On Wednesday, 49ers WR Isaac Bruce will have to make a decision on whether or not he will return for his second and final year of his contract or retire. Several weeks ago, the 49ers gave Bruce the April 1 deadline in hopes of having a better idea of what they should do this off-season with him.
If Bruce does return, he will provide the veteran presence that the team benefitted from last season. Bruce led the team in receptions (61) and receiving touchdowns (seven).
Over at Niners Nation, there is talk about Bruce having already made his decision. But it's nothing official until tomorrow, at least.
If Bruce does make his decision to retire, the 49ers will have a lot of questions at the wide receiver spot. There will be a lot of faith put in newcomer Brandon Jones to be the new big receiver on the team. Also, with Jason Hill and Josh Morgan developing, the team might also try to make either of them the new top receiver on the team. Arnaz Battle still looks to be the team's 3rd down receiver and kick return specialist Michael Spurlock might get a chance to line up with the offense.
As of now, if Bruce does not return, this might force the 49ers to make a decision on Draft day. Do they want to go for a wide receiver? Or maybe should they actually make an attempt to sign free agent Torry Holt. A couple teams so far have made visits with Holt and the 49ers should at least do the same.
But with Bruce possibly retiring, I like to woner why. The main factor, I believe, is the departure of offensive coordinator Mike Martz. Martz was the reason that Bruce came to San Francisco and with his departure, I don't know if Bruce is willing to learn a new offense.
So on Wednesday, we'll know for sure what Bruce will do with his football career.
Comments
if the niners to go for a WR in the draft, this position usually takes a year or two to develop best case scenario. so a rookie WR's contribution to the team this year will probably be somewhat limited.
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