Report: Torrey Smith close to deal with 49ers
The San Francisco 49ers might be on the verge of signing free agent wide receiver Torrey Smith to a deal, per reports.
The San Francisco 49ers are looking to reshape their identity this off-season. A new head coach in former team defensive coordinator Jim Tomsula was the first step in those plans. Next was the quarterback coach work for Colin Kaepernick. Now, it appears that the franchise will be adding on another piece to the receiving core. Reports indicate that Torrey Smith is on the verge of completing a deal with the Niners, that would see the four-year NFL veteran suit up in the famous crimson and gold for the 2015 season.
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Should the deal be completed, Smith would join a receiving core already flanked by two-time Pro Bowl tight end Vernon Davis, and young stand out Michael Crabtree, who himself is on the verge of breaking out.
It is a move that will help ease the burden of Kaepernick, whom last season experienced the worst full season of his career. On the year, he was threw for a career worst touchdown to interception ratio of 19-10, completing only 60.5 percent of his passes while posting a paltry 86.4 passer rating.
Feeling I get on Torrey Smith and #49ers (following up last night's info): Unless $$ is too rich for them, they'll get a deal done.
— Adam Caplan (@caplannfl) March 8, 2015
He did, however attain a career high in passing yardage with 3,369, a figure that could increase significantly with the potential addition of a talent as high caliber as Smith.
For the 2014 season, he caught 49 passes for 767 yards, and a career best 11 touchdowns. He can reasonably expect the number of targets to increase following the probable departure of Frank Gore, as the offense will likely switch to a slightly more pass oriented system.
The remaining piece to fix though would still be a glaring hole at running back. One of the premier stalwarts in the league in Gore is going to be difficult to replace, even if the man’s production had been down from 2013.
There are some pieces to be found in the upcoming draft, however. With guys like Melvin Gordon and Todd Gurley available, it is not unreasonable to think one could pursue either of the two as a solid replacement.
A veteran presence could also be found with Ray Rice still available on the free agent docket. Should Adrian Peterson hit the market, that possibility seems even more desirable.
H/T Adam Caplan via Twitter
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