49ers players with the fewest receptions per drop. He caught the ball well against the Saints, however.
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Delanie Walker's potential return from a broken jaw for the NFC Championship Game could restore a welcome dimension to the San Francisco 49ers' offense.

The sixth-year tight end can be a valuable contributor in multiple ways.

On offense, Walker gives the 49ers added speed and receiving capabilities in their "12" personnel package featuring one back and two tight ends. The 49ers averaged 102 yards passing per game from this grouping over a seven-game stretch before Walker suffered his jaw injury against Seattle in Week 16. The team has averaged 49.7 yards per game from this grouping over its past three games.

Quarterback Alex Smith completed 9 of 11 passes for 109 yards and a touchdown when targeting tight ends during the 49ers' 27-20 victory over the New York Giants in Week 10, according to ESPN Stats & Information. Walker caught six passes for 69 yards in that game. Vernon Davis had a 31-yard touchdown reception.

Getting Walker back in time to face the Giants on Sunday would buy flexibility for an offense short on high-impact wide receivers. Walker could provide another outlet for Smith if the Giants double-cover Davis, who caught seven passes for 180 yards and two touchdowns against New Orleans in the divisional round.

Walker returned to practice Wednesday. The 49ers will evaluate him throughout the week before determining his readiness.

The news conference introducing Jeff Fisher as the St. Louis Rams' head coach, scheduled for Tuesday at 2 p.m. ET, should provide answers regarding organizational structure.

We should expect Fisher to control the roster and have say over who becomes general manager. We should also expect Fisher's contract to give him at least as much power as the GM.

Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch says Fisher will not have a title beyond head coach, but Fisher will have significant say over personnel to go along with a $7 million annual salary. Thomas: "After 17 years working for tightwad owner Bud Adams in Houston and Tennessee, Fisher wanted to make sure he had the resources to put together a strong coaching staff, be active in free agency and have a strong personnel department. Contrary to speculation, it looks like Fisher's only title will be head coach. He's not expected to have 'vice president' or 'executive vice president' attached to his name in St. Louis."

Also from Thomas: Gregg Williams and Brian Schottenheimer are expected to become Fisher's coordinators, although ESPN's Chris Mortensen says former Raiders coach Hue Jackson will interview on the offensive side.

Bernie Miklasz of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch shields Schottenheimer from some of the blame over what went wrong with Mark Sanchez and the Jets this past season. Miklasz: "If we are to blame Schottenheimer for the stalled development of a young QB, then it's fair to give the OC just a nod of praise for what Sanchez did in the 2009-10 postseasons. In six games, with the Jets winning four, Sanchez completed 60.5 percent with 9 TDs and 3 INTs. He played very well in road wins at San Diego, Indianapolis and New England. He also played a good game in last season's AFC championship, completing 61 percent for 2 TDs and no picks in the loss at Pittsburgh."

Also from Miklasz: Rams owner Stan Kroenke hasn't done enough to allay fears of a future franchise relocation.

Andy Cordan of WKRN-TV Nashville says Fisher was recently first on the scene to a traffic accident that left two teenagers injured. Cordan: "Authorities said the 17-year-old driver of a Nissan Altima lost control, ran off the road, hit a pole and overturned. A 13-year-old passenger was thrown from the car and rushed to Vanderbilt Children's Hospital with critical wounds. Fisher didn't want to go on camera but spoke with Nashville's News 2 over the phone. He said he was on his way home when he saw the wreck and stopped. Knowing the teens were hurt, Fisher said he rendered aid the best he could, and stayed with them until medical personnel arrived."

Tim Kawakami of the San Jose Mercury News says 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh is embracing the magnitude of the moment as the 49ers prepare to play for a Super Bowl berth.

Cam Inman of the San Jose Mercury News says 49ers general manager Trent Baalke is extremely happy for quarterback Alex Smith. Baalke: "Like I told him after the game, I don’t know if I’ve ever been happier for an individual than I was for Alex to come through in those moments like he did and to have the type of game he had. And to just see the joy on his face. If anyone deserved it, Alex deserved it. (I’m) very appreciative that he was able to do that."

Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.com notes that former 49ers owner Eddie DeBartolo Jr. will serve as honorary captain for the NFC Championship Game.

Also from Maiocco: Center Jonathan Goodwin has won the 49ers' annual Bobb McKittrick Award as top offensive lineman.

Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee says Delanie Walker, if cleared to return, would give the 49ers a big boost on offense.

Alex Espinoza of 49ers.com runs through which 49ers earned spots on the annual all-NFL selections published by Pro Football Weekly and the Pro Football Writers of America. General manager Trent Baalke was top executive.

Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle says Harbaugh thought the Giants played harder than the Packers on Sunday.

Lowell Cohn of the Santa Rosa Press-Democrat says physical evidence from Jim Harbaugh's playing days, including a manged finger, connect the coach with his players. Cohn: "He is scarred because he was a player and he relates to his own players because he once did battle as they now do battle. It is a reality they share with each other, and even in retirement he is the real deal."

Keith Goldner of Advanced NFL Stats revisits comparisons between Smith and Trent Dilfer.

Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic checks in with former Cardinals and Rams defensive back Aeneas Williams, who is grateful to be a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Williams: "We didn't win a whole lot of games, but I can say this, I had just as much enjoyment playing the game with the Cardinals as I did with the Rams. I'll never forget being around that team with Jake Plummer and those guys and finally breaking through, making the playoffs and winning in Dallas." Noted: Williams is definitely worthy of strong consideration. He came through in the clutch and was a playmaker for an extended period.

Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times says the Bears should consider the Seattle Seahawks' Will Lewis as a candidate to succeed Jerry Angelo as general manager. Jensen: "In the last 14 years, Lewis has worked alongside people such as Ron Wolf, new Oakland Raiders GM Reggie McKenzie, Packers GM Ted Thompson, Seahawks GM John Schneider and Tim Ruskell. Lewis is on the short list of GM candidates the Fritz Pollard Alliance -- an organization that helps to diversify the NFL -- is recommending to teams with vacancies, and he interviewed in 2010 to become the GM of the Cleveland Browns. And while the Packers are the 'it' team, the Seahawks quickly have overhauled their roster since Schneider took over. In 2010, they traded a fourth-round pick and a conditional selection to the Buffalo Bills for former first-round pick Marshawn Lynch. The transaction proved wise, as Lynch set career highs with 1,204 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns this season."

This is going to be a fantastic week, probably the best for the NFC West since Arizona's Super Bowl appearance three years ago.

It could get a whole lot better with a San Francisco 49ers victory over the New York Giants in the NFC Championship Game.

Fans for other teams in the division will have a hard time pulling for a despised rival, of course. But if you think criticism of the division has too often overlooked NFC West postseason successes, another 49ers victory could provide additional relief.

A 49ers victory over the Giants would give all four current NFC West teams one Super Bowl appearance since February 2002, right before the league realigned into eight four-team divisions. The NFC South is the only other division with more than two during that time (Carolina, Tampa Bay and New Orleans).

Tim Kawakami of the San Jose Mercury News thinks the 49ers would have had an easier time against Green Bay than against the Giants. Kawakami: "I think Eli Manning is a very scary playoff QB -- when he’s throwing it well (like now), and has confidence in his receivers (like now), he is very tough to beat. The Giants are red-hot right now and they showed in 2007 that when they get red-hot, they’re nearly impossible to beat. It seems odd to say this, but I think Manning is a tougher out in the playoffs than either Drew Brees or Aaron Rodgers. Can’t exactly say why I think this, but I do." Noted: Manning's arm and size allow him to make throws other quarterbacks cannot make. I would expect the 49ers' defensive front to get much more pressure than Green Bay mounted, however.

Mark Purdy of the San Jose Mercury News says the 49ers should be happy to play at home, but not necessarily against the Giants. Purdy: "This is going to be a fascinating reboot, with lots of coaching brain power involved. The Giants have the NFL's oldest coach, Tom Coughlin, who is known for the right calls at the right times. The 49ers have rookie head coach Jim Harbaugh, who has made almost no wrong moves over the past three months." Noted: The 49ers fooled the Giants with an onside kick when the teams played in Week 10. They caught the Giants' front line retreating a little too quickly.

Grant Cohn of the Santa Rosa Press-Democrat expects the Giants to double-cover Vernon Davis, load up against the run and find out whether the 49ers' wide receivers can do enough for San Francisco to win. Cohn: "Here’s some good news for the offense. Delanie Walker wrote on Twitter that he worked out Sunday and he’s ready to play next weekend. Alex Smith needs a secondary receiver to complement Davis and Walker can be that guy. Last time the Niners played the Giants, Walker led all Niners with six receptions for 69 yards."

Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.com updates the 49ers' injury situation. Maiocco: "Ray McDonald was noticeably limping throughout the game with a right hamstring strain, which he sustained in the regular-season finale against the St. Louis Rams. Earlier this season, McDonald missed a game with a left hamstring strain. McDonald, who typically plays every down, played just 44 of the 49ers' 80 defensive snaps. Backup lineman Ricky Jean Francois played 36 snaps. However, McDonald was on the field for the 49ers' final 12 defensive plays of the game."

Bernie Miklasz of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch assesses what Jeff Fisher's hiring means for the Rams under owner Stan Kroenke. Miklasz: "Kroenke is financially committed. Kroenke edged out another billionaire, Miami owner Steve Ross, in the tense competition for Fisher. When Fisher's contract is finalized, he'll be among the NFL's highest-paid coaches with an annual salary that should average at least $7 million. Fisher was also granted a generous budget for hiring assistant coaches. Kroenke undoubtedly agreed to bankroll other football-related hires made by Fisher. Kroenke is doing more than paying a head coach; he's funding a new football operation. That's a major investment."

Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch updates where the Rams stand after hiring Fisher. On the general manager search: "Dawson may look like the front-runner because he has worked with Fisher in Tennessee. But he has less experience than most on the Rams' candidate list, including another Tennessee personnel department exec, Ruston Webster. The Rams have yet to interview Webster, although they have received permission to do so from Tennessee. The same holds true for Steve Keim of Arizona, Joey Clinkscales of the New York Jets, Brian Gaine of Miami and Tom Telesco of Indianapolis."

Also from Thomas: Brian Schottenheimer is among the candidates to become offensive coordinator for the Rams. Noted: I'll have more on this one later Monday morning.

Kathleen Nelson of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch polls Rams players for thoughts on Fisher. One theme: That Fisher's background as a player helps him understand the physical demands of the game.

Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic updates the Todd Haley situation in relation to the Cardinals. He also serves up a couple other coaching-related tidbits. Somers: "As far as I know, line coach Russ Grimm and tight ends coach Freddie Kitchens have not re-signed with the Cardinals. They have been offered contracts. Grimm worked with Jaguars coach Mike Mularkey in Pittsburgh, so maybe Jacksonville is a possible landing spot for him. But will the Jags be willing to spent the $1.5 million or so to hire Grimm? That's what he makes in Arizona. With Kitchens, word is Rams coach Jeff Fisher thinks Kitchens is an excellent coach. Kitchens name has also been tied to openings at Alabama, his alma mater." Noted: The potential for Grimm's departure would have been big news in Arizona a couple years ago. Does it still have that feel?

Darren Urban of azcardinals.com checks in with Cardinals running back Ryan Williams, who is rehabilitating from the knee injury he suffered as a rookie during the 2011 preseason. Williams: "No injury is going to stop me, unless one of my legs is (cut) off somewhere and I only have one leg. I am too self-motivated to be the best player I can be. I want my career to last 10 to 14 years. Ten is the least for me. I won't stop. I want my career to be here … but if something happens where it isn’t, all 31 other teams will have to stand in front of me and tell me no for me not to be a football player and even then, I’d probably have to hear it again. That’s how much football means to me."

Brady Henderson of 710ESPN Seattle passes along thoughts from former Seahawks quarterback Jon Kitna, who is entering into retirement. Sounds like Kitna will do some coaching at the high school level in the Tacoma area. Kitna: "Football was great, but as you get to the end of your career you kind of realize that it's more than just football. It's relationships that you form and things like that. So I consider myself awfully, awfully blessed to have played 16 years in this league. ... There's a lot of things that, for me, I'm excited about doing after football, and that would be teaching and coaching and pouring into the lives of inner-city kids here in Tacoma. So I'm definitely looking forward to that. ... I'm really excited about the next phase of life for me and my family."

SAN FRANCISCO — The San Francisco 49ers and New Orleans Saints offered no surprises when declaring which players would be inactive for their NFC divisional playoff game Saturday.

Niners tight end Delanie Walker (broken jaw) and Saints receiver Lance Moore (hamstring) will not play. The Saints ruled out Moore on Friday. The 49ers did not officially rule out Walker at that time, but coach Jim Harbaugh had previously said Walker would almost certainly miss the game.

Also inactive for the 49ers: quarterback Scott Tolzien, receiver Joe Hastings, cornerback Shawntae Spencer, guard Daniel Kilgore, guard Mike Person and nose tackle Ian Williams.

For the Saints: cornerback Leigh Torrence, linebacker Nate Bussey, guard Eric Olsen, tight end Tory Humphrey, tight end John Gilmore and defensive end Turk McBride.

The 49ers will have receivers Ted Ginn Jr. and Kyle Williams after both missed late-season games with injuries. Their presence upgrades the 49ers on special teams as well. Walker's absence makes the 49ers' less dynamic in their two-tight end personnel packages. Walker was also a solid contributor on special teams.