Whether it’s a first-year player or a flat-out bust under center this season, the 49ers offense is going to be horrific and should not be counted on to perform. Michael Crabtree and Braylon Edwards, both of whom would normally be WR2s, are worth considering as WR4s, if that.
Though the receivers aren’t much to rave about, it’s worth noting that Vernon Davis is still a top-tier tight end. It has yet to be seen how Davis will fit in with Harbaugh’s offense, but over the past two seasons, he’s racked up 20 touchdowns and over 900 receiving yards per year. After finishing fifth among tight ends in receiving yardage in his breakout 2009 campaign, he finished second last season.
The other option to consider is, of course, Frank Gore. The talented but oft-injured running back is expected to have a dynamic 2011 season, though we’ll have to see if his contract dispute will weigh on him. He held out earlier this training camp.
The team added insurance during the draft, snaring Kendall Hunter as a possible third-down option, though Gore is currently penciled in to take those snaps still.
Gore is a threat not only on the ground but also out of the backfield. Since 2006, his breakout season, Gore has averaged about 250 rushing attempts and 50 catches per year, which equals out to about 1,600 total yards and nine scores per year. And in this style of offense Gore could see an even heavier load in the passing game.
The main problem, though, is health. Gore has played in just one full season this entering the league. Coming off a hip injury, Gore’s agent, Drew Rosenhaus, declared him healthy. Owners must realize the possibility of Gore going down; Anthony Dixon is the sure handcuff.
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