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Yes, the start of training camps is two months away, but it’s never too early to consider the coming season. A look at the best-case and worst-case scenarios for Seattle in 2012:

Dream scenario (12-4): Matt Flynn's fourth-quarter comeback victory over Green Bay in Week 3 serves notice in prime time that Seattle made the right move in signing the Packers' former backup. Sure, Russell Wilson lit up opponents during the preseason, but everyone figured coach Pete Carroll would go with Flynn heading into the season. Seattle hadn't been able to finish games on offense previously, but the vibe is completely different now. Flynn isn't perfect, of course, and he doesn't have to be. He has the NFL's most physical running back in Marshawn Lynch, two viable tight ends, a healthy Sidney Rice and a downright nasty offensive line.

Finally healthy, left tackle Russell Okung joins fellow 2010 draftees Earl Thomas and Kam Chancellor in the Pro Bowl. Second-rounder Golden Tate won't be making the trip, but preseason rumors of a potential breakout season weren't far off.

With the defense allowing only 16 points per game, Flynn doesn't have to be a hero most weeks. By midseason, it's all Carroll can do to refrain from gloating over the team's then-controversial decision to draft Bruce Irvin in the first round. Irvin's two-sack game at San Francisco on Thursday night in Week 7 gives him 5.5 for the season, matching what the 49ers' Aldon Smith had at the same point in 2011. Irvin doesn't quite equal the 14-sack total Smith posted as a rookie, but he's not far behind. The national pundits learn the hard way what should have been evident already: Carroll and the Seahawks' personnel department know what they want on defense.

A trip to Green Bay for the NFC Championship Game leaves the Seahawks thinking big.

Nightmare scenario (6-10): Flynn isn't the answer, Wilson isn't ready and Carroll pays a high price for failing to seriously address the quarterback position until his third season with the team. It's hard for some to believe the Seahawks would miss Tarvaris Jackson, but that is the case as Flynn predictably struggles in his first full season as an NFL starter. No one cares about the division title Carroll won a couple years ago. Critics cite his 7-9, 7-9 and 6-10 records in building a case for his dismissal. They also gloat over the growing pains Irvin experienced while transitioning from West Virginia to the NFL.

Lynch's diminished production makes him an easy target for those suggesting a big contract led to complacency. Some recall Shaun Alexander's post-contract demise. But there are other reasons. Another injury-plagued season on the offensive line becomes a primary culprit. Okung, James Carpenter and John Moffitt were coming off season-ending surgeries. Rice, the team's most talented receiver, had procedures on both shoulders. Banking on so many injured offensive players was understandable after the Tom Cable-coached line worked near-miracles in 2011. But every staff has its limits. Giving some of fullback Michael Robinson's snaps to new tight end Kellen Winslow also might have affected the ground game.

The defense does enough for Carroll to keep his job, but the team heads toward the 2013 draft needing to find its next quarterback -- or else.

NFC West teams owned six first-round choices in the 2010 NFL draft.

Sam Bradford, Russell Okung, Anthony Davis, Earl Thomas, Mike Iupati and Dan Williams were the selections.

One of them has emerged as a Pro Bowl performer (Thomas). Another has shown signs of reaching that level (Iupati).

One has been up and down to this point, subsequently drawing high marks from his coach for his footwork and overall improvement this offseason (Davis). Another is coming off a rough second season and learning his third offensive system in as many years (Bradford).

That leaves Okung and Williams in another category: highly valued players coming off season-ending surgeries.

Paul Coro of the Arizona Republic says Williams has reported to the Cardinals' organized team activities in much better shape than when the nose tackle reported to camp following the lockout last offseason. Coach Ken Whisenhunt: "He had conditioning at the end of practice (Tuesday), and he made it, which is a great sign for where we are. The big thing with Dan is there have been a lot of players who have told him how much they are counting on him this year. And I think that has an impact on Dan. He's working hard, have to give him a lot of credit, especially coming back from the arm. But I'm excited to see how he continues to progress."

Darren Urban of azcardinals.com checks in with Greg Toler as the cornerback works his way back from knee surgery. Toler is wearing a brace in practice.

Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.com says 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh stands by his comments about Michael Crabtree owning the best hands of any receiver the coach has ever seen. Also, Alex Boone is the starting right guard at this point, with Daniel Kilgore as the backup center. Harbaugh: "The comment stands on its own merit. I know you guys have dissected it about every which way it can be dissected. But it is literal. It is a literal fact, what I believe as I see it and believe it to be."

Also from Maiocco: Andy Lee's new deal is for $20.5 million over six years, with $7.1 million in the first two years.

Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee offers this from Alex Smith regarding the quarterback's rapport with Crabtree: "We're a little further along. I feel good about body language and things like that. The thing I'm excited for him is not only is it his first offseason, he's healthy. I think he's excited about that. He's feeling really good. It shows up here. He's running better than he ever has since I've seen him."

Tim Kawakami of the San Jose Mercury News says much is on the line for Smith this season.

Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle says Smith sees no problem with the 49ers' No. 29 ranking in passing yards per game given how the team played overall. Smith: "I could absolutely care less on yards per game. I think that is a totally overblown stat because if you’re losing games in the second half, guess what, you’re like the Carolina Panthers and you're going no-huddle the entire second half. Yeah, Cam Newton threw for a lot of 300-yard games. That’s great. You’re not winning, though." Noted: Does anyone care much about passing yards per game?

Clare Farnsworth of seahawks.com says Kellen Winslow has no hard feelings about being traded to Seattle, according to Winslow's famous father. The elder Winslow, as quoted by the Chicago Tribune: "This came out of the blue that the trade was going to be going down. I was hoping he would be traded someplace that had the possibility of making the playoffs. He was happy. He knew Coach (Pete) Carroll from his days of being recruited to USC. So there is knowledge there. So many people take a trade as something negative. And it’s not. He may not fit in one team’s plan, but you fit in another team’s plan. So it is a good thing. In today’s game, a player moving around is nothing new. It is rare to see a guy stay with one team, unless you’re a quarterback or a left tackle."

Also from Farnsworth: Local product Donny Lisowski has impressed the Seahawks as an undrafted free agent. Carroll: "I like Donny Lisowski. He was all over the place out here. I had no (idea about him), other than he ran extremely fast when he showed up for a workout day. Then he went out here and made a bunch of plays. So I was really fired up about him. I think he’ll surprise you. I’m anxious to see what he can do on special teams, and all kinds of stuff. He’s a playmaker and was all over the field."

Brock Huard of 710ESPN Seattle explains why he thinks the quarterback job is Matt Flynn's to lose in Seattle.

Brent Schrotenboer of the San Diego Union-Tribune says Winslow's former landlord is trying to recoup $133,000 in alleged damages. Winslow's attorney denies any wrongdoing.

Danny Kelly of Field Gulls offers Winslow-related thoughts from Seahawks general manager John Schneider, as told to PFT Live. Schneider: "First and foremost, we've been looking for that position. We've been looking for a guy that can get down the field. Obviously, Kellen's been very productive the past couple of years down in Tampa Bay, I think second only to Jimmy Giles in team history. Secondly, I have a great relationship with Mark Dominik. We've known each other probably fifteen, twenty years now. When you have a strong relationship with someone like that, you're able to share situations, share experiences, and be able to work rather quickly with each other, and we have a specific trust level in place, and we were able to work it out."

Kathleen Nelson of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch checks in with Rams quarterback Sam Bradford and select teammates. Rookie receiver Chris Givens, on Bradford: "He makes everything a lot easier for us. He's everything I heard about and more. He makes every throw, and he's always on point. He's just a great leader. He does a good job of picking us up after practice, working on the things where we had mistakes. Even during practice, he's there in our ear telling us 'Good job,' whether it was a bad play or a good play."

Also from Nelson: a look at the Rams' tight ends.

Danario Alexander has proved he can be a big-play receiver for the St. Louis Rams when healthy enough to get on the field.

Alexander played 41 percent of the offensive snaps last season, up from 19 percent as a rookie in 2010. He owns a healthy 16-yard average on his 46 receptions over the past two seasons. But he missed a five-game stretch in the middle of the season and is having some issues this offseason.

With bigger numbers at the position this offseason, Alexander could have a harder time earning a roster spot.

Tony Softli of 101ESPN St. Louis offers thoughts on Alexander as the Rams conduct organized team activities. Softli: "His multiple knee surgeries are well documented, but now soft-tissue injuries are creeping back into the picture -- and the Rams just started the offseason program. In order to impress the new regime of head coach Jeff Fisher, general manager Les Snead and offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer, the former Missouri Tiger must stay healthy, compete and put his full set of talents on display." Noted: This is a tough situation for Alexander. He has fought through serious injuries, enduring pain and disappointment. He is only 23 years old, but chronic injuries can worsen over time.

Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee says Aldon Smith denied any intent to injure Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger at Candlestick Park last season. Smith: "Our goal was to win the game. We don't go out and talk about hurting other players, their ankles or injuries or any of that. We were going out to win the game. The quarterback, he controls the game. So if he got hit, it happens."

Also from Barrows: 49ers rookie Trenton Robinson comes to the team with something to prove. Robinson lacks ideal height for a safety, but he's relatively rangy.

Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.com says the 49ers have lots of fallback options behind starting fullback Bruce Miller. Maiocco: "Technically, there's only one player listed behind Miller on the depth chart: undrafted rookie Cameron Bell, a fullback from Northern Illinois. But, unofficially, there are a lot of players on both sides of the ball who can lend assistance."

Also from Maiocco: Brandon Jacobs and Mario Manningham skipped the Giants' Super Bowl ring ceremony to practice with the 49ers. Jacobs: "I think winning a championship is important, not many people have one and not many people have had a chance to play in a Super Bowl. I respect that, but right now, I'm working towards the same goal with a new team. I think my goal here is pretty clear on what I'm trying to achieve as an individual player and as a team."

Clare Farnsworth of seahawks.com says Doug Baldwin was the sixth player to lead the team in receptions during his first year with the team. Steve Largent, T.J. Houshmandzadeh, John Carlson, Mike Williams and Derrick Mayes were the others.

Danny O'Neil of the Seattle Times says Baldwin is one of eight wide receivers on the roster who caught at least one pass for the team last season. O'Neil: "The exact pecking order of those receivers, though, is going to be something that will be sorted out in one of the most wide open competitions over the course of this offseason and into training camp. Can Sidney Rice stay healthy? Can Mike Williams rebound to the form he showed in 2011? Can Golden Tate continue the progress he showed in the second half of last season."

Eric D. Williams of the Tacoma News Tribune says Seahawks safety Earl Thomas downplays the individual honors he's won to this point in his career. Thomas: "I don’t know what everybody else thinks, but in my eyes, if you’re a great player, the personal accolades are going to come, but you just let them fall and play ball. I’ve been playing ball since I was little, and I love doing it. If people like the way I play, that’s fine. If they don’t, that’s fine, too. I just like to play ball."

Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic notes that Nate Potter is the fifth of seven Cardinals draft choices to sign with the team.

Darren Urban of azcardinals.com says the team will open training camp July 24, an early start reflecting the Cardinals' participation in the Hall of Fame game against New Orleans on Aug. 5. Urban: "The Cardinals could have gone to camp 15 days prior to that -- three days before they will end up going -- but coach Ken Whisenhunt had said the Cards wouldn’t go that early."

Life changed for Tarvaris Jackson when the Seattle Seahawks signed Matt Flynn and drafted Russell Wilson.

It's an upset, in my view, if Jackson remains with the team beyond his current contract, which runs through 2012. But it's also a little premature to suggest the team's offseason moves at the position will force out Jackson before the season. First the team needs to see what it has in Flynn and Wilson.

Danny O'Neil of the Seattle Times thinks Jackson will remain with the team this season. O'Neil: "Seattle has not settled its quarterback situation. Not by a long shot. What the Seahawks have done is expand -- and hopefully improve -- the array of options they have with the immediate goal of improved quarterback play in 2012 and a long-term starter down the road. Maybe it is Flynn, who has passed for more yards in his first two NFL regular-season starts than all but one player in NFL history. Or perhaps it's Wilson, an incredible athlete who started for two different colleges in the previous two years in addition to playing professional baseball. And maybe -- just maybe -- it comes from Jackson who is recovered from the strained pectoral muscle that limited him the final 10 games of last season. Maybe he comes in for his second season in Seattle, cuts it loose and starts making plays in the fourth quarter." Noted: Josh Portis has practice-squad eligibility. Going with Flynn as the starter, Jackson as the backup and Wilson as the developmental third quarterback would seem to make the most sense. Wilson would seemingly have to make a big jump for a rookie to project in the No. 2 role right away.

Clare Farnsworth of seahawks.com says the team and eight of its draft choices saw benefits in reaching contract agreements sooner rather than later. Seahawks contract negotiator John Idzik: "It’s mutually beneficial. Obviously, we get our draft choices signed. But, from their end, they’re protected under their contract. They don’t have to concern themselves with these lengthy negotiations we’ve had in the past. Now, it’s just all about ball."

Brady Henderson of 710ESPN Seattle passes along thoughts from Seahawks defensive coordinator Gus Bradley regarding the team's secondary. Bradley: "Some guys have said, 'Well, they went to the Pro Bowl, and how is that going to affect them?' I know I got a text from Earl Thomas the other night, on Tuesday about 9:45 at night. He was trying to get the code for the DB room, to [watch] film. So right there that shows you their mentality. They'll sneak in here to try to get on the JUGS machine in the indoor practice facility at night. They're just driven that way. I think that's why we're so excited about this group."

Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic says the Cardinals haven't gotten enough from their 2009 draft class. Somers: "What stands out to me is that three of the eight players have never played a down in the NFL. Cody Brown was the biggest bust, a second-round pick who couldn't get on the field. And he played a position, outside linebacker, where the Cardinals needed help desperately. The Cardinals released him after one season, and Brown bounced around the league for a couple of years. He couldn't get on the field for anyone else, either. The Lions released him last February."

Darren Urban of azcardinals.com thought outside linebacker was a primary need for the Cardinals in the draft. Urban: "It’s not like the Cards didn’t sack opposing quarterbacks last year. As a team, they had 42, tied for seventh in the NFL. The Cards had an NFL-best nine different guys with at least two sacks. The way defensive coordinator Ray Horton does things, pressure by committee works and is much harder for which to handle. But developing those linebackers, especially the rushers on the outside, is one of the keys to any 3-4 scheme. After passing in the draft, development will be one of the things to watch at the position."

Also from Urban: 2011 second-round pick Ryan Williams feels good about his return from a knee injury.

Matthew Hathaway of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch has details on plans to release proposals between the Rams and the local stadium authority. Hathaway: "The CVC maintains that -- as a party to the Rams' lease -- it legally is forbidden from making public any documents considered by the Rams to be confidential. If it does so, according the CVC, the Rams could use the disclosure as grounds to seek an immediate termination of the lease. In the lease, the state is considered a 'sponsor" of the Dome, along with the governments of St. Louis and St. Louis County. Every year since 2005, the three entities together pay off a $24 million chunk of the Dome's $720 million construction debt. Each of the governments also appoints commissioners to the CVC board." Noted: I didn't think the Rams were the ones insisting upon confidentiality.

Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.com says Alex Smith spent time this offseason to work on his mechanics. Smith: "I saw a mechanics guru, or specialist down in L.A. I went there to kind of clean some things up with my motion. I'm really focused on getting my fundamentals better. Really didn't have time last offseason to do it."

Also from Maiocco: Rookie receiver A.J. Jenkins will arrive for the 49ers' camp this weekend with plans to stay in the area.

Cam Inman of the San Jose Mercury News says Jenkins will skip Illinois' commencement to attend the 49ers' rookie camp.

The protocol becomes the same for nearly every freshly minted NFL draft choice, from first-round quarterbacks to seventh-round punters.

Not long after their selections, their new employers will connect them to local NFL reporters via conference call.

A surprise awaited the Arizona Cardinals after the team made Notre Dame receiver Michael Floyd the 13th overall choice in the 2012 draft.

Floyd's college coach, Brian Kelly, made an unsolicited call to the Cardinals, availing himself to media questions regarding his former player.

Kelly has vouched for other players, including Minnesota Vikings first-round pick Harrison Smith. A college head coach certainly has a recruiting interest in getting his name out there in association with prominent draft choices.

But in publicly testifying for Floyd, whose draft file includes three three alcohol-related incidents and a resulting team suspension, Kelly extended himself to an extent that wasn't necessary. It was a notable early marker for the Cardinals, who have never drafted a player with such significant baggage since Ken Whisenhunt arrived as head coach in 2007.

Floyd could not have scripted Kelly's testimonial more favorably:

• On Floyd in general: "Well, a kid who got his degree in three-and-a-half years from Notre Dame. Probably in my 23 years now as a head coach, the best practice player that I've ever had. He just has a passion and a love for the football."
• On Floyd as a teammate: "Whether he is getting the football or not, he is a guy who has never complained. He certainly always wants the ball in critical situations. He has never been a diva, if you will, in terms of not getting his catches. If we're successful and we're making plays, he's on the other end making blocks. That's why it was such a pleasure to coach the kid."
• On what changed in Floyd following a suspension: "To have an opportunity to come back and play at Notre Dame and get a degree and be successful in the NFL, he had to make some choices. And he made some great choices. Now, you've got a young man who had been through some adversity, has handled it, has been humbled because of it and the best is in front of him now."

Authorities cited Floyd for underage drinking in 2009 and 2010. A DUI conviction last year made for three alcohol-related incidents in three years, raising obvious questions about judgment and the potential for a more serious problem.

College programs can become enablers for troubled star athletes. Handing millions to those troubled athletes usually doesn't help.

Those are generalities. Floyd's situation stands on its own. Whether he has a problem or carries a heightened risk cannot be known for certain.

The Cardinals' decision to draft Floyd was an organizational one, with team owner Michael Bidwill, a former federal prosecutor, participating directly in the vetting process.

Coach Ken Whisenhunt said the team asked tough questions, thought Floyd provided honest answers and felt Floyd made a positive statement by returning to Notre Dame for his senior season amid quarterback uncertainty that could have hurt Floyd's status.

"I just basically told them it was a bad decision," Floyd told reporters following his selection. "I learned from it and I moved on. I know I can't be like every other college student, just doing what a college student does, because the spotlight is on me. They wanted to see if I had improvements since that time, and I have."

There is less uncertainty over the Cardinals' on-field plans for Floyd. They anticipate him becoming their flanker opposite split end Larry Fitzgerald, who had been the most recent first-round wideout chosen by Arizona. With Floyd projecting as a starter, Andre Roberts becomes a candidate for additional playing time from the slot, where Early Doucet was already a factor for the team.

Fitzgerald and Floyd present matchup problems with their size alone. Both are nearly 6-foot-3. Floyd weighed 220 pounds at the scouting combine. Fitzgerald weighed 225 upon entering the league in 2004. He has preferred playing at a lighter weight recently.

Size matters for receivers in the NFC West, a division featuring punishing safeties and Pro Bowl credentials in the secondary. Kam Chancellor, Earl Thomas, Brandon Browner, Richard Sherman, Adrian Wilson, Patrick Peterson, Carlos Rogers, Dashon Goldson, Donte Whitner, Cortland Finnegan and Quintin Mikell come to mind immediately.

"You could consider Mike to be still a raw receiver in that he can get better in all the technical elements in route running and things of that nature," Kelly said of Floyd. "He is certainly a guy that attacks the football and attacks defenders and blocking -- he is an outstanding blocker."

Any rookie open to input from veteran players stands to benefit from joining a team with strong leadership at the player's position. Fitzgerald sets an impeccable standard for the Cardinals' receivers and the team in general. From that standpoint, Floyd couldn't have found a better working environment.

Turning the second overall choice into six other picks helped set up the St. Louis Rams' future.

The trades St. Louis made also left the Rams with different options when they did select -- potentially lesser options in some cases.

Those are the trade-offs.

Tony Softli of 101ESPN St. Louis liked the Rams' approach overall, with one possible exception. Softli: "There was only decision during the draft that I really questioned. I have been on that side of the fence and recognize that the flow of the draft has some traps that you cannot avoid or sidestep. Having said that, the trade back from No. 45 to No. 50 smacked of perhaps overanalyzing things a bit too much. As a result, the Rams missed out on an opportunity to beef up their linebacking corps." Noted: Linebacker Mychal Kendricks went to Philadelphia at No. 46. Seattle took linebacker Bobby Wagner with the next pick. The Rams took running back Isaiah Pead at No. 50, two spots before Tennessee selected linebacker Zach Brown. The Rams need help at outside linebacker. Kendricks and Wagner are expected to play the middle with their new teams. I found it interesting that the Rams preferred Pead to LaMichael James, the running back San Francisco selected 61st overall.

Matthew Hathaway of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch updates the Rams' stadium situation, but neither party is making public key aspects of the process.

Kevin Lynch of the San Francisco Chronicle thinks the 49ers' draft moves show the team plans for Alex Smith. Lynch: "Any inkling of flagging confidence was completely obliterated over draft weekend. Not only did head coach Jim Harbaugh once again reiterate that Smith was the team’s unquestioned starter, Harbaugh and general manager Trent Baalke surrounded Smith with foot-speed freaks in Illinois wide receiver A.J. Jenkins and Oregon running back LaMichael James. Combine these dynamos with free agent signings Randy Moss and Mario Manningham and the message is clear -- Harbaugh is breaking the offense open and he obviously believes Smith can run this new wide-open attack." Noted: The 49ers are setting themselves up for life with or without Smith. Their confidence in him will reflect his performance and their alternatives.

Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle says the 49ers' selection of 5-foot-9, 193-pound safety Trenton Robinson reflects an emphasis on pass coverage and a complete departure from the thinking that went into Taylor Mays' selection.

Clare Farnsworth of seahawks.com checks in with cornerback Brandon Browner, who joined Dave Brown, Shawn Springs and Marcus Trufant as the only Pro Bowl corners in team history. Farnsworth: "Five of his team-high six interceptions coming in the final six games, making him only the fifth player in franchise history to lead the team in his first season -- along with Brown (1976), Autry Beamon (1977), Darryl Williams (1996) and Earl Thomas (2010)."

Dave Boling of the Tacoma News Tribune says the Seahawks sought speed and gave second chances when drafting this year.

Art Thiel of Sports Press Northwest reflects on the Seahawks' surprise selection of Bruce Irvin in the first round, offering this: "Pete Carroll, who knows more about Irvin’s past than anyone speculating on the draft, is betting a considerable portion of the Seahawks house that he can design a defensive role that maximizes Irvin’s biggest asset, speed, and minimizes his biggest liability, size. As to whether Irvin’s off-field actions turn him into the next Koren Robinson/Jerramy Stevens or the next Cortez Kennedy/Dave Brown, your guess is as good as anyone's. And no one's."

Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic says Cardinals quarterback Kevin Kolb is eager to atone for last season. Also, Michael Floyd's arrival as the likely starting flanker could give Andre Roberts extended playing time from the slot. Kolb says he thinks Roberts is a "special" player and should thrive from the slot.

Darren Urban of azcardinals.com passes along thoughts from Roberts and Early Doucet regarding Floyd's addition. Doucet: "This isn’t new to me. I’ve seen it all, been through it all. Again, I think it’s a good pick for us. It gives us another big body on the outside like Fitz, and we will have more opportunities if they pay attention to those big bodies. It’s the business. I don’t have any bad blood toward the guy. I’m excited."

RENTON, Wash. -- There were no bold strikes up the draft board for NFC West teams Thursday night.

There was resignation among those hoping the St. Louis Rams would emerge with a No. 1 wide receiver for quarterback Sam Bradford. The Rams traded down instead, taking LSU defensive tackle Michael Brockers after wideouts Justin Blackmon and Michael Floyd vanished from the talent pool right before St. Louis picked.

There was the expected in Arizona, where the Cardinals went with Floyd over tackle Riley Reiff, no slam dunk but a widely projected scenario in recent weeks.

There was waiting in San Francisco, where the 49ers did not pick until No. 30, where they selected Illinois receiver A.J. Jenkins shortly after two top guards landed elsewhere.

And then there was utter shock in Seattle, where the Seahawks used the 15th overall choice for a player with more time logged in jail than in the mainstream media mock drafts circulating recently.

The Seahawks could have had pass-rushers Quinton Coples, Melvin Ingram or Chandler Jones, but instead they went with West Virginia's Bruce Irvin, a former junior-college transfer with a rough past, a sensational first step and a history with Seahawks coach Pete Carroll, who once recruited him to USC.

Irvin is not Charles Haley, Chris Doleman, Derrick Thomas or Dwight Freeney. He is not even Von Miller or Jevon Kearse. The Seahawks think he'll become that type of player quickly, however, and they are not shy about leaving that impression. It's an upset if Irvin fails to reach double digits in sacks this season, to hear the Seahawks speak of him.

"This guy comes off the ball like Dwight Freeney and Von Miller and Jevon Kearse," general manager John Schneider said.

Irvin is not for everyone. At 6-foot-3 and 248 pounds, he's a pure pass-rusher, not a player with the strength to anchor against the run on early downs. Irvin represents what Carroll wants for the "Leo" role manned capably by Chris Clemons in recent years. Irvin will play immediately as a situational pass-rusher. The plan will be to groom him as Clemons' successor eventually.

"He is exactly the makeup that you are looking for," Carroll said. "This goes all the way back to Charles Haley and Chris Doleman and Derrick Thomas. That is the kind of effect this guy has a chance to have. He has a lot to learn. He is going to have to grow up with us and learn our system. But the makeup of this player is so rare. He looks like a carbon copy of Von Miller rushing the passer."

Seattle spent big to retain run-stuffing defensive end Red Bryant in free agency. The money Bryant commanded means he'll be on the field for early downs. And with Clemons coming off an 11-sack season, that meant the Seahawks weren't looking for an every-down defensive end. They were looking for a player with a unique set of skills, and Irvin fits on that front. His 6.7-second time in the three-cone drill was the fastest for any player at the scouting combine.

"This position is so rare to find a guy that runs this fast," Carroll said.

Irvin follows a pattern in Seattle. Bryant is much bigger than the typical defensive end. Brandon Browner (6-4) and Richard Sherman (6-3) are taller than the typical cornerback. Kam Chancellor is the biggest strong safety in the league. Earl Thomas might be the NFL's fastest free safety. Linebacker K.J. Wright stands 6-4 and is rangier than most.

Now comes Irvin, who played wide receiver in high school before flunking out as a junior. Irvin was living on the streets for two years, at one point keeping his possessions in a bag. He spent a couple weeks in jail after allegedly robbing a drug dealer. Irvin pulled himself together, earned his GED and landed, eventually, on the football team at Mount San Antonio College.

"I went through a lot of stuff in my life," Irvin said. "I've seen a lot. The average person would not be on this call."

Nothing came of a more recent arrest for destruction of property.

"The Lord knew it was B.S.," Irvin said, drawing laughter from reporters huddled around a conference-call speaker at Seahawks headquarters.

A year ago, the Seahawks shocked draft analysts by selecting tackle James Carpenter with the 25th overall choice. Carpenter hadn't appeared in many first-round mock drafts, but the Seahawks weren't the only team with a first-round grade on him. Pittsburgh and Green Bay also liked him. An injury derailed Carpenter last season, making it tough to evaluate that choice. The Irvin selection was similar in that virtually no one projected the move.

So far, though, Carroll has usually been right when targeting specific defensive players for specific roles. And there is precedent within the division for surprise first-round selections making an immediate impact.

The 49ers selected Aldon Smith seventh overall last year when few projected the Missouri pass-rusher to San Francisco. Smith, unlike Irvin, was widely considered a top-15 prospect by analysts. Smith finished his rookie season with 14 sacks, finishing behind only Miller in defensive-rookie-of-the-year balloting, even though conventional wisdom suggested Smith would need time to develop.

Smith succeeded right away largely because the 49ers used him properly, asking him to do the one thing he could do best: rush the passer.

The bar has been set high for Irvin.

"I'm just a great athlete," Irvin said. "I'm going to do great things for this organization. The sky is the limit for me."

Good morning and welcome to the final full week before the 2012 NFL draft.

This past weekend was a slow one around the NFL, but two stories resonated in the NFC West. Both involved top executives from teams in the division: Seattle Seahawks general manager John Schneider and San Francisco 49ers CEO Jed York.

Steve Kelley of the Seattle Times spoke with Schneider and Schneider's wife, Traci, regarding the fund they're establishing to help other families raising autistic children. Their 10-year-old son, Ben, has benefited from extensive treatment. John Schneider: "We never knew if Ben would ever tell us that he loved us back. It's a strange feeling when you say, 'good night' to your son and he doesn't say 'good night' back. But we were blessed to be in a position where we could get the right help. Other families don't have access to the same resources." Noted: According to the Seahawks, a benefit event scheduled for Thursday includes a long list of celebrity waiters featuring Doug Baldwin, Brandon Browner, Tom Cable, Pete Carroll, Kam Chancellor, Chris Clemons, Jacob Green, Brock Huard, Tarvaris Jackson, Marshawn Lynch, Russell Okung, Sidney Rice, Brian Russell, Craig Terrell, Earl Thomas, Robbie Tobeck and Manu Tuiasosopo.

Brock Huard of 710ESPN Seattle explains why he thinks the Seahawks would consider Ryan Tannehill if the Texas A&M quarterback were available to them in the draft.

Mike Rosenberg of the San Jose Mercury News spoke with York recently for a question-and-answer session on the 49ers' next stadium. Diverse dining options and the latest technology will be stadium hallmarks, according to York. Also, fans will be able to visit the Great America amusement park before games. York on differences from Candlestick Park: "Is everything too broad of an answer? You're almost doubling the amount of space for the same amount of people. You don't want to blast Candlestick for being an older building, because there have been a lot of great moments there, but the new building is going to be a completely different experience. Instead of just making a nice hot dog, you can do 20 to 30 different items. It'll probably be a 50 percent quicker exit than what you see at Candlestick. You can't compete with that, being able to park easily and get to your car and out onto the freeway quicker or take public transit."

Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee says the 49ers plan to bid on a Super Bowl at their new stadium. Barrows: "Teams are required to play two full seasons in their new venues before hosting a Super Bowl. The 49ers are increasingly confident that the yet-to-be-named stadium in Santa Clara will be ready for the start of the 2014 season."

Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic notes that the Cardinals are opening their offseason conditioning program Monday amid new limits on what teams and coaches can ask of players. Somers: "Teams must film all three phases and keep a copy until 30 days after the start of the regular season. Acting on a complaint, NFL officials can request to look at that film. Coaches are subject to fines of up to $100,000 for the first violation and $250,000 for the second. Those cannot be reimbursed by the club. Teams are subject to fines of $250,000 for the first violation and $500,000 for the second. Half of the fine amounts goes to the Gene Upshaw Players Assistance Trust and half to the Player Care Foundation. If a team commits a violation, it will lose a week of OTAs. A second violation will cost the club a fourth-round pick in the next draft."

Darren Urban of azcardinals.com says defensive end Calais Campbell will not attend the voluntary program while remaining unsigned as the team's franchise player.

Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch offers this on the Rams' search for a backup quarterback: "The Rams remain interested in free-agent quarterback Dennis Dixon (Pittsburgh), who worked out for the team last week, but probably won't make a decision until after the draft. Baltimore and Denver are also showing interest."

NFLDraftScout.com looks at five players the Rams could consider in the draft. On running back Doug Martin: "Steven Jackson will be 29 this summer, and at some point the Rams have to add in a significant way a player that can be his backup and potentially take over the position. Martin is gaining a lot of traction in the run-up to the draft, with some predicting he could be selected in the first round. If that doesn't happen, the Rams could be tempted to spend one of their second-round picks on a runner."

Good morning, NFC West.

We've had some great discussions in the comments sections of various entries. I checked in around 3 a.m. ET -- hey, it's earlier here on the West Coast -- and joined a conversation about what the Seattle Seahawks might be thinking in the first round of the upcoming draft.

Some were discussing Tony Pauline's contention that Seattle could draft safety Mark Barron, then move Kam Chancellor to outside linebacker. That seems like unnecessarily messing with a good thing.

SEAFENCEmwa said he wanted Seattle to draft defensive end Courtney Upshaw to help the pass rush. Ian 202128 noted that some have questioned whether Upshaw would fit in the Seahawks' defense.

My take: Seattle has done a good job adapting scheme to players, specifically with Red Bryant. Pete Carroll likes guys with unique or unusual traits. Chancellor is huge for a safety. Earl Thomas is blazingly fast for a safety. K.J. Wright is on the tall side for a linebacker. Richard Sherman and Brandon Browner are huge for corners. Bryant is monstrous for a defensive end. Etc.

We'll continue these sorts of conversations for all the NFC West teams when the next NFC West chat gets going Thursday at 1 p.m. ET.

See you there.

Not that the St. Louis Rams needed any prompting to reassess their roster, but it's time for an overhaul when a receiver likely to spend 11 career games on the roster emerges as a candidate to grace the "Madden 13" cover.

Brandon Lloyd is that receiver. The Rams acquired him during the 2011 season. They chose not to name him their franchise player. They appear likely to watch him leave in free agency, perhaps as early as next week.

No matter. Lloyd still appears with defensive end Chris Long as the Rams' candidates for the next Madden cover. Steven Jackson and James Laurinaitis would have been safer choices than Lloyd.

Marshall Faulk was the last Rams player to grace the cover.

Vernon Davis, Patrick Willis, Marshawn Lynch, Earl Thomas, Larry Fitzgerald, Patrick Peterson, Long and Lloyd are NFC West candidates.

Sorry, Peyton Manning isn't an option in fan voting, which reroutes through Facebook

Willis, Thomas, Fitzgerald and Long were my choices from the NFC West. All but Willis was the longest-tenured player from his team (of the choices given).

Frequent hand-wringing over the Seattle Seahawks' quarterback situation has struck a nerve with some.

"After seeing the 'Why not trade up for a QB' piece, I have to say I am getting a little frustrated with all the talk of how Seattle HAS to get a QB," Javier from Renton, Wash., wrote.

Javier then ran through all the first-round quarterbacks drafted from 1998 through 2007, noting that only about one-third of them met expectations.

"My question to you is, would you make a trade for a 34 percent chance on getting a franchise QB?" Javier asked.

There's no sense in taking the wrong quarterback just to say you addressed a need. But would you rather have a 34 percent chance or a zero percent chance? At some point, a team has to risk failure for a shot at success.

History might ultimately vindicate Seattle for drafting James Carpenter over Andy Dalton last year. Which one would you rather have right now? Only one of them has a shot at becoming a top quarterback.

The Seahawks haven't drafted even one quarterback since Pete Carroll became head coach. That has actually helped them build up their roster in a short period of time.

Instead of taking a chance on quarterback Ricky Stanzi in the fourth round last year, they found a starting linebacker in K.J. Wright. Instead of using a fifth-round pick for quarterback Nathan Enderle, the Seahawks found a terrific cornerback in Richard Sherman.

Instead of taking a chance on Tim Tebow in the 2010 first round, the Seahawks found a Pro Bowl safety in Earl Thomas. They took Golden Tate when Colt McCoy was available. They took Walter Thurmond when Mike Kafka was on the board. They went with Kam Chancellor when they could have had John Skelton.

Most of those moves were the right ones under the circumstances. The team does need to find a quarterback, however.

Hashem from Palestine thinks the Arizona Cardinals should cut ties with Kevin Kolb and go all in for Peyton Manning. He thinks Skelton would benefit from working under Manning, and he thinks the Cardinals are built to win now.

Mike Sando: What if Manning isn't ready for minicamps or training camps? What if he never plays again? What if he plays one more season and never recaptures previous form? Those scenarios seem plausible given Manning's long layoff and repeated surgeries.

The risk would be worth taking if the Cardinals thought Kolb would be no better than Skelton. If Arizona does think Kolb can become a top player, however, it's tougher to part with him amid serious questions about Manning's health.

Arizona must make a decision on Kolb by March 17. What will teams know about Manning by then?

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Brian from Visalia, Calif., wonders whether the St. Louis Rams would consider trading Sam Bradford to Cleveland, where Bradford would be reunited with Pat Shurmur. Under this scenario, the Rams' new leadership would draft its own quarterback.

Mike Sando: We discussed this during the regular season, before the Rams made a coaching change. The Browns have additional picks this year, giving them leverage for trading. They need a quarterback. Bradford would fit with Shurmur.

I do not think the Rams would do this, however. Salary-cap implications would come into play. To my knowledge, the team still thinks Bradford will become a top quarterback.

These are fun scenarios to consider, but in my opinion, Bradford will stay put.

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Bill from Clearwater, Fla., wants to know which direction the Rams might go in the draft with Jeff Fisher and Les Snead in place.

Mike Sando: Bill asked this question a few days ago. I honestly did not see it before putting together an item addressing this very subject.

Fisher and Snead have worked for teams that never (Fisher) or rarely (Snead) used a first-round choice for an offensive lineman. Fisher and defensive coordinator Gregg Williams will want to add swagger to the defense. Fisher and Snead will want to add a playmaking element to the offense.

What the Rams do in free agency will influence their draft plan. I lean toward thinking the Rams will wind up with Oklahoma State receiver Justin Blackmon, figuring they need help for Bradford. But it's still too early to have a great feel.

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Steven from Lakeville, Minn., wants to know which players, besides their own, the San Francisco 49ers might target in free agency. He thinks New Orleans Saints guard Carl Nicks would shore up the line for years to come, allowing them to target receivers and defensive backs in the draft.

Mike Sando: I'm thinking the 49ers will target middle-tier free agents. Carlos Rogers was one of them last offseason, and a good one. Nicks would be a luxury signing and more expensive than the free agents San Francisco has targeted recently. I would expect the 49ers to develop their younger offensive linemen instead. Daniel Kilgore is a candidate to start at right guard if he develops this offseason.

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INDIANAPOLIS -- On the field, the best NFL cornerbacks are often no match for Larry Fitzgerald.

Keeping up with the Arizona Cardinals' Pro Bowl receiver off the field can be a challenge, too.

Fans and media pulled at Fitzgerald from every direction Thursday while he navigated ESPN's various media platforms before heading over to the Super Bowl's Radio Row.

"Larry, I came all the way from Pittsburgh!" one fan shouted, pleading for an autograph.

"You said you would sign when you came out," another yelled.

Fitzgerald stopped to sign, but the media wave carrying him along wasn't as patient. Fitzgerald joined "Mike & Mike in the Morning" before answering chat questions and fulfilling obligations related to his promotional contract with Visa. The gig required trading his cutting-edge wardrobe for a black golf shirt with a corporate logo.

A short drive from ESPN's Super Bowl headquarters to the main NFL hotel provided an opportunity to speak with Fitzgerald about his team and the changing NFC West.

The Cardinals went from 1-6 to 8-8. What was your takeaway from the season?

Larry Fitzgerald: We didn't do a good job focusing in. The attention to detail wasn't there early on. Too many turnovers. A lot of those mistakes caused us to lose a lot of games early. The coaches and the players did a good job staying the course, understanding the formula wasn't broken. We can get it turned around.

Is there a danger of assuming a carryover from the fast finish?

LF: No. We're not naive like that. We'll have some confidence going into this year, but all in all, teams are going to get better and we need to address some needs and get better ourselves.

What did you learn about the quarterback situation in Arizona?

LF: I think we've got two good quarterbacks on the roster. That is a good problem to have. A lot of teams don't have that. Kevin (Kolb) is capable of good things. He has the ability to make it happen. John (Skelton) got good experience, got better and was able to perform for us. We know we have two quarterbacks that can win for us.

How do you think the Seattle Seahawks have changed the most under Pete Carroll?

LF: They are much more physical, much more physical. At the Pro Bowl last week, they had three guys from their secondary, Brandon Browner and Earl Thomas and Kam Chancellor. When you look at Chancellor, Chancellor is 6-foot-3, 230 pounds and a phenomenal athlete with good ball skills, good range. Earl Thomas is like a young Troy Polamalu, flying around and making plays. And Brandon Browner is the biggest cornerback I've ever seen in my life. He can play, too. He can cover. I really like the young rookie they have, (Richard) Sherman from Stanford. He is going to be a good player. Obviously, when they get Marcus Trufant back, that will only make them deeper. They challenge you at the point of attack. They want to pressure you and make things uncomfortable for you at the line of scrimmage, and their whole philosophy has changed. It's fun to play against them.

What about the San Francisco 49ers under Jim Harbaugh?

LF: They just, defensively, they don't do a lot of tricky things. They're not going to give you a lot of different coverages. What they do is they play with their coach very well. Their safeties are much improved. Donte Whitner had a phenomenal season, probably his best season as a pro. (Dashon) Goldson is playing at an All-Pro level. Carlos Rogers was a great addition. Hopefully, he goes and gets the money in the free agent market.

Somewhere else?

LF, laughing: Somewhere else. Tarell Brown is playing a lot better. (Chris) Culliver, the rookie, played well for them. And you don't even have to mention Patrick Willis. He is their bell cow, he is their leader and the person who makes that whole thing go. NaVorro Bowman, he had an All-Pro season. Justin Smith played lights-out for them, and then their rookie, Aldon Smith, is going to be a force to be reckoned with for many, many years. They are only getting better. We have got to match that firepower.

And then the St. Louis Rams will be different with Jeff Fisher.

LF: They have the infrastructure there. They have the quarterback already in place. Steven Jackson is one of the best. Sam Bradford is a phenomenal talent. Defenisvely, they are getting better over there as well. With coach Fisher coming in, the coach from the New Orleans Saints (Gregg Williams, new defensive coordinator), defensively, you know what that is going to be about. They are going to be bringing a lot of pressure. They are going to cause some turnovers.

The games between San Francisco, Seattle and Arizona became bloodbaths at times late last season.

LF: The divisoin is getting better. Two years ago, people looked at the NFC West as the armpit of the league, so to speak. Now, teams are playing much better. The games are physical now. That is good because you want the competition, you want to have great division rivalries. That is a lot of fun, like the NFC East. I don't care if Washington is playing at New York, you can get beat. We want to build it up that way, too.

Your Week 17 game against Seattle comes to mind. You had nine catches for 149 yards, but it wasn't easy.

LF: I was pretty banged up going into the week and banged up coming out of it. It was a meaningless game for both of us, but that showed the competition. Going out and competing is still a lot of fun.

The Rams moved to St. Louis for the 1995 season. Their future beyond 2014 is coming into focus as local authorities draft plans to possibly upgrade the Edward Jones Dome.

Bryan Burwell of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch notes that the St. Louis Convention and Visitors Commission is scheduled to make a proposal Wednesday of next week. Burwell quotes Webster University sports economist and Forbes columnist Patrick Rishe on the approach owner Stan Kroenke has taken: "All these things are creating doubt and a little fear. From a pure business perspective, I'd say this is good business for him to play his cards the way he's playing his cards. I'd say 'job well done.' Someone asked me the other day if he had a moral obligation to St. Louis football fans. I said absolutely not. His moral obligation is to do what is best for the best financial return of the owners. And if I was him, I can't say I wouldn't be doing the same things he's doing."

Ray Ratto of CSNBayArea.com says Kroenke's bid for the Los Angeles Dodgers, if successful, could foreshadow a Rams move to Los Angeles in accordance with cross-ownership rules, instantly rekindling an in-state rivalry for the 49ers. Ratto: "The NFL prohibits owners of a team in one city from owning a team in another city in another league. For instance, and as an example with momentary historical validity, Jed York could not run the 49ers and the Pittsburgh Penguins." Noted: Cross-ownership rules can be a bit confusing. In this case, Kroenke could own the Dodgers without moving the Rams because there is no NFL team in Los Angeles. Cross-ownership rules would prevent Kroenke from owning a non-NFL team in a market that already has the NFL. This explains how Seattle's Paul Allen owns the Seahawks and the Portland Trail Blazers. There is no NFL team in Portland.

Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.com sizes up quarterback options for the 49ers. Peyton Manning's name is mentioned.

Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle looks at the 49ers' situation at wide receiver.

Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch says the Rams have a scaled-down presence at the Senior Bowl because their coaching staff and personnel department remain in flux, and there is no general manager. Thomas: "The GM interview process resumes this weekend when Arizona director of player personnel Steve Keim visits the Rams. The interview may not take place Saturday as originally reported; it may be Sunday. New York Jets vice president of college scouting Joey Clinkscales; Miami director of player personnel Brian Gaine; and Indianapolis director of player personnel Tom Telesco could be interviewed next week."

Clare Farnsworth of seahawks.com says Earl Thomas' selection to the Pro Bowl as an NFC starter was especially gratifying because Thomas picked off only two passes this past season. Thomas: "A lot of people just look at stats, stats, stats, and they really don’t look at the big picture of what a player is doing. So it just feels good to get recognized for doing some of the dirty work. I’m just excited to be here, and hopefully I can keep coming back."

Danny O'Neil of the Seattle Times calls Peyton Manning-to-Seattle a long shot.

Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic says Greg Shiano's hiring as head coach in Tampa Bay could affect the Cardinals' staff. Somers: "Cardinals receivers coach John McNulty coached under Schiano at Rutgers from 2004-2008, and the two are friends. McNulty started at Rutgers as receivers coach and eventually became offensive coordinator. Schiano is expected to try and hire McNulty in Tampa Bay. The Cardinals can prevent that from happening because McNulty is under contract. The Cardinals can deny permission for him to interview, even for a coordinator's position."

Darren Urban of azcardinals.com compares Arizona's defensive stats from the first half of the season to the second. The Cardinals ranked among the NFL's top three in third-down defense, red zone defense, touchdowns allowed, sacks and yards per pass attempt from Weeks 9-17. Urban: "Over the final nine games, 64 percent of the drives by Cards’ opponents (76 of 118) were five plays or less and 59 percent (70) covered 25 yards or less. Of the 12 touchdowns the Cards allowed, four came on drives that began on the Cards’ side of the 50-yard line."

The Seattle Seahawks can thank the division-rival San Francisco 49ers for adding a high-gloss shine to their 2010 draft class.

Kam Chancellor, a fifth-round pick for Seattle that year, is headed to the Pro Bowl after the 49ers' Dashon Goldson withdrew from the game, citing injury. Chancellor's presence on the NFC roster gives Seattle two Pro Bowl safeties from its 2010 class. Earl Thomas, chosen sixth overall that year, was named to the team as the starting free safety.

I went back through that 2010 class and noticed the St. Louis Rams (Mardy Gilyard) and Seattle Seahawks (E.J. Wilson) were the only NFC West teams to release players chosen earlier than the fifth round that year.

Chancellor and the Rams' Mike Hoomanawanui are the only current projected starters chosen later than the fourth round (they were taken one pick apart in the fifth). Hoomanawanui might not start; it's too early to say.

Taylor Mays and Jorrick Calvin were the only NFC West picks traded.

Seattle's Golden Tate, chosen 60th overall, is the highest choice remaining with his team as a backup, not a starter.

A quick run through the 2010 class for the NFC West:

Arizona Cardinals

Starters: Dan Williams, Daryl Washington, Andre Roberts.

Backups: John Skelton, Jim Dray, O'Brien Schofield.

Traded: Jorrick Calvin.

Released: none.

Comment: The Cardinals were picking later than their division rivals after winning the 2009 NFC West title. They still found four projected starters. Washington, a second-rounder, stands out as the best selection. Williams and Roberts have much to prove. Schofield appears to be ascending. He did not start in 2011, however, and will have to win the job.

San Francisco 49ers

Starters: Anthony Davis, Mike Iupati, NaVorro Bowman.

Backups: Anthony Dixon, Nate Byham, Kyle Williams.

Traded: Taylor Mays.

Released: Phillip Adams.

Comment: Bowman's emergence as an All-Pro inside linebacker strengthens this class and helps offset Mays' disappointing stint with the team. Byham was emerging as a top blocker before suffering a season-ending injury. Iupati is a first alternate to the Pro Bowl. Williams is coming off a rough NFC Championship Game.

Seattle Seahawks

Starters: Russell Okung, Earl Thomas, Kam Chancellor.

Backups: Golden Tate, Walter Thurmond, Anthony McCoy, Dexter Davis, Jameson Konz.

Traded: none.

Released: E.J. Wilson.

Comment: Thomas and Chancellor are making this a successful class. Okung might be the best of the three, but only if he can get healthy. Thurmond was a starter until suffering an injury at Cleveland. He'll have a hard time winning back a starting job now that Brandon Browner and Richard Sherman have locked down jobs. But he could still factor. Tate made strides late in the 2011 season.

St. Louis Rams

Starters: Sam Bradford, Rodger Saffold, Mike Hoomanawanui.

Backups: Jerome Murphy, Eugene Sims, Marquis Johnson, Josh Hull.

Traded: none.

Released: Mardy Gilyard, Hall Davis, Fendi Onobun, George Selvie.

Comment: This class will succeed or fail based on how Bradford develops under new offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer. Bradford and the rest of this class -- and the entire roster, pretty much -- struggled this past season.

The first chart breaks down NFC West teams' picks by projected status for 2012.

The second chart provides context. The Rams have released four players from their 2010 class, which could look bad. But they also had far more later-round picks than their division rivals. Those players have a harder time earning roster spots.

The NFC would have a hard time fielding a Pro Bowl secondary without its Western division.

Clare Farnsworth of seahawks.com notes that the NFL has added Seattle's Kam Chancellor and Brandon Browner to the NFC squad after the San Francisco 49ers' Dashon Goldson and Carlos Rogers withdrew from the game, citing injuries. Chancellor and Browner were alternates. Arizona's Adrian Wilson is also one of the safeties, as is Seattle's Earl Thomas. This means three-fourths of the Seahawks' secondary is in the Pro Bowl even though arguably the team's best corner, Richard Sherman, did not make it. Noted: Goldson and Rogers both have expiring contracts. Playing in the Pro Bowl would have meant spending the week hanging out with Green Bay's coaching staff. The Packers haven't been big spenders in free agency, but the Pro Bowl is one of the few places rules allow players from one team to hang out with coaches from another.

Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.com says the 49ers' Brian Jennings has been added to the NFC roster as a "need" player. Jennings is arguably the best long-snapper in the NFL. Maiocco: "Jennings, a 12-year veteran, will make his second career appearance in the Pro Bowl. He becomes the ninth 49ers player to be selected to play in this year's game, which is takes place Sunday in Honolulu. The eight 49ers players previously selected to the NFC roster are defensive backs Dashon Goldson and Carlos Rogers, defensive lineman Justin Smith, linebacker Patrick Willis, running back Frank Gore, tackle Joe Staley, kicker David Akers and punter Andy Lee."

Tim Kawakami of the San Jose Mercury News says the 49ers' need for wide receiver help is glaring after Michael Crabtree's single 3-yard reception accounted for all catches by San Francisco wideouts in the NFC title game. Kawakami: "The Giants’ three wide receivers combined to catch 16 passes for 214 yards and a touchdown Sunday, helping counterbalance the 49ers’ huge advantages in almost all other areas. It took two botched punt returns by Kyle Williams to set up the Giants for their game-deciding scores, but they would have been nowhere near the 49ers without their wide receivers. So as the 49ers hurtle into their offseason, upgrading their receiving corps has to be their central focus."

Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle did not notice the Giants going out of their way to inflict a concussion upon Williams.

Lowell Cohn of the Santa Rosa Press-Democrat says Jim Harbaugh's refusal to discuss his feelings smacks of emotional immaturity.

Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic offers thoughts on the Cardinals' chances for landing Peyton Manning, should the Colts part with the future Hall of Fame quarterback. Somers: "Throwing to Larry Fitzgerald has to be an attractive prospect. With Beanie Wells and Ryan Williams, the Cardinals have two talented young running backs. There are questions on the offensive line, however. The Cardinals' defense was stout over the last half of the season. Under Ken Whisenhunt, the Cardinals have proven they are willing to throw the ball and to mold their offense around the strengths of an older quarterback." Noted: Manning has never needed a strong offensive line. He has long proven how much quarterback play matters for avoiding sacks.

Also from Somers: Jerry Sullivan was briefly a candidate to rejoin the Cardinals. Noted: Seems like Bruce Arians would be a natural fit in Arizona after the Steelers decided against offering a new contract to him.

Darren Urban of azcardinals.com provides a timeline for scheduled bonus payments to Manning and the Cardinals' Kevin Kolb. Manning is scheduled to receive $28 million from the Colts on March 8. Kolb is scheduled to receive $7 million from the Cardinals on March 17. Urban also notes that Hue Jackson could be interviewing with the Cardinals, per Charley Casserly. Noted: With free agency beginning March 13, the gap between bonus payments to Manning and Kolb would give the Cardinals time to explore their options with Manning, should the Colts decline to pay the bonus.

Also from Urban: Calais Campbell would not complain if the Cardinals named him their franchise player.

The Cardinals' Beanie Wells suggests he's undergoing surgery, presumably on the knee that bothered him this past season. Noted: Ryan Williams is also coming off surgery.

Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch updates Rams coaching moves after the team reached agreement with Dave McGinnis to join the staff as assistant head coach. Thomas: "Several other staff additions appear to be in the works but have not been made official, including Paul Boudreau as offensive line coach, Mike Waufle as defensive line coach, Rob Boras as tight ends coach and Tim Walton for what could be a job as assistant defensive coordinator/passing game."