Open Rants by TheShivster

Well, the 49ers finally made a move. A curious one, but a move none-the-less. John Lynch; former player has been hired as the next general manager. Even though I'm still scratching my head over it, I'm not ready to call it an ignorant or incompetent hire just yet. Since the hire, there have been reports leaking out that Kyle Shanahan; presumably the next coach, reached out to him. Also that they're looking to hire a "right-hand man" for Lynch; Mark Domenik's name has been tossed, along with Kyle's dad, Mike. It was also reported that Pat Bowlen had offered Lynch multiple front office positions numerous times. As of this writing, it has been announced that Adam Peters has been named VP of player personnel. Peters has been a part of the Denver front office since '09 as a scout at different levels, and before that was with the Patriots. John Lynch could be the next Matt Millen, he could have a high ceiling like Elway, or he could be between. I'm willing to at least let it play out for a little while before I light a match and throw it in this new dumpster.

First things first, the coaching staff has to be filled out. Unless something unusual or strange happens, which isn't out of the question, Kyle Shanahan is almost certain to be the next head coach. Finally, an offensive minded guy. I don't expect many of the coaches and assistants to stay on, although its been reported that Jason Tarver, Jeff Hafley, and Tom Rathman are expected to stay on. Other names floating around for numerous spots are Greg Knapp, Brian Pariani, Richard Hightower, Matt LeFluer, and Al Holcombe. On the defensive side of the ball, one name I'd like to throw out there is Jerry Gray, current defensive backs coach for the Vikings. If Gray were to come on, the scheme would likely change to the 4-3 primarily, but with the current roster, I think that could work. Gray brings plenty of experience, and generally wherever or whoever hes coached, its been more successful than not.

Offensively, I expect Shanahan to be the play-caller primarily, but Tom Clements would be a good option. Being with Green Bay for the past several years obviously has knowledgeable and effective working intellect on the offensive side of the ball. With a core coaching staff of Shanahan, Clements, and Gray; the opportunity to upgrade embarrassingly bad both defense and offensive units is there.

Now that the coaching staff is squared away, time to move on to some roster moves. I fully expect Kaepernick to opt out of his contract and move on. Although I would not be surprised if the opportunity to play under Shanahan appeals to him and he tries to stick around, but I don't see Colin being on the roster next year. Other cuts that SHOULD be made are releasing Marcus Martin, Ahmad Brooks, Tank Carradine, Antoine Bethea, and trade Tramaine Brock. If all that occured, the 49ers would have just under $116 million in cap space. Wow. This is full rebuilding mode, and I expect them to spend.

Offensive free agents: With Kaepernick more than likely leaving, the 49ers will have 0 quarterbacks on the roster. I am not against the idea of re-signing Christian Ponder. A 2-year/5 million seems fair. He may not be worth much as an actual in game quarterback, but having a presence of veteran is always a plus. San Francisco OBVIOUSLY needs a quarterback, and my personal suggestion; Tyrod Taylor. He's more than likely on his way out of Buffalo. While hes not a franchise superstar signal caller, he is solid and effective. A 3 year/18-20 million I feel is attainable. With Shanahan and Lynch now on board, Kirk Cousins name has been rumbling around. Cousins is lightyears better than what would be on the team, and has familiarity with Shanahan, but I'm not sure I'll like the price tag. Washington seems intent on keeping Cousins, even hinting at the franchise tag again. In the rebuilding mode the team is in, more than likely giving up multiple early picks doesn't sound too appealing.

At running back, the team heads into free agency with Hyde, Mike Davis, and Raheem Mostert on the active roster. That is quite the weak group. Hyde is a great back, but can't seem to stay healthy. Mike Davis has been disappointing. Shaun Draughn has been an adequate back up and should be re-signed, 1 year/2.5 million. One guy on the market to take a look at, Andre Ellington from Arizona. Just a few years ago, he showed he could be a playmaker, but this past year, he disappeared into obscurity. He could be a solid complementary piece to the backfield as he is a good receiving back. 2 year/6 million range.

Torrey Smith, Aaron Burbridge, DeAndre Smelter, Chris Harper, Bruce Ellington, and Eric Rogers make up the receiving core. Weak would be an understatement to describe this group. Arguably the weakest receiving core in the NFL, its full of under-achieving and unknown players. I think either Patton OR Kerley need to be brought back at a 2 year/6 million range. A lot of fans want to go after Alshon Jeffery, but I think his price tag won't match the production. Now, the guy can play, easily a top receiver... when he is on the field. He always seems to have an issue off the field, whether injury or elsewhere. While the free agent receiver class is fairly weak, there are some names out there. Josh Gordon is name if his reinstatement goes through, a low 1 year prove it deal is enticing. A third or complementary receiver along the lines of Robert Woods, Kenny Stills, or Kamar Aiken should be pursued as well. If Cousins were to be obtained, going after Garcon an