San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers have lost All-World linebacker Patrick Willis to retirement and defensive lineman Justin Smith may not be too far behind. In addition, franchise rushing leader Frank Gore is now in Indianapolis and one of his main blockers, guard Mike Iupati, has switched NFC West allegiances and joined the Cardinals. That, then factor in one of the young backers the team was depending on, Chris Borland, suddenly retired earlier this week.
Veteran defensive lineman Darnell Dockett and speedster Torrey Smith represent the team’s biggest free-agent signings, but at the same time it’s a player in Dockett, who may be nearing empty in the tank, and Smith, who some teams regarded as a one-trick pony.
