After getting hit early with injuries, the San Francisco 49ers appear content with the roster they have and the roster they are getting back in a few weeks. As the NFL trade deadline approaches, it was rumors the 49ers would be very active in search of a wide receiver, but general manager Trent Baalke denies any activity happening.
The biggest thing for the 49ers is the return of Michael Crabtree and Mario Manningham. Both players are expected to be very active and at full strength come the middle of November. It was reported San Francisco would be in play for either Hakeem Nicks or Josh Gordon before the deadline to help with holes on the offense, especially with a lack of experienced targets. However, Baalke feels confident that health is getting better and the team does not need to make a big move.
"It plays a big role and what you can do and what you're willing to do from a roster standpoint," Baalk said, via the team website. "Because those are two pretty good football players."
Another rumor Baalke is shooting down is the report the 49ers are actively shopping running back LaMichael James. The 2012 second-round draft pick has been inactive the past two weeks. He has just seven carries on the season. He has posted several coy tweets expressing displeasure over his amount of playing time with the team. This was thought to be leading to a trade, something the general manager is shooting down.
"We're not interested in trading LaMichael," Baalke said. "LaMichael's a key player. We have a crowded backfield - that plays into it.When he's gotten his opportunity, you've seen his ability."
James has not been given too many opportunities which is the issue. He has been inactive for 17 of 23 regular-season games since getting drafted to San Francisco after a standout career at the University of Oregon. In total, James has 190 yards in the NFL, averaging 5.0 yards per carry. He has also seen time as a kickoff returner, but the running back has not been given a chance to build off any momentum gained.
Baalke did not rule out any moves if a team made an offer, but they are not going to be the ones calling others about trades. The general manager believes the key players returning from injuries in the coming weeks will do enough for San Francisco.
