49ers players optimistic about progress under Shanahan, Lynch – The Mercury News

SANTA CLARA Coming off the least productive season of his six-year career, 49ers wide receiver Torrey Smith is eager to hit the ground running the offensive system of coach Kyle Shanahan.

I played in that offense before so I kind of know what it is, and you see what Atlantas doing and its crazy, Smith said Thursday. I saw what he did in Cleveland and Washington, so hes very talented and Im definitely excited.

Smith was joined in the auditorium at the official announcement of the hires of Shanahan and general manager John Lynch by teammates Eric Reid, NaVorro Bowman, Bruce Ellington, Quinton Patton and Mike Davis, as well as several 49ers alumni.

Smith had just 20 receptions for 267 yards and three touchdowns in Chip Kellys offense and watched the Falcons closely in the postseason.

There are opportunities for people who play the way I play, Smith said. There are big opportunities. There are chances. They spread it out. They attack the entire field. Its very balanced. Its cool the way he puts it together.

Bowman, rehabbing from a torn Achilles liked the idea that Shanahan and Lynch were given six-year contracts. Shanahan will be the 49ers fourth different coach over the past four seasons.

We have let go of a few coaches the last few years. It shows the organization and Jed is committed to giving guys a shot to show what they can bring to the table, Bowman said. Six years may be a reach, but it shows Jed is committed to two guys that are proven. John has played in the league and is a Hall of Fame (candidate).

Kyle, watching the Falcons move the ball, with my intellect, he had me off my beat. Im glad to have him on our side.

Lynchs background as an NFL safety was intriguing to Reid, a 49ers starting safety.

I think thats awesome to have a former player in the GM role, Reid said. Somebody that not only understands the game of football, but played the game of football.

I think he has a different outlook on things when he makes those decisions. So its pretty cool.

Bowman liked that both the coach and general manager were selling.

Just hearing those guys talk, them understanding there cant be any egos here. Guys have to be open to realizing what we have, Bowman said. If anyone has insight, lets listen to it and see if its the right choice.

We have one goal in mind: to get back to the winning ways and not have to hire a fifth (coach).

Smith missed the last three games with a concussion but has recovered.

If we were in the playoffs, I probably could have played, Smith said. They dragged it out, which was good.

Bowman said rehab on his left Achilles tear is going well.

Im working. Doing everything the trainers ask me to do, Bowman said. No timetable set on when Ill be clear to do every single thing. The Achilles is improving every single day and giving me confidence Ill be back.

See original here:

49ers players optimistic about progress under Shanahan, Lynch - The Mercury News