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Staley and Willis give Niners some promise
By David Zizmor April 29, 2007 |
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SANTA CLARA--The 49ers coaching staff have done their homework and have selected Mississippi line backer Patrick Willis, who was the overall 11th pick in the NFL draft on Saturday and the Niners pulled off a stunner dealing their number one draft pick and fourth round pick as well for Joe Staley from Central Michigan. Head Coach Mike Nolan stated that he is pleased with both selections and looks forward with working with both Staley and Willis and believes that the both will help strengthen the team. Nolan who worked with both players at the Senior Bowl liked what they saw in Staley and Willis and made arrangements to have them sign on the club. Nolan has made it no secret that both are a fit and he also stated that he likes their work ethic in working with the two during January's Senior Bowl. Nolan expressed that he was excited about bringing Willis on board at the linebacker position he'll make an impact right away as a third down line backer. On first and second downs, he'll compete for a spot, but he should make an impact on us right away," said Nolan. Willis upon learning of the 49ers making it official that he was selected could barely contain himself. Willis heard all the talk about his skills and his direction to the NFL but it was the Niners that made him excited and working with Nolan and Mike Singletary, "I can't believe it, my heart's still beating hard. I'm just so excited to get out there. It's been a dream of mine since I was a little boy," said Willis. Singletary said that Willis' skills as a linebacker primarily match up to what the 49ers are looking for and Singletary says he would like to match Willis up with linebacker and future team mate Manny Lawson who was San Francisco's first round draft pick last season. The 49ers in last year's action made a run towards the post season towards the end of the season and were just eliminated from post season contention. The Niners would like a shot at getting to post season this year and Staley is in those plans at the offensive tackle spot and is hoping to give 49ers quarterback Alex Smith the protection he needs, "I didn't really know that they were interested. I'm glad the 49ers traded up and picked me. I got a little taste of their offense when I was down at the Senior Bowl, and I'm just excited to get started," said Staley. You can read David Zizmor when filling in for Amaury's News and Commentary, 49ers reports, and when he co-hosts Sportstalk on 1690 KFSG Sacramento. quote source: KTVU Fox 2 Oakland |
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