Fansided

Baalke: “Always possibility” Eric Wright joins 49ers

By Mike Dyce

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Oct. 21, 2012; Tampa FL, USA; New Orleans Saints wide receiver Lance Moore (16) is tackled by Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Eric Wright (21) after making a catch during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. The Saints defeated the Buccaneers 35-28. Mandatory Credit: Matt Stamey-USA TODAY Sports
Oct. 21, 2012; Tampa FL, USA; New Orleans Saints wide receiver Lance Moore (16) is tackled by Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Eric Wright (21) after making a catch during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. The Saints defeated the Buccaneers 35-28. Mandatory Credit: Matt Stamey-USA TODAY Sports /

The San Francisco 49ers traded for Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Eric Wright. After the trade was announced reports of some off-field issues, including a DUI arrest, prompted criticism for the 49ers. Whether true or an effort to save face, the 49ers claimed they had done their “due diligence” on Eric Wright.

That could’ve been a move to save face. All the 49ers would have to do is fail Eric Wright in his physical and they could get out of this deal. And that is exactly what they elected to do, so Wright returned to the Buccaneers and he was cut upon arrival.

“The door is never closed on players,” Baalke said, via Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle. “With respect to Eric, there’s always a possibility that he becomes a Niner at some point. Just not now. … All the work we did and the discussion that we had with Eric when he came in here was very positive. There were some concerns. We addressed the concerns, but once again he’s not with us. We’d rather talk about the guys that are here.”

Baalke thought also reiterated that the 49ers were aware of the arrest.

“As far as being aware of his latest situation in L.A., absolutely,” Baalke said. “The Bucs were very forthcoming with that information. We definitely knew what the status was.”

“Well, (DUIs) are always a red flag,” Baalke said. “Once again, I’d ask you guys to do your due diligence as well and find out the facts surrounding it. Certainly, it’s a red flag, but I don’t think what’s being reported is really the facts around it.”

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