It is clear that the 49ers could use more explosiveness in the return game. Back-up running back Maurice Hicks has been solid on kickoffs, but he does not provide enough game-breaking ability. The punt return unit is certainly in need of a boost, as it does not appear second year wide-out Brandon Williams is the long-term answer. New free agent signee Nate Clements (right) has returned punts in the past, but all indications are that Nolan & Co. do not want to risk an injury to their highest-paid defender.The addition of Al Everest as the 49ers' special teams coach in the offseason should immediately benefit the return game. Everest was very successful in the same pos
ition for the New Orleans Saints from 2000-2005, including being named special teams coach of the year in 2002 by his peers. When scouring the team's current roster for potential playmakers, there is not much to get excited about. Outside of Hicks, Williams and Clements, only Arnaz Battle has any credible return history. The Niners still have two months to address that aspect of the team, and it's imperative they do. The league's highly competitive aspect means contests are often decided by a big play in the return game. Look at the impact Devin Hester had for Chicago a year ago, for instance. The Bears likely would not have won the NFC without Hester, now a second-year player.
ition for the New Orleans Saints from 2000-2005, including being named special teams coach of the year in 2002 by his peers. When scouring the team's current roster for potential playmakers, there is not much to get excited about. Outside of Hicks, Williams and Clements, only Arnaz Battle has any credible return history. The Niners still have two months to address that aspect of the team, and it's imperative they do. The league's highly competitive aspect means contests are often decided by a big play in the return game. Look at the impact Devin Hester had for Chicago a year ago, for instance. The Bears likely would not have won the NFC without Hester, now a second-year player.It used to be that teams would simply assign return duties to a back-up wideout or cornerback that had the wheels but lacked the hands to be a regular on offense or defense. Now, after the impact of returners like Dante Hall in Kansas City, teams are drafting return specialists like Hester in Chicago , or Miami's selection of Ohio St.'s Ted Ginn Jr (left).Obviously, then, adding more big-play ability in their return game is critical to the 49ers' ultimate goal of winning a championship. Maybe a draft choice to be spent in Thursday's supplemental draft....?
No comments:
Post a Comment