| Re: Niners players to keep an eye on
QB Alex Smith: The 22-year-old is the only player on the list that doesn't fit the criteria listed above. The main reason to keep an eye on Smith is to see his progression in 2006. Will Smith continue to learn and improve, or will he continue to take lumps and show little to no improvement? The organization and fans hope he learned something from the beating he took last year. He certainly has the arm and the smarts to be a good starting quarterback, but will likely face plenty of troubles this season. Smith played in nine games last year, but now that he has an improved offensive line, it's likely fair to start gauging his performance in the upcoming season, rather than write him off after an embarrassing 2005. It will probably be mistake filled, with bright spots here and there. The main aspects Smith needs to improve upon include decision making and overall improvement.
RB Frank Gore: Now that unsuccessful veteran Kevan Barlow is the backup, Gore will have an opportunity to start. Well, if he can stay healthy that is. Although a bad offensive line left Gore banged up throughout last season, he's dealt with some major injuries in the past. Last year, in limited carries, the former University of Miami star had a terrific 4.8 yards per carry, aided in part by a fantastic 72-yard scamper in a Week 6 loss. The 23-year-old certainly has the gusto and tools to be a successful back, but he has two surgically repaired knees and shoulders. The main thing to keep an eye on is his health and the number of carries he gets. After this season, the question of whether or not Gore can carry the load for a full schedule will be answered.
WR Antonio Bryant: The new No. 1 receiver in San Francisco, he is certainly better than anyone on the '05 roster at the position. The main knock on the former Cleveland Brown is, that he has been pegged as a career No. 2 receiver. Certainly, everyone will find out if Bryant is capable of taking on double teams from defenses. Everyone knows he has the ability, but can Alex Smith get him the ball? If not, how will his newfound "good" attitude hold up? In any event, Bryant should be able to put up solid numbers for the second consecutive season.
TE Vernon Davis: The reigning No. 6 overall pick has all the tools to be a force in the league for years to come. He should produce some highlights in '06 that give fans hope for the future of the offense, while drawing comparisons to the league's best tight ends, such as Antonio Gates and Tony Gonzalez.
These are what I would call the main four...I would pickup Daivs for my fantasy team. Bryant in the late rounds...Smith only if there is nothing left...Gore is a big question mark...  | 
07-06-2006, 06:00 AM
Niners players to keep an eye on 
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