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This is the final item in a series revisiting relatively recent NFL trades involving first-round draft choices in the slots NFC West teams occupy this year.

Beating the St. Louis Rams in Week 17 and the New Orleans Saints in the wild-card round cost Seattle 17 spots of draft order. The difference between the eighth and 25th picks -- 680 points on the draft-value chart -- equates to the 27th choice.

The Seahawks' late-season success and Matt Hasselbeck's role in it also surely complicated efforts to re-sign the quarterback.

The bottom line: Seattle's quarterback needs are in flux as the draft approaches, and the team is picking late enough to defy easy projections.

The Seahawks have enough needs throughout their roster to consider trading the 25th overall choice, something NFL teams have done four times in the last six drafts.

With that in mind, here's a look at what the 25th overall choice has brought in some previous trades involving only draft choices (player trades are prohibited during the lockout) ...

The pick: 25th overall

Held by: Seattle Seahawks

Most recent trade involving only picks: 2008. The Seahawks were in the middle of this one. They sent the 25th pick to Dallas, which took cornerback Mike Jenkins, in return for the 28th (Lawrence Jackson), 163rd (Owen Schmitt) and 235th (Brandon Coutu) choices. The trade-value chart says the Seahawks overpaid by about 30 points, or the equivalent of a pick late in the fifth round. Jenkins has one Pro Bowl on his resume. Jackson, Schmitt and Coutu are long gone from Seattle.

The price of moving up: In 2007, the New York Jets sent the 25th, 59th and 164th choices to the Carolina Panthers for the 14th pick, which the Jets used for Darrelle Revis. The trade-value chart says the Jets paid 1,056.8 points for picks worth 1,116 points. The difference equates to a pick late in the fourth round. Carolina selected linebacker Jon Beason (25th), offensive lineman Ryan Kalil (59th) and linebacker Tim Shaw (164th).

Sliding out of the round. Teams moved back from the 25th spot twice in the six most recent NFL drafts.

• In 2006, the New York Giants sent the 25th choice to Pittsburgh, which used the selection for receiver Santonio Holmes. The Giants received the 32nd (Mathias Kiwanuka), 96th (Gerris Wilkinson) and 129th (Guy Whimper) choices. The chart says the Steelers overpaid by 29 points, or a late fifth-round pick.
• In 2005, the Washington Redskins wanted quarterback Jason Campbell. The Denver Broncos were willing to accommodate them. Washington acquired the 25th pick, used for Campbell, for the 76th (Karl Paymah) pick, plus 2006 first- and fourth-round choices. San Francisco later acquired that 2006 first-rounder, using it for Manny Lawson.

The chart shows which picks changed hands in those four recent trades involving the 25th overall choice.

SEASIDE, Calif. -- Observed while watching the San Francisco 49ers conduct practice on a cool, breezy Thursday under cloudy skies at California State University-Monterey Bay:

• The offense is so much more competitive than it used to be. Practices are more fun to watch as a result. This session featured competitive physical battles and frequent jaw-jacking between tight end Vernon Davis and the defensive secondary. Davis repeatedly beat linebackers in coverage, but when cornerback Nate Clements helped break up a pass play, all parties had something to discuss. Davis said something unintelligible from afar. Clements said something about how he was only doing his job. Davis pointed out how he'd been killing the defense throughout camp. It was all in good fun and all part of a healthy competitive atmosphere. Though Davis made several long gains on receptions, he finished practice by dropping an easy pass over the middle. He heard about it, too.
• Ted Ginn Jr. does bring a noticeable speed element to the offense. He made a twisting reception over cornerback Tarell Brown for a long gain up the right sideline. He beat Brown again to catch another deep ball. Cornerback Will James was Ginn's victim another time. Speed puts pressure on cornerbacks in coverage. James didn't track the ball very well on the reception he allowed. It's tougher for defensive backs to worry about the ball when they're worried about a receiver's speed. After watching Ginn in practice and speaking to him at length afterward, I'm more receptive to the idea that he can add something valuable to the 49ers' offense. Let's see how Ginn fares over time. A fresh start appears to be helping him for the time being, at least.
• James, the corner San Francisco signed after not bringing back Dre Bly or Walt Harris, showed his physical side when he removed Dominique Zeigler from a play by driving the receiver out of bounds during the early stages of a sideline route.
• Strong safety Michael Lewis isn't worried about the three concussions he suffered last season. He punishes offensive players during practice, as when fullback Brit Miller ran through the offensive line. The play was pretty much over and Lewis easily could have let Miller drift past him. Instead, the veteran safety popped Miller with enough force to reverse the 243-pound fullback's momentum.
• It seems as though the 49ers are making it a priority to coach rookie safety Taylor Mays after just about every play. When Davis beat a linebacker to make a reception in the deep middle, Mays hesitated and Davis ran past him. Head coach Mike Singletary and secondary coach Johnnie Lynn were watching from deep in the secondary and they pulled Mays aside. Later, Singletary said they wanted Mays to know he needs to provide coverage in that situation whether or not its his responsibility.
• Veteran pass-rusher Travis LaBoy left practice with what Singletary called a mild concussion. This might stand as a significant development because LaBoy has struggled with injuries in general and concussions in particular. The 49ers are not counting on LaBoy, but they signed him in hopes that he would give them another pass-rush threat.
• Undrafted rookie tight end Tony Curtis dropped a pass and didn't stay with the play once he realized the ball had slipped through his hands. Ugly play.
• Defensive coordinator Greg Manusky was known as a tough player during his days as an NFL linebacker. He's still tough. Manusky runs around the field even though he's still limping following hip-replacement surgery this offseason.
• Linebacker Diyral Briggs made a positive impression in the pass-rush drills I saw (I missed some of the rushes while focusing on Ginn and the offense).
• The mild concussion that is keeping left guard David Baas off the field as a precaution should only help rookie Mike Iupati earn the starting job. I could see Singletary reinstating Baas to the first unit out of respect for the veteran once doctors clear Baas, but it'll be a surprise to me if Iupati does not start beginning in Week 1. Iupati looks the part and it just sounds different when he launches into defenders. He locked onto Pro Bowl middle linebacker Patrick Willis on one running play. Iupati did not lose that battle.
• Rookie right tackle Anthony Davis is someone I'll watch more closely in the coming days. Briggs beat him to the outside in one pass-rush drill. Davis locked down Briggs when the linebacker rushed right at him on the next play.
• Chilo Rachal was back at practice and working at his usual right guard spot two days after suffering from dehydration.
• All parties laughed on one play when cornerback Karl Paymah grabbed receiver Josh Morgan by the collar after Morgan beat him deep. The alternative was allowing a touchdown.

Those are some initial thoughts. Up next: a 60- to 90-minute drive back to Santa Clara. I'm anxious to go through notes and process interviews. The 49ers will not practice this afternoon. They have two scheduled for Friday, with the afternoon practice for special teams.

Jon Robinson of ESPN.com checks in with 49ers linebacker Patrick Willis, who loves his 99 rating on "Madden NFL 11." Willis: "It's truly an honor just to be in the game because when I was a kid, I used to created myself in 'Madden' and give myself all 99s. I feel like I should be a 99 in everything ... I didn't just want to be an 80 in this or an 80 in that. I was striving for that 99 in real life. So now to be in 'Madden' and see my character improve throughout the years to the point where now I'm a 99, it's really a blessing."

Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee says 49ers fans did not boo quarterback Alex Smith's first pass of training camp -- unlike last season.

Also from Barrows: The 49ers want to go deep. Barrows: "So far, Smith and (Ted) Ginn haven't connected on anything deep, not in practices anyway. But Smith said that's because the passing game is adjusting to the speed and physicality of practices. Smith's arm has fully returned from the last surgery he had in 2008, and he says he and Ginn worked hard on building chemistry during the offseason."

Taylor Price of 49ers.com singles out one play from the morning practice: "Michael Crabtree turned in the play of the practice session with a tremendous over-the-middle grab in which he reached up and snatched Nate Davis’ pass out of the air in front of multiple converging defenders."

Also from Price: inside linebackers went against guards instead of running backs in Mike Singletary's nutcracker drill. Scott McKillop: "It was a harder challenge for us, but it will make us better. We’re in a situation where we need to work on leverage and using our hands to separate. It’s going to be difficult but it’s something that will make us a better player."

More from 49ers.com: a transcript featuring comments from Singletary. On Alex Smith: "I'm hoping he gets more comfortable as we go. I just think that as we’re out here we just have to continue to allow him the snaps that he needs to continue to get better. But he has the control of the offense, it’s just a matter of making sure that he takes the time to really see the whole defense and not just maybe sometimes look at the safety. You’ve got to see the whole thing."

More still from 49ers.com: Roger Craig's thoughts on Jerry Rice.

Ann Killion of CSNBayArea.com offers thoughts on Rice's impending Hall of Fame induction.

Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.com singles out Brit Miller's big hit on Parys Haralson as a memorable play from 49ers camp.

Also from Maiocco: a look at how many reps key players received in the afternoon practice. Maiocco: "(Mike) Iupati got 19 valuable reps at left guard with (David) Baas out. Safety Reggie Smith, inside linebacker Scott McKillop and defensive end Demetric Evans worked with the first units in place of (Michael) Lewis, (Takeo) Spikes and (Justin) Smith. ... Alex Smith took 19 reps, completing 8 of 15. David Carr had nine reps and completed 2 of 7. (Nate) Davis took six snaps and completed 4 of 6."

Daniel Brown of the San Jose Mercury News says Kentwan Balmer thinks improved health could help the 2008 first-round choice produce.

Also from Brown: Khalif Mitchell impressed in nutcracker drills.

David White of the San Francisco Chronicle says the 49ers are missing nose tackle Aubrayo Franklin.

Phil Barber of the Santa Rosa Press-Democrat says fullback Brit Miller impressed at 49ers practice Monday. Also: "Taylor Mays, already enjoying the improved status of the second-team defense, made a pair of nice plays late in practice. He blanketed TE Joe Jon Finley on a short route, helping disrupt a pass from Alex Smith, and on the next play read a gadget play perfectly and was there to touch down the ball carrier."

Also from Barber: various 49ers-related notes, including one about Jason Hill making the catch of the morning practice. On Ted Ginn Jr.: "Ted Ginn looked good running one-on-one vs. DBs in a morning drill, beating Tramaine Brock and Karl Paymah twice on various routes -- one against Paymah on a deep touchdown throw from David Carr. But he wrapped up his day's work by dropping an easy ball that LB Keaton Kristick had batted right to him." If Ginn was consistent, the Dolphins probably would have kept him. The 49ers could use the threat of Ginn's speed, but it's an upset if he becomes a polished, consistent receiver.

More from Barber: surprise over the fact that Willis didn't dominate nutcracker drills the way he dominates during games. Willis' ability to avoid blocks and make tackles helps make him a special linebacker. The nutcracker drill is all about taking on blocks and overpowering opponents.

Note: I'm breaking out each team separately today because there's too much stuff for a single Around the NFC West file.

David White of the San Francisco Chronicle says the 49ers know training camp is about to get much tougher after a non-contact session Sunday. Linebacker Takeo Spikes: "It gets 200 percent tougher times 200. We know that. No video games tonight. No extra-long conversations with the old lady on Skype." Also, nose tackle Aubrayo Franklin has yet to report for practice. He remains unsigned.

Taylor Price of 49ers.com checks in from practice and makes this observation: "Three of the 49ers main free agent acquisitions all found themselves involved on one play on Monday, as cornerback Karl Paymah made a nice pass breakup on backup quarterback David Carr’s deep ball down the left sideline intended for wide receiver Ted Ginn Jr."

Also from 49ers.com: a transcript from coach Mike Singletary's interview.

Phil Barber of the Santa Rosa Press-Democrat says the 49ers are not worried about Franklin's conditioning because the veteran nose tackle has set a high standard on that front.

Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee noticed Taylor Mays working with the second-team defense in 49ers camp, a jump in status for the second-round choice. This is the time to find out how ready Mays might be to step into a more prominent role. Also from Barrows: "A couple of injured players made their returns. Receiver Brandon Jones got a lot of work at receiver as well as punt returner. Cornerback Will James, meanwhile, made his 49ers debut. He played in the third-team defense opposite rookie Phillip Adams. The first four cornerbacks were Nate Clements, Shawntae Spencer, Karl Paymah and Tarell Brown. The 49ers opened camp with zero injuries."

Daniel Brown of the San Jose Mercury News says the 49ers eased into training camp. That's no surprise given that the team wasn't originally planning to practice until Monday. The session Sunday sounded like a prelude. Brown: "Even the mighty nutcracker drill was rendered toothless. Offensive-line coach Mike Solari explained the drill in epic detail -- it took 14 minutes -- before players walked away without so much as a shoulder bump. Such was the nature of the first day of training camp — a dress rehearsal on grass. The Sunday session was not on the original schedule. Coach Mike Singletary added it recently after deciding the team needed one final chance to review things in slow motion."

Mark Purdy of the San Jose Mercury News expects big things from 49ers receiver Michael Crabtree.

Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic says there's lots of competition among the Cardinals' offensive linemen.

Also from Somers: Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie dominated in practice Sunday even though he said he wasn't 100 percent physically. Larry Fitzgerald: "DRC likes to mix it up. Our goal is to motivate each other and to push each other."

More from Somers: Greg Toler will have to earn the starting job at cornerback opposite Rodgers-Cromartie. Somers: "Trumaine McBride continues to run with the first team at right cornerback, ahead of Greg Toler. McBride's edge right now is experience. He's played in 33 NFL games, while Toler played in 13 last season. In athletic ability, coaches compare Toler to DRC. They are similar in other ways, too. Like DRC, Toler needs to learn what it takes to be a successful pro, said coordinator Bill Davis. That means developing consistent study habits and focusing on every single play. Like DRC, Toler's concentration tends to come and go. That's not unusual for a young player, and it doesn't seem as if coaches are down on Toler, a fourth-round pick in 2009. But they do think he has great ability and will be disappointed if he doesn't show it this season."

Darren Urban of azcardinals.com says Arizona is taking things slowly with rookie linebacker Daryl Washington. Urban: "Rookies have to earn their playing time, however, especially with this coaching staff. When (Karlos) Dansby and Darnell Dockett were drafted back in 2004, then-coach Dennis Green immediately dropped them into the starting lineup. Both eventually proved to be very good players, but they never had to prove themselves worthy. Washington does. So he sits as a third-stringer for now, even though the Cardinals are trying to figure out exactly what they are going to do at inside linebacker. On the outside, they are set, with veterans Joey Porter and Clark Haggans entrenched."

Greg Johns of seattlepi.com says the Seahawks held out Aaron Curry from practice after the second-year linebacker suffered from headaches following a collision Sunday. Coach Pete Carroll: "He got dinged a little bit yesterday. We just wanted to make sure he's OK. He should be fine. It's nothing serious, but he had some headaches today so we just wanted to rest him."

Danny O'Neil of the Seattle Times says Leroy Hill isn't working with the Seahawks' starting defense. O'Neil: "Maybe Seattle is preparing itself for the reality that it will face in the season opener as Hill has already been suspended for that game for violating the league's policy on substance abuse. But maybe, it's also a sign Hill is an afterthought for the Seahawks at this point just one year after the team designated him their franchise player and then subsequently signed him to a long-term contract. Is Hill part of Seattle's plan for the future? His absence for most of this offseason and his place on the depth chart make it a legitimate question." There's a good chance 2010 will be Hill's final season in Seattle.

Dave Boling of the Tacoma News Tribune offers a few thoughts on the Seahawks as they open training camp.

John Morgan of Field Gulls expects Golden Tate to continue returning punts for the Seahawks, a role Tate has handled in practices so far. On offense, the Seahawks put Tate in motion.

Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch says Jacob Bell and Chris Long scuffled during a physical Rams practice that also featured a huge hit. Thomas: "Larry Grant, who has opened camp as a starting outside linebacker, leveled fullback Mike Karney during a live tackling drill, with Karney losing his helmet in the process. (It may have been a little payback because Karney had been throwing bodies around up to that point as a blocker.)"

Also from Thomas: Rams general manager Billy Devaney sounds optimistic. Devaney: "The only way I can say it is the players are (ticked) off still from last year. You want to say forget last year, and last year's over. But let me tell you, this isn't any fun. I know it isn't any fun for our players or anybody in this building to hear all the time: worst team in the NFL, 1-15, lowly St. Louis Rams. If that doesn't (tick) you off, or get you motivated in the offseason, then we have the wrong kind of guy. There's a lot of motivated people here to get this thing going and start winning football games."

Also from Thomas: Sam Bradford's next challenge is living up to a contract that could pay him $86 million.

Bill Coats of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch says Danny Amendola and Mardy Gilyard are competing to return punts for the Rams. Amendola was very good in that role last season. Coats: "The 5-foot-11, 186-pound Amendola was signed off Philadelphia's practice squad in Week 3 last season. He wound up leading the NFL in kickoff returns (66), kickoff-return yardage (1,618 yards) and total return yards (1,978). All three of those marks were franchise records, as was his combined kick and punt returns (97). Overall, Amendola averaged 24.5 yards per kickoff return and 11.6 yards per punt return."

Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times says former Rams and 49ers receiver Isaac Bruce has worked closely with the Bears' Devin Hester.

Also from Jensen: Bruce is working with the Bears as a minority coaching intern under Mike Martz, his former coach in St. Louis and San Francisco.

Steve Korte of the Belleville News Democrat says Rams defensive end James Hall remains diligent at age 33, showing up 2 hours early for practice Sunday.

Jesper from Denmark continues to see his NFC West blog legacy grow.

What began as his critical look at the St. Louis Rams has turned into a four-part series. We're back with a look at the San Francisco 49ers after covering the Seattle Seahawks on Wednesday.

Thanks to all who reached out and volunteered to engage me in conversation. Facebook friend Aaron was the first to come through with his thoughts, so here we go ...

Quarterback

Aaron: Alex Smith is coming off of his best statistical season and for the first time in his career is going to have a true No. 1 receiver in Michael Crabtree, a Pro Bowl target in Vernon Davis and the same offensive coordinator. There are still questions about whether he can put the team on his back and win, but if he can show some of what he did against Seattle back in 2007, then there is a chance he could start climbing the QB ranks. David Carr has more arm strength than Shaun Hill and might finally be over his shell-shocking in Houston. Nate Davis has the tools as a No. 3 quarterback who can develop. Verdict: improved just because Alex will be more comfortable and farther ahead in the playbook than a year before.

Sando: I'd rather have Hill than Carr as a backup if I were the 49ers. He won games as the 49ers' starter, knew the offense and had the respect of teammates. I also understood the thinking in going with a more physically talented player. The 49ers wanted someone with more long-term starting potential. The 49ers should be better at quarterback as Smith becomes more experienced in the system.

Running back

Aaron: Frank Gore is Frank Gore; I love him he does everything you want a back to do. He has the power you don’t expect out of someone his size. His ankles are what worry me, though. Two years in a row, he has had to miss games because of them. Glen Coffee and Anthony Dixon have not earned any of my trust. It almost feels like they are slower less powerful versions of Gore, with worse vision. Verdict: same or slightly better because the offensive line should improve.

Sando: Coffee should be improved in his second season. As a rookie, he was thrown into the lineup before he was ready and struggled behind a floundering line. As with quarterback, I think the situation has improved more than the talent has improved. The 49ers have had an offseason to set up their offense in a way that suits Gore and Smith together. They essentially had two offenses last season, one for Gore and one for Smith. There's still reason to wonder whether a back best suited for running out of the I-formation can produce consistently playing with a quarterback most comfortable with spread-type formations. But the 49ers have had plenty of time to remedy the situation. Gore should be in better position as a result.

Wide receiver

Aaron: Crabtree gets a full offseason to get the playbook and develop chemistry with Smith. He looked like a pro when he came in and now he truly gets to show his stuff. I see a possible Pro Bowler. Josh Morgan is a solid No. 2 who can show flashes of breaking away. Ted Ginn Jr. -- if he catches the ball -- can be a game-changer from the slot or out wide. Even if he's just a decoy, Ginn will help with what I feel is the one weakness on offense -- speed. Jason Hill, I love, and I wish he could stay healthy and get a good chance. I feel he'd be a better No. 2. In the games he's played in, he's produced. The rest of the guys are playing for the No. 5 spot on the team. I'm not so sure Brandon Jones will make it or is worth what we spent on him. Verdict: better.

Mike Sando: The 49ers haven't had the personnel at this position recently to justify putting three wide receivers on the field during early downs at the expense of Delanie Walker or Moran Norris. Their three-receiver stuff was reserved mostly for third downs last season. This is one area where the 49ers need to diversify. Ginn is the key variable. The threat of what he can do could matter as much as what he actually does. The speed factor could upgrade this largely inexperienced group. The 49ers' wide receivers have 26 career touchdowns. Only the Rams' wideouts have fewer (13) among division teams. That isn't necessarily bad, but it's a reminder that this group must prove itself. Isaac Bruce's retirement opens a roster spot for a player who might develop. Crabtree should improve with a full offseason of practice.

(Read full post)

» NFC West Weaknesses: Cardinals (6/21) | 49ers (6/22) | Seahawks (6/23) | Rams (6/24)

For the first time in a very long time, the 49ers really do not have a plethora of major weak spots. That is progress.

Many people would say quarterback is San Francisco’s biggest weakness. I am not one of those people. In fact, I am very much of an Alex Smith supporter and expect him to have a very good season with more continuity and a better supporting cast around him in 2010.

Also, while I have chosen cornerback as the 49ers’ biggest weakness, I do expect a strong run game, an overall improved offense and a better pass rush led by Ahmad Brooks, Manny Lawson and Justin Smith to help alleviate issues with their cover men.

This is not to imply that the corner position is stable or without worry. Nate Clements has not worked out well since joining the 49ers and clearly hasn’t lived up to the monster contract he signed. But that isn’t to say that he isn’t still a decent player. You could do a lot worse than Clements, but it does appear as though age is starting to take its toll to some degree.

Shawntae Spencer is the other starter. He isn’t spectacular, but he has good height and isn’t bashful. As starting corners go, he is probably middle of the road or slightly above, but he was probably the best corner on this team in 2009. Tarell Brown is a youngster who has talent as well and his role could grow in 2010. Karl Paymah is slated to be the fourth corner. Again, he isn’t spectacular, but as fourth corners go, you could do worse.

Overall, this certainly isn’t an awe-inspiring group of cornerbacks, but if this is the worst facet of your team, you are doing OK.

Clare Farnsworth of seahawks.com says receivers T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Deion Branch got some work after resting injuries this offseason. Coach Pete Carroll: "This was an exciting day for us, to see T.J. get back on the field and Deion get back on the field and catch some balls. It’s been a long time since they’ve been out. With the rehab there’s the concern: Are they going to make it? Today, at the end of practice, it was great to see these guys get out and – with really good tempo – run some routes. Which means that they’re really on the mend and I wouldn’t be surprised if they can do some work next week."

Also from Farnsworth: an update on Leon Washington. Washington: "I’ve basically been in training camp since October, since I broke my leg. I’ve been in training mode, so I’m positive I can come back stronger than before. I’ve still got my fast-twitch muscles. I’m still out there cutting. I’m running straight ahead and getting pretty good speed. So from that point, I feel like I’ve still got it."

Rod Mar of seahawks.com offers photos from practice.

Danny O'Neil of the Seattle Times passes along Carroll's thoughts on Leroy Hill and the sanctions Carroll's former USC team incurred.

Eric D. Williams of the Tacoma News Tribune says Seahawks receiver Reggie Williams has looked better in practice recently. Williams: "He had a couple, nice catches over the middle of the defense and said he’s getting more comfortable in Seattle’s offensive scheme."

Darren Urban of azcardinals.com takes a position-by-position look at the Cardinals' projected starting offense. He's listing Tim Hightower ahead of Beanie Wells at running back. Urban: "Ahh, the most 'controversial' of the starting calls. Will I be shocked if Beanie Wells is starting in St. Louis? No. Could Hightower start Game One and then have Wells move in? Sure. Might they stay Hightower-Wells all season as last year? Yes. Have I mentioned before it doesn’t matter? I am feeling pretty good in saying Beanie will have more carries and be the leading rusher. The other details are window dressing." On the other hand, how many first-round draft choices meet expectations, as Wells has, without moving into the starting lineup? Seems like a natural next step.

Bill Coats of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch says injured Rams guard Mark Setterstrom is getting a second medical opinion, common for players after serious injuries.

Also from Coats: Rams players discuss college conference realignment. Former Ohio State linebacker James Laurinaitis on Nebraska joining the Big Ten: "The Big Ten has schools in a lot of states where they just love college sports. You look at Ohio. The Bengals and the Browns, (the fans) are kind of divided, but everyone loves Ohio State. (Pennsylvania), obviously everything there is all about Penn State. And you can say the same thing about Wisconsin. So I think Nebraska definitely fits in there."

More from Coats: a chat transcript in which he says there's nothing new with Oshiomogho Atogwe or Brian Westbrook, but he thinks Atogwe will re-sign with the Rams eventually.



Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.com lists 49ers players who have come and gone this offseason.

Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee says 49ers cornerback Nate Clements will attend the team's minicamp beginning Thursday after staying away previously this offseason. Shawntae Spencer and Manny Lawson also seem likely to attend. It's a mandatory camp, after all.

Also from Barrows: a quick look at Alex Smith's practice experience Tuesday.

Phil Barber of the Santa Rosa Press-Democrat offers notes from 49ers practice. Josh Morgan caught six passes from Smith during the team period.

Daniel Brown of the San Jose Mercury News says Karl Paymah has benefited from the absences of Clements and Spencer.

Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic says the Cardinals' coaches are stressing mechanics with their quarterbacks. Somers: "I know many people are going to read about the work on fundamentals and assume (Matt) Leinart is still having problems entering his fifth NFL season. But (Chris) Miller strikes me as someone who would work on fundamentals with any quarterback. And it's important to remember that Ken Whisenhunt and his staff emphasized ball security to Kurt Warner and worked with him on keeping two hands on the ball while moving around in the pocket. And Warner had already won two MVP awards. Leinart, I thought, improved as last week's minicamp progressed. He was erratic the first day but I thought he settled down and looked in command the last two days."

Darren Urban of azcardinals.com says Steve Breaston would like to remain the Cardinals' punt returner, but Breaston knows it's a losing battle because he's too valuable as a receiver. Urban: "Breaston has broken his share of big returns -- Minnesota last year, for instance, and the franchise-changing TD against Pittsburgh in Whisenhunt’s first year that led to a milestone victory -- but it is his sure-handedness (Ken) Whisenhunt loved (he’s never dropped a ball), to go with Breaston’s complete fearlessness back there.)

Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch says it's unlikely the NFL will vote on Stan Kroenke's bid to purchase full control of the Rams until sometime this summer at the earliest. Thomas: "In the case of Kroenke, indications are that he might be given a period of time to come into compliance with cross-ownership rules, perhaps a couple of years. Kroenke may need that time given the tax complications of selling or transferring a team to family members."

Howard Balzer of the St. Louis Globe-Democrat says Steven Jackson's back surgery puts a damper on the Rams' offseason. Balzer: "It's certainly not a stretch to believe that any hope of (Sam) Bradford being on the field for the season opener at home against Arizona on Sept. 12 is now tied to Jackson’s health and ability to play at a high level. With the Rams now two weeks away from beginning OTAs, the identity of Jackson’s backup remains unknown. In reality, the Rams need more than just a backup, or a change of pace, as some have suggested, for what Jackson can do. They need a legitimate starter that could carry the load if Jackson has to miss games, which has happened for the last three seasons."

Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.com says new 49ers cornerback William James is scheduled to earn $755,000 this season, plus a bonus if he earns a spot on the 53-man roster. Maiocco: "He will likely compete against fellow veteran cornerbacks Karl Paymah and Keith Smith, and well as seventh-round draft pick Philip Adams, for spots on the team. Nate Clements, Shawntae Spencer and Tarell Brown are expected to be the 49ers’ top three corners."

Tim Kawakami of the San Jose Mercury News has no problem with the 49ers' confidence, as expressed by Mike Singletary and Patrick Willis. Asked if the 49ers were a playoff team, Willis said they were a championship team. Singletary: "I said last year, I thought we were a playoff team, we missed it. Do I think we’re a championship team? I agree with Pat. You put us on the field today, no. But when it’s all said and done… we’re going to do OK. I’ll put it that way. We’ll do OK."

Eric D. Williams of the Tacoma News Tribune provides a transcript from an hour-long chat featuring Seahawks cornerback Josh Wilson. Wilson on the transition from Jim Mora to Pete Carroll: "Yeah, all the way down the line it's different. Carroll is of course different than Jim Mora, just by his knowledge of winning. He's just trying to get us to that next level, but I guess for me as a defensive guy. Gus Bradley is the same guy. But going from Tim Lewis to Jerry Gray, who's a four-time Pro Bowler. And he knows football. I've got a couple friends from the Redskins that just say he is the 'Football Czar.' It's been fun working with him. He's already shown he knows a lot about the and about getting us in good situations."

John Morgan of Field Gulls revisits Deon Butler's rookie season with the Seahawks. Morgan: "Deon Butler did not do a whole lot, negative or otherwise."

The Seahawks have 26 players from Pac-10 schools on their roster heading into their post-draft minicamp.

The rest of the NFC West has a combined 25 players from the conference.

Seattle had more Pac-10 players than most teams even before the team hired Pete Carroll away from USC as head coach.

The numbers have only grown (and I have added the newly acquired LenDale White to Seattle's list).

Update: The team has re-signed safety Lawyer Milloy, formerly of the University of Washington. That makes the total 26.

A look at Pac-10 players from each NFC West team:

Arizona (7)

Quarterback Derek Anderson (Oregon State), quarterback Matt Leinart (USC), safety Matt Ware (UCLA), safety Hamza Abdullah (Washington State), tight end Jim Dray (Stanford), tight end Dominique Byrd (USC) and unsigned restricted free agent guard Deuce Lutui (USC).

St. Louis (7)

Quarterback A.J. Feeley (Oregon), receiver Brandon Gibson (Washington State), running back Steven Jackson (Oregon State), fullback Mike Karney (Arizona State), guard Mark Lewis (Oregon), receiver Jordan Kent (Oregon) and unsigned restricted free agent safety Oshiomogho Atogwe (Stanford).

San Francisco (11)

Safety Taylor Mays (USC), safety Dashon Goldson (Washington), cornerback Karl Paymah (Washington State), linebacker Keaton Kristick (Oregon State), guard Brian De La Puente (California), guard Chilo Rachal (USC), center Eric Heitmann (Stanford), tackle Adam Snyder (Oregon), receiver Kyle Williams (Arizona State), snapper Brian Jennings (Arizona State) and receiver Jason Hill (Washington State).

Seattle (26)

Linebacker Reggie Carter (UCLA), receiver Mike Williams (USC), cornerback Josh Pinkard (USC), receiver Reggie Williams (Washington), receiver Mike Hass (Oregon State), receiver Michael Jones (Arizona State), running back Justin Forsett (California), cornerback Marcus Trufant (Washington State), cornerback Walter Thurmond (Oregon), cornerback Roy Lewis (Washington), safety Will Harris (USC), running back Louis Rankin (Washington), fullback Ryan Powdrell (USC), linebacker Lofa Tatupu (USC), defensive end Dexter Davis (Arizona State), guard Max Unger (Oregon), center Jeff Byers (USC), guard Mike Gibson (California), receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh (Oregon State), tight end Anthony McCoy (USC), tight end Cameron Morrah (California), defensive tackle Brandon Mebane (California), defensive end Lawrence Jackson (USC), LenDale White (USC), Lawyer Milloy (Washington) and defensive end Nick Reed (Oregon).

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

Pick Team First 20 Defensive Backs in 2005 NFL Draft Status 6 TEN Pacman Jones Free Agent 8 ARI Antrel Rolle Starting FS 9 WAS Carlos Rogers Starting CB 14 CAR Thomas Davis Starting LB 23 OAK Fabian Washington With Ravens 29 IND Marlin Jackson Knee Rehab 34 CLE Brodney Pool Starting FS 38 OAK Stanford Routt Nickel CB 40 NO Josh Bullocks UFA 43 NYG Corey Webster Starting CB 50 STL Ron Bartell Starting CB 51 GB Nick Collins Starting FS 56 DEN Darrent Williams Deceased 57 NYJ Justin Miller Raiders Backup 60 IND Kelvin Hayden Starting CB 62 PIT Bryant McFadden With Cardinals 66 STL Oshiomogho Atogwe Starting FS 72 DET Stanley Wilson UFA 75 ARI Eric Green UFA 76 DEN Karl Paymah UFA

Four of the first 20 defensive backs chosen in the 2005 NFL draft call the NFC West home after the Cardinals signed Bryant McFadden from the Steelers in free agency.

A fifth, Eric Green, recently paid a free-agent visit to the 49ers after four seasons with Arizona. A sixth, Karl Paymah, also visited San Francisco.

The Rams' former front office qualifies for criticism on numerous fronts, but the team did emerge from the 2005 draft with half its projected starting secondary in Ron Bartell and Oshiomogho Atogwe.

The Cardinals can feel better about selecting Antrel Rolle with the eighth pick now that the sixth choice, Adam "Pacman" Jones, is out of the league. Rolle made a successful transition to free safety after failing to realize his potential as a cornerback.

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

Bill Coats of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch says James Butler is six years younger than Corey Chavous and ready to replace him in the lineup at strong safety.

Also from Coats: Mike Karney could fit as the blocking fullback St. Louis wants for its offense. No mention of Leonard Weaver as a potential candidate.

Rich Cimini of the New York Daily News expects the Jets to show interest in receiver Torry Holt once the Rams release him, as expected. Cimini: "Henry Ellard is the Jets' new receivers coach, the same Ellard who served as Holt's position coach for seven consecutive 1,000-yard seasons. If that doesn't give the Jets an advantage in terms of recruiting and insider knowledge, what does?"

VanRam of Turf Show Times links to a radio show in which Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch suggests the Rams could try to rework Randy McMichael's contract.

John Morgan of Field Gulls says the Seahawks are "very interested" in Clemson safety Michael Hamlin, who spoke with three members of the organization in one day.

Also from Morgan: He thinks the Seahawks should re-sign Weaver. The price apparently hasn't been right to this point.

More from Morgan: Seven players for the Seahawks to draft. Quarterback Matt Stafford, offensive lineman Max Unger, safety Michael Hamlin, receiver Mike Thomas. defensive tackle Terrance Taylor and snapper Jake Ingram get the call.

NFL.com carries a transcript of T.J. Houshmandzadeh's recent chat. He says the Bengals weren't as serious about re-signing as it appeared. Houshmandzadeh: "They were persistent, but it wasn't persistent with good intentions, in my opinion. They weren't as persistent as it has been reported that they were."

Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee says the 49ers could have a hard time finding an offensive tackle with the 10th overall choice. Barrows: "The Raiders have pick No. 7 and they definitely could use a tackle. Theoretically, so could Detroit, St. Louis, Kansas City and Cincinnati." The Seahawks could consider one as well.

Also from Barrows: Expect cornerback Karl Paymah to visit the 49ers on Wednesday.

Clark Judge of CBSSports.com lists the 49ers among three teams that need to "stay after school" for their efforts in free agency. Judge: "I don't mean to pick on the 49ers, but they have a nasty habit of spending a lot of money on marginal talent. This year's winner is wide receiver Brandon Jones, who picked up a $5.4 million signing bonus. I don't know much about Jones, other than when I watched the Titans, I never had a feeling he was a guy who could beat you." Judge also thinks the Rams paid a premium for Jason Brown.

Jim Corbett of USA Today quotes Kurt Warner as saying he's still willing to take a pay cut to help the team sign Anquan Boldin. Do players really think that's how it works?

Revenge of the Birds' Hawkwind checks in with Cardinals offensive lineman Elliot Vallejo.

Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic says the Cardinals won't be spending big except to keep their own players.

Darren Urban of azcardinals.com says the Cardinals want Bertrand Berry to return and a deal appears likely at some point.

Also from Urban: He thinks the Cardinals will not trade Boldin.